Autumn has arrived! 🍁 As life picks up pace, it’s easy to let this vibrant season pass unnoticed. But this year, don’t miss out! Take a break to embrace the beauty of fall in Barrie and the surrounding area. Whether you're a fan of outdoor adventures, a food enthusiast, or love attending local events, Barrie offers something for everyone. Here are five exciting ways to experience the best of fall in Barrie this season!
1. Witness the Changing Colours 🍁
Autumn in Barrie means a stunning transformation as the leaves turn into vibrant shades of gold, crimson, and orange. Whether you're hiking or picnicking at Sunnidale Park or Ardagh Bluffs, you're in for a treat with breathtaking views of the fall foliage. If you're up for an adventure, head to Scenic Caves Adventures, Wye Marsh Wildlife Centre, or the Tiffin Centre for Conservation. These spots offer the perfect combination of outdoor fun and learning about the environment.
Prefer to stay cozy in your car? Take a scenic drive through Barrie’s countryside to enjoy the fall colours. Use the Ontario Parks Fall Colour Report for real-time updates on where to catch the best views as the foliage changes throughout the season.
2. Indulge in the Flavours of Fall 🎃
Fall means comfort food! This season is all about pumpkin spice, warm pies, caramel apples, and rich, roasted dishes. Visit Barrie favourites like Homestead Artisan Bakery, Chelsea Chocolates, and J'adore Fine Cheese & Chocolate for seasonal treats that’ll add sweetness to your autumn days. Whether you're craving something sugary or savoury, you’ll find a variety of fall-inspired goodies to satisfy your taste buds.
3. Enjoy the Autumn Harvest 🌽
It’s harvest season, and there’s no better time to enjoy fresh produce like pumpkins, apples, corn, and root vegetables from local farms and markets. Head over to Nicholyn Farms or Barrie Hill Farms for the freshest seasonal items. You can also stop by the Barrie Farmers' Market every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in front of City Hall on Collier Street to support local farmers while enjoying the best autumn has to offer.
4. Dive into Classic Fall Activities 🎃
What’s fall without the fun activities we all love? Barrie’s fall festivals and events are perfect for getting into the autumn spirit. Here’s a lineup you won’t want to miss:
- Chappell Farms Fall Festival (Sept 13–Oct 31): Hay bale runs, corn mazes, pumpkin picking, and more. Admission includes one pick-your-own pumpkin!
- Rounds Ranch Pumpkin Mania (Weekends through October): With over 22 activities like pumpkin bowling, pony rides, and sack races, there's endless fun! Plus, pick a free pumpkin of any size and colour.
- Drysdale's Haunted Harvest Village (Starting Oct 9): For those who like a spooky vibe, Drysdale’s offers a “Psycho Path” walking trail full of actors and fun scares. Don't miss their Evergreen Store for fall decorations.
- Barrie Hill Farms Fall Festival (Oct 12–14): Hop on a wagon ride to the pumpkin and apple fields, listen to live music, and shop local vendors.
- Hometown Harvest Festival at Sainte-Marie among the Hurons (Oct 12–14): Cozy up in a sweater and shop the artisan market, featuring over 40 local vendors.
Click here for more details about each event.
5. Explore Local Breweries 🍻
What pairs better with crisp fall air than a craft brew or glass of wine? Barrie & region's local breweries offer the perfect setting to enjoy the season. Whether you’re at Barnstormers Brewing + Distilling Co., Flying Monkeys Craft Brewery, Heritage Estates Winery, or Quayle’s Brewery, you’ll find seasonal drinks and cozy, rustic atmospheres. Don’t forget to try locally sourced bites while you sip your way through autumn.
________________________________________
Whether you're out enjoying the fall colours, tasting seasonal delights, or participating in Barrie’s many local events, there’s no better way to celebrate this beautiful season. Don’t let fall pass you by—get out there and experience everything Barrie and the region have to offer! 🍂
