Things To Do in Peterborough, Ontario

Come with me to discover the best things to do in Peterborough, Ontario. Often neglected by visitors to the Kawarthas, the town has plenty of attractions and is a destination in its own right.

The city is a tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty. With great parks, several museums and a huge food scene, there are plenty of attractions in Peterborough ON to keep you busy.

From cultural landmarks to outdoor escapades, this article unveils the best things to do in Peterborough, Ontario.

Whether you seek serene waterfronts or crave the bustling energy of local markets, Peterborough has plenty to offer.

Best Things To Do in Peterborough, Ontario

Located 140km (87 miles) from Toronto and 270km (168 miles) from Ottawa, Peterborough is considered the gateway to the Kawarthas.

The city with 85,000 inhabitants is surrounded by nature and steeped in history. The first electric car ever was built here in 1899 by Canadian General Electric.

It was also the first Canadian city to have electric streetlights. This has given Peterborough the nickname of Electric City.

With its history and importance in mind, let’s explore some of the top attractions in Peterborough, Ontario.

The Peterborough Lift Lock

The Peterborough Lift Lock stands as a remarkable engineering marvel and a must-visit attraction in the city of Peterborough. As the world’s highest hydraulic lift lock, it offers visitors a captivating experience.

Witness the intricate mechanics of this National Historic Site in action, providing a seamless transition for boats between the Trent-Severn Waterway.

There are several guided tours that’ll let you delve into the lock’s fascinating history and operational details. The panoramic views from the observation deck offer a unique perspective of this iconic structure.

The Canadian Canoe Museum

The Canadian Canoe Museum is another Peterborough attraction that will immerse visitors in the country’s rich watercraft heritage.

The museum is home to an extensive collection of kayaks, paddled watercraft and, of course, canoes, showcasing their historical and cultural significance.

The museum exhibits detail the evolution of such vessels, from traditional Indigenous designs to modern adaptations.

The museum is located near Downtown Peterborough, with other attractions such as Little Lake, Knights of Columbus Park, as well as a small but fun casino worth visiting nearby.

There are guided tours available, providing insightful information and details that make the visit an educational experience for all.

Explore The City Parks

Among the best places to visit in Peterborough, there are several city parks. Nature enthusiasts will feel at home with the diversity of parks, offering a mix of tranquility and recreational opportunities.

Jackson Park, situated in the city center, captivates visitors with its lush landscapes, walking trails, and a charming gazebo, creating a serene retreat.

Millenium Park, on the other hand, is renowned for its extensive play areas, splash pads, and sports facilities. It caters to families seeking dynamic outdoor experiences for children and adults alike.

Meanwhile, Beavermead Park, situated along Little Lake, provides a picturesque waterfront setting with small sandy beaches and picnic spots.

Each park uniquely contributes to Peterborough’s allure, offering a balance between relaxation and active pursuits.

Whether exploring the historical charm of Jackson Park, enjoying family-friendly amenities at Millenium Park, or savoring waterfront views at Beavermead, these green spaces epitomize the city’s commitment to providing diverse and enjoyable outdoor experiences for residents and visitors alike.

Go Ice Fishing in Winter

In the winter months, Peterborough attracts many ice anglers, since the city is close to some of the most popular ice fishing lakes in Ontario.

Both Rice Lake and Chemong Lake are located around 35km (20 miles) from the city. The lakes have good infrastructure to welcome ice anglers and abound in fish.

Many enthusiasts will book a hotel in the city and head to the lakes, blending daytime adventure with a spot of gastronomy and fun in the evening.

Among the most common catches at Chemong and Rice Lakes there are bluegill, walleye, pike and perch.

Visit The Art Gallery of Peterborough

The Art Gallery of Peterborough, enriches cultural experiences with its diverse collection of contemporary and historical Canadian art.

Located in the heart of the city, the gallery showcases works spanning various mediums, offering a comprehensive exploration of Canadian artistic expression. Visitors can immerse themselves in exhibits by both established and emerging local artists.

The Art Gallery of Peterborough offers free admission and is open from 11am to 5pm, Wednesday to Sunday.

Riverview Park & Zoo

Riverview Park & Zoo has been considered one of the best small zoos in Ontario, making a visit here one of the best things to do in Peterborough, Ontario.

Established in 1933, the zoo is owned by the municipality and run by Peterborough Utilities Group. Entry is free of charge.

The zoo has several animal species including capybaras, reindeer, emu, meerkats, river otters and barbary sheep. It also has a large number of reptiles, including Burmese python, ball python, boa constrictor, and African dwarf crocodile, to name a few.

Riverview Park & Zoo also offers a fun miniature train ride that runs through one of the hydroelectric stations.

Another intriguing attraction at the park is the F-86 Sabre fighter plane on display and a disc golf course.

Explore The Petroglyphs Provincial Park

Despite being located near the town of Woodview, the Petroglyphs Provincial Park is one of the best places worth visiting when in Peterborough, Ontario.

At the Petroglyphs Provincial Park, you’ll find ancient Indigenous rock carvings, making it a significant cultural and historical site.

Etched into limestone, these petroglyphs depict symbols, animals, and human figures, offering a glimpse into the artistic expressions of the region’s Indigenous people.

Until 1954, the site location was hidden from non-Indigenous people. It was accidentally discovered by a mineral-exploration company and the site was immediately declared a National Historic Site of Canada.

The park provides guided tours, providing visitors with important information. Trails lead visitors to viewing platforms overlooking the sacred rock carvings, surrounded by the natural beauty of the park.

Petroglyphs Provincial Park stands as a protected site, preserving the cultural heritage of Indigenous communities and offering a contemplative experience for those exploring Ontario’s historical landscapes.

The park is open from the second Friday of May up until Thanksgiving, from 11am to 5pm from Wednesday to Sunday.