4 Curated Day Trips in Simcoe County: Scenic Drives & Hidden Cafés

Sometimes the best escapes are right in your own backyard. Simcoe County, with its rolling farmland, sparkling lakes, and charming towns, is filled with hidden gems just waiting to be discovered. Whether you're looking to unplug for a few hours or impress out-of-town guests, these four day trips offer the perfect mix of scenic beauty, local flavour, and under-the-radar cafés that feel like well-kept secrets.

☕️ 1. Creemore & Mulmur Highlands

Route: Barrie → Angus → Creemore → Terra Nova → Mulmur → Home via Airport Rd
Approx. Drive Time: 2.5–3 hours (loop)

🛣 Why You’ll Love It:

This route winds through some of Simcoe County’s most beautiful rural landscapes—think rolling hills, canopied roads, and postcard-perfect farms.

🍴 Hidden Café Stop:

The Bank Café – Creemore
Located in a converted historic bank building, this cozy café offers locally sourced fare, stellar coffee, and charming small-town vibes.

☕️ 2. Midland to Port Severn Coastal Loop

Route: Barrie → Elmvale → Balm Beach → Midland → Port Severn → Moonstone
Approx. Drive Time: 3–3.5 hours (loop)

🛣 Why You’ll Love It:

This trip hugs Georgian Bay, delivering waterfront views, quaint marinas, and peaceful drives through charming coastal towns.

🍴 Hidden Café Stop:

Grounded Coffee Co. – Midland
A community favourite with excellent house-roasted coffee and a quiet patio that makes you want to stay a while.

☕️ 3. Oro-Medonte Countryside & Craighurst Detour

Route: Barrie → Horseshoe Valley Rd → Craighurst → Shanty Bay → Ridge Rd → Barrie
Approx. Drive Time: 2 hours (loop)

🛣 Why You’ll Love It:

Close to home but rich in forested drives and lake views, this loop is ideal for a midweek reset or a quiet Sunday drive.

🍴 Hidden Café Stop:

Loobies Coffee & Tea – Craighurst
An unassuming gem with warm drinks, light bites, and local hospitality in the heart of a peaceful village.

☕️ 4. Collingwood, The Blue Mountains & Thornbury

Route: Barrie → Stayner → Collingwood → Blue Mountains → Thornbury → Home via Hwy 124 or Airport Rd
Approx. Drive Time: 3.5–4 hours (loop)

🛣 Why You’ll Love It:

This is the ultimate scenic and lifestyle drive. Georgian Bay, ski hills, vineyards, and boutique towns make this a standout experience in every season.

🍴 Hidden Café Stop:

Ashanti Coffee – Thornbury
A true gem tucked just off the main strip. Known for its ethically sourced beans, cozy atmosphere, and perfect lattes—plus, it’s attached to a small-batch roastery.

🧭 Optional Stops:

• Blue Mountain Village – walk the trails, browse the boutiques, or grab a gourmet snack
  
  

• Northwinds Beach – quiet Georgian Bay shoreline for a post-coffee pause
  
  

• Georgian Hills Vineyards – enjoy a patio tasting or pick up a bottle to go
  
  

• Thornbury Bakery Café – if you're craving a second coffee and something sweet
  
  

You don’t have to leave Simcoe County to find winding roads, boutique cafés, and refreshing new perspectives. These curated day trips offer the kind of experiences that feel elevated yet accessible, perfect for locals, newcomers, and explorers alike.

Have a favourite hidden café or scenic drive I missed? I’d love to hear about it. Let’s keep discovering Simcoe County...one café at a time.