Collingwood

Collingwood, a town on Nottawasaga Bay at the southern end of Georgian Bay, offers a blend of historical depth and natural beauty. It is a place where the echoes of a significant industrial past meet the energetic spirit of a four-season recreational destination. The town, incorporated in 1858, received its name from Admiral Cuthbert Collingwood, Lord Nelson's second-in-command at the Battle of Trafalgar.

Today, Collingwood serves as an entry point to the South Georgian Bay region, recognized for its landscapes and active lifestyle. It is a favored location for skiing in winter and exploring limestone caves along the Niagara Escarpment in summer. The town's downtown area, acknowledged as Canada's first Heritage Conservation District, contains historic buildings that now house shops, cafes, and restaurants.

## From Hurontario to Shipbuilding Hub Collingwood's origins trace back to the 1840s, though it was officially incorporated as a town in 1858. Before its current name, the area was known by several others, including Hurontario (a nod to Hurontario Street, which connects Lake Huron and Lake Ontario) and even 'Hen and Chickens Harbour,' inspired by the large and small islands in the bay.

The arrival of the Ontario, Simcoe & Huron Railway in 1855 was a pivotal moment, transforming Collingwood's harbour into a crucial shipment point for goods heading to upper Great Lakes ports like Chicago and Thunder Bay. Grain was a primary product, leading to the construction of the Collingwood Terminals grain elevator in 1929. This massive structure, with 52 silos, could store two million bushels and handled 30,000 bushels of grain per hour, operating for 64 years until 1993.

The need for ship repairs spurred the creation of a shipbuilding industry. The Collingwood Shipyards opened on May 24, 1883, and quickly became a major Canadian shipbuilder. On September 12, 1901, the Huronic, Canada's first steel-hulled ship, was launched here. The shipyards produced various vessels, including lake freighters and corvettes for the Royal Canadian Navy during World War II. Shipbuilding was a significant employer, accounting for about 10% of the town's workforce. The shipyard closed in 1986, marking the end of over a century of shipbuilding.

Collingwood's commitment to preserving its past is evident in its designation as Canada's first municipality with a Heritage Conservation District. This district encompasses a large portion of the downtown core, including Hurontario Street, historic residential and public buildings, and park spaces, many of which were developed in response to the town's rise as a shipping and shipbuilding center.

Begin your exploration in Historic Downtown Collingwood, a walkable area with an inviting atmosphere. Browse the more than 60 boutique shops and dine at one of over 30 restaurants. Keep an eye out for street murals on Hurontario Street and art by local artists at Collingwood Town Hall.

For a deeper dive into the town's past, visit the Collingwood Museum, housed in a former train station built in 1873. It features exhibits on the town's shipbuilding history and its involvement in the World Wars.

The waterfront is a central attraction. Stroll along the harbour, where you can see boats coming and going, and enjoy views of the lighthouse. The Collingwood Terminals grain elevator, a prominent landmark, stands as a testament to the town's shipping history. Nearby, Sunset Point Park offers picnic areas, swimming, windsurfing, and excellent sunset views.

Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the Collingwood Trails Network, which weaves through downtown, parks, and the waterfront. The Georgian Trail, a 34-kilometer path between Collingwood and Meaford, is popular for walking, biking, and in winter, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. For a more adventurous outing, Scenic Caves Nature Adventures offers millennia-old caves, hiking trails, and Southern Ontario's longest suspension bridge.

Collingwood is a year-round destination, with each season offering distinct activities. For warm-weather pursuits like hiking, biking, swimming, and exploring the bay, late June to early September is ideal, with July being the hottest month. Early summer (before July) offers comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds for outdoor activities. Winter brings opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing, with Blue Mountain Resort nearby. The town also hosts various events throughout the year, including a farmers' market in summer and an ice sculpting contest in winter.

Collingwood is approximately a two-hour drive north of Toronto and is most easily accessed by car, though bus service is available from Barrie. The downtown area is quite walkable. Parking in downtown Collingwood is paid Monday through Friday during business hours, with weekends being free. Waterfront parking is seasonal, and resident permits are available. For local transportation, taxis are available, though ride-sharing apps may not offer quicker service. The town has a permanent population of over 24,000, supporting a diverse range of shops, services, and restaurants. The Collingwood Tourist Office offers self-guided tours to help visitors explore the town.