Downtown Creative Hub

Where Creatives Gather 

Imagine a place small enough for you to stand out and large enough for you to grow. A place where you can learn, make, create, connect and pursue your passions.

Barrie’s Downtown Creative Hub is Central Ontario’s destination for artists, creative entrepreneurs, inventors and investors. These forward-thinking community members are part of a thriving ecosystem of support, learning and innovation. And they’re ready to welcome others.

The Power of Downtowns 

A vibrant and prosperous downtown has the power to significantly contribute to its local economy. With an annual tax revenue that can be reinvested to support projects which contribute to the downtown’s attractive offerings (parks, community spaces, infrastructure and more), a strong downtown will continue to grow.

A vibrant downtown is an indicator of a healthy local economy. This is why we invest in downtown Barrie.

Here's What You'll Find Downtown 

Meridian Place

This award-winning public space provides a link between Barrie’s waterfront and downtown core.

Access to Business Supports

Supports and services for entrepreneurs are clustered throughout the Downtown Creative Hub ensuring that help is never far away or hard to find.

Unique Businesses

Local food and retail establishments populate downtown Barrie. These unique businesses are vital to the downtown core and our local economy.

Music, Art, Nightlife & Inspiration

Live music, dining, festivals, theatre, inspiring waterfront views and more. Downtown Barrie is alive with an exciting vibe turning visitors into residents and offering a new experience with each visit.

Creative Professionals

Many digital firms have chosen to make downtown Barrie their home base, creating a community of creative professionals who serve the world right from our downtown and attracting skilled talent who want to be part of it.

Intensification

A designated Urban Growth Centre, downtown Barrie is developing at a high density, creating new spaces for living, working and playing.

Highlights

The City of Barrie, together with its public-private partnerships, has invested in revitalizing our downtown, attracting new businesses and residents, supporting innovative projects, and drawing the attention of tourists from around the world.  

Past Major Infrastructure Improvement Projects 

Future Major Infrastructure Improvement Projects 

Key Partners

Downtown Barrie is the heartbeat of our city. It pulses with vibrancy and welcomes everyone to its inviting waterfront community. A strong relationship with Invest Barrie shows a unified city ready to welcome residents, visitors and businesses.
- Craig Stevens, Executive Director, Downtown Barrie BIA
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