CITY OF PETERBOROUGH
Peterborough offers easy access to the great outdoors, as well as one-of-a-kind attractions such as The Canadian Canoe Museum and the world’s highest hydraulic lift lock.
In Peterborough it’s easy to follow your curiosity and find an experience that speaks to you. Listen to music under the stars, view the largest collection of canoes, kayaks and paddled watercraft in the world, sample delicious cuisines that combine international inspiration with local ingredients—and more.
This kiosks offers recommendations close to this community, many within walking distance. Use the links below to find attractions and amenities near you. Browse the Explore Further section or ask tourism centre staff for recommendations from the wider region.
TOP THINGS TO DO
THE CANADIAN CANOE MUSEUM
Experience the world’s largest collection of canoes, kayaks and paddled watercraft and learn how the canoe has defined the Canadian character and spirit. Spanning the country’s history from coast to coast, the museum’s outstanding artifacts will let you “See Canada by Canoe!”
This engaging, accessible, family-friendly museum offers more than 100 canoes and kayaks on display. Visitors will enjoy interactive, hands-on galleries, a scavenger hunt, model canoe building and puppet theatre for children.
The museum store offers a wide range of canoe-themed clothing, books, artwork, media and gifts. You can sign up for classes, hands-on workshops, camps, guided tours and membership. Facility rentals for weddings, conferences, meetings and dinners are also available.
Address: 910 Monaghan Rd
PETERBOROUGH MUSICFEST
Canada’s longest-running free summer concert series–and it’s right by the water!
From chart-topping headliners to local gems, Peterborough Musicfest fills your summer with live music, community vibes, and lakeside charm at beautiful Del Crary Park. Every Wednesday and Saturday evening, thousands gather for unforgettable shows under the open sky–and it’s all completely free. Whether you’re dancing with friends, lounging on a picnic blanket, or introducing your kids to their first concert, Musicfest is where summer memories are made. With food vendors, waterfront views, and easy access for all, it’s the perfect family-friendly night out. Lawn chairs, food trucks, dancing, and sunsets—it’s the soundtrack of summer in Peterborough.
Musicfest runs from June 28-August 16th, with a special show on Canada Day. Visit www.ptbomusicfest.ca for artist lineups, FAQ’s, visitor info, and more.
Address: Del Crary Park (100 George St N)
PETERBOROUGH LIFT LOCK
Pay a visit to the Trent-Severn Waterway and drive into history. Your destination: the engineering marvel of the Peterborough Lift Lock, the highest lift lock in the world when it opened to great fanfare in 1904. Powered by gravity, the Peterborough Lift Lock towers almost 20 m (65 ft) above the Trent Canal, enabling lifts in two counter-balanced, bathtub-like chambers over an elevation that once would have required several locks to conquer. Stop into the Visitor Centre and learn about Trent Canal Superintending Engineer R.B. Rogers, the Canadian expert who studied smaller locks in Europe before leading a team that built the giant lift lock over eight years starting in 1896. The lift lock continues to function as part of the Trent–Severn Waterway National Historic Site of Canada under the management of Parks Canada.
Address: 353 Hunter Street E
RIVERVIEW PARK & ZOO
Located just north of downtown Peterborough, Riverview Park and Zoo is a fabulous place to enjoy a leisurely stroll in a peaceful and tranquil setting while experiencing the natural beauty of Peterborough.
For decades, the park and zoo have attracted over a quarter of a million visitors a year. And no wonder—the zoo features 27 exhibits, with over 48 species, including yaks, camels, wallabies, emus, squirrel monkeys, meerkats and more! The park covers 55.5 acres and is the largest and most diversified playground in the city. It also features equipment for children with physical disabilities. With a splash pad, frisbee golf course, walking trails, a miniature train ride, and beautiful gardens, it has something for everyone.
Address: 1300 Water St
PETERBOROUGH MUSEUM & ARCHIVES
On the scenic peak of Armour Hill sits the Peterborough Museum & Archives, a free resource where visitors can learn about the history of the Peterborough area and beyond. Carefully preserved artifacts and photographs tell the story of early European settlement in the area, while rotating exhibits cover a range of subjects, such as the Ojibwe language and the history of communications in this region.
Regular kid-friendly activities make this an attractive spot for younger visitors as well as adults. Better yet, when you’re ready to leave the Peterborough Lift Lock is just steps away.
Address:Museum Drive at 300 Hunter Street E
That’s only scratching the surface, of course—scan the QR code below to explore the full range of Peterborough attractions.
Where to Eat
Peterborough has a diverse and vibrant food scene. In East Cityacross the street from Matsu Sushi.
That’s only scratching the surface—scan the QR code below to explore the full range of restaurants, cafés, and breweries.
Ashburnham Ale House
The Ashburnham Ale House serves lovingly prepared comfort food in a welcoming atmosphere. It also boast one of Peterborough’s most popular patios in warmer weather.
Address: 128 Hunter St E
Gerti’s
Gerti’s offers an intimate dining experience in the heart of Peterborough’s Café District. The perfect spot for a date night or special occasion.
Address: 225 Hunter St W
La Hacienda
You’ll find authentic Mexican fare at La Hacienda. The family recipes served here have been pleasing Peterborough for over two decades now.
Access Point: 190 Hunter St W
Sam’s Place
Creative twists on classic deli sandwiches, served in a warm and funky atmosphere. Sam’s is a perennial favourite for lunch in downtown Peterborough.
Address: 188 Hunter St W
Publican House Brew Pub
The Publican House Brew Pub is a local institution, known for both its craft beer and its wood-fired pizza oven. Dine in or enjoy the ample patio.
Address: 294 Charlotte St
Riley’s Pub
A large selection of generously proportioned meals and an ample beer list make this a staple of downtown Peterborough—the rooftop patio is also a major draw.
Access Point: 251 George St N
Explore the outdoors
Jackson Park
Peterborough nature lovers are spoiled with a mature and closely wooded trail system right in the middle of town. Jackson Park offers a wide and flat railbed section for walkers and cyclists of all abilities, but anyone looking to hike in the woods can easily step off the main trail and find themselves following the tranquil course of Jackson Creek.
Address: 610 Parkhill Rd
Trent University Wildlife Sanctuary Nature Area
This nature area features 3 loop trails; the Red Trail (1.9 km), the Yellow Trail (2.4 km), and the Blue Trail (2.9 km). Slip on your hiking boots or grab a pair of cross-country skiis for this triple trail treat.
Address: 801 University Rd
Beavermead Park
The beach, playground, and nearby sports fields make this the perfect East City picnic destination. The beach also features an access mat for improved accessibility.
Access Point: 2011 Ashburnham Dr.
Del Crary Park
Home to the Musicfest concert series every summer, Del Crary Park offers a scenic view across Little Lake. It’s also steps from the free Art Gallery of Peterborough, if you’ve got some extra time to explore.
Address: 100 George St N
Trent-Severn Waterway
The Trent-Severn Waterway is a major part of Peterborough’s history, and exploring it is a unique boating experience. The iconic Peterborough Lift Lock is one of the most recognizable sites along its length, though there are many more places to get on the water, or simply stroll along its banks.
Address: (multiple access points)
Trans Canada Trail
Set out from Jackson Park and ride all the way to Omemee and beyond on the northwest section of the Trans Canada Trail, or head southeast and ride to Hastings. A mostly flat and occasionally shaded trail make both directions very popular with cyclists.
Access Point: (multiple access points)
These are just a few easily accessible walking and cycling options close to town, but the full breadth of outdoor options in Peterborough is much larger. For more ideas on where to paddle, cycle, hike, ski, or go birding, scan the QR code below.
LOCAL ATTRACTIONS
Art Gallery of Peterborough
The Art Gallery of Peterborough features art exhibitions, talks, a gallery shop, art workshops for all ages, Family Sundays, and more.
The Gallery is located in downtown Peterborough in Del Crary Park next to Little Lake. Admission is free and the venue is partially accessible.
Address: 250 Crescent St
Peterborough Regional Farmers Market
Enjoy local food by local farmers and festive market atmosphere with Peterborough’s finest prepared food vendors, artists & musicians. Open year-round at Peterborough Square.
Address: 340 George St. N/Charlotte St
Artspace
This artist-run exhibition space features a rotating selection of contemporary Canadian art. No matter what’s on display during your visit, expect a diverse and thought-provoking trip.
Address: 3-378 Aylmer Street N
Musicfest
Canada’s longest-running free outdoor concert series takes place on the scenic shore of Little Lake. Every Wednesday and Saturday from late June to August, bring a lawn chair and enjoy premier acts alongside local favourites.
Address: Del Crary Park (100 George St N)
Escape Maze
Escape Maze provides perfectly themed backdrops to complete fiendishly clever puzzles within a set time limit. Each of the escape room games is designed in-house, and there’s even more fun to be had here with tactical laser tag, glamping, and more.
Address: 156 Cedar Bank Rd
Showplace Performance Centre
This performance space hosts a broad range of acts, from dance troupes to tribute artists to touring comedians. If you’re looking for an evening’s entertainment, it’s a good bet you’ll find something intriguing at Showplace.
Address: 290 George St N
These are dozens of unique experiences in Peterborough that aren’t listed here—scan the QR code below to browse even more options.
Visitor Services
Peterborough & the Kawarthas Visitor Centre
Monday to Friday 9am–5pm EST, get friendly and informed tourism recommendations for Peterborough and the surrounding area.
Address: 270 George St N., Suite 101
Peterborough Marina
The Peterborough Marina is located in the heart of downtown Peterborough on Little Lake. Amenities include 100 slips for daily, weekly or seasonal mooring.
Address: 92 George Street N
Rogers Cove/Beavermead Park
The Rogers Cove splashpad offers kids a variety of fun water features to cool off in the summer. Nearby Beavermead Park is home to a beach, a playground, hiking trails and an on-site campground (with camping fees ranging from $42 to $51 per night).
Access Point 1: 131 Maria St. (Rogers Cove)
Access Point 2: 2011 Ashburnham Dr. (Beavermead Park)
Browse the Visitor Centre website:
EXPLORE FURTHER
Communities throughout Kawarthas Northumberland welcome visitors to experience their top attractions, local businesses, and natural beauty. Visit the Itineraries page to help plan your visit.
View Regional Itineraries
BOBCAYGEON
CAMPBELLFORD
HASTINGS
Lindsay
Scan the QR code below to visit the local tourism site from you own device.
