Tourism continues to boom across Simcoe County and Muskoka

The region is seeing record-setting numbers flocking to enjoy winter in Central Ontario.

Tourism industry leaders in the region say things have been going very well this season. The colder temperatures and heavy snow accumulations have helped everything from ski hills to local hotels.

“Our weekends are booming. We’ve got them coming from all over the place - mostly from around the province but they come from beyond,” says Vanessa Stevenson, general manager for the Hampton Inn and Suites by Hilton in Barrie.

Tourism Barrie says local hotels saw incredible numbers over the Christmas break.

Industries in and around the area are calling it a great start to the season. With plenty of winter left, Fern Resort near Orillia says they have had a busy season.

“Big staycation - a lot of Ontario looking at Ontario for some fabulous winter experiences and we have the whole experience,” says Mark Downey, owner of Fern Resort.

Katie Boylan and her family have been going to Fern resort for years.

“It took us less than an hour and a half to get here. It was all the back roads so there’s never any traffic and having everything all included is really nice,” Boylan says.

The numbers show fewer Americans are visiting this season compared to previous years but those local visits are climbing. Ski hills are also reporting a strong presence with both Family Day and March Break still to come. And there’s no concern with the amount of snow.

“Numbers are up. Last year was a really strong season as well and we’re up over last year,” says Laura Kiley, director of marketing for Horseshoe Resort.

“We just like to stay near town, in the area. It’s just a lot easier, not as much gear to take and not as much hassle,” says visitor Ryan Lui of Toronto moments before hitting the slopes.

Resorts, hotels and destinations suggesting it appears to be an epic year and in some cases, one for the record books.