Things To Do
in Markham

Markham, Canada, located just north of Toronto, is known for its vibrant multicultural community and rich history. It boasts a mix of urban and suburban living, with plenty of parks, shopping centers, and cultural attractions. The city is also recognized for its diverse culinary scene, offering a wide range of international cuisines.

With a strong emphasis on technology and innovation, Markham is often referred to as the 'High-Tech Capital of Canada.'

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Markham
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Markham Museum to learn about the local history and culture. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon at Markham Village, where you can shop at boutique stores and visit local artisan shops. Don't miss the picturesque Main Street.

evening
:

Dine at a restaurant in the historic Markham Village, followed by a stroll through the park to enjoy the evening air.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike at Rouge National Urban Park, exploring its scenic trails and diverse wildlife.

afternoon
:

Visit the Pacific Mall, one of the largest Asian shopping malls in North America, for lunch and shopping.

evening
:

End your day with a cultural performance at the Markham Theatre or enjoy a film at a nearby cinema.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a restaurant$15-$30
🚌Public transport fare$3.25
🏨Hotel per night$100-$200
Coffee$3-$5
🍺Beer at a bar$6-$10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Diverse culinary scene with international options.
  • Rich cultural and historical heritage.
  • Family-friendly environment with plenty of parks.
  • Less nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport can be limited in some areas.
  • Traffic congestion during peak hours.

Places to Visit in Markham

Visit one of these nice places.

Markham Museum

A beautiful backdrop featuring historic buildings and lush landscapes.

Toogood Pond Park

A serene park with a picturesque pond, walking trails, and abundant wildlife.

Pacific Mall

A vibrant and colorful shopping mall that showcases Asian culture and architecture.

Culinary Guide

Food in Markham

Markham's culinary scene reflects its multicultural population, offering a variety of international dishes and local favorites.

Markham Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Dim Sum

A staple in Chinese cuisine, featuring a variety of small dishes served with tea.

Must-Try!

Butter Tart

A classic Canadian pastry filled with a sweet mixture of butter, sugar, and eggs.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Markham Farmer's Market

A seasonal market featuring local produce, artisanal goods, and food trucks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Markham experiences a humid continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from -5°C (23°F) in winter to 26°C (79°F) in summer. Rainfall is fairly distributed throughout the year, with occasional snow during winter months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Canadians value politeness; saying 'please' and 'thank you' is essential.

Queuing

Respect queues in public places; cutting in line is frowned upon.

Cultural Sensitivity

Be respectful of diverse cultures, especially in a multicultural city like Markham.

Safety Guide

Safety

Markham is generally considered safe, with low crime rates. However, it is advisable to remain aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Keep valuables secured and avoid isolated areas after dark.

Tipping in Markham

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip service staff 15-20% in restaurants, and rounding up for taxi drivers is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit and debit cards, and contactless payments are widely used.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a perfect time for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Warm weather brings numerous outdoor events and activities; it's ideal for picnics and enjoying local parks.

Autumn

Fall foliage creates stunning landscapes, making it a great time for photography and outdoor hikes.

Winter

Cold temperatures and snow can limit outdoor activities, but winter sports and holiday events abound.

Nightlife Guide

Markham at Night

Markham's nightlife is more subdued compared to downtown Toronto, but there are plenty of options for a fun evening. Bars, lounges, and pubs offer a relaxed atmosphere, often featuring live music or events. For a more vibrant scene, the nearby Toronto offers extensive nightlife options.

Hiking in Markham

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Rouge Valley Trail

This scenic trail offers a variety of hiking options with stunning views of the Rouge River.

Milne Dam Conservation Park

A beautiful area with multiple trails and picnic spots, perfect for a day out in nature.

Airports

How to reach Markham by plane.

Toronto Pearson International Airport

Located about 30 minutes from Markham, this is the main international airport serving the area.

Getting Around

Walkability

Markham is moderately walkable, particularly in areas like Markham Village and Pacific Mall. Many neighborhoods have sidewalks and pedestrian crossings, but some areas may require a car for access. Public parks and trails encourage outdoor activity.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Chinese Community

A significant portion of Markham's population is of Chinese descent, contributing to the city's rich cultural offerings.

South Asian Community

Another large demographic group, adding to the diversity in cuisine, festivals, and cultural events.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Ice Hockey

A popular sport in Canada, with many local teams and community leagues.

Soccer

Growing in popularity, especially among youth and community leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Markham can be congested during rush hours, particularly on major roads like Highway 404 and 407. Public transportation includes buses operated by York Region Transit, which connects to nearby areas and Toronto.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Markham.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask about preparation methods.

Halal and Kosher

Several places cater to halal and kosher diets, particularly in areas with large Muslim and Jewish populations.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Markham has access to several healthcare facilities, including Markham Stouffville Hospital. Emergency services are well established, and many clinics offer family health services. It's advisable for visitors to have travel insurance to cover any medical expenses.

Discover Canada

Read more in our Canada 2025 Travel Guide.

Canada Travel Guide