Ready to break free from the usual holiday hosting routine? Instead of stressing over cleaning, cooking, and decorating, envision a serene Thanksgiving weekend. Let us handle the hosting duties, giving you the chance to unwind and relish moments with loved ones. Experience the tranquility of South Georgian Bay, a perfect destination for a refreshing mini-vacation. Get ready to embrace a weekend full of gratitude and relaxation.
Day 1 – Friday Evening
Day 2 – Saturday Morning
Wake up early and start the day with a round of golf at the beautiful Duntroon Highlands Golf Course. The course overlooks all of South Georgian Bay, making this the ideal spot to take in the beautiful fall colours exploding all over the region.
Any non-golfers in the family? Don’t worry! Duntroon Highlands offers more than just golf. Try out the new Pickleball Courts located just off the first fairway, or hangout with a specialty coffee in the Highlands Café.
Before heading back to Thornbury, take a drive into Stayner’s downtown to pick up some big, warm cinnamon buns from Bakery by the Bay.
Saturday Afternoon
Saturday Evening
Meet back at Penny’s and regroup for dinner. A short walk down the street will bring you to Winifred’s English Pub, home to the largest patio in Thornbury. Sit outside overlooking the The Mill Pond and Beaver River, or if it’s too chilly, dine inside the historic building built in 1862. Enjoy a variety of delicious pub food and listen to live entertainment at this homey neighbourhood pub.
Day 3 – Thanksgiving Sunday Morning
Happy Thanksgiving! There’s so much to be grateful for, including the fun day ahead with your family. Hop on bikes, complimentary of Penny’s Motel, and take a short cycle into Thornbury’s downtown. Grab a seat in Ashanti Coffee Roasters and sip on a freshly roasted coffee. The Ashanti team does it all – from hand growing the beans on a farm in Africa, to roasting each Zimbabwean coffee bean, to serving it up in a cup.
After returning back from your little family coffee date, get ready to spend the rest of the morning exploring. Get your hiking boots on and drive to Scenic Caves Nature Adventures. Hike along the 1km loop that leads to the iconic Suspension Bridge lookout. At 420 feet long and 82 feet above the forest floor, you can see the entire region and the Bay from up above. Wanting to do more? There’s lots of other trails to explore, including one that leads to the caves and caverns, if you’re feeling super adventurous.
Thanksgiving Sunday Afternoon
Thanksgiving Sunday Evening
Celebrate Thanksgiving with a sophisticated dining experience at Lakeside Seafood and Grill. This elegant restaurant is the only one in the region to be located right on the waterfront, with spectacular views of the Harbour and Georgian Bay. Although fish and seafood is their specialty, they do have other options as well. During the fall season, they usually offer an exclusive menu with different fall features, so be sure to keep an eye on their website. Take a look at their extensive wine list and don’t forget to order dessert, as it is a special occasion after all. Spend some time going around the table to list all that you’re grateful for.
Day 4 – Thanksgiving Monday Morning
Good morning and Happy Holiday Monday! Let’s bike downtown again, but this time we’re doing coffee and breakfast at the Thornbury Bakery Café. This spot is family-owned and has been an important piece of the downtown core since the early 1900’s. You can’t go wrong with all of the different ways they do eggs and bacon breakfast here. And here’s a fair warning – you’re not going to be able to walk out the doors without a box full of pastries.
The next activity is a classic fall must-do. Head out to Duntroon and more specifically, to McEachran & Sons Orchards for some apple picking. After all, how is grandma supposed to make you good apple pie if she doesn’t have fresh, locally grown apples? Go pick your own in this family-owned orchard, and shop the local produce at the farm stand.
Thanksgiving Monday Afternoon
Last but definitely not least, let’s go chase some waterfalls (and beautiful fall colours) before heading home. Venture out to Hogg’s Falls, located just outside of Flesherton in Grey County, for a hike packed with breathtaking sights. Experience the beauty of the 7 metre tall cascading waterfall, as you hike through the forest. This 4 kilometre loop of moderately challenging difficulty is an awesome family adventure, and a great chance to get your legs moving before getting back in the car.
Thank you for visiting South Georgian Bay! This Thanksgiving, we are thankful for YOU and all of your support. We hope the entire family had a fun and relaxing holiday weekend. Safe travels home!
Please note that some businesses may be closed or have altered hours on holidays. Please be sure to check their websites and call ahead before arriving to avoid disappointment.
We hope you have a fun and safe time exploring South Georgian Bay! Share your memories with us by tagging @SGeorgianBay on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter!
Planning to visit South Georgian Bay in the near future? Please contact individual businesses to confirm method and hours of operation and plan ahead by making reservations when possible. Visit our “Know Before You Go” page by clicking here.
