While Muskoka is famous for its sunshine-filled lakeside days, there’s something equally magical about a rainy day here. Whether you’re caught in a surprise summer drizzle or planning around spring or fall showers, there’s no need to let the weather dampen your fun. Here are some of the best rainy day activities in Muskoka to keep you cozy, creative, and connected to the region’s charm.
1. Sip & Savour Local Flavours
When the rain starts to fall, head indoors to enjoy the warm, inviting flavours of Muskoka’s culinary scene.
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Muskoka Lakes Farm & Winery: Try a flight of local cranberry wines and cider in their cozy tasting room.
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High Tea at Blue Willow Tea Shop (Gravenhurst): Treat yourself to warm scones, teas, and tiered treats in a charming lakeside setting.
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Muskoka BeerSpa and Clear Lake Brewing (Torrance): Enjoy a cold brew in a hot tub surrounded by the forest—even if it’s raining, you’ll stay warm and relaxed.
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Canvas Brewing (Huntsville): Located in Downtown Huntsville with a large tap room, often with trivia and live music.
- Muskoka Brewery (Bracebridge), Sawdust City Brewing Co. (Gravenhurst), Lake of Bays Brewing Co. (Baysville), head a tour of our craft breweries! Don’t miss the seasonal brews.
2. Explore Local Art & Culture
Rainy days are perfect for discovering Muskoka’s creative soul.
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Muskoka Discovery Centre (Gravenhurst): Explore the rich history of boating, steamships, and cottage culture through interactive exhibits. Recently underwent 9 million expansion.
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Huntsville’s Group of Seven Outdoor Gallery: If the rain is light, grab an umbrella and stroll through town to spot 99 murals inspired by Canada’s iconic painters.
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Local Art Galleries: Check out the MAC on Main in Bracebridge or the Eclipse Art Gallery in Huntsville.
3. Shop Downtown
A rainy day is the perfect excuse to explore the unique boutiques and general stores in Muskoka’s charming downtowns. Just grab an umbrella and wander!
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Downtown Bracebridge: Pick up handmade goods, home décor, and Muskoka-inspired gifts at shops like Kala House of Colour, Rich Hill Candles and Tea on 45th.
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Huntsville’s Main Street: Discover cozy fashion, locally made art, and great finds at spots like Algonquin Outfitters and Nutty Chocolatier.
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Downtown Gravenhurst: Explore antique shops, artisan markets, and sweet treats like those at
- Seasonal Shops: Don’t miss the seasonal shopping in Bala, Port Carling, Rosseau, Dwight, Dorset and the seasonal Farmers’ Markets in every community.
4. Treat Yourself to a Spa Day
Rainy days are made for relaxation.
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Spa at JW Marriott The Rosseau: Indulge in a massage or facial with a view of the rain-dappled lake.
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Amba Spa at Deerhurst: A peaceful retreat surrounded by nature—perfect for unwinding.
5. Indoor Play for the Kids
Keep little ones entertained and engaged even when the weather turns.
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Climb Muskoka (Bracebridge) – A new addition to town, with fantastic climbing for all ages and abilities.
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ZigZag Escape Room (Huntsville) – Located at Deerhurst Resort, with a mix of escape rooms and axe throwing.
6. Catch a Movie or Live Show
Lean into the cozy vibes and enjoy some entertainment indoors.
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Norwood Theatre (Bracebridge): A charming historic theatre with a mix of blockbusters and indie flicks.
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Algonquin Theatre (Huntsville): Catch a local play, concert, or live performance.
7. Try a Creative Workshop
Get hands-on with Muskoka’s maker culture.
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Let the Cat Go Art Studio (Bracebridge): Offers painting, pottery, and other artsy workshops for all ages.
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Rustic décor & DIY Classes: Check local shops like The Cutter’s Edge or Muskoka Living for seasonal workshops.
7. Museums
1. Muskoka Lakes Museum – Port Carling Offers a charming glimpse into Cottage Country’s past. Explore exhibits on Indigenous history, pioneer life, and the golden age of wooden boats—all just steps from the iconic Port Carling locks.
2. Bethune Memorial House – Gravenhurst Step into the birthplace of Dr. Norman Bethune, a Canadian hero celebrated for his medical innovations and humanitarian work in China.
3. Muskoka Discovery Centre – Gravenhurst From vintage wooden boats to cutting-edge interactive exhibits, the Muskoka Discovery Centre brings Muskoka’s past and future together.
4. Canadian Raceboat Hall of Fame – Bracebridge This hidden gem celebrates Canada’s thrilling powerboating legacy. With restored hydroplanes and stories of racing legends, it’s a must-see for motorsport enthusiasts and history buffs.
5. Muskoka Heritage Place – Huntsville Travel back in time at Muskoka Heritage Place, home to a pioneer village, a museum, and a heritage train.
6. Bala’s Museum with Memories of Lucy Maud Montgomery – Bala L.M. Montgomery fans will be enchanted by this lovingly curated museum in Bala. Walk in the author’s footsteps, view rare “Anne of Green Gables” memorabilia.
7. Lake of Bays Marine Museum – Dorset Located next to the SS Bigwin dock, this museum is a tribute to the marine heritage of Lake of Bays. Learn about historic steamships, boat building, and the role watercraft played in the development of this scenic area.
8. Dorset Heritage Museum – Dorset Tucked into the village of Dorset, this cozy museum showcases artifacts from early settlers, logging camps, and local life.
9. Little Norway Memorial – Gravenhurst Honouring the World War II-era training camp for Norwegian airmen.
10. The Tree Museum – Gravenhurst This unique open-air museum blends contemporary art with nature on a sprawling 200-acre woodland. Sculptures and installations are hidden among the trees.
Don’t Let the Rain Stop the Fun
A rainy day in Muskoka just might become one of your most memorable. With cozy corners, creative spaces, and delicious stops, there’s always something to explore—rain or shine.
