The Best of Muskoka: Where to eat, shop and play in Toronto cottage country, Canada Reviews

Discover the best things to do in Muskoka, from scenic hikes, stargazing and paddling to farmers markets, shopping, restaurants and classic cottage-country experiences. 

Best magical marsh

There is so much to love about Johnston’s Cranberry Marsh, and it’s not just when the cranberries are harvested in the fall. There are always some fantastic offerings from the winery that can be taken home or enjoyed on the charming patio overlooking the cranberry marshes, as well as nature trails and more.

Best farmers market

There are many options for a market day in Muskoka, including Gravenhurst and Bala, but the best is in the small town of Rosseau, where food purveyors and local artisans fill the waterfront park. Spend a morning and enjoy the scenery, live music in the bandshell and tasty treats. 

Best movie night

If it’s good enough for Ryan Reynolds and Blake Lively, who had a date night here, it’s good enough for us. Heaps of nostalgic cinematic fun are on tap at the old school Muskoka Drive-in near Gravenhurst. Word to the wise: bring bug spray just in case. 

Best boat rental

Trust Port Sandfield Marina to set you up for success on the water, whether this is your first or fiftieth time boating. Rent a boat, get yours repaired, find a replacement part or fuel up for a day in the sun — and while you’re there, you might spot Shaquille O’Neal hanging out on the dock! 

Best kids’ adventure

Well, let’s say for youngsters and young at heart, there is much fun to be had at Muskoka Zip Lines and Aerial Park near Huntsville. Here, a great team leads adrenaline-loving visitors to climb, zipline and navigate aerial courses through towering trees. A great blend of natural scenery with outdoor recreation in Muskoka.

Best epic golf day

Carved through the granite landscape of the Canadian Shield, Gravenhurst’s Muskoka Bay Golf Club is one of Canada’s best public golf experiences. Designed by Doug Carrick, the course features dramatic elevation changes, exposed rock and breathtaking Muskoka scenery. Top it off with drinks and lunch at the stunning clifftop clubhouse.

Best live music

A show at the Kee to Bala is an essential Muskoka experience. Now programmed by Live Nation, the quality and diversity of shows is even better, from classics such as Kim Mitchell and David Wilcox to newer artists like Owen Riegling. 

Best animal fun

A hidden gem in Muskoka, head here to connect with nature and witness the dedication to wildlife conservation at the sanctuary. Explore its picturesque trails; encounter injured and orphaned animals, such as bears, bobcats and lynx; and appreciate the ongoing efforts to protect and rehabilitate local wildlife.

Best stargazing 

Designated as the world’s first permanent Dark Sky Reserve in 1999, Torrance Barrens offers some of the finest stargazing in Ontario. Its otherworldly landscape of exposed Precambrian rock, wetlands and windswept pine forests feels almost lunar. But it’s not just a place to view the celestial happenings. It also offers a wonderful hike during the day. So special.

Best watery adrenaline rush

Water-skiing misses the mark? Not interested in wakeboarding? Now you can take to the skies and experience the adrenaline rush of flyboarding with SWS Boatworks in Port Carling or they’ll bring it right to your cottage. Soar above the water and perform thrilling manoeuvres in a safe and controlled environment.

Best Instagram hike

There is a reason people line the highway and overflow the parking lot at Hardy Lake Provincial Park between Torrance and Gravenhurst. The hiking is spectacular. There are shorter and longer options, the latter of which offers some spectacular views, perfect for that Muskoka moment. 

Best easy SUP

Put in your paddleboard at Hunter’s Bay in Huntsville and enjoy the very flat and scenic Vernon Lake, where you can paddle right into town and along sheltered coves and beaches. You can even paddle under a historic swing bridge on the way to Fairy Lake.

Best weekly ritual

Looking to catch a glimpse of what Muskoka is all about, head to Bala on a Tuesday night in the summer for the weekly water ski show featuring some of the best water skiers, wakeboarders and flyboarders in the country, who happen to train in the area. It’s cheesy, it’s fun, and it’s real Muskoka. 

Best new fun

Yes, the Nordic sauna circuit experience has made its way to Muskoka. Floathaus is a floating wood-fired sauna experience at Muskoka Wharf in Gravenhurst that invites guests to cycle between radiant heat, cold plunges in Lake Muskoka and dockside rest with panoramic waterfront views.

Best Muskoka Shopping and Services

Best Luxury Boats

Combining European artisanship with timeless design, Beau Lake creates some of the most beautiful paddleboards you’ve ever seen on the lake. With a select few signature designs (including one fittingly named The Muskoka), this brand is bringing luxury to life on the water. Find them at Allport Marina in Bracebridge!

Best Designer Shop

Give your summer wardrobe a makeover at Mala Boutique in Port Carling. Luxury labels on offer here include Anine Bing, Missoni, Nili Lotan and Zimmerman. Spend some time browsing and you’ll leave with a new statement piece in hand that has just the right amount of Muskoka flair.

Best Swimwear

Worth a visit for the adorable little orange storefront nestled among the Rosseau trees alone, Teeny Weeny Bikini Co. also happens to be producing totally Canadian-made swimwear. In colourful prints with a vintage edge, everyone on the lake will be asking, “Where did you get that?” 

Best Trendy Boutique

Cottage country may be for slow living, but that doesn’t mean the shopping is behind the trends — and that’s especially the case for Port Carling’s Muse. You’ll find brands here that you would even have a hard time sourcing in Toronto, and this boutique will have you dressed to impress.

Best canoes and kayaks

The team at Swift Canoe & Kayak knows exactly what you need to get out on the water safely and in style. The Gravenhurst company not only manufactures its own sleek boats (combi, tandem, solo, you name it) but also sells all the boating accessories you could possibly need. 

Best Lifestyle Shop

Sisters-owned lifestyle boutique Curato feels like stepping into someone’s actual home. And since it also operates as a full-service interior design studio, you can be sure it’s impeccably decorated too! Located in Foot’s Bay Marina, this cosy shop is also accessible by boat and perched near the water for a total cottage shopping experience. 

Best Resort Wear

A Port Carling staple filled with effortless linen pieces, cashmere layers and all the woven accessories of your dreams, Snapdragon Designs offers cottage country vibes with a global edge. You can also pick up a handmade Muskoka-branded knit or bag here, if that’s your style. 

Best Jewelry Boutique 

A boutique that commits to beach life with ease, it’s the jewelry collection at L’eau in Port Carling that really stands out. Beaded bracelets that will remind you of your camp days and handmade charms made from actual shells round out a selection that will have you sparkling by the water.

Best Antique Market

Housed in an adorable little white house is Rosseau Antiques, a furniture and homewares destination for those in the know in Muskoka. Run by antique purveyor Mike Beasley, the market has even gotten some repeat celebrity visitors over the years — like longtime Muskoka residents Martin Short and Eugene Levy. 

Best Artisan Paddles

Who knew canoe paddles could be a form of art? Norquay Co. founder Natasha Wittke hand-paints each paddle at her studio in Toronto, and each one would be right at home on your cottage walls. Wittke’s creations have been known to be found at Uptown 75 in Port Carling. 

Best Loungewear

Founded in Muskoka and with a name inspired by the people who take up residence there for three months a year, Port Carling’s Seasonal Resident celebrates lake culture on and off the dock. The brand is known for its cottage-inspired loungewear with cheeky slogans (think Northern Cowboy or Port of Leisure).

Best New Homewards

In 2025, the Homebody Studio arrived in Toronto, bringing beautiful homewares and curated apparel from Oakville. Now, the boutique is joining the Port Carling family. The airy and bright new shop is already making its mark in cottage country. 

Best Vintage

A Toronto pop-up market staple, Clutter Porch turned heads when news hit that the vintage shop would be popping up in Muskoka last year. Lucky for cottage-goers, the shop is back again this year in Port Carling — and with a fun new Smoking Muskoka collection. 

Best Antique Shop

On a rainy day at the cottage, nothing is better than spending hours hunting through an antique shop — and Currie’s Music in Gravenhurst delivers. Shop around for vintage instruments, collectibles, artwork and all kinds of oddities and treasures. Every corner is teetering with gems here. 

Best Marketplace 

Why shop at one place when you can shop them all? The Friday Market at Gravenhurst’s Hale Muskoka brings together local artisans, creators and cottage country favourites under one roof, once a week, all summer long. With a rotating collection of curated vendors, you can shop pottery and home decor, pick up fresh Ontario produce and relax by the fire pit while live music plays. 

Best Swimwear for Athletes

Need a swimsuit that will hold up through your most adventurous water escapades this summer? Try a suit worn by literal beach volleyball Olympians. Left on Friday popped up in Port Carling last year for the first time and quickly earned a following for its sleek and sturdy designs. 

Best Muskoka Apparel

For a shop that truly goes all in on the Muskoka love, look no further than Muskoka Forever. Just as the name implies, this shop (with locations in Port Carling and Rosseau) is all Muskoka, all the time. From quarter zips, baseball caps and rugby polos sporting the Muskoka Forever slogan to keychains and even socks, rep your cottage with pride.

Best Bookstore

There’s no better rainy day activity than browsing a cosy bookstore, and Bracebridge’s Owl Pen delivers. This second-hand bookshop is teeming with literary finds for all kinds of readers, and there’s even some nostalgic memorabilia, like typewriters and landline phones, in the mix. 

 Best Cottage Decor 

Wooden homewares, gingham table linens and charming signage and candles line the walls of cottage decor and gift store Twig. Whether it’s furniture and lighting you’re looking for or home accents to brighten up your boathouse, trust that Port Carling’s Twig has got it. 

Best Muskoka Restaurants and Food

Best Restaurant

Born from a spontaneous Sunday family drive, Crossroads is Muskoka’s best because owners Julie and Richard Lalonde bring serious Fairmont-trained talent to Rosseau. Their “pure, simple, and delicious” philosophy translates to phenomenal plates, like rack of lamb and beef tenderloin. Exceptional service and a heated patio make this village gem entirely worth the trip.

Best Food Truck

Skip the high-end reservation and grab a bright yellow picnic table in Bala. Run by Toronto fine-dining expats Jennifer Dewasha and Jane MacDonald, Smokin’ Birds deals in Texas-style barbecue. Try the jiggly tender brisket that melts instantly and hand-cut fries crisp-fried in beef tallow. Wash it down with their house-made juice while catching a sunset over Moon River.

Best Live-Fire Feat on Tracks 

Stationed at Huntsville’s historic train station, Smokin’ Hot BBQ features one of the largest live-fire pit set-ups in Ontario. They use traditional Texas smokers to churn out massive, 14-hour slow-smoked brisket and monster sandwiches like the Piggly Wiggly. Show up on a Saturday for their “Smokeshow,” catch live bands playing right by the tracks.

Best Dockside Food Delivery 

Summer in Huntsville hasn’t truly started until you’ve flagged down a floating gelato shop. Operated by Affogato Café + Gelato, the Gelato Barge cruises Peninsula Lake, Lake Vernon and Fairy Lake, delivering handcrafted Italian gelato straight to docks and boats. Track its location via a live GPS link online or find it docked at Deerhurst Resort on Thursday afternoons.

Best Butcher Shop

If you’re firing up the cottage barbecue, skip the grocery store and head straight to Big Daddy’s in Huntsville. A staple for more than 20 years, the shop is known for its filler- and gluten-free meats, from oversized chicken breasts and prime rib roasts to signature house-made sausages. Snag one of the monthly Meat Bags for serious savings on the best cuts in town.

Best for a Day-to-Night Vibe Shift

Created by Toronto’s Toben Hospitality Group, Bala spot the Pearl brings city flavour straight to cottage country. By day, it’s a covered patio market for oat milk lattes, “Bomb” breakfast sandwiches and premium takeout. At night, it transforms into a vibey snack bar with live music and communal plates like Australian wagyu.

Best Fly-in Seafood Experience

Forget the car — getting to Henry’s on Frying Pan Island requires a seaplane, boat or helicopter. This remote Georgian Bay spot is legendary for its waterfront views and world-famous pickerel and trout, fresh caught and battered to perfection. It’s an absolute trek to get to, but that’s exactly why everyone loves it.

Best Backyard-Style burger

Webers captures everything people love about summer road trips. The charcoal-grilled burgers are smoky, the fries are generously seasoned, and the milkshakes hit the spot after a long drive north. Add the restaurant’s famous railway car dining room, and you’ve got a true Muskoka tradition.

Best Lakeside Hangout

Few places do cottage country living quite like Jack & Stella. Dock the boat, grab a smoothie on the waterfront patio and wander through the boutique’s carefully curated collection of clothing and cottage essentials. Later, settle in with a glass of wine and a wood-fired pizza as the lake glows at sunset.

Best Ice Cream

Not every summer treat has to come in a cone. Bracebridge shop Screamy’s has built a following for its handmade ice cream and sorbet bars, but the small-batch scooped ice cream deserves attention too. The hardest part is deciding what to order.

Best View

Sitting atop a 70-suite hotel wing in Gravenhurst, Skybar is Muskoka’s highest rooftop lounge. It clears a 300-foot cliffside drop, giving you an epic bird’s-eye view of the Canadian Shield and a Doug Carrick golf course. Time your visit for sunset and you’ll quickly see why it’s become one of the region’s most sought-after reservations.

Best Waterfront Margaritas

Tulo’s Taqueria has earned a reputation as one of Muskoka’s go-to spots for a margarita. The Port Carling restaurant overlooks the waterfront, and the rooftop patio rarely has an empty seat. Choose from watermelon, pineapple or classic lime and see what the fuss is about.

Best Italian Restaurant

If your perfect Muskoka evening involves arriving by boat and ending with tiramisù, Rousseau Pizzeria is your spot. Overlooking the town docks on Lake Rosseau, the restaurant serves crisp Italian-style pizzas, fresh pastas and polenta fries, best enjoyed from the patio as the sun dips behind the lake.

Best Tacos

Sure, you could have another burger. Or you could spend the evening dunking crispy birria tacos into rich broth and sipping mango-hibiscus margaritas at El Pueblito. This family-run Bracebridge spot is serving authentic Mexican comfort food, from loaded potato flautas to fresh churros that disappear from the table almost instantly.

Best Scones

This beloved Bala landmark has been feeding cottagers since 1947. Don’s recently returned to its original scratch-made recipes, bringing back the scone buns that built its reputation. One bite is usually enough to understand why people buy them by the dozen.

Best Fish + Chips

Some places are worth pulling over for. Mrs. H’s is one of them. Hidden near Wahta Station, this popular fish and chips stand has built a loyal following thanks to massive portions and perfectly fried seafood. Expect flaky halibut and enough fries to feed a small crew. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch the cooks singing while they work.

Best Steak

For a serious steak dinner, Compass Grill & Bar is worth the splurge. Huntsville’s Deerhurst Resort has brought signature cuts from its acclaimed Antler Steakhouse menu to the restaurant for the season, including a 50-ounce tomahawk and Canadian AAA strip loin, both served with parsnip purée and a smoked Gouda–stuffed double-baked potato.