Things To Do
in Newmarket

Newmarket, Canada is a vibrant and charming town located in the Regional Municipality of York, just north of Toronto. Known for its rich history and picturesque landscapes, it offers visitors a blend of modern amenities and traditional charm. The town is home to a variety of parks, cultural events, and shopping districts, making it an appealing destination for both locals and tourists.

With its friendly community and welcoming atmosphere, Newmarket is a great place to explore and unwind.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Newmarket's History and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Newmarket Historical Society to learn about the town’s past. Take a stroll through the historic downtown area, enjoying the quaint architecture.

afternoon
:

Lunch at a local café, followed by a visit to the Upper Canada Mall for shopping or enjoying local art at the Newmarket Art Gallery.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant, then enjoy a casual walk along the scenic Fairy Lake Park, where you can relax and take in the beautiful sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Outdoor Adventures and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin with a hearty breakfast at a popular brunch spot, then head to the nearby Tom Taylor Trail for a morning hike or bike ride.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic to enjoy at the Newmarket Riverwalk Commons, which features beautiful green space and water views. After lunch, visit the local farmers' market for fresh produce and artisanal goods.

evening
:

Attend a local event or concert if available, or enjoy a cozy dinner at a pub that features live music to round off your trip.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a restaurant$20
Coffee$4
🚌Public transport ticket$3
🏨Hotel night stay$150
🛍️Groceries (weekly)$80

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich history and cultural heritage.
  • Beautiful parks and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly and welcoming community.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Traffic can be congested during rush hours.
  • Public transportation isn't as extensive as larger cities.

Places to Visit in Newmarket

Visit one of these nice places.

Fairy Lake Park

A beautiful park featuring serene lake views, walking trails, and stunning landscapes perfect for capturing nature photography.

Newmarket Riverwalk Commons

An urban public space with beautiful gardens, water features, and artistic installations, ideal for vibrant city shots.

Historic Downtown Newmarket

Quaint streets lined with unique boutiques and cafes, offering a charming backdrop for street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Newmarket

Newmarket boasts a diverse culinary scene that reflects both local traditions and international influences. Whether you're in the mood for fine dining or casual eats, there's something for everyone.

Newmarket Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Peameal Bacon Sandwich

A classic Canadian breakfast dish featuring peameal bacon served on a bun, often topped with mustard and served with pickles.

Must-Try!

Butter Tart

A quintessential Canadian dessert, these tarts have a flaky pastry shell filled with a sweet, gooey mixture of butter, sugar, and eggs.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Newmarket Farmers' Market

Held weekly, this market features local farmers offering fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts.

Climate Guide

Weather

Newmarket experiences a humid continental climate, with four distinct seasons. Winters can be cold and snowy, averaging temperatures around -10°C (14°F). Summers are warm and humid, with average highs reaching 25°C (77°F) or more. Spring and fall are transitional seasons, characterized by mild temperatures and moderate precipitation.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Canadians are known for their politeness; saying 'please' and 'thank you' is expected in everyday interactions.

Personal Space

Respecting personal space is important in Canadian culture. Maintain a comfortable distance when speaking with others.

Queuing

Forming an orderly line and waiting your turn is customary in Canada when using public transport or at events.

Safety Guide

Safety

Newmarket is considered a safe community with low crime rates. However, as with any travel destination, it is advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, avoid poorly lit areas at night, and keep personal belongings secure.

Tipping in Newmarket

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

A typical tip in restaurants is around 15-20% of the total bill, and it is appreciated to tip taxi drivers and hairdressers as well.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, although it's good to have some cash for small purchases at markets or local vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring in Newmarket brings blooming flowers and warmer weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Summer offers warm temperatures perfect for exploring parks and attending outdoor events, but be prepared for occasional thunderstorms.

Autumn

Fall showcases vibrant foliage, making it a picturesque time for hikes and photography, along with various harvest festivals.

Winter

Winters can be cold and snowy, with opportunities for winter sports and holiday festivities, but dress warmly to enjoy the season.

Nightlife Guide

Newmarket at Night

Newmarket's nightlife is modest but vibrant, offering a mix of pubs, bars, and live music venues. Popular spots often feature local bands, dancing, and themed nights. The atmosphere is generally friendly, with many establishments catering to a diverse crowd, making it a great place to socialize and unwind after a long day.

Hiking in Newmarket

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kortright Centre for Conservation

Offering numerous trails along with educational programs about nature, Kortright is a great place for hiking and learning.

Rogers Reservoir Conservation Area

This conservation area features scenic trails along the river, perfect for a peaceful hike surrounded by nature.

Airports

How to reach Newmarket by plane.

Toronto Pearson International Airport

Located about 45 minutes from Newmarket, Toronto Pearson is the largest airport in Canada, offering a wide range of domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Newmarket is relatively walkable, especially in the downtown area where many shops, restaurants, and parks are within close proximity. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are clearly marked, making it easy to navigate on foot. However, some areas outside the downtown may require a vehicle for access.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Newmarket is home to many families who appreciate the suburban lifestyle, good schools, and recreational facilities.

Young Professionals

With its proximity to Toronto, Newmarket attracts young professionals seeking a balance between city life and suburban comfort.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Hockey

Hockey is a beloved sport in Newmarket, with local teams and leagues attracting passionate fans and players of all ages.

Soccer

Soccer is increasingly popular, with many youth leagues, clubs, and recreational opportunities available for residents.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Newmarket can become congested, particularly during peak hours when commuters travel to and from Toronto. Public transportation options include buses operated by York Region Transit, providing connections to surrounding areas. While driving is common, using public transit can be a convenient alternative for shorter distances.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Newmarket.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Newmarket offer vegetarian and vegan options, ensuring that dietary preferences are accommodated.

Gluten-Free Choices

Several eateries provide gluten-free menu items, making it easier for those with gluten sensitivities to enjoy a meal out.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Newmarket is accessed through various clinics and hospitals, with the Southlake Regional Health Centre being the primary facility offering a range of services. Emergency services are available, and most residents have insurance coverage through the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). Visitors should ensure they have appropriate travel insurance.

Discover Canada

Read more in our Canada 2025 Travel Guide.

Canada Travel Guide