Seasonal Website Prep for Cottage Country Businesses
In Muskoka and Parry Sound, the difference between a good season and a great one often comes down to preparation. Your website is no different — it needs to be tuned up and ready before the visitors arrive.
Use this timeline checklist to prepare your website for peak tourism season. Whether you run a resort, restaurant, retail shop, or service business, these steps ensure your online presence is working at full capacity when it matters most.
8-10 Weeks Before Peak Season
Strategic Planning
- •Review last season's website analytics to identify what worked and what didn't
- •Plan any new pages or content needed for the upcoming season
- •Schedule professional photography if needed for updated imagery
- •Identify any new services, menu items, or offerings to add
6-8 Weeks Before
Content Updates
- •Update seasonal hours, pricing, and availability across all pages
- •Create or refresh seasonal landing pages with relevant keywords
- •Write blog posts targeting seasonal search queries
- •Update Google Business Profile with seasonal hours and photos
4-6 Weeks Before
SEO & Local Search Refresh
- •Audit and update title tags and meta descriptions with seasonal keywords
- •Ensure all location pages reference seasonal activities and offerings
- •Submit updated sitemap to Google Search Console
- •Review and respond to recent Google Reviews
3-4 Weeks Before
Mobile & Booking Optimization
- •Test your entire booking or quote request flow on mobile devices
- •Ensure contact forms are working and notifications are reaching your inbox
- •Verify online ordering or reservation systems are functioning correctly
- •Test click-to-call functionality on mobile
2-3 Weeks Before
Speed & Performance
- •Run a speed test and address any performance issues
- •Compress any new images added during content updates
- •Verify your hosting can handle peak season traffic spikes
- •Test your site from a mobile device on cellular data (simulating visitor experience)
1 Week Before
Final Checks
- •Proofread all updated content for accuracy and typos
- •Verify all links work (especially seasonal and promotional links)
- •Ensure your phone number and contact information are correct everywhere
- •Set up any seasonal promotions, pop-ups, or announcements
FAQ
Seasonal Prep FAQ
Common questions about preparing your website for peak season.