Bracebridge has many great retail stores to take advantage of during the Fall & Winter season.
Whether you are looking for Christmas gifts, shopping for clothing, or just browsing for knick-knacks, you will want to make a point of stopping in to the many unique stores which Bracebridge has to offer.
There are three main shopping areas to visit while you are here. These include the downtown area, the 'Flats' around Highway 118 West, and the many outlying areas where you will find some of our car dealerships, factory outlets, and service related showrooms.
Historic downtown Bracebridge has always offered residents and visitors alike with quality goods and services. The picture to the right is Manitoba Street circa 1935.
Take a stroll down Manitoba Street and see for yourself the main small boutiques, classy eateries, and gift shops. You will notice that the downtown is made up of many of these small yet high quality establishments. Experience 'pre-big box store' shopping at its best.
If you want to visit a big box store though, Bracebridge is progressive enough to acknowledge those needs as well. You will find these other stores in the 'Flats' and in outlying areas.
We've come a long way since goods and people were moved around by cart and cow.
In this fast paced world, it is still nice to see a downtown with a commitment to maintaining it's historic shopping areas while still being progressive enough to be competitive!
ART GALLERIES
Alexandra Luke Gallery
Located on Partridge Lane the gallery is situated in a picturesque rural setting just west of Bracebridge. Discover a unique collection of watercolours, photography, mixed media art and gifts. Wendy Moses, artist in residence, invites you to visit and experience her art and the work of many other local artists. Call 705-645-2093.
Martin's Muskoka Fine Art Center
Located on Manitoba Street in downtown Bracebridge, this "Centre" offers a well known gallery, quality framing and a full line of art supplies.
The Chapel Gallery
Operated by Muskoka Arts and Craft Incorporated, the Chapel Gallery, situated in a reconstructed Presbyterian Church hosts exhibitions of art and crafts by members and other provincially known artists. Exhibits change every 4 to 5 weeks. Call 705-645-5501.
The Silver Bridge Gallery
The showcase for Muskoka's largest selection of pottery, stained glass and hot glass in one downtown Bracebridge location. Call 705-646-2460
Farmers' Market
Bracebridge has a thriving agricultural industry, with many local farms offering 'pick-your-own' products and opportunities. Enjoy the 'fruits of labour' at the Farmer's Market every Saturday from 8:30am - 1:00pm, June through October, at Memorial Park on Manitoba St.. Take a walk along the trails or in the local woods and you will find an abundance of wild strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries ripe for the picking. Come enjoy fresh maple syrup and pancake festivals during the spring. For a complete list of farms and agricultural attractions and events, call the Visitor Centre at (705) 645-8121.
FACTORY OUTLETS
Lakes of Muskoka Cottage Brewery
The micro-brewing phenomenon has strong representation in Muskoka with Lakes of Muskoka Cottage Brewery. Founded in 1996 by two high school friends from Huntsville, the brewery has since become renowned in beer circles as the producer of award-winning products, Muskoka Cream Ale and Muskoka Honey Brown Lager. The brewery is located in an historic building that served as a granary at the turn of the century. This fine old building is now home to a modern brewing rig, with sparkling stainless steel kettles and fermentation tanks. Muskoka Cream Ale is sold on the premises and the brewery is open for pre-arranged tours. Located at 13 Taylor Road, by the railway tracks in Bracebridge. Call 800-881-4229.
Maple Orchard Farms
Producers of Canada's finest maple syrup, fudge, and other maple products, they also offer quality chocolate products, purified bottled water, with a coffee and gift shop on-site. Maple production tours offered at 2pm every day, or for groups by appointment. Call 800-461-5445.
Muskoka Furniture Outlet
Located at 195 Wellington Street Plaza this large outlet offers pine and other fine furniture for every room in your home, office and/or cottage. It is well known as a "Bargain Hunter's Best Friend". Call Todd or Mike at 705-645-8183.
Rich Hill Candles & Gifts
A very unique Muskoka destination - fun, friendly and affordable! Handcraft your own wax souvenir in our candle factory while you watch our chandlers in action. Our panoramic windows offer a "close up" view of our antique taper dipping carousel, estimated to be over 100 years old. Our shop is renowned throughout Muskoka - an experience well worth the drive. The candles and holders range from bizarre to beautiful - most at factory outlet prices. Experience a sight and scent safari as you browse through an endless variety of curiosities, trinkets, treasures, gifts & gizmos. The gift shop features Thomas the Tank, Crabtree & Evelyn and Muskoka Preserves. We've been entertaining our visitors for over 30 years. Open 6 days year round and 7 in July & August. Busses and tour groups welcome by appointment. (705) 645-3068.
Northern Exposure Pewter
This Ecclestone Drive company designs and manufactures items in pewter. Specialty items, custom work, Muskoka specials including desk clocks, wine bottle stops, key rings, etc are all handcrafted. Visit the factory direct showroom. Tours are welcome by appointment. Call 705-645-8516.
