Doors Open Simcoe County

Discover Simcoe County’s heritage during Doors Open Ontario on Saturday, September 19 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Step inside historical buildings, cultural landmarks, natural sites and special spaces rarely open to the public. Enjoy free access, guided experiences and new ways to experience Simcoe County’s past and present.

Doors Open Simcoe County is taking place during Culture Days (September 18 to October 4). Be sure to explore our other Culture Days events and experiences happening throughout Midland and the Heart of Georgian Bay. 

Town of Midland Mural and Public Art Walking Tour

Join Town of Midland staff for a one-hour walking tour of 50 murals and public art works located along the waterfront and downtown. Learn about the history of each piece and significance to the Town of Midland. Preregistration is required for the tour which will begin at 10 a.m. and will be capped at 20 participants. Participants are encouraged to dress for the weather, wear comfortable shoes, sunscreen and bring a water bottle. 

Exact starting location will be shared with registrants. For self-guided mural tours, Mural and Public Art Guidebooks will be available at the Town of Midland Harbour Office at 165 King Street, Midland.

Doors Open Sites in Midland and the Heart of Georgian Bay

The Interactive Hub at the Canadian Museum of Water is a dynamic space where visitors of all ages can explore humanity's relationship with water through technology, storytelling, science and play. Located within the Midland Cultural Centre, the Hub reflects the museum's mission to position water not simply as a resource, but as a relationship essential to life, culture and community. 

Saturday, September 19 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

333 King Street, Midland

The present building dates from 1887, although Presbyterians have worshiped here since 1832. The 2015 addition preserved its history while creating bright new spaces. Our beautiful sanctuary windows celebrate Georgian Bay landscapes. We welcome EVERYONE! All proceeds from today's lunch sales will support our Monday Caring Kitchen, which provides free hot lunches to those who need physical and social nourishment. 

Saturday, September 19 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

20 Robert Street East, Penetanguishene

The Midland Cultural Centre is a not-for-profit vibrant and inclusive hub where community and creativity thrive in the heart of Georgian Bay. It is a community-based, volunteer-driven facility, where everyone can be involved in artistic and cultural pursuits as a participant or audience member. The centre is also home to the Midland Cultural Centre Gallery of Indigenous Art.

Saturday, September 19 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

333 King Street, Midland

Step back in time at the Penetanguishene Centennial Museum & Archives, featuring an original 1875 general store. Discover the logging industry's role in the town's early days and explore Penetanguishene's cultural history. Enjoy a fun kids scavenger hunt then join a guided walking tour visiting landmarks connected to lumber baron Charles Beck. 

Saturday, September 19 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

13 Burke Street, Penetanguishene

Explore Penetanguishene’s rich heritage and discover the legacy of lumber baron Charles Beck, one of the town’s most influential industrialists. Start at the Penetanguishene Centennial Museum & Archives, then stroll down Beck Boulevard to trace the locations of Beck’s mills. Then it’s Beck’s family home on Fox Street before ending at Burkevale, Ontario’s last remaining Protestant separate school.

Saturday, September 19 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

  • Tours at 10:00 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1:00 p.m. and 2:30 p.m.

Start at 13 Burke Street, Penetanguishene

Welcome to Quest Art School + Gallery, located inside the Midland Cultural Centre in downtown Midland. Quest is a not-for-profit organization that has fostered and celebrated visual arts creativity in Georgian Bay for over 30 years. Quest is a unique space that has a significant connection to the community and is recognized for its active programming and events! 

Saturday, September 19 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

333 King Street, Midland

Join town of Midland staff for a walking tour of 50 murals and public artworks along the waterfront and downtown. Learn the history and significance of each piece. Dress for the weather, wear comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and bring a water bottle. Preregistration required for the guided tour at 10:00 a.m. (capped at 20 participants). Guidebooks for self-guided tours will be available at the Midland Harbour Office at 165 King Street.

Saturday, September 19 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

Starting location will be shared with registered attendees.

The Waypoint Centre for Mental Health Care is a leading academic hospital specializing in mental health and addictions. Explore its historical roots (the Administration Building was built in the 1860s and has been a hospital since 1904) and learn how Waypoint now delivers innovative care — including Ontario’s only high-secure forensic program, regional geriatric services and youth and community supports.

Saturday, September 19 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

500 Church Street, Penetanguishene

Check out the full list of Doors Open Simcoe County sites.