Owen Sound, Ontario is located on an inlet of Georgian Bay that is also known as Owen Sound. The city sits at the mouth of the Sydenham River in south-western Ontario. Owen Sound was originally known as Sydenham when it was first settled in 1841 by Charles Rankin. Prior to that the area had been inhabited by the Ojibway people. Inglis Falls is a popular area to visit around Owen Sound.
Things to do in Owen Sound
Billy Bishop Heritage Museum
The museum is located in a late-Victorian brick house found near the downtown core. It preserves the boyhood home and memory of one of Canada's greatest pilots and most decorated serviceman. Memorabilia from peace time and both World Wars are displayed in the exquisitely furnished Victorian home, including pictures of planes, battles, flying suits and a model of the Avro Arrow. Open July & August daily 10am - 4pm; September – June Tuesday - Saturday 12noon - 4pm; closed on weekends January & February. Call 519-371-0031 for more information.
948 3rd Avenue West, Owen Sound, ON
Escaporium
The Escaporium is the only museum in the world displaying restraints, props and equipment used by history's greatest escape artists. The legendary Harry Houdini can be found here! Curated by Canadian escape artist Steve Santini, the Escaporium combines education and entertainment to present the colourful history of this magical art in an interesting and interactive way. Open May – September Thursday - Sunday 12noon – 6pm; admission is charged. Call 800-867-0821 for more information.
946 Third Avenue East, Owen Sound, ON
Grey County Museum
The Grey County Museum celebrates the rich variety of local history, through period buildings, display galleries and special events. Come in and explore the region's Native history and learn about the important role of Grey County as the northern most terminus of the Underground Railroad. We also feature changing exhibits in the "special exhibits" gallery. Open July & August Monday - Saturday 9am – 5pm; Sunday 1 - 5pm; September – June Tuesday - Friday 9am - 5pm; Saturday - Sunday 1 - 5pm; closed Monday. Call 800-567-4739 for more information.
975 6th Street East, Owen Sound, ON
Grey Sauble Conservation Authority Lands
The Authority manages more than 27,000 acres of land in and around the Niagara Escarpment on Grey and Bruce Counties. Some of the more popular conservation areas in the townships surrounding Owen Sound make for excellent nature appreciation opportunities.
Harrison Park
Harrison Park is the crown jewel of parks as it straddles the scenic Sydenham River and features beautiful landscapes, century-old trees, hiking trails, walking paths and plenty of clean, fresh air. You will also find a fully serviced campground, licensed restaurant, snack bar, picnic areas, tennis courts, swimming pools, paddle boats, canoeing, mini-golf, fishing and a large bird sanctuary on site.
Indian Falls
Indian Falls is located in Indian Falls Conservation Area. You will take a 1.8 km walk to the falls; along the way you will see a variety of ferns, trees and wildflower species native to the area. The 15-metre horseshoe-shaped waterfalls was named for the Newash Indians who lived in this area.
Inglis Falls
This breathtaking falls cascades over an 18-metre cliff down into a deep gorge carved out by sheer force of falling water. It is one of three waterfalls in the Owen Sound area known for excellent photographic opportunities. The panoramic view offered is spectacular, especially in autumn. You will find the remnants of a gristmill that was built by Peter Inglis in 1845 by the Falls.
Jones Falls
This waterfall is located in the Pottawatomi Conservation Area on the Pottawatomi River. The falls cascades 12 meters over the Niagara Escarpment and is directly on the Bruce Trail. The 1 km walking trail to the falls provides a lovely view of the surrounding lowlands and the falls.
Owen Sound Golf & Country Club
This club is the oldest course in the area and is nestled between the Niagara Escarpment and Georgian Bay. Providing a challenging 18 scenic holes, a fully licensed clubhouse, tennis courts and driving range as well as chipping and putting greens. Call 877-257-GOLF for more information.
Owen Sound Marine & Rail Museum
The Owen Sound Marine & Rail Museum preserves the history of marine and rail transportation in the area. You will find the museum in the historic CN station on the waterfront. Exquisite ship models by skilled artisans are on display, along with CNR and CPR memorabilia, and temporary special exhibits each season. Open June - Thanksgiving: Monday - Sunday 10am - 4pm; Thanksgiving - May Long Weekend Tuesday - Friday 10am - 4pm; weekends 11am - 3pm. Call 519-371-3333 for more information.
1155 1st Avenue West, Owen Sound, ON
Scenic City Golf Course
Located just east of Owen Sound is this well-manicured golf course. It is a semi-private course that can easily be walked and power carts are available. You will find a full sized driving range and practice green. Call 519-376-4649 for more information.
Snowmobile Paradise
Snowmobiling in Grey and Bruce Counties is quickly becoming the most popular winter recreation for visitors to Owen Sound. Explore the 3,000 km of groomed trails in the Grey-Bruce area and Owen Sound is directly on the TOP trail, connecting sledders to points north, south, east and west. Experienced sledders say that one of the best things about trails in this part of the province is that there is no open water to cross, eliminating an important safety concern. Call 800-387-SNOW for more information.
Stone Tree Golf Course
The course is carved around the hardwoods and conifers of the Niagara Escarpment. Along the course you will find mature forests, wetlands, tall grasses and limestone formations that all blend together naturally. Amenities include the Pro Shop, swimming, tennis, a fitness centre, massage therapy and fine dining. Call 519-376-7899 for more information.
Tom Thomson Memorial Art Gallery
The Tom Thomson Memorial Art Gallery is perhaps the city's most notable cultural icon. You will find an excellent permanent exhibition of memorabilia and artwork by the celebrated Canadian painter Tom Thomson, who grew up at Leith, just north of Owen Sound. The Gallery also manages a growing collection of historical and contemporary Canadian Art, including a wonderful representation of Thomson's colleagues, the Group of Seven. Open July & August Monday - Saturday 10am - 5pm; Sunday noon - 5pm; September – June Tuesday - Friday 11am - 5pm; Saturday & Sunday noon – 5pm; closed Monday. Call 519-376-1932 for more information.
840 1st Avenue West, Owen Sound, ON