Canada’s Cottage Country Paradise – Where Nature Meets Nostalgia

The Ultimate Summer Guide to Muskoka: A Dreamy Getaway

Welcome to Muskoka, Ontario’s iconic cottage country! If you’ve never been before, get ready to experience a summer escape filled with pristine lakes, charming towns and outdoor adventures that will have you wondering why you didn’t visit sooner. Whether you’re looking for relaxation, adventure, or a bit of both, Muskoka is the perfect destination. Here’s everything you need to know to plan the ultimate summer getaway

Getting to Muskoka

Muskoka is located about two hours north of Toronto, making it an easy road trip destination. If you’re flying in, Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) is the closest major airport. From there, you can rent a car.

Muskoka is the gateway to Algonquin Park. Stay in Huntsville or Lake of Bays with easy access into the park for day visits.

Things to Do in Muskoka This Summer

Muskoka is the kind of place that steals your heart from the moment you arrive. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on a dock, exploring scenic trails, or enjoying a lakeside meal, you’ll quickly see why Muskoka is a summer destination like no other.

1. Explore the Lakes – The Hampton’s of the North

With over 1,600 lakes, Muskoka is a paradise for water lovers. Rent a kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboard (Algonquin Outfitters, LIV Outside) to explore the waters. If you’re looking for something more exhilarating, book a wakesurfing or waterskiing lesson (Muskoka Wake, LIV Outside). You can also rent a boat from one of our NINE marinas or take a scenic boat cruise (Sunset Cruises, Muskoka Steamships, S.S. Bigwin and Muskoka Cruises).

2. Find Your Getaway Spot – 100+ Places to Stay

Muskoka has 100 Places to Stay from luxury cottage rentals and resorts, to cozy cabins and budget-friendly hotels. Here are a few options to consider:

Resorts – Experience the best of Muskoka with top-tier amenities, gourmet dining, often full-scale spas, golf courses and activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and nature trails. Resorts also make for a perfect setting for family reunions, offering a blend of relaxation and adventure for all ages. Muskoka is also home to 32 Cottage Resorts & Lodges, these accommodation types consists of multiple individual cottages or cabins on a shared property, offering a mix of privacy and resort-style amenities. Guests enjoy the rustic charm of a private cottage while having access to communal features like a beach, docks, fire pits, and sometimes dining facilities. These are great for families and groups looking for a laid-back, home-away-from-home experience.
Lakeside Cottages – Rent a charming waterfront cottage for the full Muskoka experience. Enjoy your own private dock with many agencies offering full concierge services. You can explore Unique Stays & Private Cottage Rentals or explore Cottage Rental Agencies representing hundreds of cottages.
Hotels, Motels, Inns, & Camping – For those seeking a more affordable option, Muskoka offers a variety of budget-friendly accommodations. Even if you’re not staying lakeside, you’ll still be close to nature with access to 30 stunning beaches and thousands of kilometers of scenic trails to explore.

3. Visit Muskoka’s Charming Towns

Each Muskoka town has its own unique charm:

Bracebridge – Known for its waterfalls and lively downtown. Don’t miss Santa’s Village for a fun family attraction!
Gravenhurst – Home to the famous Muskoka Steamships and the gateway to Muskoka!
Huntsville – A vibrant arts and culture scene, including Huntsville Festival of the Arts, with a vibrant downtown.
Lake of Bays – Beautiful Lake of Bays, cruise on the S.S. Bigwin, plus easy access to Algonquin Park.
Bala -Known as the Cranberry Capital of Ontario. Enjoy live music at The Kee to Bala, a historic lakeside concert venue.
Port Carling – The “hub” of Muskoka with boutique shopping, waterfront dining and stunning views.
Georgian Bay – Learn about the Georgian Bay Biosphere, A visit to Six Mile Lake Provincial Park, Take in the Trent-Severn Waterway National Historic Site.

4. Enjoy Outdoor Adventures

Hiking & Nature Walks – Explore trails like Hardy Lake, Huckleberry Rock Lookout, or go deeper into Limberlost Forest for breathtaking views.
Biking – Ride along Muskoka’s scenic roads with a loop trail, or hit the trails at Bracebridge Resource Management Centre or Huntsville Mountain Biking.
Golfing – Play a round at one of Muskoka’s award-winning golf courses, such as Muskoka Bay or Taboo Muskoka.

5. Indulge in Local Food & Drinks

Waterfront Dining – Enjoy fresh, locally inspired meals at spots like Turtle Jack’s, Watersedge, Jack & Stella, Pub on the Dock or the Boathouse.
Craft Breweries & Winery – Visit Muskoka Brewery, Sawdust City, Canvas Brewing, Clear Lake Brewing or Lake of Bays Brewing for local craft beer. For spirits, check out Muskoka Lakes Farm & Winery for cider and cranberry wine tastings.
Ice Cream Stops – Cool off with a scoop (or two!) at Kawartha Dairy or Mooskoka’s.
Cafes and Treats – Affogato Café + Gelato (Huntsville) Trendy café meets Italian gelateria. Erika’s Bakery (Dwight) A friendly pitstop for home-cooked breakfasts, coffee, and famous donuts.

6. Experience Muskoka’s Events & Festivals

Muskoka comes alive in the summer with exciting events. Some favourites include:

Muskoka Arts & Crafts Show (July) – One of the largest outdoor arts & crafts shows in Ontario.
Tall Pines Music & Arts Show (July) – Two-day festival with award winning artists
Muskoka Chautauqua (August) – Ten-day festival in Windermere on Lake Rosseau with art classes, poetry workshops, writer workshops and live music.

Tips for Your First Visit to Muskoka

Book Accommodations Early – Summer is peak season, and places fill up fast!
Pack Layers – While days are warm, evenings by the lake can be cool.
Try a Butter Tart – A true Canadian classic and a must-try in Muskoka.
Respect Nature – Muskoka is all about preserving its stunning environment, so follow Leave No Trace principles.

See you in Muskoka this summer!