The Muskoka region has long attracted visitors looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city in exchange for a quiet weekend in the countryside. Whether you want to paddle the beautiful waterways, learn fascinating history, or discover the vibrant arts scene, there is an experience for everyone in Ontario’s favorite year-round destination. Those who want to find the rich culture of our region can spend a weekend exploring the dynamic Muskoka art and museum scene.
See what life was like for early settlers at Muskoka Heritage Place or meander through wooded trails and admire sculptures at the Tree Museum. Regardless of your interests, Rawley Resort offers the ideal escape on the idyllic Trent-Severn waterway. Read on to learn more about art and museum attractions throughout the Muskoka region.
Muskoka Art
Muskoka’s sparkling lakes and lush forests have been inspiring artists for generations. And many of these artists showcase their photography, painting, pottery, and jewelry at local galleries and outdoor venues:
Group of Seven Outdoor Gallery: You can see over 90 impressive murals throughout the Muskoka region that are reproductions of famous art by Canada’s Group of Seven artists.
The Tree Museum: This unique attraction in Gravenhurst features a wooded trail where you can see a variety of sculptures that focus on the relationship between humans and nature.
Auburn Gallery of Fine Art: Browse a collection of fine art paintings, photographs, sculptures, bronzes, fiber art, and hand-crafted jewelry at this Muskoka art gallery.
Algonquin Art Centre: This world-class art gallery features works by some of Canada’s best wilderness and wildlife artists. The exhibits frequently rotate, currently showcasing pieces on the birds of Algonquin Park.
Museums in Muskoka
In addition to local art, you can also find several museums that highlight the storied history of Muskoka, including:
Muskoka Lakes Museum: Learn about the development of the Muskoka Lakes district at this family-friendly museum in Port Carling. The interactive exhibits highlight First Nations history, technology, innovation, boating, and pioneer life.
Muskoka Heritage Place: Pay a visit to a historically accurate Muskoka pioneer village and tour the buildings, visit the artifact exhibits, and hang out with the farm animals. The village offers educational demonstrations like candle dipping, rug making, and blacksmithing. They also offer train rides on a historic train that operated in the early 20th century.
Muskoka Discovery Centre: Much of Muskoka’s success can be attributed to steamships, and you can cruise in a historic steamship and see historical artifacts at this discovery centre.
Discover the Muskoka art and local history during your Georgian Bay getaway at Rawley Resort. Stay at our historic Muskoka resort, which was once a lumber mill and a fishing lodge. We invite you to celebrate 100 years of history and tradition at Rawley with our spacious accommodations, relaxing spa, and innovative dining options. Learn more about how you can save on your next getaway with the Ontario Staycation Tax Credit.