Gravenhurst

The Royal Mail Ship (RMS) Segwun is North America’s oldest operating coal-fired mail steamship. During Doors Open, knowledgeable interpreters will guide you around this one-of-a-kind docked ship (still an operating post office). See the tiny galley that feeds people in two dining areas. View her triple-expansion steam engines. And see the lake from the captain’s perspective in the wheelhouse.

An annual fall festival has been held on these fairgrounds since 1903, but the fair itself has run since 1873. Organized by the Severn Bridge Agricultural Society — a non-profit, charitable organization made up of local volunteers — the Severn Bridge Fall Fair continues to provide family entertainment and raises awareness about the importance of agriculture in the community.

After the devastating 1877 Gravenhurst fire, the local fire department was established. A single-level building was constructed in 1969 to house the town’s fire and police stations. In 1993, a two-storey addition was made to accommodate municipal offices. Today, the former town hall continues to operate as Fire Station No. 1. Come and take a tour and watch firefighter training.

Located on the shore of Lake Muskoka, this site has housed hotels (as early as 1897 and again following the Second World War), tuberculosis sanitoriums (c. 1909-25) and a German prisoner-of-war camp (1940-46). Currently, the expansive lands include a privately developed plan for a subdivision, a public beach and a walking trail that includes information panels.

A cornerstone of Muskoka’s arts scene since 1901, the Gravenhurst Opera House is considered the birthplace of summer theatre in Canada. With its distinctive architecture, original proscenium arch and deep community roots, it remains a tradition worth coming back for. During Doors Open, go behind the scenes to explore its rich theatrical and cultural history. You might meet their ghost!