Owen Sound – The City's Visitor Information Centre is seeing a marked increase in tourism during the "shoulder" seasons of spring and fall, giving the sector a much-needed boost beyond the traditionally busy summer months.

About 7,000 people visited the Information Centre between May and September, an increase of 16 per cent over the same period last year. The greatest increases were seen in May (up 42 per cent), June (up 50 per cent), and September (up 28 per cent). Visitation during those months almost equaled the mid-summer period.

"The tourism sector is fast becoming a key economic driver with the growing shoulder season and the broad range of activities and experiences now available in the City," said Steve Furness, Manager of Economic Development and Tourism for Owen Sound.

The City's newer fall offerings, including Ribfest, the Cobble Beach Concours d'Elegance, the Sweetwater Music Festival and the Owen Sound Salmon Tour are helping to extend the summer season. Guided tours of the fish spawning channels the first two weekends in October attracted about 800 people – more than 60 per cent of them from outside the region.

The Visitor Information Centre is open year-round, including weekends from Victoria Day to Thanksgiving. It's located in the former CN Rail Station on the west side of the harbour. Visit www.owensoundtourism.ca for a complete list of local events, attractions, restaurants and accommodations in Owen Sound, or follow us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Instagram.

Source - Owen Sound Tourism