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Season Opening May 2: Get Ready for Unforgettable Getaways at Huronia Historical Parks

April 20, 2026

Simcoe County – Starting Saturday, May 2, Discovery Harbour, Nancy Island Historic Site, and Sainte‑Marie among the Hurons invite visitors to kick off the 2026 summer season with immersive getaways unlike anything else in the region. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., these iconic destinations offer the perfect escape—where history, adventure, and hands‑on discovery come together. Guests can explore bold new programming, expanded interactive experiences, and exclusive overnight glamping opportunities that transform a day trip into a truly memorable retreat. From daytime discovery to after‑hours stays in remarkable historic settings, Huronia Historical Parks delivers unforgettable summer getaways close to home.

“Discovery Harbour, Nancy Island Historic Site and Sainte‑Marie among the Hurons are celebrating the start of the 2026 summer season with new activities that bring history to life in exciting new ways,” said Stan Cho, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “With new offerings including overnight experiences at Sainte-Marie among the Hurons and Discovery Harbour, an art extravaganza and a pirate festival at Nancy Island, this summer promises unforgettable and learning adventures for visitors of all ages. I invite everyone to explore and enjoy these incredible historic sites this summer.”

Overnight experiences 

Sainte‑Marie among the Hurons and Discovery Harbour now offer unforgettable overnight experiences that go far beyond a place to stay. Guests can book on‑site, four‑season waterfront cabins and enjoy exclusive access paired with immersive, hands‑on activities that bring history to life. Visitors can step into 17th‑century Wendake at Sainte‑Marie or experience the daily life of a 19th‑century British sailor or soldier at Discovery Harbour’s former frontier outpost.

In Penetanguishene, cabins sit directly on Georgian Bay, offering spectacular sunrises and beachside moments just steps from the door. At Sainte‑Marie, guests wake to peaceful views of the Wye River, mere moments from this National Historic Site. By combining unique accommodations with authentic historical programming, these stays deliver exceptional value—transforming a simple overnight into a fully immersive historical escape. 

“These overnight stays offer a rare chance to experience our historic sites in an entirely new ways, after hours, immersed in the setting, and surrounded by natural beauty,” says Chad Moreau, Senior Manager of Operations for Huronia Historical Parks. “By pairing accommodations with authentic historical experiences, guests can slow down, stay overnight, and form a deeper connection to the stories and places that make these sites so special.” 

Immersive history 

From the towering tall ships at Discovery Harbour, to the storied hull of the HMS Nancy at Nancy Island Historic Site to the iconic longhouses of Sainte-Marie, guests can enjoy hands-on, interactive history across all three attractions each day. In July and August, Sainte-Marie, Discovery Harbour and Nancy Island are hosting daily timed historic demonstrations designed to bring history vividly to life, such as 17^th-century fire-starting, artefact spotlights and Brown Bess musket firing. 

All three attractions are open to the general public as well as school groups, community groups, and tour operators. Sainte-Marie and Discovery Harbour offer ample free parking and exciting youth programming—including summer camp experiences for booked groups. On-site parking is available at Nancy Island, with additional municipal parking lots available just steps away. 

New and exciting events 

Just steps from the beach, Nancy Island Historic Site invites visitors to take a break from the sand and dive into summer experiences unlike anything else in Wasaga Beach. This season, the island launches two brand‑new events: a lively art festival on June 13 and 14, transforming the historic site into a creative waterfront escape, and Awaken the Isle in August—a swashbuckling, pirate‑themed celebration packed with family‑friendly fun. Whether you’re beach‑hopping, exploring the shoreline, or looking for something unforgettable to add to your day, Nancy Island delivers history, culture, and summer energy all in one stop.

“Nancy Island is ready to welcome guests to the historic heart of Wasaga Beach,” says Tim Godin, Manager of Operations for Nancy Island Historic Site. “We’re excited to open our doors and offer new and dynamic ways for families to experience the past.” 

Returning favourites 

At Sainte-Marie among the Hurons, visitors can celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 18 with drumming and dancing, or enjoy Legends of Lacrosse on June 21. The sold-out hit Hearth to Table historic dining series returns with new themed multi-course 17th-century meals each month. Shadows and Stone, the site’s atmospheric evening experience, will run Thursday nights from late June through August. 

At Discovery Harbour, reputedly one of the most haunted historic sites in Ontario, Supernatural Saturdays return with three spine-tingling crowd-pleasers: Ghost Tours, Secrets of Séance, and the Bo’sun’s Brig Escape Room. Guests can also enjoy a full season of performances at King’s Wharf Theatre by Drayton Entertainment. And the Historic Blacksmith Workshop offers an opportunity to learn an ancient trade with an expert, in a real working forge. 

Guided tours 

All three attractions will offer popular guided tours throughout the summer. Visitors can dive deeper into these foundational Canadian stories with the help of knowledgeable interpreters, for an additional $5 per person. 

Sainte-Marie will also host special kid-friendly tours on Farm Fridays, where families learn about caring for heritage animals and gardens—and even help with chores! 

For guests looking to experience the best of history right now, check out spring guided tours, which are available on select dates and times at all three historic attractions throughout the month of April. 

Season passes 

Three iconic historic sites. One unbeatable price. For just $35 per person, visitors enjoy unlimited access to Sainte‑Marie among the Hurons, Nancy Island Historic Site, and Discovery Harbour all summer long—and beyond. The pass unlocks endless opportunities for family fun, spontaneous day trips, and repeat visits, with beloved seasonal events like First Light, Pumpkinferno, and the Hometown Harvest Festival all included. It’s exceptional value for families and explorers looking to experience more, return often, and make history part of their year, not just a single visit. 

Plan your visit 

For tickets, information, or to book an overnight experience, visit: 

• SainteMarieamongtheHurons.on.ca 

• DiscoveryHarbour.on.ca 

• NancyIsland.ca 

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