Port Carling is a small community in the middle of the Muskoka Lakes. The community was named in 1868 for Sir John Carling (1828-1911), who was Ontario’s minister of public works and agriculture, who was on a fishing trip in the area at the time. Port Carling is about 115 km north of Barrie, and about 60 km southeast of Parry Sound.
Port Carling Attractions
Muskoka Lakes Museum
CR118 in Island Park, Port Carling
Mailing: Box 432, Port Carling, ON, P0B 1J0
705-765-5367 Fax: 705-765-7682
Located in the centre of the village of Port Carling, adjacent to both the large and small locks. The Muskoka Lakes Museum portrays the history of the Muskoka Lakes, and serves as a cultural, historical and educational resource by providing permanent and seasonal programs, adult workshops and lectures and special events. The Log Cabins roof has been recently repaired. Island Park, by a footbridge, has picnic tables and washroom facilities. Parking at the Community Centre, on village streets or behind the library. May 19 through June 30: Wednesday – Saturday 10am – 4pm, and Sunday 12pm – 4pm . July and August: Wednesday to Saturday 10am – 5pm, and Sunday 12 pm – 5 pm. September 1 through October 8: Wednesday – Saturday 10 am – 4 pm, and Sunday 12 pm – 4 pm. Admission is by donation.
Bala Museum
Box 14, Bala, ON, P0C 1A0
(about 15 km SW of Port Carling, on #169)
Phone/Fax 705-762-5876 or 1-888-579-7739
Bala’s Museum with memories of Lucy Maud Montgomery, restored to its 1922 glory, when she vacationed at this location. One of her books, “the Blue Castle” is based on her vacation experiences.. Handwritten excerpts and photos from LMM’s Bala diary. The silver tea service given to LMM as a wedding present in 1911 is on display. See the boat that sank under actress Megan Follows in the TV movie “Anne of Green Gables”. One of the best Anne of Green Gables gift shops in Canada is here in Muskoka! Allow 30 minutes. Admission: $3.50 a person or $10 a family (limit of four)
Summer Hours: Thursday – Monday 1:00pm – 4:00pm, Closed: Tuesday, Wednesday; Fall and Spring hours: Saturday-Sunday 1:00pm – 4:00 pm Call to arrange special tours on fall/spring week days.