The Muskoka Wharf in Gravenhurst

Explore, stroll, shop and dine in Gravenhurst

Originally a lakeside lumber mill in a small town with a booming boat building industry, the Muskoka Wharf has flourished into a beautiful destination for locals and tourists alike.

There is plenty to see and do, with events taking place most weekends in the summer. The Dockside Festival of the Arts is a summer mainstay, and new events like the Muskoka Craft Beer Festival serve up fun in a picturesque setting. The famous Farmers’ Market (once voted the Best Seasonal Farmers’ Market in Ontario) is every Wednesday and brick and mortar shops and restaurants are always welcoming visitors.

Come by land or water and check out everything the Wharf has to offer. There is public docking to park your boat, and ample parking for your vehicle. Walk the boardwalk, grab some ice cream and feel the fresh air off the lake with your favourite people.

If you are looking for a different vantage point, take a 1km walk up the hill to Lookout Park and see a whole different perspective of beautiful Muskoka Bay. As the name suggests there is a playground for the kiddos – if they aren’t too tired from the walk.

Discover Muskoka’s storied past at the Muskoka Discovery Centre

There is so much to learn about the past, present and future of this beautiful area at the Muskoka Discovery Centre. Be sure to check out Watershed Wonders, the museum’s fascinating, new exhibit.

The Discovery Centre’s interactive exhibits are a hit with the kids so bring the entire family. Don’t forget, every museum admission includes an all access pass to KIDZONE, an entire wing of the museum dedicated to kids’ fun.

History buffs (or just those that appreciate beautiful things) will be amazed with the Murray Walker Grace and Speed Boathouse, an impressive display of wooden antique boats that are worth the price of admission alone. The display is the largest of its kind in North America, truly a must-see!

A little tip, you can get a discounted admission for the Discovery Centre with the purchase of a Steamships cruise ticket. A trip to Gravenhurst would not be complete without setting sail on one of these historic ships.

Cruise aboard the Muskoka Steamships

The Wenonah II and RMS Segwun are the epitome of classic Muskoka on the lakes, and the toot toot of the Steamships sounds the unofficial start of Muskoka’s summer season.

Built in 1887, the RMS Segwun is the oldest operating steamship in North America and is essentially a floating museum. You are in for a treat if you get to go on a cruise aboard this magnificent vessel.

1 hr cruises are their most popular, and give you ample time to explore the Wharf before or after you set sail. Their Sunset Cruises (last sunset cruise of the 2018 season is September 14) are perfect for those stunning golden hour photos, and you have the option to add dinner for a memorable night out.

Shop at The Shipyards

One of the newest additions to the Wharf is The Shipyards Muskoka Marketplace. They are trend-setters in their own right, creating a store comprised of 15+ pop-up vendors specializing in everything from clothing to home décor. It is a collective mix of all things wonderful!

Oh you know who would love this? … ME!

They are also home to the first and only Starbucks in Muskoka, the perfect boardwalk strolling bevvy!

Dine at the Wharf

Depending on your fancy, there are a few great options for dining at the Wharf. The Blue Willow Tea Shop is a popular spot for lunch with their British inspired sandwiches, salad and soup. They are also serve a lovely High Tea, an experience of the old country in the heart of Muskoka.

Another great option is Dock of the Bay, a fabulous steak and seafood restaurant with one of the best waterfront patios in all of Muskoka. Grab your friends and a glass of wine and you are set for a wonderful evening, especially if you get to watch the sunset from your table … swoon.

Wharf Fun

The splash pad across the street from the waterfront provides endless fun for the little ones on a hot sunny day. Public change rooms and washrooms are on-site.

If you feel the need for speed, water craft rentals from Muskoka Boat Rentals can be found near the boat launch at the Wharf. Rental times vary, so you can make a day of being out on the water, or just go for a quick cruise.

The Wharf is a boater’s hot spot and is the perfect spot to drop your own craft in Muskoka’s lakes with a boat launch and ample parking on-site. You will know you’re in the right place when you see the Steamships!

Stay & Play

After a day exploring the shops and taking in the lake breeze, a great place to rest your head is at the Residence Inn Marriott Muskoka Wharf. This all-suite hotel is right on the Wharf so you can go to bed and wake up to these stunning views. Click here to view rates and book your stay

There are many great places to stay in Gravenhurst. Find a place to stay that is close by, from waterfront resorts and golf villas, to charming B&B’s and relaxing motels.

Click here for a list of places to stay in Gravenhurst