Gravenhurst is known as the Gateway to Muskoka. The lakes, forests and rocky landscape captivated the first visitors and have drawn people back for more than 150 years. A scenic boardwalk traces the same shoreline. Along the way, stop to enjoy a meal at one of the many places to delight the palate – everything from chef-prepared specialities, more casual meals and even a coffee shop and tea house. The wharf is anchored by the historic steamship cruise office at one end and the Muskoka Discovery Centre museum at the other. Visitors today can also appreciate the past by visiting the Gravenhurst Opera House in Historic Downtown Gravenhurst. The building, nestled in an area of unique shops and restaurants, has a century-long tradition of professional theatre but also offers an assortment of musical entertainment. Public beaches offer swimming, hiking and more. Gull Lake Park has a public beach, complete with lifeguards on afternoons in the summer. In the winter, that park is a parking area for snowmachine trailers. During the Second World War, a prisoner of war camp was located in Gravenhurst. Remains of it and a small plaque mark the spot at Ungerman Park.