Things To Do
in Pickering

Pickering, Canada is a vibrant city located in the Regional Municipality of Durham, just east of Toronto. Known for its beautiful waterfront along Lake Ontario and its rich history, Pickering offers a blend of urban amenities and natural landscapes. The city boasts a variety of parks, recreational activities, and cultural attractions, making it a perfect destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

With its growing community and proximity to major urban centers, Pickering is a great place to explore both nature and city life.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and History
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the scenic Frenchman's Bay where you can enjoy a leisurely walk along the waterfront trail and take in the views of Lake Ontario.

afternoon
:

Head to the Pickering Museum Village, where you can explore historical buildings and learn about the area's history through engaging exhibits.

evening
:

Dine at one of Pickering's local restaurants, such as The Pickering Village Pub, and enjoy a casual meal with a warm atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin with a hike at the nearby Rouge National Urban Park, Canada's first national urban park, which features stunning trails and diverse wildlife.

afternoon
:

Visit the Ontario Science Centre, a short drive away, to engage in interactive exhibits and educational experiences for all ages.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with a visit to the local craft brewery, such as 5 Paddles Brewing Company, where you can sample unique craft beers and relax.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at an inexpensive restaurant$15
Coffee at a café$4
🍕Pizza (medium size)$20
🍺Domestic beer (0.5L)$7
🚕Taxi (1 km)$2.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery and parks
  • Rich cultural and historical attractions
  • Proximity to Toronto for additional activities
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
  • Public transportation options can be sparse
  • Some areas may feel more suburban than urban

Places to Visit in Pickering

Visit one of these nice places.

Frenchman's Bay

A picturesque waterfront area that offers stunning views of the lake, perfect for sunset photography.

Rouge National Urban Park

Featuring diverse landscapes, this park offers countless opportunities for nature photography, including trails and wildlife.

Pickering Museum Village

A historical site with charming buildings and landscapes that capture the essence of Ontario's past, ideal for capturing quaint, vintage scenes.

Culinary Guide

Food in Pickering

Pickering offers a diverse culinary scene that reflects its multicultural community, making it a great place for food lovers to explore local flavors and international cuisines.

Pickering Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Butter Chicken

A rich and creamy Indian dish made with marinated chicken in a spiced tomato sauce, best enjoyed with naan or rice.

Must-Try!

Peameal Bacon Sandwich

A Canadian classic typically made with peameal bacon served on a bun, often accompanied by mustard and pickles.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Pickering Markets

An indoor market featuring a variety of vendors selling fresh produce, baked goods, and unique artisanal products.

Food Trucks at Events

During summer festivals, local food trucks serve a variety of street food options, from gourmet burgers to ethnic dishes.

Climate Guide

Weather

Pickering experiences four distinct seasons. Winters (December to February) are cold with temperatures often dropping below freezing, while summers (June to August) are warm and humid, with temperatures averaging around 25°C (77°F). Spring (March to May) brings mild weather and blooming nature, and fall (September to November) showcases beautiful foliage with cooler temperatures. The area receives moderate rainfall throughout the year, with the summer months typically being the wettest.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Canadians value politeness and courtesy; saying 'please', 'thank you', and 'sorry' is common.

Personal Space

Respect for personal space is important; maintain a comfortable distance during conversations.

Queuing

When waiting in line, it is important to wait your turn and not cut in, as this is considered rude.

Safety Guide

Safety

Pickering is generally a safe city, with low crime rates. However, it's wise to practice standard safety precautions, such as securing valuables and being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services are accessible, and it's important to know the location of the nearest hospital.

Tipping in Pickering

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip between 15-20% in restaurants and for services such as taxis and hairdressers.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and contactless payment options are also popular; however, it's good to have some cash for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities and visiting parks.

Summer

Warm weather allows for beach visits and outdoor festivals, but be prepared for occasional rain showers.

Fall

Experience beautiful fall foliage, perfect for hiking and photography, with cooler temperatures and harvest festivals.

Winter

Cold weather brings snow, allowing for winter sports and cozy indoor activities, though be prepared for icy conditions.

Nightlife Guide

Pickering at Night

Pickering's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities, but there are several bars and pubs offering live music, karaoke, and themed nights. Local craft breweries like 5 Paddles Brewing Company host events and tastings, while restaurants may have late-night menus. For a more vibrant scene, nearby Toronto is just a short drive away, providing ample options for nightlife.

Hiking in Pickering

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Rouge Trail

A scenic trail in Rouge National Urban Park that offers stunning views of the Rouge River and diverse wildlife along the way.

Petticoat Creek Trail

This trail winds through lush forests and along the creek, providing a peaceful hiking experience suitable for all skill levels.

Airports

How to reach Pickering by plane.

Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ)

Located about 40 kilometers west of Pickering, this is the largest airport in Canada, offering extensive domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Pickering is moderately walkable, with several areas featuring sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly paths, especially near the waterfront and downtown. However, some parts of the city are more suburban, making a car necessary for longer distances or less accessible areas. Local parks and trails enhance the walkability, providing pleasant routes for pedestrians.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Pickering is home to many families attracted by the city's suburban feel, parks, and community activities.

Young Professionals

With its proximity to Toronto, Pickering has a growing demographic of young professionals commuting to the city for work.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Hockey

Hockey is a beloved sport in Pickering, with many local teams and recreational leagues, especially during the winter months.

Soccer

Soccer has a growing following in Pickering, with various youth leagues, clubs, and facilities supporting the sport year-round.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Pickering can vary, especially during rush hours when commuting to and from Toronto. The city has a decent network of roads, but congestion can occur on major routes. Public transportation options include Durham Region Transit, which offers bus services within the city and connections to neighboring areas, making it a viable choice for those without a car.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Pickering.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Pickering offer vegetarian and vegan options, making it easy for those with dietary restrictions to find suitable meals.

Gluten-Free Choices

Several eateries provide gluten-free options, ensuring that diners with gluten sensitivities can enjoy a variety of dishes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Pickering are accessible, with several clinics, hospitals, and pharmacies available. The Ajax-Pickering Hospital serves the community, offering emergency and specialized medical services. Residents and visitors can access healthcare through the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP), and private health insurance is also common for additional coverage.

Discover Canada

Read more in our Canada 2025 Travel Guide.

Canada Travel Guide