Things To Do
in Uxbridge

Uxbridge, Canada is a picturesque town perched in the greenbelt north of Toronto, blending rural charm with small-town services. Its rolling farmland, historic Main Street, and welcoming community create a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. The Holland River and nearby trails offer easy outdoor escapes, while local markets and galleries add cultural flavor.

Visitors can enjoy farm-to-table experiences, scenic drives, and warm hospitality that define this region of Ontario.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival at Uxbridge
morning
:

Wake up to birdsong and fresh countryside air at a cozy bed and breakfast. Savor a hearty homemade breakfast with farm-fresh eggs and artisanal bread. Chat with friendly hosts about local recommendations.

afternoon
:

Explore the Uxbridge Pioneer Village and Museum to delve into township history. Wander through restored buildings and admire vintage artifacts from the 19th century. Pause on the veranda for a refreshing iced tea while absorbing picturesque museum grounds.

evening
:

Dine at a family-run eatery specializing in farm-to-table cuisine. Taste seasonal vegetables and locally raised meats under the warm glow of hanging lanterns. Return to the B&B for a peaceful evening stroll through quaint gardens.

day 2
Rail Trail Exploration
morning
:

Grab a rental bike and set off along the historic Uxbridge Rail Trail at sunrise. Feel the cool breeze brush past as you pedal beneath a canopy of towering trees. Pause at scenic overlooks to breathe in the fragrant pine and wildflower-laced air.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic lunch and find a sun-dappled clearing by the trail bank. Listen to birds chirping and the gentle rustle of leaves as you savor fresh local cheeses and bread. Watch passing cyclists and families enjoying the serene countryside.

evening
:

Return the bike and head to a cozy tavern for a well-earned ale. Engage locals in friendly conversation about favorite trail highlights. Stroll back under starry skies, the soft glow of lampposts guiding you home.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18 CAD
🏠Rent for 1-bedroom apartment in city centre$1,400-1,900 CAD/month
🚗Gasoline (per liter)$1.40-1.90 CAD
Coffee to-go$3-5 CAD
🛒Groceries for one week$60-120 CAD

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Scenic countryside with easy access to nature
  • Warm, welcoming small-town vibe and active community events
  • Limited nightlife and fewer high-end dining options compared with larger cities
  • Smaller year-round employment options and slower pace of life

Places to Visit in Uxbridge

Visit one of these nice places.

Old Town Hall and Main Street, Uxbridge Village

Historic architecture, charming shop facades, and the clock tower create a classic Ontario small-town photography vibe, especially at dawn or dusk.

Holland River Overlook

Water reflections and seasonal lighting along the river provide tranquil landscape shots just minutes from the village.

Village Green and Elgin Park

Open green spaces, mature trees, and community gatherings offer opportunities for candid and portrait photography.

Trans Canada Trail Segments

Scenic trail sections near town offer wide-angle vistas of farmland, forests, and open skies.

Culinary Guide

Food in Uxbridge

Uxbridge emphasizes farm-to-table produce and regional specialties drawn from the Greenbelt’s farms. Seasonal dishes showcase fresh vegetables, local meats, maple products, and artisan baked goods, often featuring simple, hearty flavors that spotlight the seasons.

Uxbridge Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Butter Tarts

A classic Ontario pastry treat—little custard-filled tarts that pair well with a warm beverage from a local cafe.

Must-Try!

Maple-Glazed Pork with Seasonal Vegetables

A comforting, locally inspired dish that highlights maple sweetness and fresh farm produce.

Harvest Vegetable Pie

A hearty, flaky pie featuring seasonal vegetables and herbs from nearby farms.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Uxbridge Farmers' Market

Seasonal market offering fresh produce, baked goods, artisanal products, and ready-to-eat treats from local vendors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Uxbridge experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons: warm summers, cold winters, and mild springs and autumns. Precipitation is spread fairly evenly throughout the year, with snow typicallyblanketing the area in winter and thunderstorms possible in summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Polite Interactions

Greet with a friendly hello, stand in line patiently, and respect quiet residential areas. A brief chat about local happenings is common in shops and cafes.

Respect for Privacy

Ask before photographing people or private homes; in markets and farms, ask for permission when taking close-up shots of vendors.

Safety Guide

Safety

The town is generally safe with low crime rates. Standard travel precautions apply: stay aware of your surroundings in crowded areas, keep valuables secure, and drive carefully on rural roads. Wildlife encounters can occur near farms and greenspaces; keep a respectful distance and supervise children closely.

Tipping in Uxbridge

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In restaurants and cafes, a tip of 15-20% before tax is customary for good service. For takeout or quick-service, tipping is optional and often appreciated for exceptional service.

Payment Methods

Most places accept debit, credit cards, and contactless payments. Cash is still accepted at smaller venues and markets; always verify accepted methods at farmers' markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild days and blooming orchards; bring a light jacket for cool mornings and occasional rain showers.

Summer

Warm, sunny days with occasional thunderstorms; great for outdoor markets, trails, and patios.

Autumn

Colorful foliage and harvest events; layering is key and mornings can be crisp.

Winter

Cold with potential snowfall; dress in layers and enjoy winter walks, cozy cafes, and seasonal festivities.

Nightlife Guide

Uxbridge at Night

Uxbridge offers a subdued, community-focused nightlife scene centered on cozy pubs, cafes, and seasonal events. Expect live music at select venues during weekends or special occasions, and occasional outdoor concerts in warmer months. For more vibrant nightlife, many visitors take short trips to nearby towns in the Durham region or into Toronto for broader options.

Hiking in Uxbridge

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Uxbridge Trails Network

A collection of forest and meadow trails around town suitable for all levels, connected via the Oak Ridges Moraine countryside.

Trans Canada Trail – Local Segments

Portions of the long-distance trail passing through the region, offering expansive views and long, scenic walks.

Holland River Scenic Walks

Short, accessible routes along the river with opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography.

Airports

How to reach Uxbridge by plane.

Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ)

Major international hub about an hour away by car; broad connections worldwide and domestic flights.

Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ)

Downtown Toronto airport offering shorter, convenient access for regional flights and connections.

Buttonville Municipal Airport (YKZ)

General aviation airport near Markham with limited commercial service; useful for private flights and flight training.

Getting Around

Walkability

The village center is highly walkable, with most shops, cafes, and attractions within easy strolling distance. Parking can be available but busier on market days or event weekends. For broader exploration, short drives or bike rides to surrounding farms and trails are common.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Strong presence of families attracted by schools, parks, and community events.

Retirees

Quiet neighborhoods and scenic surroundings appeal to retirees seeking a peaceful lifestyle.

Young Professionals and Students

Commuters and students travel to and from the area for work, school, and weekend activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Hockey

A staple of Canadian culture with local leagues and community rinks available in the region.

Soccer

Youth and adult leagues are common in parks and community centers during warmer months.

Cycling

Rural roads and trails suit scenic rides through farmland and woodlands.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is typically light to moderate within town limits, with peak congestion during weekend market days or when traveling to nearby Durham towns. Parking is generally easy in the village, though some spots vary by event schedules. For longer trips to Toronto or Oshawa, highway routes may experience rush-hour delays.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Uxbridge.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Look for vegetable-forward dishes, soups, salads, and vegetarian mains. Ask for dairy-free options or substitutions where needed; many spots can adapt recipes with local produce.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Primary healthcare is available via local clinics; for more extensive care, residents typically travel to nearby towns such as Port Perry or Oshawa where hospitals and larger medical centers (e.g., Lakeridge Health) are located. Ensure you have a local GP and know nearby urgent care options for emergencies.

Discover Canada

Read more in our Canada 2025 Travel Guide.

Canada Travel Guide