With beaches, birding and car racing, this Western Ontario town offers great holiday experiences for the whole family.
Enjoy daytime water activities on Lake Huron and nighttime theatre in Grand Bend. For more than 100 years, holiday makers have been drawn to this spot where the river makes a sharp turn before emptying into Lake Huron. After an early logging and fishing economy, the town has transitioned to a well-rounded community with numerous family activities.
Select from more than 20 beaches along 41 miles (66 kilometres) of Great Lakes shoreline. Grand Bend Main Beach has summer lifeguards and accessible amenities to make a full day at the beach fun for all. Just southwest of downtown, visit Pinery Provincial Park, which features sand dunes, hiking or snowshoeing and all-terrain wheelchairs for handicapped beach access.
More than 300 bird species visit Grand Bend during seasonal migrations. Bring binoculars to the park in March to view thousands of tundra swans returning to the Canadian Arctic from their Maryland winter stay. Best viewing is from Greenway Road.
Nearby, stop at the Lambton Heritage Museumto learn about Lambton County’s history. Take a downtown walking tour of Grand Bend and look for remains of historic buildings including the pre-1880 Colonial Hotel, a 1940s roller rink and a casino that hosted Louis Armstrong and other entertainers.
Enjoy modern entertainment at the Huron Country Playhouse and Playhouse II, which feature Broadway musicals, comedy and dramas. Enjoy an old-fashioned outdoor movie night at the Starlite Drive-In. Watch speeding cars at Grand Bend Motorplex.
Visit Grand Bend’s more than 20 art galleries and studios. Some let you make your own art. Join the Grand Bend Studio Tour in May to see works by more than 30 artists, enjoy special restaurant events and listen to live music. Check the town’s tourism website to select from more than 60 events and festivals through the year.
Grand Bend is a 1-hour drive northwest of London, Ontario. Set up a holiday base here to enjoy everyday life in Grand Bend, with golf, a summer farmers market and flea market and many miles of hiking trails.
