About 90 minutes north of Toronto sits a tiny Ontario village where a historic red mill overlooks a winding river, and the main street is lined with charming old-fashioned shops that look straight out of a storybook.
Coldwater is nestled in Simcoe County, between Orillia and Midland, and is a picturesque little community that has so much historic character, making it a perfect spot for a weekend road trip or an afternoon escape, even as the chilly weather sets in.
The village’s most famous landmark is the Coldwater Heritage Mill, a beautiful red wooden grist mill dating back to 1833 that sits along the Coldwater River.
The historic building was originally constructed for the Ojibwe community living in the area and has been carefully preserved as one of Coldwater’s most treasured landmarks. Today, the mill is surrounded by peaceful riverside grounds, with a wooden deck overlooking the water and tons of pretty spots to snap some Insta pics.
During its regular visitor season, the mill also houses a small museum where visitors can learn about its history. There’s a little gift shop showcasing the work of local artisans on site, so perfect for picking out a handmade souvenir or getting a head start on Christmas shopping.
There’s even a Musical Barn on site! The open-air performance pavilion is nestled on the mill’s grounds and is used for live music and community gatherings.
For a nature hit, the Uhthoff Trail passes right through Coldwater, so you’ll have the most gorgeous route for walking or cycling through the surrounding countryside. The former railway corridor stretches toward Orillia and Georgian Bay, with wooded sections that are very pretty, especially when the leaves change colour in autumn!
Coldwater’s historic main street is dotted with old brick storefronts and beautiful Victorian homes, so very nostalgic, and a great spot to spend an afternoon wandering along Coldwater Rd., popping in and out of little shops and admiring the architecture.
If you’re into quirky finds, check out Back in Thyme. The shop is filled with eclectic antiques and locally made treasures, so you’ll stumble upon the most unusual souvenirs to take home.
A few doors down, Puzzles & Pastimes Hobby Shop specializes in jigsaw puzzles and creative hobbies, with shelves filled with unique gifts for kids, games and model kits. Afterward, stop by Em’s Café for a quick coffee break. The café has the ultimate cozy small-town feel, with exposed brick walls and a menu packed with delicious drinks (s’mores iced latte, anyone?).
For dinner, Tiffany Dining Lounge & Restaurant is a local fave known for its classic homemade comfort food (stick around for chicken schnitzel Tuesdays, Spaghetti Wednesdays and Fish ‘n’ Chip Fridays). Just make sure to grab some of Tiffany’s homemade date squares or a pie for the drive home.
And if you’re looking for a place to stay in Coldwater, this jaw-dropping Airbnb has become something of an Instagram fave: the Scandinavian-inspired log cabin sits on two private acres along the Severn River, surrounded by towering pine trees and rugged granite scenery!