Penetanguishene, Bilingual municipality in Simcoe County, Ontario, Canada
Penetanguishene is a town on the southeastern shore of Georgian Bay with several protected harbors and marinas for water activities. The area spreads along the waterfront and offers both natural landscapes and water access for visitors throughout the year.
The Royal Navy built a naval base in 1813 to protect against American threats and constructed a road through the wilderness. This infrastructure shaped the town's early growth and its strategic importance for the region.
The town reflects its French and English heritage through schools and public institutions where both languages shape daily life. Visitors notice this bilingual character in street signs and services that keep this cultural tradition alive.
Discovery Harbour displays reconstructed naval ships and buildings that visitors can explore through guided tours and demonstrations. The area also offers access to harbors and water activities along the bay for independent exploration.
The name comes from Indigenous languages and means land of white rolling sands, reflecting the sandy beaches that still define the shoreline. This name ties the settlement's story to the geographical features visitors can still see along the water.
Location: Simcoe County
Founders: Étienne Brûlé
Shares border with: Tiny, Midland
Website: http://town.penetanguishene.on.ca/siteengine/activepage.asp
GPS coordinates: 44.78389,-79.90000
Latest update: December 20, 2025 01:41
Huronia Museum
4.9 km
St. James on-the-Lines
2.1 km
Midland Public Library
4.1 kmCrescent Beach
4.3 kmSt. Ann's Church
3.4 kmSt. Margaret's Catholic Church
4.1 kmThe Penetanguishene Angels
3.2 kmCopeland Hill Cemetery
5.7 kmHillside Holme
3.8 km14 Water Street
3.3 km18 Robert Street East
3 kmC. Beck Home
2.6 kmLetherby Home
4.5 km310 Fifth Street
4.3 kmMcGibbon Lumber Company
3.4 kmMunicipal Office Building and Council Chambers
3.2 kmPenetanguishene Centennial Museum
3.1 kmThe Green Block
3.2 km33 Robert Street West
3.5 kmWhite Gothic Revival House
3 kmDrummond Estate wall
2 kmW.R. Benson Home
3.8 kmDault/Jennings Block
3.1 kmFrazer House
5.4 kmMidland Golf & Country Club
4.9 kmRT William & Bayshore
3.4 kmDiscovery Harbour
3.2 kmWork of art, sculpture
3.6 kmVisited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes