Meaford is a picturesque, welcoming community, home to wonderful examples of heritage architecture, and a way of life that promotes preservation, conservation and relaxation. In 1837 inhabitants of St. Vincent Township petitioned the government requesting that land at the mouth of the Bighead River be reserved as a landing place. The land was set aside, a town plot of "Meaford" laid out in 1845, and lots subsequently offered for sale. As early as 1841 a sawmill and a grist-mill had been built on adjoining land, several roads constructed to the landing and a post office called "St. Vincent" established.

Incorporated as a town in 1874 Meaford is situated on the southern shore of Georgian Bay. It is located within the Georgian Triangle region and known as one of Canada’s finest four season resort areas. The Georgian Trail provides biking and hiking opportunities while Memorial Park provides camping swimmimng and picknicking.

Animal lovers will be attracted to Beautiful Joe Park, named after the dog Beautiful Joe, whose story was immortalized by the Canadian author Margaret Marshall Saunders in her 1893 novel called “Beautiful Joe”. A dog that was abused before being adopted by a loving family, Beautiful Joe’s gravesite can be found in this 8 acre park dedicated to K-9 units around the world .

Meaford is home to a critically acclaimed summer theatre festival. The Georgian Theatre Festival presents theatrical productions at the Meaford Hall Opera House. The Meaford Museum, in the centre of town overlooking the harbour is a 1895 pump house. Numerous fine dining establishments, two of Ontario’s best hiking and cycling trail systems, excellent fishing and waterfront camping make Meaford a destination worth discovering.