Welcome to Barrie – The Gateway to Cottage Country

Nestled along the western shore of Lake Simcoe, just 90 km north of Toronto, Barrie is a dynamic and growing city with a population of approximately 148,000 and a metro area approaching 213,000. It offers a rare blend of vibrant urban energy, beautiful waterfront living, and a strong sense of community.

Waterfront Beauty & Outdoor Living

Barrie’s waterfront, along Kempenfelt Bay, is the heart of the city. With beautiful beaches, marina access, scenic lookouts, and a six-kilometre lakeside walking trail, it’s the perfect place to relax, explore, or stay active. Over 700 acres of parkland and nearly 90 km of public trails provide endless opportunities to connect with nature.

A City for All Seasons

Barrie is truly a four-season playground.

• Summer: Boating, swimming, festivals, and waterfront dining
• Fall: Stunning foliage and trail walks through changing forests
  
• Winter: Skiing and snowboarding at nearby resorts like Snow Valley, Horseshoe, and Mount St. Louis
  
• Spring: Fresh markets, outdoor cafes, and scenic cycling routes

A Revitalized Downtown Core

Downtown Barrie is a hub of culture, shopping, and community events. Boutique shops, galleries, cozy cafés, and restaurants line historic streets. Meridian Place, an outdoor event space, hosts concerts, festivals, and farmers’ markets year-round, bringing people together in the heart of the city.

A Diverse and Expanding Economy

Barrie’s economy is fueled by a mix of sectors including advanced manufacturing, healthcare, education, retail, and technology. Major institutions like Georgian College and Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre anchor the city’s workforce and innovation landscape. With a growing entrepreneurial scene, new businesses and creative industries continue to flourish.

Rapid Growth with Vision

One of Canada’s fastest-growing mid-sized cities, Barrie is on track to surpass 153,000 residents by 2025 and is planning for significant expansion by 2051. New developments include a downtown STEM campus, housing initiatives, transit improvements, and major investments in infrastructure and community services.

A Tourism Powerhouse

Barrie attracts nearly 8 million visitors annually and is a major destination in central Ontario. Its tourism sector supports thousands of local jobs and generates significant economic impact through events, waterfront activities, sports tourism, and seasonal travel. The city is committed to strengthening tourism through thoughtful planning and strategic development.

Lifestyle & Connectivity

With top-ranked schools, accessible healthcare, and a safe, inclusive community, Barrie is an ideal place to raise a family or enjoy retirement. It’s easily connected to Toronto via Highway 400 and GO Transit, offering convenience for commuters while maintaining its laid-back, lakeside charm.

Why Choose Barrie?

• Stunning waterfront lifestyle on Lake Simcoe
  
  
• All-season recreation: boating, skiing, trails, and more

• A walkable, revitalized downtown with arts and culture

• Strong economy and career opportunities across sectors

• Rapid, well-managed growth with strategic development

• A family-friendly, safe, and welcoming community

• Easy access to Toronto and surrounding regions

Barrie offers the best of both worlds—urban opportunity with lakeside serenity. Whether you're visiting for a weekend, investing in a business, or settling down to stay, Barrie welcomes you with open arms and endless possibilities.