International Museum Day approaches on May 18th, which makes it the perfect time to dive into the rich history in and around Barrie. Each of the museums in Simcoe County offers a unique window into the region's vibrant heritage.
Here are just some for you to check out …
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How International Museum Day got started
International Museum Day, initiated by the International Council of Museums (ICOM) in 1977, aims to raise awareness about the role of museums in societal development. It celebrates museums as important institutions for cultural exchange, enrichment of cultures, and development of mutual understanding, cooperation, and peace among peoples.
Discover Simcoe County's Museums
Here’s a curated list of museums across Simcoe County, each offering a distinct perspective on local history, art, and culture:
1. Barrie Historical Archive in Barrie
Address: 55 Mulcaster Street
Specialty: Local history
The Barrie Historical Archive preserves and shares the history of Barrie through exhibits and archives and is currently the city’s only online museum.
Visitors can explore artifacts and documents that highlight the city's evolution from its early days to modern times.
2. The Grey & Simcoe Foresters Regimental Museum in Barrie
Address: 36 Mulcaster Street
Specialty: Canadian military history
Housed in a beautifully restored 1889 armoury in downtown Barrie, this museum tells the story of the Grey & Simcoe Foresters Regiment—one of Canada's most storied military units. From their early days in the Fenian Raids and the Riel Rebellion to deployments in Afghanistan and the Arctic, the regiment has played a major role in shaping Canada’s military presence both at home and abroad.
Inside, visitors will find an impressive collection of military artifacts, including uniforms, medals, field gear, and official documents. The museum also highlights the regiment’s peacetime contributions, like disaster relief efforts during Hurricane Hazel and the Barrie tornado. It’s a must-visit for history buffs—and best of all, admission is free!
3. Simcoe County Museum in Minesing
Address: 1151 Highway 26
Specialty: County history and heritage
Simcoe County Museum brings the region’s past to life through interactive exhibits and carefully recreated historical moments. Spread across 130 hectares of parkland, the museum features heritage buildings moved from around the county, offering visitors a unique glimpse into Simcoe County’s diverse history.
Explore Barrie’s Main Street circa the early 1900s, discover the area’s natural resources, or check out a remarkable collection of farm machinery and vehicles. Visitors can also step outside to see 19th-century structures, including a settler’s church, log cabin, and schoolhouse used in the filming of Anne of Green Gables. With a focus on fun, hands-on learning, the museum provides a true sense of history.
4. Historic Fort Willow in Utopia
Address: 1045 Flos Road 10 West
Specialty: War of 1812 history and hiking
Historic Fort Willow isn’t a traditional museum but a scenic conservation area that offers a rich history and outdoor adventure. Once a crucial supply depot during the War of 1812, Fort Willow also played a key role in Indigenous history, the fur trade, and French exploration along the Nine Mile Portage.
Today, visitors can hike the surrounding trails, including the Ganaraska, North Simcoe Rail, and Trans Canada Trails. Picnic tables and sheltered rest areas make it a perfect spot for lunch while exploring. The area’s significance is highlighted by information kiosks and ongoing restorations, making it an excellent place to learn about Canada’s early military and Indigenous history. Fort Willow is recognized as a provincial and national historic site.
5. Base Borden Military Museum in Borden
Address: 27 Ram Street
Specialty: Military history and armored vehicles
As one of Canada’s largest military museums, Base Borden Military Museum offers an impressive collection of WWI and WWII armoured vehicles, trucks, aircraft, and more. The museum highlights the history of Camp Borden and the various schools, corps, and branches that have played a role in its legacy.
Visitors can explore nine distinct military museums housed in one central location, showcasing everything from armoured fighting vehicles to post-WWII aircraft. With a range of weapons, uniforms, and historical artifacts, the museum offers a detailed look into Canada's military history.
6. Collingwood Museum
Location: Collingwood’s historic train station site at 45 St Paul St
Specialty: Marine heritage, shipbuilding, and local curiosities
Housed in a modern replica of Collingwood’s 1873 train station, the Collingwood Museum captures over 150 years of local history—from the town’s legendary shipbuilding legacy to rare artifacts like a twisted metal shard from the Halifax Explosion and a sawtooth shark bill. Interactive exhibits invite visitors to spin a brass ship’s wheel, view vintage sidelaunch footage, and explore models of iconic vessels like the Chi-Cheemaun. The museum also showcases Indigenous history, local art inspired by the Group of Seven, and rotating displays on Collingwood’s early industries and businesses.
Beyond its engaging galleries, the museum features an extensive archival collection, research facilities, educational programming, and a charming gift shop. Located steps from Georgian Bay’s scenic trails, it's an ideal launch point for a day of culture and exploration. Bike parking and accessible amenities are available.
7. Nancy Island Historic Site in Wasaga Beach
Address: Nancy Island, Wasaga Beach
Specialty: War of 1812 history, naval heritage, and historical reenactments
Nancy Island Historic Site, established in 1928, is a key location in Simcoe County and the Georgian Bay region related to the War of 1812. The site commemorates the heroic battle of HMS Nancy against three American schooners on August 14, 1814, a pivotal event in Canadian history. The island is home to the charred hull and artifacts of HMS Nancy, which played a crucial role in shaping Canada’s borders.
Visitors can explore the island with heritage costumed staff, learn about the heroic crew through hands-on demonstrations, view an award-winning video presentation, and climb a replica 19th-century lighthouse for stunning views of Wasaga Beach. Special events and guest appearances are held each summer, adding to the site’s vibrant experience.
8. Penetanguishene Centennial Museum in Penetang
Address: 13 Burke Street, Penetanguishene
Specialty: Local history, lumber industry, and community heritage
The Penetanguishene Centennial Museum & Archives proudly showcases the history of one of Ontario’s oldest communities. Located in the 1875 Lumber Office and General Store, once owned by lumber baron and past mayor Charles Beck, the museum offers a deep dive into the region's storied past.
The Centennial Museum, established in 1967 to celebrate Canada's 100th birthday, features artifacts and exhibits that explore the town’s history, including its significance in the lumber industry. After a near closure in 1991, the museum was saved by an extensive fundraising campaign led by the Friends of the Museum, ensuring that its history continues to be celebrated today.
9. Discovery Harbour in Penetang
Address: 93 Jury Drive
Specialty: 19th-century naval and military history
Located on the scenic shores of Georgian Bay, Discovery Harbour is a historic site that brings Ontario’s 19th-century naval and military past to life. Built in the aftermath of the War of 1812, this site was once a key outpost for safeguarding Upper Canada. Visitors can board reconstructed Tall Ships like the H.M.S. Bee and H.M.S. Tecumseth, explore the dockyard, and check out the officers' quarters.
The museum also features fascinating exhibits, including the hull of the H.M.S. Tecumseth, which was recovered from the bay. Costumed guides share captivating stories about the site’s history, making it an immersive and educational experience for all.
10. Huronia Museum & Huron Ouendat Village in Midland
Address: 549 Little Lake Park Road
Specialty: Indigenous history and archaeology
Located in Midland’s Little Lake Park, Huronia Museum features a recreated 16th-century Huron/Ouendat village, complete with a longhouse, wigwam, and lookout tower. It’s the first of its kind in Canada, offering a glimpse into pre-contact Indigenous life.
The museum also showcases thousands of artifacts, including Indigenous tools, pioneer objects, and regional art from the Group of Seven. With hands-on educational programs and a resource library, it’s a must-visit for anyone curious about the area's history and culture.
11. Sainte-Marie Among the Hurons in Midland
Address: 16164 Highway 12 East
Specialty: Early Canadian history and Indigenous relations
Sainte-Marie Among the Hurons was Ontario’s first European community and served as the base for the French Jesuit Mission to the Huron-Wendat people. Established in 1639, it included a church, barracks, workshops, and residences, but was abandoned and burned in 1649.
Today, the site is faithfully recreated, offering visitors a chance to step back in time. Explore the mission’s history through self-guided tours, interactive programs, and costumed interpreters. The on-site museum and gift shop complete the experience, offering deeper insights into early Canadian pioneer life.
12. Coldwater Canadiana Heritage Museum in Coldwater
Address: Coldwater, Ontario
Specialty: Community-run, interactive heritage experiences
The Coldwater Canadiana Heritage Museum is a vibrant, ‘living museum’ situated on a scenic six-and-a-half-acre site with the picturesque Coldwater River flowing through it. Celebrating the 1840s Woodrow homestead and the history of Coldwater village, this community-run museum is anything but traditional.
One unique element of the Canadiana museum is that there aren’t any “do not touch” signs here—visitors are encouraged to get hands-on, engage in events, and immerse themselves in history. If it’s been a while since your last visit, it’s the perfect time to stop by and experience this fun and interactive journey into the past.
13. Leacock Museum in Orillia
Address: 50 Museum Drive
Specialty: Stephen Leacock’s legacy and local history
The Leacock Museum, located on the scenic shores of Lake Couchiching, was once the summer home of Canadian humorist Stephen Leacock. The 19-room house, a National Historic Site, captures Leacock’s deep connection to Orillia, which he immortalized as the fictional town of Mariposa in his famous book Sunshine Sketches of a Little Town.
The museum features Leacock House, a boathouse, and lovely gardens with trails, including the Orillia Millennium Trail and Lightfoot Trail. Whether exploring the grounds or enjoying the views of the lake, it’s a beautiful spot year-round for history lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
14. Orillia Museum of Art & History in Orillia
Address: 30 Peter Street South
Specialty: Local art and history
Housed in the historic Sir Sam Steele Memorial Building, the Orillia Museum of Art & History is a must-see for anyone interested in the city's heritage and artistic roots. The striking architecture, designed by renowned architect Thomas Fuller, adds to the charm of this cultural landmark.
The museum showcases a mix of local history and art, featuring rotating exhibits on significant events, notable figures, and everyday life in Orillia. Its art collection highlights works from both local artists and those who have influenced the national scene, offering a unique glimpse into Orillia’s vibrant past and thriving artistic community.
15. Ontario Provincial Police Museum in Orillia
Address: 777 Memorial Avenue
Specialty: History of policing in Ontario
The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Museum offers a unique look at the evolution of policing in Ontario, from the formation of Upper Canada in 1791 to today. The museum focuses on preserving and sharing artifacts and archival materials that showcase the history of the OPP, which has served the province since 1909.
Funded by the Ontario government and supported by the Friends of the OPP Museum, this museum is dedicated to preserving the cultural heritage of the OPP. It offers visitors an educational journey through Ontario’s law enforcement history, from early policing methods to modern-day practices.
16. Museum on the Boyne in Alliston
Address: 250 Fletcher Crescent, Alliston
Specialty: Local history, agricultural artifacts, and historic buildings
Nestled in Riverdale Park, the Museum on the Boyne is a charming destination that showcases the history of South Simcoe County. The museum is home to a 1914 Agricultural Fair Building, an 1865 log cabin, and an 1858 English barn, each offering a glimpse into life from settlement to present day.
With a mix of household, agricultural, and industrial artifacts, the museum highlights notable local figures, industries, and the region’s unique heritage. Visitors can enjoy guided and self-guided tours, workshops, and special events, making it a perfect spot to explore and learn. Don’t miss the gift shop and hands-on activities, especially during events like Doors Open.
17. Sir Frederick Banting Homestead & Heritage Park in Alliston
Address: 5116 Sir Frederick Banting Road
Specialty: Tribute to medical science and Sir Frederick Banting's legacy
Located at the birthplace of Sir Frederick Banting, co-discoverer of insulin and Nobel Prize recipient in 1923, this heritage park honours his groundbreaking contribution to medical science. The 107-acre site remained in the Banting family for over a century and now showcases restored historic buildings like the 1918 Octagonal Drive Shed and the 1925 Farmhouse, thanks to the efforts of the Sir Frederick Banting Legacy Foundation and local community groups.
Visitors can explore exhibits about Banting’s life, his role in diabetes research, and the ongoing mission to preserve his legacy. With informative displays and a peaceful setting, the Homestead offers a meaningful glimpse into one of Canada’s greatest medical milestones.
Celebrate, explore, and connect with local history
As we celebrate International Museum Day, take time to visit these museums in Simcoe County. Whether you're interested in local history, art, or Indigenous culture, each museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the past and present of our community. Support these cultural institutions and enrich your understanding of the world around you through their captivating exhibits and programs.
