Discovery Harbour tells the story of a 19th-century British naval and military establishment. Together with local monuments, the museum, and waterfront trails, Penetanguishene makes a destination for cultural history and time outdoors.
Naval History and Planning Your Visit
Discovery Harbour is a 30-acre living history attraction about the original British naval and military establishment, built after the War of 1812 to defend Upper Canada. Guided or self-guided tours with knowledgeable, costumed staff are offered for groups. Check operating details before your trip if you are planning a group visit. A guided audio tour is also available online, allowing visitors to explore the site at their own pace.
The King's Wharf Theatre at Discovery Harbour has 371 seats and is flanked by majestic tall ships and historic buildings. If you are planning a theatre visit, check operating details and the program before your trip; both can change over time.
Local History and Monuments
The Penetanguishene Centennial Museum & Archives showcases the history of one of Ontario's oldest communities. The Penetanguishene Angels at the entrance to town make a distinctive welcome. At the 1921 tercentenary celebrations, they were called “Portals to Huronia”; they also mark the entrance as a greeting to visitors.
The John Graves Simcoe Monument on the Trans-Canada Trail depicts Simcoe foreseeing Penetanguishene's strategic value as a naval base in 1793. Simcoe (1752–1806) was a British military officer and the first Lieutenant Governor of Upper Canada. The monument invites visitors to look through his telescope. In Huronia Park, a significant historic monument commemorates the capture of the American warships Tigress and Scorpion.
Trails, Parks, and Swimming Areas
The 3.0-kilometre Discovery Harbour Trail is a paved waterfront trail from the Historic Port of Penetanguishene to Discovery Harbour. The Penetanguishene Trail, also known as the Trans Canada Trail, connects Tiny Township with Midland and passes through Rotary Champlain Wendat Park. The routes offer different points of reference: the Discovery Harbour Trail leads to a historic site, while the other trail describes the connection between Tiny Township and Midland.
For safe access to the Penetanguishene Angels and the associated park area, using the separate multi-use trail is recommended. Both Rotary Champlain Wendat Park and Huronia Park have a sandy beach, swimming area, playground, pavilion, and washrooms. In Huronia Park, the park amenities are complemented by the monument commemorating the capture of the Tigress and Scorpion. If you plan to swim, check seasonal beach conditions and water advisories beforehand.
Plan Your Stay
Consider which of these themes you want to shape your stay, and prioritize visits according to what interests you most.
Discover more destinations: Port Severn, Port Mcnicoll, Collingwood, Wasaga Beach, Tiny, Victoria Harbour, Barrie, Orillia
Return to the main travel overview: Simcoe County.
