On any given long weekend, you’ll see crowds of cars headed North toward cottage country to spend a couple of sunny days on the lake. Instead of spending hours travelling, why not try a staycation in Mississauga? Here you’ll find all the same amenities and more – without cutting into your precious weekend time.
Check out this itinerary for a Muskoka-style weekend right here in Mississauga.
Start the Day Right with Nature Sightseeing
One of the best parts about being at the cottage is cozying up to enjoy a delicious cup of coffee while enjoying a morning sunrise – or the morning scenery, for not-so-early birds. With birds chirping, animals scuttering, and a breeze blowing through the trees, the sights and sounds of nature are a quintessential part of cottage life, and the morning is an ideal time to enjoy them before the full world is out and about.
If this is on your list of must-haves for a cottage weekend, grab a thermos and start your staycation with a relaxing walk through the Riverwood Conservancy. Beloved by birders, hikers and nature enthusiasts, you’re sure to catch glimpses of local wildlife while you’re on the trails. Check out their guided, themed walks to learn about the native plants and birds, or indulge in some mindful forest bathing with a forest therapy guide.
Go Fishing, Floating or Boating
No Muskoka-style staycation could pass muster without some waterfront fun. With miles of lakeshore, Mississauga has no shortage of spots to lounge on the beach or stroll along the boardwalk.
To really get that cottage feeling, charter a fishing boat and spend some time competing with your friends for the biggest catch, or simply enjoy a peaceful excursion on the lake. If you prefer to stay on dry land, you can cast from one of Mississauga’s parks, where you have access to either the Credit River or Lake Ontario.
If fishing’s not your thing, try a day of boating. Canoe or kayak the Credit River, or rent a jet ski for an epic adventure.
Of course, a weekend on the water doesn’t have to be totally action-packed. It’s just as fun to grab your favourite inflatable and float on the lake. When you’re ready, head back to the shore for a picnic, a game of beach volleyball, or a round of frisbee golf.
Snack and Relax
After a long day on the water, a BBQ is perfect for an easy summer dinner. If you don’t feel like grilling at home, Mississauga has plenty of parks with BBQ pits, including J.C. Saddington, Jack Darling Memorial and Mississauga Valley Park just to name a few.
If you want to enjoy some cottage country vibes without having to cook, Turtle Jack’s Muskoka Grill is a Canadian summer must-visit restaurant. Kick back on the patio and relax with a lemonade, a Muskoka Mule or a classic Caesar and you’ll feel like you’ve been transported.
Looking for more long weekend inspiration? Check out Visit Mississauga on Facebook and Instagram for all the latest events and attractions.