Welcome to Discovery Harbour

The roots of Discovery Harbour date back to 1793, when Sir John Graves Simcoe scouted Penetanguishene Bay as a strategic site for a naval base. The steep-sided, deep water bay would be an ideal spot to protect and maintain ships. The bay could also serve as a vital transport link from York (Toronto) to the northwest.

A carved Jack-o-lantern display shaped like a Serpent Dragon

Pumpkinferno

October 1 to 31, Discovery Harbour is transformed by thousands of glowing fun-kins

A row of jack-o-lanterns

Stroll Through the glow

Walk-through Pumpkinferno Thursday to Sunday

Step into a glowing world of hand-carved pumpkins. Wander through magical displays, meet roving performers, and enjoy fall flavors at the Bubbling Cauldron Café.

A car driving through at night

Drive Into the Magic

Experience Pumpkinferno from your vehicle on Wednesdays

Take in the wonder of Pumpkinferno from the comfort of your car. A one-night-only experience each week, perfect for families and cozy fall nights.

Group of people sitting around a table holding hands

Spooky Side Quest Adventures

Book add-on Pumpkinferno experiences for added fun!

Dare to go beyond the pumpkins. Brave Bosun’s Brig escape room, uncover the Secrets of the Séance, test your courage in the coffin ride, or book a kid-approved potion-making workshop.

Exterior of two cabins

Make it a getaway

Stay awhile! Book one of our new, four-season cabins on the shores of beautiful Georgian Bay and get an on-site historical experience as part of your visit.

Interior of historic building

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Monthly updates

Sign up for our newsletter and be in the know! Get early notice about your favourite events at Sainte-Marie and Discovery Harbour. Pick up interesting historical facts. Hear about deals and discounts. Find out about career opportunities at Huronia Historical Parks. Learn about new activities at both historic sites.

Person looking at their phone.

Guided audio tour

Available year round

Explore Discovery Harbour at your own pace with our new online guided audio tour, now available on our website. Whether you’re planning a visit, teaching students, or revisiting your experience, this engaging audio guide brings the 19th-century site to life. No app needed. Just press play and dive into the past!

Two girls writing with their quills

Book your next field trip

May and June

Take your students back to the 19th century, on the actual site where British warships docked, sailors and soldiers toiled, and settlers carved an existence out of the wilderness. Students of all ages love spending the day reliving history, and learning was never easier. 

Map illustration

Plan your visit

Discovery Harbour, a 30 acre living history attraction nestled along the shores of beautiful Penetanguishene Bay, is waiting for you and your family to join in the adventure!

We’re on Instagram!

Share your adventures by tagging us and using #DiscoveryHarbour

photos from around the site.