Not only is Georgian Bluffs a beautiful region with breathtaking views that stretch from Colpoy’s Bay to Inglis Falls, but it’s also a great place to do some Christmas shopping and get some delicious eats this season!
Guest Writer: Jesse Wilkinson from Rrampt
There are many words I could use to characterize myself, but writing and traveling are definitely two interests that describe me pretty well. When I’m not doing either of those two things, I’m hiking, biking, skiing, paddle boarding and surfing around Grey Bruce Simcoe. I call Owen Sound home and love writing about all the cool things going on in this area. I take the odd photo, as well. It's a lot of fun highlighting the uniqueness of this region, and I plan to continue doing it for years to come.
While you’re home for the holidays in Georgian Bluffs, check out our guide for getting into the Christmas spirit this December:
Great Canadian Boutique Outlet
Under new ownership and with slick new branding, the Great Canadian Boutique Outlet is providing the folks of Georgian Bluffs with some fantastic shopping options in a safe environment. We’re talking everything from furniture to fashion. And of course, they’ll help you get ready for the holidays with lots of Christmas-themed items to compliment your tree and the home you put it in. I loved wandering through the knick-knacks upstairs with all sorts of fun stuff to hang on your walls. The new owners have also decided to focus on apparel, so you’ll have a lot of fun browsing through new pieces this winter. Find that perfect outfit to wear for Christmas dinner.
Elsie's Diner
Elsie’s Diner off Highway 6 not only offers a tasty burger and milkshake combo, but a fantastic all day breakfast. So that means that when you’re out shopping in Georgian Bluffs, you can head there first to fuel up, or head there after to wind down. Either way, they’re going to satisfy that hunger while taking you back to the era when cruising around in a ‘57 Chevy was the thing to do. I went for breakfast before some shopping and decided on the Big Bopper, which I highly recommend if you’re hungry! Or try the Retro Breakfast if you’d like some pancakes with your eggs, bacon, and home fries. If you’re feeling adventurous, opt for Elvis’ Breakfast Sandwich. He’ll be looking on from a framed picture on the wall. Elsie’s has the coolest 50s diner décor with a jukebox, old fashioned booths, and checkerboard floors. And safe eating protocols of course. They’re open everyday from 9-3.
Westside Nurseries & Greenhouse
The holidays wouldn’t be complete without a Christmas tree, and this year it’s a hot item! The Westside Nurseries & Greenhouse has everything from Scots Pine to Balsam Fir, but it is likely that they will be sold out of trees by the time this article goes to print (old fashioned term for posted Online), but Westside has more than just trees. They have all your Christmas needs covered this holiday season including scented candles, poinsettias, decorations, and lights. They were even hosting a centrepiece workshop during my visit but I was too enamoured by the enormous toy train set to take part! I placed my balsam fir on top of my car and headed to find some ornaments at the Fyre Place.
The Fyre Place
If you’re looking to make your home look inviting to jolly ol’ Saint Nick, you’re going to want to stop in at The Fyre Place on the corner of highway 6 and 21. They’ve got a whole section dedicated to fire places, of course, but when the patio furniture goes back into storage every September, the Christmas décor comes out. We’re talking Christmas trees, garland, tree ornaments, and knick-knacks all displayed using safety protocols in mind. My favourite is the Cottage Carvings by artist Dave Francis – they’re truly unique and utterly Canadian. They sure would look great on the mantle above those stockings!
Well, that concludes our shopping adventure in Georgian Bluffs. If you like Christmas (and breakfast), get out and enjoy the region that boasts some fantastic shopping experiences this season…and every season!
