Things To Do
in Vaughan

Vaughan, Canada, is a vibrant suburban city located just north of Toronto, known for its entertainment and shopping options. The city features the renowned Vaughan Mills shopping center and the thrilling Canada's Wonderland amusement park, making it a popular destination for families. Vaughan is also home to diverse communities and rich cultural experiences, contributing to its dynamic atmosphere.

With beautiful parks and a growing culinary scene, Vaughan offers a blend of urban convenience and suburban charm.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Vaughan's Attractions
morning
:

Start your day at Canada's Wonderland, where you can enjoy thrilling rides and attractions.

afternoon
:

Visit Vaughan Mills for shopping and lunch at one of the many restaurants inside.

evening
:

Enjoy a relaxing dinner at a nearby restaurant followed by a visit to the Vaughan Metropolitan Centre for a stroll.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural and Natural Wonders
morning
:

Visit the McMichael Canadian Art Collection, which showcases Canadian art in a beautiful natural setting.

afternoon
:

Explore the Kortright Centre for Conservation to learn about sustainability and enjoy outdoor activities.

evening
:

Dine at a local eatery and check out a live music venue or bar in the area.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a Restaurant$20
Coffee$4
🏨Hotel Night$150
🚗Gasoline (per liter)$1.50
🚌Public Transport Ticket$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Diverse attractions for families and individuals
  • Rich cultural experiences and dining options
  • Beautiful parks and outdoor activities
  • Traffic congestion during peak hours
  • Limited public transportation compared to larger cities
  • Cold winters may deter some visitors

Places to Visit in Vaughan

Visit one of these nice places.

Vaughan Mills

Capture the lively atmosphere and unique architecture of this massive shopping center.

McMichael Canadian Art Collection

The outdoor sculptures and natural surroundings make for stunning landscape photography.

Kortright Centre for Conservation

The beautiful forested area offers picturesque views, especially during fall foliage.

Culinary Guide

Food in Vaughan

Vaughan boasts a diverse culinary scene influenced by its multicultural population, offering a variety of delicious dishes and dining experiences.

Vaughan Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Peameal Bacon Sandwich

A Canadian classic, this sandwich features peameal bacon served on a bun, often with mustard and pickles.

Must-Try!

Butter Tart

A sweet pastry filled with a rich mixture of butter, sugar, and eggs, often with raisins or nuts.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Vaughan Farmers' Market

A seasonal market featuring local produce, artisanal goods, and street food vendors offering a taste of the region.

Climate Guide

Weather

Vaughan experiences a humid continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Winters are cold with temperatures often dropping below freezing, while summers are warm to hot, averaging around 25-30°C (77-86°F). Spring and fall are mild, providing a comfortable climate for outdoor activities. Precipitation is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with snow in winter and occasional thunderstorms in summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A simple handshake is the norm when meeting someone new, along with a polite 'hello.'

Punctuality

Canadians value punctuality, so arriving on time for appointments or social gatherings is expected.

Respect for Personal Space

Canadians generally appreciate personal space, so maintain a comfortable distance during conversations.

Safety Guide

Safety

Vaughan is generally considered a safe city, with low crime rates. However, typical precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping personal belongings secure. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 911, and it is advisable to familiarize yourself with local emergency contacts.

Tipping in Vaughan

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip 15-20% at restaurants, and tipping is also appreciated for taxi drivers and hairdressers.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; however, having some cash on hand for small purchases is advisable.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, perfect for outdoor activities and exploring parks.

Summer

Warm weather makes it ideal for visiting amusement parks; however, be prepared for occasional thunderstorms.

Fall

Cooler temperatures and vibrant autumn colors provide a beautiful backdrop for outdoor activities and photography.

Winter

Cold and snowy conditions are common, making it a great time for indoor activities and winter sports.

Nightlife Guide

Vaughan at Night

Vaughan's nightlife is vibrant, featuring a range of options from trendy bars to nightclubs. The Vaughan Metropolitan Centre and surrounding areas offer several lounges and restaurants that transition into nightlife venues. Live music events and social gatherings are common, especially on weekends, providing a lively atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.

Hiking in Vaughan

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Boyd Conservation Area

Offers several trails through lush forests and wetlands, ideal for hiking and nature walks.

Eagles Nest Park

Features scenic trails and lookout points with beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

Airports

How to reach Vaughan by plane.

Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ)

Located approximately 20 minutes south of Vaughan, this major international airport offers flights to and from destinations worldwide.

Getting Around

Walkability

Vaughan is a suburban area with varying degrees of walkability. While some neighborhoods, particularly around Vaughan Mills and the Vaughan Metropolitan Centre, are pedestrian-friendly with accessible amenities, others may require a vehicle to reach attractions and services. Sidewalks and bike paths are available in many areas, but walking distances can be significant.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Italian Community

Vaughan has a significant Italian population, contributing to the city's vibrant cultural scene, especially in its dining options.

South Asian Community

The South Asian community is also prominent in Vaughan, enriching the city's cultural diversity and culinary landscape.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Ice Hockey

A beloved sport in Canada, Vaughan has several youth and adult leagues and many local fans supporting their teams.

Soccer

Soccer is rapidly growing in popularity, with numerous clubs and leagues catering to all age groups.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Vaughan can be congested, especially during rush hours as many commuters travel to and from Toronto. Major roadways can experience delays, so it’s advisable to plan trips accordingly. Public transportation options include buses and connections to the Toronto subway system, though service may be limited during off-peak times.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Vaughan.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Vaughan offer vegetarian and vegan options, making dining accessible for those with dietary restrictions.

Gluten-Free Choices

Several eateries provide gluten-free menus, allowing those with gluten sensitivities to enjoy a meal.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Vaughan is accessible, with several hospitals and clinics located in the city. The healthcare system is publicly funded, providing residents and visitors with necessary medical services. It is advisable to have health insurance if traveling from abroad, as out-of-pocket expenses can be high without it.

Discover Canada

Read more in our Canada 2025 Travel Guide.

Canada Travel Guide