Peterborough, Ontario offers a wonderful blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and vibrant community events. Whether you’re exploring the renowned Kawarthas region, enjoying a peaceful day by the Trent-Severn Waterway, or discovering the city’s historic charm, there’s something for everyone.
Visit the Canadian Canoe Museum, where you can get immersed in Canada’s rich paddling heritage, an essential stop for anyone in the area.
As soon as you land in peterborough airport, make time for outdoor activities by venturing into the scenic outdoor spaces that surround the city of Peterborough. The proximity to the Kawarthas means you have access to some of the region’s best lakes and trails, perfect for hiking, fishing, or boating.
Wander through the lush landscapes of Jackson Park or explore the variety of flora at the Riverview Park and Zoo, where admission is free.
For a taste of local culture, check out the array of music and arts festivals that Peterborough hosts annually. Discover the vibrant downtown arts scene, with galleries and performance spaces that frequently showcase local talent in this welcoming community.
Enjoy fresh produce from the surrounding region and handmade goods from local vendors at the Peterborough Farmers’ Market, offering a true slice of the city’s community spirit.
Exploring the Rich History and Culture
Peterborough county, Ontario, offers a vibrant tapestry of history and culture through its fascinating museums and historical sites.
You’ll discover interactive experiences that bring the past to life, showcasing both local heritage and the significance of Indigenous cultures.
Lang Pioneer Village Museum
At Lang Pioneer Village Museum, you’ll step into the 19th century, exploring a living history museum that recreates the era with remarkable authenticity. Costumed interpreters guide you through heritage buildings, including a blacksmith shop and a schoolhouse.
Hands-on activities like candle making and weaving are available, offering insight into the daily life of settlers.
Seasonal events, such as the Applefest and the Christmas by Candlelight, provide an engaging experience for visitors of all ages.
Canadian Canoe Museum
The Canadian Canoe Museum is an essential visit, housing an impressive collection of over 600 canoes and kayaks. You’ll discover the pivotal role that canoeing has played in shaping Canadian identity. The museum showcases artifacts and stories from First Nations and early explorers, a perfect place for anyone who is interested in learning more about first nations.
The interactive exhibits and workshops allow you to learn various canoeing techniques and the cultural significance of watercraft throughout Canadian history.
Petroglyphs Provincial Park
Petroglyphs Provincial Park
offers a window into Indigenous culture with its remarkable rock carvings, believed to be the largest collection of its kind in Canada.
As you explore, you’ll learn about the spiritual and cultural importance of these ancient carvings.
The park’s visitor center provides additional insight into the life and beliefs of the Algonquin people.
Make sure to respect the sacred nature of the site, as it holds deep spiritual significance.
Peterborough Museum and Archives
The Peterborough Museum and Archives serves as a treasure trove of the region’s history and artifacts. Permanent exhibits highlight the cultural evolution of Peterborough and the surrounding area, focusing on everything from Indigenous heritage to Victorian-era society. The national historic site archives offer extensive resources for those interested in genealogical research.
Engaging temporary exhibits and programs for both kids and adults make this a rewarding stop for anyone interested in the area’s past.
Natural Splendor and Outdoor Activities
Explore Peterborough’s vibrant natural environment and outdoors. Discover serene parks, lush trails, and the famed Trent Severn Waterway.
Kawartha Highlands and Silent Lake
The Kawartha Highlands is a sprawling natural area offering a diverse range of outdoor activities. With its beautiful lakes and forests, it provides a perfect backdrop for hiking, canoeing, and kayaking adventures and a must visit for anyone looking for outdoor adventures.
Silent Lake, known for its tranquility, invites you to explore its serene waters by paddle. The hiking trails here are ideal for various skill levels and provide opportunities to witness diverse wildlife.
Whether you’re looking to unwind in nature or engage in more active pursuits, these locations offer countless opportunities for outdoor fun.
Riverview Park and Zoo
Riverview Park and Zoo
is a unique combination of a park and a zoo with no admission fee. Situated along the Otonabee River, this location offers both leisure and educational experiences. You can enjoy picnics and stroll along the scenic walking paths while observing various animal exhibits.
The park also features a miniature train, and children can enjoy playgrounds designed for fun and exploration,a great place for those with kids. This space is perfect for a family day out where natural beauty meets interactive experiences.
Jackson Park and Millennium Park Trails
Jackson Park showcases scenic trails that are excellent for both walking and cycling to historic sites. It provides a serene escape with its mature forests and picturesque landscapes.
Hiking here includes a variety of trails, from easy paths to more challenging ones, ensuring options for every visitor.
Millennium Park, in the heart of downtown, complements Jackson Park with its lush greenery and scenic trails.
It connects urban life with natural beauty, offering a quiet retreat close to city amenities with easy access to local food made from local ingredients.
Trent-Severn Waterway Adventures
The Trent-Severn Waterway offers a multitude of adventure opportunities. With its interconnected lakes and rivers, including the Otonabee River, it’s a paradise for boating enthusiasts.
You can explore historic locks and enjoy paddling routes that highlight the area’s natural beauty and learn history of the canoe.
Adventure seekers can partake in a variety of activities, from fishing to leisurely boat cruises.
This significant waterway provides a unique perspective on Peterborough’s landscape, making it perfect for those seeking an engaging outdoor experience in this cottage country.
Arts and Entertainment
In Peterborough, you’ll find a vibrant arts scene rich in culture. From contemporary art exhibits to live performances, there’s plenty to keep you entertained. Renowned venues host diverse events, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Art Gallery of Peterborough
You will experience an engaging collection of contemporary Canadian art at the Art Gallery of Peterborough from local artists.
Housing a diverse range of paintings, sculptures, and installations, the gallery provides insight into local and national artistry.
The space is designed for exploration and contemplation, offering workshops and educational programs that deepen appreciation for the arts.
The gallery also facilitates community connections through exhibitions and events. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or a casual visitor, there is much to explore and enjoy here.
Showplace Performance Centre
Attend vibrant cultural events at the Showplace Performance Centre. With a seating capacity of over 600, this venue hosts a variety of performances, including theatrical productions, concerts, and comedy shows.
The intimate setting and excellent acoustics ensure an enjoyable experience for attendees.
Your visit could coincide with performances from local talent or touring acts.
Additionally, the venue regularly participates in community initiatives, making it a hub for cultural engagement in Peterborough.
Peterborough Musicfest
You’re in for a treat at Peterborough Musicfest, a summer concert series offering free live music. It takes place at Del Crary Park and features a wide variety of genres, from rock to jazz to country.
These concerts bring the community together, providing a family-friendly atmosphere.
As one of the region’s most popular events, this festival is a must-see for anyone visiting Peterborough during the summer. With performances from both emerging and established artists, you’ll enjoy a dynamic musical experience in a beautiful outdoor setting,imagine sitting at your outdoor patio and attending a music festival from there.
Culinary Delights and Craft Breweries
Peterborough, Ontario offers a rich culinary scene complemented by local craft breweries. Explore the vibrant downtown area with its eclectic mix of cafes and restaurants, and indulge in the unique experience of a butter tart tour and taste kawartha country wines.
Downtown Peterborough Cafes and Restaurants
In downtown Peterborough, you’ll find a diverse range of dining options.
Silver Bean Cafe, set by the Otonabee River, is perfect for coffee lovers who enjoy a serene setting. Try their delicious scones, which pair perfectly with their freshly brewed coffee.
For a heartier meal, explore local restaurants offering everything from international cuisines to classic Canadian dishes. Each establishment brings its own unique flair to the dining experience, whether through innovative menus or cozy atmospheres.There are so many good restaurants to pick from and I`ll struggle to say which are the best restaurants.
Local Breweries and Butter Tart Tour
Peterborough is known for its vibrant craft beer scene. The local breweries offer everything from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts. Each brewery provides a unique tasting experience, highlighting the creativity and quality of their brews.
While exploring the breweries, join a butter tart tour. This sweet journey lets you taste various interpretations of this Canadian classic.
Discover the perfect combination of flaky pastry and rich filling as you explore different local offerings. Combining beer and butter tarts makes for an unforgettable experience.
Events and Festivals
Peterborough, Ontario, hosts a variety of vibrant events and festivals celebratinglive performance with music, film, and culture, drawing visitors and locals alike. These events offer engaging experiences that highlight regional talent and community.
Peterborough Folk Festival
The Peterborough Folk Festival is a beloved event showcasing a mix of local and international music talent. The live performance is held annually in late summer.
This free festival is set in a picturesque outdoor setting with stages surrounded by natural beauty.
You can enjoy performances from independent artists as well as discover new music spoken through folk culture.
The festival is family-friendly, offering workshops and activities for kids a great spot for your kids to learn something new. Food and craft vendors line the venue, providing a taste of local cuisine and handmade goods and you can use this oportunity to learn peterborough history.
ReFrame Film Festival
The ReFrame Film Festival is a celebrated event dedicated to showcasing documentary films that provoke thought and discussion.
This festival runs annually in January, welcoming film enthusiasts to explore a diverse range of stories and perspectives. It highlights social justice and environmental themes.
You will find screenings held at various venues throughout Peterborough, each offering a unique viewing experience. Besides films, the festival includes panel discussions and Q&A sessions with filmmakers, encouraging audience engagement and deeper insights into the films’ subjects.