OT - Tell me about Grand Bend

[Rubbertops]

We are thinking of visiting in August (2 adults, 2 kids: 10 and 6yo)
Where to park
Where to eat
What not to miss

Thanks!

 

[sammi]

Our son and friends was there 2 weeks ago and camped at Pinery Park but said they wouldn't return as the town seems to be like Wasaga...... very party orientated and not their style. Also the campground was too big for their liking.But some people may like this.

 

[digskat]

Grand Bend is very much like Sauble Beach and Wasaga, it is a summer party town. The population explodes to about 10x its normal number during the summer. It is mainly summer boutique shopping, bathing suits, gag t-shirts, etc. The best place to park is in the parking lot behind the colonial hotel, near the beer store (on #21, north of the first lights). Easy access, and easy exit. This allows you to walk down the street to the beach.
I like the Pinery Flea Market (Sundays only), about 5 miles South of the Bend. I don't have a preference for food there

 

[fivebyfive]

Wow. Haven't heard the name Grand Bend in forever!

I use to go as a teen. BIG parties back then, so I don't remember much.

 

[jtdl]

Stay away during long weekends There is a wonderful restaurant on 21 west of main street "Aunt Gussie's" - awesome food. There is a much less crowded, nicer beach (IMO) about 15-20 minutes west of Grand Bend - Ipperwash Beach.

 

[Nickey_Mouse]

Hi ~
If you are a camper you will like Pinery. I'm not, but my husband convinced me to go with him. We got a spot near the beach and I will say that it is perfect for families. The beach is beautiful....no rocks. If you're not going during a long weekend and the kids love to swim, I'd say it's a good place to go.

 

[jtdl]

Hi ~
If you are a camper you will like Pinery. I'm not, but my husband convinced me to go with him. We got a spot near the beach and I will say that it is perfect for families. The beach is beautiful....no rocks. If you're not going during a long weekend and the kids love to swim, I'd say it's a good place to go.

Yes, I have to agree - the Pinery is a beautiful park - we'll be there for a week beginning August 8 , but reservations must be made pretty much 5 months in advance (provinicial park). You could luck out and get a site mid week - this is if you are a camper. If not you could even consider a day pass and go to one of the beaches there (less crowded than the Bend). There is also a visitor's centre and lots of trails to hike.