Things To Do
in Peterborough
Peterborough, Canada, is a vibrant city nestled along the Otonabee River in Ontario. Known for its rich history, it features a mix of modern attractions and natural beauty, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The city is also famous for its historic lift locks, which are among the highest in the world, showcasing the ingenuity of Canadian engineering.
With a thriving arts scene, outdoor activities, and a variety of dining options, Peterborough offers something for everyone.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a breakfast at a local café, then visit the Peterborough Lift Lock, the world's highest hydraulic lift lock.
Enjoy lunch at a restaurant downtown followed by a stroll through the Peterborough Art Gallery and a visit to the local farmers' market.
Dine at a local steakhouse and then enjoy a performance at the Showplace Performance Centre.
Have breakfast at your hotel before heading to the nearby Trent University for a scenic walk along the river.
Grab a picnic lunch and spend the afternoon at Beavermead Park, enjoying activities like swimming or kayaking.
End your day with dinner at a waterfront restaurant and take a leisurely evening walk along the riverbank.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| ☕Coffee | $3.50 |
| 🍽️Meal at a Restaurant | $15-$25 |
| 🏨Hotel Night | $100-$150 |
| 🚍Public Transportation Ticket | $3.00 |
| 🛒Groceries (weekly) | $70-$100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural and historical attractions.
- Abundance of outdoor activities and natural beauty.
- Welcoming and friendly local community.
- Limited public transportation options.
- Chilly winters may deter some visitors.
- Some attractions may have seasonal hours.
Places to Visit in Peterborough
Visit one of these nice places.
Capture the impressive engineering marvel of the highest hydraulic lift lock in the world against a scenic backdrop.
The vibrant streets filled with colorful murals and historic buildings provide perfect urban photography opportunities.
A picturesque park offering stunning views of the Otonabee River, especially at sunset.
Food in Peterborough
Peterborough Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Canadian dessert, it's a flaky pastry filled with a gooey mixture of butter, sugar, and eggs.
Must-Try!
A hearty dish consisting of fries topped with cheese curds and smothered in gravy, perfect for a comfort food fix.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Open year-round, this market features local produce, artisanal goods, and delicious street food vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Canadians are known for being polite; saying 'please' and 'thank you' is expected.
Take care of the environment and dispose of trash properly, especially in parks and natural areas.
Forming a line and waiting your turn is a common practice in shops and public areas.
Safety
Tipping in Peterborough
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 15-20% is customary based on the total bill before tax, while taxi drivers also appreciate a tip.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and ATMs are available, but it’s good to carry some cash for smaller vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make this a beautiful time to explore gardens and parks.
Expect warm weather, perfect for outdoor activities like kayaking and hiking, as well as lively festivals.
Fall foliage paints the city in vibrant colors, making it ideal for photography and scenic drives.
Cold and snowy, winter offers opportunities for ice skating, snowshoeing, and enjoying cozy indoor activities.
Peterborough at Night
Hiking in Peterborough
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail that winds through forests and along the river, ideal for hiking and enjoying nature.
Offers numerous trails with varying difficulty levels, showcasing stunning landscapes and wildlife.
Airports
How to reach Peterborough by plane.
Located just a short drive from downtown, this airport offers limited flights and is primarily used for general aviation and charter services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Peterborough has a significant Indigenous community, contributing to the cultural diversity and heritage of the region.
Trent University attracts a large student population, impacting the local culture and economy.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Ice hockey is a beloved sport in Peterborough, with local teams and community leagues showcasing the passion for the game.
Known as Canada's national summer sport, lacrosse has a strong following in Peterborough, with teams that compete at various levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Peterborough.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan choices, ensuring you can enjoy local cuisine without compromising your diet.
Several eateries cater to gluten-free diets, with clearly marked menus.