Owen Sound

Introducing Owen Sound

Owen Sound’s sordid past as a shipping center is rife with slow boats and fast women. Known to sailors as ‘Little Liverpool, ’ the skanky port became so overrun with uncouth characters that alcohol was strictly prohibited for over 60 years. By the time the embargo was lifted in 1972, Owen Sound had transformed into a thriving artists’ colony. A visit to the Owen Sound Visitor Information Centre (519-371-9833, 888-675-5555; www.owensound.ca; 1155 1st Ave W; 9am-5pm late May–mid-Oct, 9am-5pm Mon-Fri & 11am-5pm Sat mid-Oct–late May, hours are known to vary) will point you in the direction of several natural attractions and a handful of interesting museums, including the on-site Marine & Rail Museum (519-371-3333; www.marinerail.com; 1155 1st Ave W; adult/child $4/2; 10am-4pm late May–mid-Oct, 10am-4pm Tue-Fri & 11am-3pm Sat & Sun mid-Oct–late May).

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009