Whether you live in the city or are just visiting from out of town, Barrie offers a surprisingly diverse retail landscape that goes far beyond your average big-box store. Nestled along the shores of Kempenfelt Bay, this vibrant Ontario hub has become a premier shopping destination for locals and tourists alike. The combination of convenient highway access, ample parking, and a mix of indoor and outdoor retail environments makes it easy to find exactly what you are looking for.
From high-end fashion and boutique home decor to everyday essentials and entertainment, Barrie’s shopping malls cater to every budget and taste. The city has successfully balanced the charm of local independent retailers with the convenience of major national chains. Because of this, a shopping trip here often feels less like a chore and more like a full-day experience that includes dining, recreation, and leisure.
The geography of Barrie’s retail hubs is particularly beneficial for shoppers who want to maximize their time. Many of the major centers are clustered along key corridors like Mapleview Drive and Bayfield Street, allowing you to easily visit multiple destinations in a single afternoon. This strategic layout minimizes travel time and maximizes the variety of stores you can access, whether you are hunting for a specific item or simply browsing.
Seasonality also plays a role in the local shopping experience. While the indoor malls provide a comfortable escape from the harsh Canadian winters, the outdoor power centers and lifestyle hubs come alive during the warmer months. Knowing which type of environment suits your needs can significantly improve your trip, especially if you are managing a family or have limited mobility.
Furthermore, the dining scenes within these shopping centers have evolved dramatically. Gone are the days of relying solely on fast food courts; today, many of Barrie’s best malls feature sit-down restaurants, specialty coffee shops, and dessert bars. This makes them ideal locations for social gatherings, business meetings, or simply refueling between stores.
To help you plan your next retail excursion, we have curated a list of the top destinations in the area. Whether you prioritize luxury brands, budget-friendly finds, or family entertainment, these locations represent the very best of what Barrie has to offer. Here are the top spots you should not miss.
RioCan Georgian Mall
| Address | 509 Bayfield St, Barrie, ON L4M 4Z8, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (705) 726-9556 |
I was on a road trip and stayed here in Barrie for the night. I thought it would come and pay a visit to the mall and I was pleasantly surprised. Lots of shops and it’s nice and clean. 😎👍
They do a good job of flexing with the changing retail landscape. The add of home sense in the empty big box store was great (although sucks it isn’t attached). The store selection is good and you can find most things you need. They’d do well with an Apple Store here. Parking fills quick on weekends and you really have to hunt for a spot.
Great mall overall.
(It would be smart to put some paper over the Bay doors so people aren’t seeing this depressing view)
It’s a great mall, and I’ve made so many good memories there. There are a lot of stores inside, so there’s always something to check out. The food court has tons of options with really good food, The staff are overall very friendly for the most part, and the best part is Hot Topic.
Georgian Mall is a very nice and convenient shopping mall in Barrie. There are many good stores, food options, and everything you need in one place. The mall is clean, well maintained, and easy to walk around. Plenty of parking is available, which makes shopping comfortable. I enjoy visiting this mall with family.
Dive into the ultimate shopping experience at RioCan Georgian Mall! With a wide range of stores and dining options, it’s your go-to destination for all things retail. Don't miss out on the best shopping around!
Bayfield Mall
| Address | 320 Bayfield St, Barrie, ON L4M 3C1, Canada |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (705) 726-7632 |
Honestly this mall is hardly a mall anymore it's sad because growing up in Barrie it always competed with the better mall up the road but now it's over there. Maybe 1 or 2 stores open in the whole mall plaza it's a complete shame an waist of time hock shop convent store an a couple other places that could be anywhere else but that's barrie for you alot of big changes from 30 years ago
Under renovations. It is looking good. Went to Beyond Play whis is a childrens play land with stem activities and An INCREDIBLE child size town for imaginary play. From a grocery store to fire department and bakery and farm. There is also a sensory room for an additio al cost but worth the money!. Party rooms available and small cafe.
This place is dead. Sir games a lot being the only thing left inside aside from the bowling alley. It's sad to see how far this place has fallen. Used to be a great mall with the cinema and decent stores, good way to kill an afternoon but now it's a sad memory and shadow of its former self.
2023 July 3★
The mall itself is ok. It's clean and has a few anchor stores that include the supermarket and a dollar store at time of writing.
A lot of the smaller stores are closed and the foot traffic is few making this place this place feel empty. Though it's really not bad.
Bayfield Mall is one of my favorite places to go every chance I get. It's always clean, with a wide variety of stores to choose from and I was comforted to see that they had quite a bit of security to help you feel safe.
Tanger Outlets Cookstown
| Address | 3311 Simcoe 89, Cookstown, ON L0L 1L0, Canada |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | (705) 458-1371 |
Tanger Outlet Mall on exit 89 of 400hwy is a great place to shop, relax, and enjoy a full day out. The location is convenient and easy to find, with plenty of parking that makes arrival stress free. The mall is clean, well maintained, and laid out in a way that makes walking between stores simple and enjoyable.Washroom are clean.
One thing that really stands out is the availability of sitting chairs and benches throughout the mall. They are perfectly placed, making it easy to take a short rest in the middle of shopping, which is especially helpful for families, seniors, or anyone spending several hours browsing.
The variety of stores is one of the biggest highlights. You can find popular brand outlets for clothing, shoes, accessories, and home items, often at prices that are much better than regular retail. Whether you are shopping for everyday basics, gifts, or something special, there is usually a good deal waiting. Seasonal sales and promotions make the experience even better.
There are also several dining options and snack spots, which is perfect for taking a break between shopping trips. The outdoor design gives the mall a pleasant atmosphere, especially on nice weather days, and the views around the area add to the experience.
Customer service throughout the mall is generally friendly and helpful, and the restrooms and common areas are kept very clean. Overall, Tanger Outlet Mall on Highway 89 offers a comfortable, enjoyable, and affordable shopping experience that is worth visiting again.
It is ideal for families, tourists, and locals who appreciate value, convenience, and quality shopping together.
One of the best places to shop in peace.... Lots of outlets and good collection as well... Ni the discounts are in that much in an off season... The drive is nice and pretty
The mall is great and quiet, maybe because the food court is not big as usual.
However, if you lose something there, it's impossible to find. I went with a friend shopping. My blazer felt from the top of my bag. There is no lost and found there except the security office. I called the very first thing when I came back and realized that is missing. At least he was a polite person. Next day I called, someone just answered "no" and hung up on me. I decided to go and trace my steps. Drove for 2 hrs there because security couldn't get out of that office to check or just look at their cameras. Of course the mall was cleaned a night before. I asked two maintenance people but they didn't see it. Security barely opened their door. The management never felt a need to respond. I described the place and short timeframe, but nothing.
I will never go there again.
As someone more used to malls in toronto (eaton centre, yorkdale) tanger outlets is rather underwhelming with their lack of options. However, this mall is perfect for those who dislike crowded places as the mall is basically empty on weekdays.
Had a discount code for the under Armour store so thought I would go to the mall after work. The mall is all set up for their Christmas decorations. It was very very cute. I really think they do such a good job. The mall was clean. The washrooms were being washed when I used it because it was close to the closing time. There were various food options available with a special mention of the deli shop opposite to the little food court. I don’t know if all the stores offer outlet items because the Ralph Lauren store I went into their sweaters were still $150 but other stores offer best discounts and there’s coupon codes around if you investigate. Such as the Tangier text codes and the stores web sites.
Park Place
| Address | 100 Mapleview Dr E, Barrie, ON L4N 9A9, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | (705) 797-0777 |
Stupid idea for a city that gets freezing for a 1/3 of a year! Confusing parking lots, long cold windy walks between charmless box stores! Should have been a huge indoor mall with movie theatres, a skating rink, good restaurants and warm places to sit, with smaller and more unique stores. Modern and cool, not like Bayfield or Koslov. Think The West Edmonton Mall! Huge tourist attraction, great for a cold city!
I don’t even know 3/4 of the stores there because I only go to the ones I like and don’t wander kilometres exploring. Horribly stupid place.
UPDATE: pics 1 + 2 are West Edmonton Mall, what Park Place could have been a smaller example of. Pics 3 - 5 are the actual lameness of this property.
But don’t worry, management hopes I’ll like the changes next time I visit! Looking forward to a large roof, underground parking and interesting stores where the huge, cold parking lot used to be! HA!
This place pasta and pizza dough from scratch. We have the Margarita pizza it was so flavorful! They have a full menu even vegetarians will be happy!
Huge parking lot all is free car park Lots of Brand available.
So many stores.
Nice and peaceful place for Shoping and family fun.
Too many awesome places to eat amazing Korean restaurants as well as the well-known beer garden. It has all day breakfast and killer, unique entrées as well as a blah blah keg who are secretly upping the prices by a nickel a day so we won’t notice. But don’t think that will make Saturday at 6 o’clock a walk-in experience you will be spending time waiting for a table.
Park Place is a great place to visit in Barrie with lots of stores and restaurants in one area. Parking is easy and the area is always busy and lively. I especially enjoy going to The Rec Room for games, food, and entertainment. It’s a fun place to spend time with family and friends.
Upper Canada Mall
| Address | 17600 Yonge St, Newmarket, ON L3Y 4Z1, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Phone | (905) 895-1961 |
Great upscale mall with plenty of stores and eateries. Not crowded like other gta malls even during weekends. Washrooms were clean too. All elevators worked properly. Overall great mall to shop around and spend time with friends and family
Took my dog for a walk around the outdoor entrance area a couple weeks back and was pleasantly surprised how welcoming the staff were about it while I popped into a few stores. Parking was easy to find even on a Saturday afternoon, which made the whole trip way less stressful. The atmosphere inside is bright and clean, not overwhelming like some bigger malls can be. Definitely my go to spot now when I need to run errands and still keep my pup close by.
Visited Upper Canada Mall recently and had a good experience overall. Even though the mall is over 50 years old, it seems to be maintained well by Oxford Properties. The layout reminded me a lot of Square One Shopping Centre and Scarborough Town Centre, which made it easy to navigate.
Entered through Entrance 2 and noticed the parking lot was almost completely full, so the mall was definitely busy. It’s a fairly large mall and honestly feels more than sufficient for the Newmarket area. One thing I really liked was having two food courts, similar to SQ1, which helps spread out the crowd and gives more dining options.
Honestly, this is hands down one of the most massive, stunning, and well-designed malls I have ever stepped foot in. The moment you walk through the doors, you are immediately struck by how grand, airy, and incredibly sleek the entire space is. It has this perfect blend of modern architecture and a high-end luxury vibe that makes just walking around feel like an upscale experience. The layout is brilliant, the atmosphere is vibrant yet sophisticated, and it’s genuinely a fantastic place to spend hours exploring.
While the current selection of stores and amenities is already highly impressive and top-tier, I feel like this place has the potential to become the ultimate, unmatched lifestyle destination if they curate a few more specialized brands. For instance, bringing in premium, trendy names like Alo Yoga for activewear and Hoka for premium footwear would be an absolute game-changer. Adding that specific layer of high-end wellness and athletic fashion would perfectly complement the mall’s modern aesthetic and attract a crowd that appreciates both style and quality.
Overall, it is already a magnificent shopping center, but expanding the directory with those kinds of sought-after, cult-favorite brands would easily elevate it from great to absolutely legendary. It’s easily a 10/10 and a must-visit! ✨🛍️
Nice clean airy space but the washrooms are only in 1 place so it might take you a while to get there. But otherwise the place is very clean so are the washrooms. The food court is also very tasty and has a wide variety of cuisines!! There are plenty of places so sit in the food court.
Solid 4.5
Vaughan Mills
| Address | 1 Bass Pro Mills Dr, Vaughan, ON L4K 5W4, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Phone | (905) 879-2110 |
Vaughan Mills is hands-down one of the best shopping destinations in the Greater Toronto Area. Whether you’re looking for high-end fashion, outlet deals, or just a fun day out, this mall really has it all. The sheer scale of the place is impressive, with over 250 stores spanning everything from major athletic brands like Nike and Uniqlo to specialty boutiques.
What truly sets it apart, however, is the "shoppertainment" model. It’s not just a place to swipe your credit card; it’s an experience. Having anchors like the Bass Pro Shops—which is massive and visually stunning—and the Legoland Discovery Centre makes it a fantastic spot for families or groups of friends. The layout is also very intuitive. Even with how large the centre is, the themed "neighbourhoods" make it easy to navigate, and the modern, clean interior makes for a very comfortable shopping environment.
I also appreciate the convenience. Located just off Highway 400, it’s incredibly easy to reach if you’re driving, and the transit options, including the shuttle services and proximity to the VMC subway station, are a huge plus. The food court offers a solid variety of options, and there are plenty of spots to grab a coffee or sit down when you need a break from browsing the miles of retail space.
If you are a fan of finding a good deal, the outlet selection here is top-tier. I consistently find great items at a fraction of the cost you’d see at downtown malls. Five stars for Vaughan Mills—it is a must-visit for any serious shopper in Ontario!
Took my dog for a walk around Vaughan Mills last Saturday afternoon and was pleasantly surprised at how much outdoor patio space is set up for pets near the entrances by Bass Pro. The staff at a couple of the shops even came out to say hi to my pup and offered water, which made the whole visit feel welcoming. Parking was easy to find even with the weekend crowds, and there are grassy patches nearby for a quick bathroom break before or after shopping. Overall it's become our go to weekend stop since I can grab a coffee and my dog gets some attention too.
This is a great outlet mall where you can do end to end shopping . They have great brands for footwear, clothing, kids toys , make up etc - basically anything you can think of while doing shopping. They have great food options as well.
There is plenty of parking available outside the place. This place can get really crowded sometimes especially on weekends and holidays.
Very neatly arranged mall offering branded clothes , shoes , jewellery , cosmetics, food & outdoor gear . Displays at Bas pro outdoor mall are amazing specially attracting everyone especially children having a nice pond at entrance & an aquarium. Gears for hiking , shooting , camping , fishing & also displays boats , kayaks & large yacht also .
Great mall with lots of stores and a nice food court with many options. It gets pretty busy, especially on weekends, and finding a table can be a bit hard. Overall, a very good place for shopping and a quick meal.
North Barrie Crossing Shopping Centre
| Address | 297 Cundles Rd E, Barrie, ON L4M 0K3, Canada |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | (416) 408-3080 |
Went into several stores and was happy at them all. Zehrs was 👍 great.
Lots of stores and restaurants to chose from. Lots of free parking. Lots of pot holes in parking lot.
Excellent breakfasts and lunches at Symposium Cafe.
Good prices, daily specials, great patio.
Nicely and tastefully decorated.
It's newer shopping Center in north Barrie. There are many famous brand chain stores. There are many free parking spaces.
Great place for shopping and eating, as well as a movie theatre
Toronto Premium Outlets
| Address | 13850 Steeles Ave, Halton Hills, ON L7G 0J1, Canada |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Phone | (647) 497-8270 |
We love coming out to Toronto Premium Outlets for a solid day of discount shopping, but you definitely have to know what you’re getting into for a weekend trip. The mall features more than 130 stores, and the everyday deals on major brands like Polo Ralph Lauren, Kate Spade, Coach, and Under Armour are genuinely worth the drive
Because it's located right off Highway 401 at Trafalgar Road, it is incredibly accessible. However, weekend crowds can be intense. Traffic backing up onto the highway off-ramps and bottlenecking near the parking structure is common on Saturday afternoons. If you want a less stressful experience, plan to arrive closer to their morning opening times to secure a space in the multi-level garage. It's a clean, upscale, and thoroughly rewarding shopping trip if you plan ahead
Visited Toronto Premium Outlets recently and had a great shopping experience. The outlet has most of the major brands in one place, so it’s very convenient if you want good variety and deals while shopping. Prices were reasonable and there were many good offers available across stores.
One thing I noticed compared to my previous visit is that weekdays are definitely the best time to go. Last time it was extremely crowded, but during weekdays the outlet feels much more comfortable and relaxed. You can properly explore stores, check products peacefully, and enjoy shopping without long wait times.
The outlet is clean, well organized, and has a great overall atmosphere for spending a shopping day with family or friends. Definitely worth visiting if you enjoy branded shopping and want a better experience without weekend crowds!
Very nice mall to hunt for branded merchandise. All the good brands stores have the hottest offers making shopping tempting and unstoppable.
Restrooms are in plenty & very clean.
There are cafes & bakeries from where one can grab a snack and continue their shopping sprees.
Only place where parking is always full.
Only downside is the mall structure.
It is all in open.
This is a big negative if raining or when cold. It’s very difficult to repeatedly put on & take off coats jackets hats gloves.
I seriously feel an in house mall would have worked wonders for shoppers.
Toronto Premium Outlets is a very nice place for shopping with many popular brand stores in one location. It offers excellent deals and discounts, which makes it great for budget-friendly shopping. The outlet is clean, spacious, and well organized, so it is easy to walk around and find stores. The staff in most shops are helpful and polite, which improves the shopping experience. Parking is large and convenient, even during busy hours. Overall, it is a perfect destination for a fun and enjoyable shopping day with family or friends.
Had a great visit to the Premium Outlet Mall. The mall was clean, well-organized and offered a good selection of stores and brands. Enjoyed the shopping experience and found some great deals. Overall, it was a pleasant and enjoyable visit.
Barrie By the Bay
| Address | 80 Bradford St, Barrie, ON L4N 6S7, Canada |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Saturday: Closed Sunday: Closed |
| Phone | — |
Took my golden retriever Biscuit out for a walk a couple weekends ago and ended up wandering through Barrie By the Bay, which turned out to be a really pleasant surprise. The waterfront views right outside are gorgeous and Biscuit was absolutely losing his mind over all the smells near the lakeside path. Staff at one of the shops inside actually came out to pet him and gave him a treat, which honestly made his whole day. If you're a dog owner looking for a chill spot with easy parking and some fresh air nearby, this little mall is worth the stop.
Good place there's a lot of different outlets inside that mall that help the community and it's a score that there's a Timmy's in the parking lot as well
Just went to the St. Johns here for first aid training.
It's a very quiet office building.
Apparently parking in the first row of spaces (closest to the building) is paid parking and while it is indicated by pavement markings they do not plow or salt the snow sufficiently enough to allow you to see those spaces are different. Insanely inane. Ended up getting trapped by double parked vehicles because again... The parking is by no means clear and just seems to be a free for all of people trying to avoid a ticket. If you are able to solve the parking you will surely be in for a treat as you negotiate the maze of tiny hallways that awaits you inside the doors. Complete and utter disaster from start to finish.
SmartCentres Barrie South
| Address | 35 Mapleview Dr W, Barrie, ON L4N 9H5, Canada |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Phone | (905) 760-6200 |
Excellent stock for automobile accessories,produce and specially bakery. Store is well organized and we'll replenished. Customer service is a little bit downside here. Also an awesome baby section.
Great location. Good variety of stores etc.
An excellent location, loads of great business, banking institutions, and tons of parking. The Ikea order centre, Petsmart, Sobey's, Indigo, Walmart, Dollartree, Bulk Barn, Canada Computer, Kelsey's, Burger King, Penningtons, and more are all in one convenient area to make life nice and easy. Now, just take a few big deep breaths before going onto Mapleview!!🚗🚚🚙🚓🚑🤞😉
Ok so typical Walmart have everything there. Deli was closed at 5 on a Sunday. What's up with that?? So I must admit I havent been to this Walmart in a month or so and I don't understand the self checkouts now. Maybe it's Walmart trying to save money but I do not feel like I should go into their establishment and have to serve myself. Half the time the scanners don't work and you have to go find someone to help you. They are a huge annoyance. We are getting away from interaction among the public and it's sad. Do your machines ask me how my day is? Do they ask me if I'd like my milk in a separate bag? Do they ask me how that dvd was that I purchased and ask me for my review?
Do they notice if my raspberries that I just bought are moldy? To all these great questions the answer is NO. Please stop taking the human element out of the public it's bad enough people have their heads buried in their phones or up their rear ends. I just hope the workers got their hours slashed and not that people have lost their jobs.
For shame wallymart for shame. Is Walmart going to become target in the sense that they will both be huge failures only time will tell. Heres looking at you Giant Tiger time to step up your game and products.
Great selection of stores the Walmart here has a great selection of toys.
SmartCentres Barrie North
| Address | 450 Bayfield St, Barrie, ON L4M 5A2, Canada |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM Sunday: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Phone | (905) 760-6200 |
We would like to extend our sincere appreciation to SmartCentres Barrie North for your continued dedication to creating a welcoming and well-maintained space for the community. Your team’s commitment to excellence, customer service, and community growth does not go unnoticed.
Thank you for being a valued part of Barrie’s development and for providing a space where businesses can thrive and families can connect. Your efforts make a meaningful difference every day.
Free Standing franchise's buildings are well arranged. There are many parking spaces. It's very clean.
Lots here - lots of parking - the odd time you’ll get some parking lot entertainment people playing the violin and it’s very nice! Clothes - food - dollarstore and more options here to enjoy!
Had what I needed and not terribly packed
Lots of different stores/food joints to choose from, but it is almost always VERY busy. And the majority of shoppers are quite rude. I only go here if I absolutely need something while I'm in the area
SmartCentres Barrie Essa
| Address | 555 Essa Rd, Barrie, ON L4N 6A9, Canada |
|---|---|
| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM Thursday: 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 9:30 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | (905) 760-6200 |
It's very convenient, surrounded by residential houses. There are not only chain stores but also specialty stores, Asian food, tutoring class, tan...
Excellent store with excellent variety, but too of all of that ,Amanda's behaviour and customer service is incredible.
Had to look up where this was. I think I go to the pet valu here for doggy food
This Plaza has Lots of wonderful stores in a great neighbourhood! This plaza has; grocery store, Tim hortons, many other options for food, a second hand clothing shop, pet store, dispensary and a dollarama just to name a few!
Lots of different stores
There’s a grocery store , multiple different cuisine, the public library is there, dollar store, pharmacy, Dentist, breakfast place
Tips for Making the Most of Your Shopping Trip in Barrie
A successful shopping trip in Barrie requires a bit more strategy than simply grabbing your wallet and heading out the door. Because the city’s retail landscape is spread across distinct districts, understanding the flow of traffic and the layout of each center can save you a significant amount of time. By planning ahead, you can avoid the stress of circling for parking and ensure you have enough energy to visit every store on your list.
1. Time Your Visit Strategically
Barrie’s malls can get incredibly busy on weekends, particularly during the holiday season or on rainy days when outdoor activities are cancelled. If you prefer a quieter experience, aim to arrive right when the stores open on a weekday morning. This allows you to navigate the corridors freely, get personalized attention from staff, and check out faster.
2. Leverage the Power Centers for Efficiency
If you are shopping for bulky items or doing a quick errand run, skip the enclosed malls and head to the outdoor power centers along Mapleview Drive. These locations allow you to park directly in front of the specific store you need, saving you the hassle of walking through long indoor corridors. It is the most efficient option for "grab and go" shopping.
3. Combine Dining with Retail
Do not underestimate the value of a good meal break. Many of Barrie’s top malls have excellent sit-down restaurants just outside the main entrances. Planning your trip around a lunch or dinner reservation gives you a natural resting point. It also prevents "hangry" decision-making, which often leads to impulse purchases you later regret.
4. Check for Local Events and Markets
Many of Barrie’s shopping centers host seasonal events, pop-up markets, and family-friendly activities throughout the year. Before you go, check the mall’s social media or website. You might find that your shopping trip coincides with a craft fair or a children’s event, adding extra value to your visit without any extra cost.
5. Dress for the Transition
Barrie weather can be unpredictable, especially if you are moving between outdoor strip malls and indoor centers. Wear comfortable layers and shoes, as you will likely be walking on a mix of pavement, tile, and carpet. If you are visiting an outdoor center in the winter, be prepared for the wind coming off Kempenfelt Bay, which can make the parking lots feel significantly colder.
Barrie’s retail scene is a reflection of the city itself: dynamic, welcoming, and constantly evolving. Whether you are hunting for the latest fashion trends, upgrading your home, or simply looking for a place to spend a relaxing afternoon, the shopping centers here deliver a high standard of convenience and variety. By choosing the right location for your specific needs, you can turn a simple errand into an enjoyable outing.
As you explore these destinations, remember that the best shopping experience is often about the atmosphere as much as the purchases. Take your time, enjoy the local dining options, and appreciate the unique blend of stores that make Barrie a true retail hub in the region. Happy shopping!
