Gilford, Simcoe

Gilford, a charming community on the shores of Lake Simcoe in Innisfil, Ontario, boasts a story as vibrant as its scenery. Unlike many Canadian towns built from scratch, Gilford's roots stretch back to the 1830s, emerging from a blend of Indigenous trade routes and European settlers drawn to the fertile farmland and abundant fisheries. Before settlers arrived, the area was home to Anishinaabe communities drawn by the lake's bounty. European influences began in the early 19th century, with pioneers drawn by fertile farmland and the promise of a new life. The community gradually grew, its name shifting from "Gilford Corners" to simply "Gilford" as farms sprouted and families took root. Today, Gilford balances its past and present with grace. Gone are the days of dirt tracks and bustling crowds, replaced by a slower, more peaceful pace. Modern amenities have arrived, but Gilford hasn't traded its charm for convenience. The town boasts a vibrant community centre, a charming library, and local businesses catering to residents and visitors alike. So, if you're looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle, to find yourself amidst the quiet beauty of nature and the warmth of a welcoming community, look no further than Gilford. Here, on the shores of Lake Simcoe, you'll find a story waiting to be written, a story of serenity and simplicity, a story that is uniquely Gilford.

Gilford presents a unique blend of urban charm and intriguing contradictions. This table delves into the city's various facets, offering a glimpse into its livability and lifestyle. While the overall livability score sits at a respectable 47, a closer look reveals a fascinating interplay of strengths and weaknesses. Boasting top-notch grades in employment, housing, and crime safety (A+ each!), Gilford seems to excel in providing a secure and stable environment for its residents. Gilford is a safe community, with crime rates that are significantly lower than the national average. This means the chances of becoming a victim of crime in Gilford are only about 1 in 48. In comparison, 68% of the cities in Ontario have higher crime rates. And to make things even better, crime in Gilford has been steadily decreasing over the past year, down 13% from the previous year.

Gilford is a dynamic community embracing diverse cultures and languages. Residents from all corners of the globe have chosen to call this community home, creating a rich and enriching environment. Gilford's residents speak English almost exclusively. Let's now explore the languages spoken in Gilford through the statistics below and gain a deeper understanding of the community's linguistic diversity. Gilford stands out as an economic powerhouse, boasting a median household income of 34% above the national average. Unemployment rates paint an even rosier picture, dropping 12% below the national level, highlighting the abundance of job opportunities across various sectors. The following table provides a detailed breakdown of household income levels within the community, showcasing the percentage of households falling within specific income brackets.

Gilford offers a vibrant mix of convenience and charm. Following are some of the amazing neighbourhoods, all within a few kilometres, that offer a variety of amenities, including schools, parks, shops, and restaurants:

• Stroud
• Alcona
• Cookstown
• Churchill
• Lefroy

Gilford Schools

The community boasts several excellent schools catering to children of all ages. Here are some of the most notable:

• Gilford Public School
• Innisfil Central Public School
• Barrie North Collegiate Institute
• St. John Vianney Catholic School
• St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Secondary School

Gilford Shopping Malls

Gilford enjoys close proximity to several shopping destinations:

• Innisfil Shopping Centre
• Barrie Central Shopping Centre
• Mapleview Shopping Centre
• Georgian Bay Mall

Gilford Restaurants

Residents have multiple choices when it comes to dining out. Here are some of the popular restaurants in and around Gilford:

• Bayview Beach Pizza
• Davidson's Country Dining
• The Sushi Chef
• A Taste of Europe

Gilford Hospitals

The community has easy access to several excellent hospitals:

• Innisfil Health Centre
• Royal Victoria Hospital
• Mackenzie Health Centre
• Southlake Regional Health Centre

Gilford beckons with a unique blend of historical significance, natural beauty, and exciting activities. Here are some of the top attractions and places to visit in this vibrant community:

Gilford Courthouse

Step back in time at the Gilford County Courthouse, a majestic Victorian-era structure dating back to 1883. This architectural gem, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, housed the town's legal proceedings for over a century. Today, it serves as a museum, showcasing exhibits on local history, culture, and notable figures.

Gilford Lake

Gilford Lake, a shimmering expanse of water cradled by rolling hills, is a haven for nature lovers. One can take a serene paddleboat ride, cast a line for bass or perch, or simply relax on the shores and soak in tranquillity. Hike or bike along the scenic trails, spot diverse birdlife and lose yourself in the picturesque beauty. In winter, the lake transforms into a wonderland for ice skating and ice fishing.

Gilford Historical Society Museum

Delve into the rich tapestry of Gilford's past at the Gilford Historical Society Museum. Housed in a charming 18th-century barn, the museum exhibits artefacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of the town's evolution. One can learn about the early settlers, explore Native American history, and discover fascinating insights into Gilford's role in major historical events.

Gilford Art Center

This vibrant hub features rotating exhibitions showcasing works by local and regional artists, encompassing diverse mediums like painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed media. Residents and visitors participate in art workshops, attend artist talks, or browse the gift shop for unique souvenirs.

Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or family-friendly fun, Gilford has something for everyone. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Visit the Gilford Historical Museum

Learn about the rich history of the town at the Gilford Historical Museum. The museum is housed in a former schoolhouse and features exhibits on the area's early settlers, the War of 1812, and the local agricultural industry.

Go for a hike or bike ride at the Gilford Rail Trail

The Gilford Rail Trail is a 10-km multi-use trail that follows the old Grand Trunk Railway line. The trail is perfect for hiking, biking, or rollerblading, and it offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.

Spend a day at the beach at Gilford Beach

Gilford Beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing. The beach has a concession stand, washrooms, and a playground.

Take a boat tour of Lake Simcoe

Lake Simcoe is the largest lake in Southern Ontario and is a great place to go boating, fishing, and swimming. Several boat tour operators in Gilford offer lake tours.

Visit the Gilford Farmers' Market

The Gilford Farmers' Market is great for fresh produce, flowers, and other locally-made goods. The market is open on Saturdays from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm.

Gilford has easy accessibility, with well-connected transportation options, making navigating the neighbourhood and beyond simple.

• Gilford Public School: Located within Gilford, only a 5-minute walk (0.4 km) or a 2-minute drive.
• Innisfil Central Public School: In Innisfil, it is approximately 10 minutes (6 km) by car.
• Barrie North Collegiate Institute: In Barrie, about 25 minutes (22 km) by car.
• St. John Vianney Catholic School: In Innisfil, around 13 minutes (8.5 km) by car.
• St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Secondary School: In Barrie, roughly 27 minutes (24 km) by car.
• Innisfil Health Centre: Located in Innisfil, approximately 12 minutes (7.8 km) by car.
• Royal Victoria Hospital: In Barrie, about 25 minutes (23 km) by car.
• Mackenzie Health Centre - Alliston: In Alliston, roughly 35 minutes (34 km) by car.
• Southlake Regional Health Centre: In Newmarket, approximately 45 minutes (48 km) by car.
• Innisfil Shopping Centre: Located within Innisfil, only 10 minutes (5.5 km) by car.

Gilford and the surrounding area in Simcoe County offer a variety of markets, each with its own unique charm and offerings. Here are some popular options to consider, catering to different tastes and interests:

Gilford Farmers' Market

Every Wednesday from 8 am to 3 pm (May to October) and Thursday from 8 am to 3 pm (year-round), this market buzzes with local vendors selling fresh produce, baked goods, meats, dairy products, flowers, and handcrafted items. It's a great place to connect with local farmers, support sustainable agriculture, and stock up on delicious, seasonal treats.

Innisfil Farmers' Market

Located in the heart of Innisfil, this market operates every Saturday from 8 am to 1 pm (May to October). It features a diverse array of vendors offering fresh produce, baked goods, handcrafted items, and live entertainment. Enjoy the friendly atmosphere, sample local delicacies, and pick up unique souvenirs.

Cookstown Farmers' Market

This seasonal market takes place every Saturday from 8 am to 1 pm (June to October) at the Cookstown Community Centre. Find a delightful selection of fresh produce, homemade jams and jellies, baked goods, artwork, and more. It's a great opportunity to meet local artisans, savour local flavours, and soak up the community spirit.

Innisfil Art & Craft Market

This vibrant market showcases the talents of local artists and crafters every Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm (May to October) at the Innisfil Community Centre. Explore a diverse range of handmade jewellery, paintings, pottery, woodworking creations, and other unique items. It's a perfect place to find one-of-a-kind gifts, support local artists, and discover hidden gems.

Gilford, a community within Innisfil, Ontario, boasts a diverse and dynamic population. Let’s delve into the data below to gain further insights.

Gilford, Simcoe County, offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures, family-friendly activities, and pet-friendly spots. It is a perfect destination for a fun-filled trip with your little ones and furry companions. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Bronte Creek Provincial Park

Hike or bike the extensive trails, rent a paddle boat or kayak on the lake, and enjoy a picnic in the scenic meadows. Let the kids explore the nature play area and keep an eye out for wildlife. Dogs are welcome on leash on designated trails.

Splash Away Bay Waterpark

Cool off and have a blast at this waterpark featuring slides, pools, and splash pads. Perfect for a day of fun for families with young children. Be sure to check their website for pet policies.

Gilford Historical Society Museum

Learn about the town's history through exhibits and artefacts, and let the kids participate in interactive activities. The museum grounds are pet-friendly.

Port Stanton

Relax on the sandy shores of Lake Ontario with your furry friend. Dogs are welcome on leash on designated sections of the beach.

Nottawasaga River Trail

Take a scenic walk or bike ride along the Nottawasaga River with your dog on leash. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and wildlife spotting opportunities.

This table offers a detailed comparison of the cost of living in Gilford, Innisfil, and Ontario. However, these are average index numbers, and individual costs can vary depending on lifestyle choices, specific locations, and personal needs.

Gilford's real estate market boasts excellent amenities and a strong community spirit. This dynamic combination, coupled with a diverse mix of housing options, creates a thriving scene for buyers seeking their perfect haven.