If you’re looking for a memorable day trip filled with history, beautiful scenery, and something a little different, Sainte-Marie Among the Hurons in Midland deserves a spot on your travel list.
As more people choose affordable day trips closer to home, this historic attraction is the perfect destination. It’s about two hours from the Kitchener-Waterloo area, roughly 90 minutes from Toronto, and an easy drive from much of Central Ontario. Best of all, you can spend the day exploring and still be home for supper.
Step Back into Early Canadian History
Sainte-Marie Among the Hurons is a reconstructed 17th-century French Jesuit mission that once served as the centre of the Wendat (Huron) Nation and the French missionaries who lived alongside them. Walking through the fortified settlement offers a fascinating glimpse into one of Canada’s earliest communities.
The site features reconstructed living quarters, workshops, a bakery, a chapel, and other buildings that recreate daily life from nearly 400 years ago.
What impressed us most were the traditional Wendat longhouses. Although we’ve visited several pioneer villages across Ontario, these Indigenous structures made this visit feel unique and offered a deeper appreciation of the area’s rich Indigenous history.
Bring History to Life
The beautifully maintained grounds make it easy to spend several hours exploring at your own pace. Costumed interpreters dressed as Jesuit missionaries share stories about the settlement and its history, bringing the experience to life for visitors of all ages.
Looking back, we probably should have joined one of the guided tours to learn even more about this remarkable place.
There’s More to Discover
One pleasant surprise was learning that admission also includes the nearby Martyrs’ Shrine, one of Canada’s most significant Roman Catholic pilgrimage sites. Unfortunately, we ran out of time and decided to save it for our next visit.
We also discovered that Midland offers far more than we expected. The Huronia Museum, local heritage sites, waterfront parks, and boat tours make it easy to turn a simple day trip into a weekend getaway.
Our Verdict
Sainte-Marie Among the Hurons is an excellent destination for families, history enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone looking for an enjoyable Ontario day trip.
During our visit, several school groups were touring the site, proving it’s a popular destination for all ages. After exploring the settlement, we relaxed along Midland’s beautiful waterfront, watching sailboats drift across Georgian Bay, a perfect ending to another Daytrippen Adventure.
We’ll definitely be returning to visit Martyrs’ Shrine, explore the museums, and perhaps take one of the local boat tours.
*** If you enjoy discovering Ontario’s hidden historical treasures, Sainte-Marie Among the Hurons is well worth the drive. ***
DayTrippen Tip
- While you’re at Sainte-Marie Among the Hurons, don’t forget to visit Martyrs’ Shrine and all its history. And if you’re visiting in June, try to plan your trip around Midland’s famous Butter Tart Festival—one of the largest celebrations of this Canadian favorite.
Admission
- Adults: $12.00
- Seniors: $8.50
- Youth (6–17): $7.25
- Children 5 and under: Free
I hope this DayTrippen Adventure review helps you plan your next Ontario getaway. Happy travelling!
- ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Worth the Drive
- Travel Time: ★★★★☆
- Family Friendly: ★★★★★
- Photography: ★★★★★
- Value for Money: ★★★★☆
- Would We Return? Absolutely!
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