Leave the city behind for the day and come to Kleinburg!

Does the thought of going on a day-trip north of the city bring a smile to your face? Do you want easy and quick access without spending hours driving to your final destination?

Visiting Kleinburg Village is a great way to spend a leisurely day. This charming little town has it all: art, food, nature, shopping, and even an antique rail station. Kleinburg is a village in the city of Vaughan, bordered by Highway 27 on the west and Stegman’s Mill Road to the east, and minutes from the 401 and 407 highways, making travel from Toronto a breeze.

Just minutes north from the big city, Kleinburg is an oasis of peace.  Picturesque by day, with the McMichael Canadian Art Collection Gallery and Kortright Centre for Conservation steps away, and having a row of romantic restaurants and coffee shops by night, this is a perfect place to enjoy some time away with family and friends.

Kleinburg, where the past is remembered and the present is celebrated

Founded in 1848, by John Nicholas Kline. Kleinburg is home of many 18th century heritage structures, and modern developments. The main street is lined with small shops and restaurants that are accented by luxury spas and European-inspired cafes.

Here are a few places to visit while you are exploring Kleinburg:

1. Morning java fix

Start your day-trip with some delicious espresso and biscotti, from Caffe Al Volo, located at the heart of Kleinburg. If you prefer to have a full breakfast, you can always choose from the impressive variety of gourmet sandwiches they offer.

If you want something on the go, stop by the cutest Starbucks around.

Caffe al Volo

During the warm weather months, you can sit outside in one of their comfortable Muskoka chairs and
enjoy some people-watching time while having your morning coffee.

2. Kortright Centre for Conservation

For those looking to experience nature, the Kortright Centre for Conservation is just minutes away. The Centre is Ontario’s premier environmental and renewable energy education and demonstration centre. Since opening in 1979, it has delivered unique educational experiences to over two million visitors. The Kortright Centre is named after Francis H. Kortright, world-famous outdoorsman, author, and dedicated conservationist.

Walk the 1.6 km Innovation Trail and see Canada’s largest collection of educational demonstrations of renewable energy, and energy efficient technologies. Take your energy education one step further and participate in one of the workshops and learn how to conserve energy and save money!

3. McMichael Canadian Art Collection Gallery

If the Conservation Centre is not your cup of tea, then you can head to the McMichael Canadian Art Collection Gallery.The story of the McMichael Art Collection begins in 1952, when Robert and Signe McMichael purchased ten acres of land in the village of Kleinburg. They built a modernist retreat and reforested the property, calling it “Tapawingo”, an aboriginal word meaning “place of joy”. Over the years, the family built a remarkable collection dedicated to the work of Canadian artists, like Tom Thomson, and the Group of Seven.   In 1965, the McMichael’s donated their collection – as well as their home and land – to the Province of Ontario.

“Today, the permanent collection consists of nearly 6000 pieces of art, thirteen exhibition galleries, a theatre, café, and a gallery shop” – says Lorraine Matheson, the Tours and Interpretation Coordinator. “Visitors can enjoy a year-round gallery, guided tours, walks in the surrounding woods, visit Tom Thomson’s shack, and the sculpture garden”.

“Shibagau Shard”. 1989. By Bill Vazan.

4. Lunch time!

After enjoying an entire morning at the Kortright Centre and/or at the McMichael Gallery, you will need to recharge with a bite at any of the eating establishments on Kleinburg’s main street.

Visit the “Avenue Cibi e Vini”, for some authentic Italian appetizers or a classic wood burning oven pizza. Wine to pair up with your meal.

Or, have a seasonal menu of European & Canadian dishes served in a quaint former country house, at the Chartreuse. This two-storey country house was transformed into a restaurant on the main floor, and a European style pub at the lower level.

5. Charm meets style

Spend your afternoon browsing the many boutique shops on the main street of Kleinburg.  Walk around the strip and peruse fine fashion wear and distinct décor.

Femme by Christina, is one of the women’s fashion boutiques in the area, with designer brands and custom lines to complete your wardrobe. Ambiance, is a one-stop shop that offers from giftware to lighting, to jewelry and bombonieres.


6. Fine dinning

Although Kleinburg is a small town the dining options are plenty, you can top the day off going to The Doctor’s House’ XXI Chophouse. The XXI Chophouse is a high-end steakhouse and chophouse that serves only organic and USDA beef, as well as fresh seafood selections.

(Credit of this image: Doctor’s House’ website)

Katy Keogh, the venue coordinator of The Doctor’s House says, “you will love the exquisite cuisine, and elegant ambiance of the XXI Chophouse but take the time to also visit our gorgeous gardens and the chapel outside our restaurant. They are just breathtaking!” The Doctor’s House also offers romantic spaces and a quaint vintage wedding Chapel nestled in their gardens. A great choice for couples who wish to get married at their grounds.

Before going back to the city, make sure you stop at the Cookie Crumble Café, and buy one of their homemade pies to take home. Everything is prepared fresh daily in-house, and they are delicious!