Barrie is the first major city north of the Greater Toronto Area. See Barrie Map Considered to be the gateway to Ontario's cottage and resort country, Barrie has and one of Ontario's busiest tourist information centres in the Province of Ontario. Barrie is in an enviable geographic location as the strategic junction to the major highways leading to northern Ontario--Highway 400 and Highway 11. See Barrie Tourism and Travel News. Barrie is part of two major watersheds, the Lake Simcoe and Nottawasaga watersheds, both leading to Georgian Bay.
Lake Simcoe Resort Destination Barrie is the largest city in Simcoe County was put on the international map as host of the Live 8 concert. One media outlet defined Toronto as being "a little below Barrie". Many of the Barrie hotels and resort accommodation are easily accessible off of Highway 400. Barrie is a good starting point for a road trip to tour the province or to take one of the many Ontario Spring, Summer or Fall travel routes. There are several boat launching areas close to highway 400 for fishing in Lake Simcoe.
Barrie Go Train To the Beach from Toronto: Like many Toronto residents the thought of starting your weekend North of Toronto was avoided as many did not want to drive Highway 400 north. There is good news. Now with the Go Train going to Barrie, you can leave Friday afternoon from downtown Toronto, and return Monday morning. This will be of benefit to those who like to enjoy the fresh Barrie air, beaches, hiking or biking around the Kempenfelt Bay, but don't like the drive. Arrive relaxed for your romantic weekend away or time at the beach.