The character of the town of Bracebridge is shaped by its proximity to Lake Muskoka to which it is connected by 6 miles of the Muskoka River, and by the great waterfall at the foot of the town. Early growth of the town occurred in proximity to the falls which powered the first factory. The arrival of the Grand Trunk Railway cemented the town's role as a transportation hub for the area.

Modern settlement of the town began in the 1860s, beginning at first with a few log huts. The Muskoka colonization road had been completed to the first falls on the north branch of the Muskoka River by 1862. Entrepreneurs began to take advantage of the area's water power. With the advent of steamship service on Lake Muskoka a few years later, Bracebridge prospered as the main distribution centre for the region.

By 1870 the village had a population of about 400, growing to reach a total of about 2,000 by the turn of the 20th century. The village was incorporated in 1875 and became a town in 1889. In 1894 Bracebridge became the first town in Ontario to have its own hydro generating station.

In saying all this, it was the community that brought all this together to make Bracebridge a strong and growing economy. We here at ShopBracebridge.com would like to continue the growth in the local economy and help the local business owners have the opportunity to compete with larger corporations.  Giving the chance for further civic development and keeping the town a rich tapestry of beautiful parks, recreation and unique shops for people from all around to enjoy.