Things To Do
in Scugog

Scugog is a rural township in Ontario, perched along the northern shores of Lake Scugog. It blends small town charm with scenic waterways, farms, and lakeside cottages. The communities of Port Perry and neighbouring hamlets offer a relaxed pace, local shops, and opportunities to reconnect with nature.

Visitors are welcomed by friendly locals and a calendar of seasonal events throughout the year.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Port Perry
morning
:

Begin your adventure in Port Perry by taking a leisurely stroll along the waterfront. Visit the local shops and galleries that reflect the town's rich history and vibrant culture. Savor a fresh pastry and coffee at a local café to fuel your day's explorations.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon at the Scugog Shores Heritage Centre and Museum to learn about the area's Native American history and early settler life. Enjoy lunch at one of the many delightful restaurants offering views of Lake Scugog. Take a scenic drive around the lake to appreciate the natural beauty and tranquil surroundings.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy a dinner cruise on Lake Scugog, where you can savor a delicious meal while taking in the picturesque scenery. After the cruise, consider catching a performance at the Town Hall 1873 Theatre, showcasing local talent and entertaining productions. Wind down with a nightcap at a local pub, sharing stories of your day.

day 2
Nature Hiking at Lindsay Park
morning
:

Kickstart your day with a hike through Lindsay Park, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of the local flora and fauna. The fresh morning air and chirping birds make for an invigorating experience. Make sure to bring your camera to capture stunning views along the trails.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in one of the park’s serene spots, surrounded by nature's tranquility. After eating, explore more hiking trails or try your hand at birdwatching, with many species frequenting the area. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a kayak to paddle on the calm waters.

evening
:

As evening approaches, return to Port Perry and experience a farm-to-table dinner at a local restaurant that emphasizes seasonal ingredients. Enjoy the cozy ambiance and welcoming service as you unwind from your day outdoors. Consider a quiet evening stroll along the waterfront, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
Coffee and pastry$3-6
🥗Lunch for two at mid-range restaurant$25-40
🏨One night in a mid-range hotel$120-180
Gasoline (per liter)$1.50-1.85

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Scenic lake and countryside settings
  • Friendly communities and affordable to explore
  • Limited nightlife and urban amenities
  • Greater reliance on driving for accessing services

Places to Visit in Scugog

Visit one of these nice places.

Port Perry Waterfront Park

Wide views of Lake Scugog, scenic piers, and golden hour reflections along the shoreline.

Scugog Shores Heritage Centre exterior

Historic architecture and waterfront setting ideal for architectural and heritage photography.

Main Street Port Perry

Character-filled storefronts and charming street scenes, especially with seasonal décor.

Port Perry Marina at sunset

Waterfront silhouettes and boats framed against colorful skies.

Culinary Guide

Food in Scugog

The local cuisine leans into Ontario farming heritage and lake-fresh ingredients, with farm-to-table options, seafood, baked goods, and seasonal produce featuring prominently in many venues.

Scugog Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Lake Scugog perch with fries

A classic lake catch prepared simply to highlight fresh perch, served with crispy fries and a lemon-dill dip.

Must-Try!

Smoked trout sandwich

House-smoked trout on crusty bread with yogurt-dill sauce and greens.

Butter tarts

A traditional Canadian dessert found at bakeries and markets throughout the region.

Berry pie

Seasonal berry pie made with local fruit from nearby farms.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Port Perry Farmers Market

Seasonal market offering fresh produce, local honey, baked goods, preserves, and handmade crafts.

Lakeside snack stalls

Casual waterfront stalls and food trucks in warmer months offering light bites and beverages.

Climate Guide

Weather

Scugog experiences a humid continental climate with warm summers and cold winters. Lake proximity moderates temperatures somewhat, but weather can shift quickly. Precipitation is fairly well distributed throughout the year, with snow in winter months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and politeness

Greet locals warmly, hold doors open for others, and maintain a friendly, respectful tone in conversations.

Quiet hours and community spaces

Be mindful of residential areas late at night; respect park and trail signage.

Safety Guide

Safety

Scugog is generally safe with typical rural and small-town safety considerations. Stay aware of seasonal road conditions in winter, water safety near lakes, and wildlife in rural areas. Lock vehicles and valuables when not in use, and follow posted local advisories.

Tipping in Scugog

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In restaurants, a 15-20% tip is customary if service is not already included. For cafés and casual spots, rounding up is common.

Payment Methods

Most places accept credit/debit cards and contactless payments; cash is always welcome at smaller venues.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm, often sunny days with plenty of outdoor events and water activities. Pack sun protection and be mindful of humidity.

Autumn

Colorful foliage and harvest markets create excellent photo opportunities and pleasant walking weather.

Winter

Cold, sometimes snowy conditions; roads can be icy. Great for quiet landscapes and indoor cultural venues.

Spring

Milder temperatures with blooming flora; occasional showers and outdoor activity while nature reawakens.

Nightlife Guide

Scugog at Night

The nightlife in Scugog is relaxed and low-key, centered on cozy pubs, cafes with live music, and community events. Expect casual atmospheres, family-friendly venues, and seasonal performances rather than a large urban scene.

Hiking in Scugog

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Port Perry Rail Trail

A pleasant multi-use trail along a former rail corridor, suitable for walking and cycling.

Lake Scugog shoreline trails

Scenic paths along the lake offering water views and wildlife spotting.

Conservation area trails near Port Perry

Gentle woodland and wetlands trails ideal for nature walks and birdwatching.

Airports

How to reach Scugog by plane.

Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ)

Major international gateway within about a 1–2 hour drive, offering extensive domestic and global connections.

Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ)

Convenient downtown Toronto airport for short regional and domestic trips.

Oshawa Executive Airport (YOO)

Smaller regional airport closer to Durham Region, suitable for general aviation.

Getting Around

Walkability

Port Perry and the immediate waterfront are relatively walkable with pedestrian-friendly streets and compact downtowns. The broader township is more car-dependent, with scenic byways that invite short drives to nearby parks and farms.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Strongly represented in the area, with good schools, parks, and family-friendly activities.

Retirees and Seasonal Cottagers

A significant portion of residents and visitors seek a tranquil lake lifestyle and seasonal access to lakeside amenities.

Young Professionals

Commuters and remote workers attracted by the region's balance of nature and proximity to the GTA.

Farmers and Outdoor Enthusiasts

A community rooted in agriculture and outdoor recreation, contributing to local markets and events.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Hockey

A beloved Canadian sport with local rec leagues and arena facilities in the region.

Baseball/Softball

Community fields and leagues accessible during warmer months.

Lacrosse

Seasonal play and local clubs in nearby towns.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is typically light in the rural parts of Scugog, with more congestion around Port Perry during market days and peak travel times. In winter, road conditions can worsen with snow and ice; plan extra travel time and check local advisories. Public transit is available but limited, so a car is often the most practical way to explore the township.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Scugog.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Look for farm-to-table options with seasonal vegetables, grain bowls, salads, and plant-based mains; most menus can accommodate meat-free requests with advance notice.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services are available in Durham Region with local clinics and connections to larger hospitals in nearby towns. Emergency care can be accessed at regional facilities, with primary care providers typically located in Port Perry and surrounding communities.

Discover Canada

Read more in our Canada 2025 Travel Guide.

Canada Travel Guide