oshawa tourist information centre

Fun Things to Do in Oshawa: There’s More to This City than Meets the Eye

There are more things to do in Oshawa than meets the eye. From the history of cars to incredible outdoor adventures, these Oshawa attractions will keep you busy.

When it comes to the top cities in Ontario , Oshawa often gets a bad rap. Sitting on the edge of the Greater Toronto Area, Oshawa has been Canada’s automotive heart for generations. But the list of incredible things to do in Oshawa has been growing year upon year. And the heart of this blue-collar town beats strongly with a list of wonderful parks, trails, cultural experiences, and killer foodie stops.

Many locals and visitors to Ontario overlook Oshawa as a tourist hotspot in favor of nearby spots such as Toronto and Peterborough . But, we are here to shine the light on some of the top Oshawa attractions and show off why we think this city is worth exploring.

So hang tight as Ultimate Ontario takes on the best things to do in Oshawa, Ontario this year.

Eat Your Way Through The Oshawa Food Scene

New restaurants and food destinations in Ottawa are popping up in Oshawa each and every year. And more and more, top chefs from across the country and around the world are setting up shop in the city to explore unique pop-up food trucks through to high-end cuisine.

Dining in Oshawa is one of the highlights of visiting the city. And there are a few places that no food-lover should miss when they’re visiting. One Oshawa restaurant that stands out is Ciao Amici on Bond St. W. Serving up classic homestyle Italian cuisine, Ciao Amici has set itself up as the go-to destination for fine dining.

Teddy’s Restaurant and Deli is practically an Oshawa institution. Founded in 1980, Teddy’s has been serving up homemade comfort food to throngs of visitors since the doors were first opened. Whether you’re looking for brunch, lunch, or a family dinner, this community hotspot offers a welcoming and friendly dining experience for everyone.

Cocoa and Joe on Simcoe St. N. is a lively hotspot where live music is pumping on the regular, especially during the Sunday open mic nights. Specializing in gluten-free and vegan dishes such as soups, sandwiches, and bagels, you’ll also find crazy-good organic smoothies to enjoy at any time of the day.

Enjoy The Wildlife At Darlington Provincial Park

Darlington Provincial Park sits on the picturesque Oshawa shoreline along the blue waters of Lake Ontario. Darlington Provincial Park might be one of the smallest provincial parks in Ontario, but it makes for a fabulous destination to experience local wildlife such as white-tailed deer as well as the monarch butterfly migrations. In the park, you’ll find picnic spots, hiking trails , and one of the best beaches near Toronto.

Spend a weekend camping at one of the park’s three separate campgrounds. You’ll find everything from group camping, serviced sites, and radio-free campgrounds for a relaxing Oshawa getaway.

Throughout the gardens, you’ll also find picnic trails and pavilions where you can enjoy some food or make a day of it. The park is also family-friendly and a popular spot for wedding photography.

Enjoy A Brew At All Or Nothing Brewhouse

At Ultimate Ontario we love Ontario craft breweries. And All or Nothing Brewhouse offers phenomenal beer and a passion story to stand behind it.

The brewery, launched by brothers Jeff and Eric Dornan fuelled the launch of the brewery with a mix of passion, hard work, and dedication. And along the way, they’ve created one of the top craft breweries in Oshawa.

In true Ontario style, this brewhouse is located in a recommissioned 1950s Beer Store, which adds a unique historic touch to the atmosphere.

Hike through McLaughlin Bay Wildlife Reserve

Stretching along the Lake Ontario waterfront, McLaughlin Bay Wildlife Reserve is one of the best spots for outdoor adventures in Oshawa. The park features seven kilometres of walking, hiking, and cycling trails spread across 11 unique routes. There is even a trail specifically designed for those with visual impairments.

Smell The Roses At Oshawa Valley Botanical Garden

Oshawa Valley Botanical Gardens is one of the best places to visit in Oshawa for a relaxing stroll. Enjoy their serene water features and network of winding trails that explore the beautiful gardens and natural surroundings. The Oshawa Botanical Gardens is still a work in progress, but will eventually include parks, trails, and 11 unique garden districts for visitors to enjoy.

Catch An Oshawa Generals Hockey Game

There’s no sport more popular in Oshawa than hockey. So to take in the action, head to the Tribute Communities Centre to take in an Oshawa Generals Hockey Game.

While you’re there you can make a visit to the Oshawa Sports Hall of Fame. This 3,600 square foot museum features sports memorabilia, photographs, and artifacts from individuals and teams from Oshawa who have made an impact and have held distinction in their fields. The museum is open on Wednesdays from 11 am-2 pm and during every Oshawa Generals hockey game.

Experience Automotive History At The Canadian Automotive Museum

Automotive history runs deep in Oshawa. This is home to one of Canada’s largest automotive plants, the Oshawa General Motors Assembly Plant. And there is no better place to explore this history than at the Canadian Automotive Museum .

This 2,300 square metre car museum is located in a former car dealership. The property is now filled with cars, trucks, and motorcycles dating back over 100-years. There’s a special focus at the museum on Canadian automotive history tracing manufacturing in the city back to 1963.

Some of the notable exhibits include a 1908 Dion-Bouton Roadster, a 1926 Bentley 3-Litre Speed Model, a 1937 Rolls-Royce Phantom III, a 1957 Dodge Regent, and, kids will love the life-sized Lightning McQueen.

Cycle The Waterfront Trail

Passing through Oshawa is the incredible Waterfront Trail. This 1600-km trail extends from southern Ontario and passes through cities such as Amherstburg , Niagara-on-the-Lake, Hamilton , Gananoque , and Cornwall. This epic cycling and walking trail lets you take in scenic views along the way. You’ll also find lookout points, washrooms, and parking spots that allow you to enjoy this trail in stages.

Take A Journey Through Movie History At Parkwood Estate National Historic Site

The estate of General Motors of Canada founder R. Samuel McLaughlin is one of Canada’s last remaining grand properties. You can enjoy guided tours that take you on a journey through the history of the McLaughlin family and the luxurious home in which they resided.

This stunning property, named Parkwood Estates , has been the filming location for television and movies such as Murdoc Mysteries, Anne of Green Gables , X-Men, Amelia, and many more.

Take In The Artwork Of The Robert McLaughlin Gallery

The Robert McLaughlin art gallery is located in the Oshawa civic centre. This wonderful gallery hosts a collection of more than 4,500 works spread across five rotating galleries that feature contemporary and historical exhibitions. The gallery also hosts many fun and educational programs and family events throughout the year. You can check out their current schedule here.

Make a Visit To The Oshawa Zoo and Fun Farm

The Oshawa Zoo and Fun Farm has been a popular family-friendly getaway in Oshawa since it first opened its doors. This zoo features more than 45 different species of animal including goats, donkeys, pigs, and sheep.

There is also a wonderful collection of foreign animals such as wallabies, llamas, monkeys, lemurs, and camels to thrill visitors of all ages. The Oshawa Zoo plays an important part in the rescue and rehabilitation of injured and abandoned animals as well.

Now It’s Time For Your to Experience Oshawa For Yourself

Whether you’re exploring all of Durhan or just spending a fun weekend in Oshawa, you’ll find an amazing collection of things to do in Oshawa.

Many of these businesses and restaurants are anxious for visitors after a tough year. So let’s support local and make the most of your Ontario travel experience.

Do you have a favourite city, attraction, or restaurant in Ontario? Head over to the  Ultimate Ontario Facebook Community  and join the conversation! You’ll find an amazing group of people passionate about Ontario and who love to share their local secrets.

Kevin Wagar is a founder and editor of Ultimate Ontario. He has been working in the travel media industry since 2015 when he founded his family travel website Wandering Wagars – Adventure Family Travel . Over the years Kevin has developed a deep love for his home province of Ontario and aims to showcase the incredible experiences and amazing small businesses found within it.

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7 Best Things to Do in Oshawa, Ontario

By: Author Jessica Lam

Posted on Published: October 5, 2021  - Last updated: December 28, 2023

Categories Durham Region

Looking for fun things to do in Oshawa ?

Oshawa sits on the shores of Lake Ontario, so there are plenty of lovely spots to talk walks and enjoy the nature views.

There’s also great shopping and food in Oshawa, and plenty of other fun things to do.

Here are some of the best and most fun things to do in Oshawa, Ontario!

Be sure to also follow me on Instagram and TikTok – I share a lot more content on those platforms that don’t make it to the blog!

If you’re looking for even more fun things to do in the GTA , you might enjoy these posts:

• Exploring Durham Region? Check out the best things to do in Bowmanville , best Bowmanville restaurants , or best hikes in Durham Region .
• Searching for things to do in York Region? Check out the best things to do in Richmond Hill or Markham , or visit these Instagram-worthy spots in York Region .
• Love visiting local farms? Check out these lavender fields in Ontario or these pumpkin farms in Ontario .
• Searching for road trip ideas around Ontario? Go on one of these day trips from Toronto or weekend trips from Toronto .

Fun things to do in Oshawa

• Have a picnic at Lakeview Park

Lakeview Park is a lovely spot along the Oshawa waterfront, and it’s the perfect place for a picnic.

We grabbed takeout from Firehouse Subs , a sub chain founded by firefighters, and enjoyed our lunch inside the gazebo.

Afterwards, you can take a short walk over to the Lakewoods Park Lookout and enjoy the views.

There’s also a really nice bike trail along here if you’re in the mood for a little cycling!

LOCATION: 55 Lakeview Park Ave, Oshawa, ON

• Hike at the McLaughlin Bay Wildlife Reserve

Not far from Lakeview Park is the McLaughlin Bay Wildlife Reserve, which is easily one of my favourite hikes in Durham Region.

It’s a beautiful nature reserve with hundreds of different plants and all kinds of wildlife.

There’s a mix of forest, marshes, and even sandy beaches, and it’s super beautiful.

Definitely remember to bring along some bug spray, because the bugs will be bitin’.

LOCATION: 1908 Colonel Sam Dr, Oshawa, ON

• Grab dessert at Hollywood Cone

Hollywood Cone is literally dessert heaven, especially if you’re a milkshake lover.

It’s actually located in Whitby, which is right by Oshawa.

As you’d expect by the name, the shop is pretty glamorous both inside and out, and they’ve even got theatre chairs as seating.

We tried the Chief Wiggum (coffee-flavoured with two sprinkle donuts) and Nutella Donut (Nutella-flavoured with two Nutella-filled doughnuts), both of which were amazing and v Instagram-worthy.

If you’re looking to do something epic while you’re here, try their Titanic Split – if you can eat the whole thing in 20 minutes, it’s totally free!

LOCATION: 75 Consumers Drive, Whitby, ON

• Shop at the Oshawa Centre

The Oshawa Centre is the largest mall in Durham Region, and there are over 230 stores to shop.

It’s super beautiful and modern inside the mall, and they’ve got pretty much all of the popular stores like Aritzia , Lululemon, and Sephora.

LOCATION: 419 King St. West, Oshawa, ON

• Shop at the Courtice Flea Market

The Courtice Flea Market is actually located just outside of Oshawa, and they open up shop year-round every weekend from 9-4:30 PM.

They’ve got over 200 vendors both indoors and outdoors selling old and new goods, including everything from vintage furniture to specialty foods.

The vintage furniture is definitely my favourite part of the whole flea market!

If you’re visiting from May to November, they have fresh fruits and veggies at their Outdoor Farmer’s Market every Sunday.

There are a few food vendors on-site if you’re hungry, and Courtice Canteen makes an amazing Chicken Club (not an actual club sandwich – it’s a fried chicken sandwich).

LOCATION: 1696 Bloor St, Courtice, ON

• Visit Linton’s Farm Market

Linton’s offers up all kinds of fruits and veggies at their farm, and they even have pick-your-own pumpkins during the fall!

The market is also open everyday, and you can shop all kinds of fresh homegrown produce, cheese, honey, and more.

LOCATION: 571 Raglan Rd E, Oshawa, ON

• Stop by the Parkwood National Historic Site

The Parkwood National Historic Site is a popular spot for weddings because it’s absolutely stunning.

It was built in the early 1900s and was the former home of Colonel Robert Samuel McLaughlin, the founder of General Motors of Canada.

The McLaughlin family lived in the mansion until the 70s, and it’s now a historical site in Oshawa, with its original furnishings and decor still intact.

You can do tours at the estate ($12-$15 per person) and even enjoy a meal at the teahouse (currently closed until 2022).

LOCATION: 270 Simcoe St. North, Oshawa, ON

Fun things to do in Oshawa:

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• 1 Understand
• 2.2 By train
• 2.4 By plane
• 3.1 By public transit
• 3.2 By taxi
• 3.3 By ride hailing

Oshawa is a city of 160,000 people (2016) in southern Ontario , 50 km east of Toronto .

Understand [ edit ]

The name Oshawa originates from the Ojibwa term aazhaway, meaning "the crossing place" or just "(a)cross".

While Oshawa is rapidly becoming merely the eastern edge of Toronto's sprawling surrounding urban area, it was long best known for manufacturing motorcars . Col. Sam McLaughlin established the McLaughlin Motor Car Company Limited in 1907 as the successor to his father's McLaughlin Carriage Company. He became director and vice president of General Motors Corporation in 1916; the Oshawa factory became General Motors Canada in 1918. The last Oshawa-built Chevrolet Impala, Cadillac XTS, Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra vehicles will hit the road in 2019, ending a 112-year history which inspired Oshawa's former mottos "The City that Motovates Canada" and "The City in Motion".

Today, Oshawa is an education and health sciences hub. The city is home to three post-secondary institutions (Durham College, Trent University Durham and University of Ontario Institute of Technology) and to Lakeridge Health Oshawa, Lakeridge Health and Education Research Network (LHEARN Centre) and the Oshawa Clinic, the largest, multi-specialty medical group practice in Canada.

Get in [ edit ]

By car [ edit ].

Oshawa is on Highway 401, exits 415 through 418. All interchanges exit to Bloor Street in the city's south end. Highway 2 (King Street) is the main street of downtown Oshawa.

By train [ edit ]

• Between Montreal and Toronto including stops in Dorval , Cornwall , Brockville , Kingston , Belleville , Cobourg , and Oshawa. Operates multiple times daily.
• Between Ottawa and Toronto including stop in Smiths Falls , Brockville , Gananoque , Kingston , Napanee , Bellevile , Trenton , Cobourg , Port Hope , and Oshawa. Operates daily.

By bus [ edit ]

Intercity express bus service in the Montréal-Toronto corridor stops in Whitby , an Oshawa suburb, at the Whitby GO commuter rail station. Express bus service from Greater Toronto Area to Oshawa are provided by GO Transit .

By plane [ edit ]

Get around [ edit ].

By public transit [ edit ]

By taxi [ edit ].

• Blue Line Taxi , ☏ +1 905-440-2000 . ( updated Aug 2022 )
• City Wide Taxi , ☏ +1 905-579-9393 . ( updated Aug 2022 )
• GTA Cab , ☏ +1 905-951-3535 . ( updated Aug 2022 )

By ride hailing [ edit ]

• Lyft . ( updated Aug 2022 )
• Uber . ( updated Aug 2022 )

See [ edit ]

• 43.90464 -78.86781 3 Parkwood Estate Gardens ( Parkwood National Historic Site ), 270 Simcoe Street North ( Adelaide and Simcoe Streets ), ☏ +1 905-433-4311 , fax : +1 905-721-4765 , [email protected] . Tu-Sa 9AM-5PM . Grand private estate built in 1917 for Canadian automobile businessman Col. Sam McLaughlin includes a mansion with several gardens, Art Deco garden pavilions, secret rooms, ornate ceilings and even a bowling alley. A National Historic Site of Canada, it has been used as a set for many films, including It , Billy Madison , Chicago , and X-Men .  

Do [ edit ]

• 44.02273 -78.90458 2 Linton's Farm Market , 571 Raglan Rd E, L1H 7K4 , ☏ +1 905-655-6338 , [email protected] . From their website: Over 50 years ago the Lintons' started growing tomatoes for a canning company and gradually added more and more vegetables and fruit and a farm market stand where they now sell a wide variety of vegetables and fruit, homegrown frozen meat, cheese, honey, jams, preserves, fall decorations (etc.) ( updated Mar 2016 )

Buy [ edit ]

• Oshawa Centre , 419 King St W at Stevenson Road . M-Sa 9:30AM-9PM, Su 11AM-6PM . The largest mall in Durham region. Theres a Durham Region Transit's bus terminal outside of the mall's south-east entrance, with regular bus services to Oshawa GO Station, Whitby GO Station, and the campuses of Durham College. ( updated Jun 2018 )

Eat [ edit ]

• Teddy's Restaurant & Deli , 245 King St W, L1J 0A1 ( King Street West and Park Road ), ☏ +1 905-579-5529 . 10:30AM-9:30PM . $10-25/person .  
• Avanti Trattoria , 17 King St E ( downtown ), ☏ +1 905-404-8040 . M-F 11:30AM-10PM, Sa 4PM-10PM, Su 4PM-10PM . Italian. ( updated Jun 2018 )
• Berry Hill Food Company , 82 King St W ( downtown ), ☏ +1 905-240-9066 . Tu-F 8AM–10PM, Sa 9AM–10PM, Su 9AM–3PM . Contemporary fine dining. ( updated Jun 2018 )
• The White Apron Restaurant , 10 Bond St , ☏ +1 905-436-7766 . 7AM-3PM . Breakfast and lunch. ( updated Jun 2018 )
• The Shawarma Spot , 1180 Simcoe St N , ☏ +1 905-914-7768 . 11:30AM-9PM . Mediterranean ( updated Feb 2024 )

Drink [ edit ]

• Riley's Olde Towne Pub , 104 King St. E , ☏ +1 905-404-2464 . 11AM-2AM . Pub, fireplace lounge and pool hall; live music on weekends.  
• The General Pub and Grill , 21 Celina Street ( downtown ), ☏ +1 905-240-1979 , [email protected] . Su 3AM-midnight, M-Tu 11AM - 1AM, W-F 11AM-2AM, Sa 3PM-2AM . Pub food and drink. ( updated Jun 2018 )

Sleep [ edit ]

• La Quinta Inn & Suites , 63 King St E , ☏ +1 905-888-3800 . Free Wifi, free parking, breakfast included, non-smoking hotel, suites, fitness centre. From $89 . ( updated Jun 2018 )
• Paddington Place Bed & Breakfast , 413 Paddington Cres , ☏ +1 905-404-5448 . On a mature stretch of protected greenbelt space with lovely wooded trails and meandering creek. Air-conditioned and smoke-free. From $109 . ( updated Jun 2018 )
• Travelodge , 940 Champlain Ave ( just off Highway 401 ), toll-free: +1-800-525-4055 . Free WiFi, free breakfast buffet, onsite parking, pet friendly, pool - indoor, fitness centre. ( updated Jun 2018 )

Connect [ edit ]

Learn [ edit ].

Oshawa is home to two post-secondary institutions, the University of Ontario Institute of Technology and Durham College. They share a campus on the northern side of Oshawa.

Go next [ edit ]

• Has custom banner
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• Durham (region, Ontario)
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Things to Do

Must-see attractions.

Parkwood National Historic Site  is one of Canada's last remaining grand estates, featuring architectural, landscape and interior designs of the 1920s and 1930s. The former home of  R.S. McLaughlin  and his family, it is now a National Historic Site.

Parkwood National Historic Site  is one of Canada's last remaining grand estates, featuring architectural, landscape and interior designs of the 1920s and 1930s. The former home of  R.S. McLaughlin  and his family, it is now a National Historic Site.

The  Robert McLaughlin Gallery  (RMG) is the most extensive public gallery in Durham Region with a permanent collection of over 4000 works of art, four galleries of  exhibitions ;  programs ; and two art and education studios. 

The  Robert McLaughlin Gallery  (RMG) is the most extensive public gallery in Durham Region with a permanent collection of over 4000 works of art, four galleries of  exhibitions ;  programs ; and two art and education studios. 

The  Canadian Automotive Museum  is Canada's only museum dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of Canada's automotive industry. Housed in a 1920s car dealership, visitors explore the development of the automobile with vehicles and artifacts.

The  Canadian Automotive Museum  is Canada's only museum dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of Canada's automotive industry. Housed in a 1920s car dealership, visitors explore the development of the automobile with vehicles and artifacts.

Located on the historical south field of the Oshawa Executive Airport,  Oshawa Regiment Museum  is home to Canada's most extensive collection of operational, historic military vehicles. In addition, find an extensive static display section with artifacts dating up to 200 years ago.

Located on the historical south field of the Oshawa Executive Airport,  Oshawa Regiment Museum  is home to Canada's most extensive collection of operational, historic military vehicles. In addition, find an extensive static display section with artifacts dating up to 200 years ago.

The  Oshawa Museum  illustrates our rich heritage from the earliest Indigenous inhabitants to present day. Featuring a  collection  of 50,000+ objects and records stored and displayed throughout  three homes , Henry House (1840), Guy House (1845) and Robinson House (1856).

The  Oshawa Museum  illustrates our rich heritage from the earliest Indigenous inhabitants to present day. Featuring a  collection  of 50,000+ objects and records stored and displayed throughout  three homes , Henry House (1840), Guy House (1845) and Robinson House (1856).

Oshawa Sports Hall of Fame and Museum  exhibits Oshawa's rich sports history and achievements made by inductees. Check out the wide variety of sporting artifacts, memorabilia and photographs.

Oshawa Sports Hall of Fame and Museum  exhibits Oshawa's rich sports history and achievements made by inductees. Check out the wide variety of sporting artifacts, memorabilia and photographs.

Check out the Oshawa  Community Events Calendar  for various events happening in and around the city!

Entertainment opportunities

• Tribute Communities Centre , one of the world's top-rated venues of its size, hosts the  Oshawa Generals , concerts and conventions.
• Ontario Philharmonic  is one of Canada's most respected professional regional Orchestras. Listen to a performance at Ontario Tech's  Regent Theatre .
•   Regent Theatre  hosts many cultural events and entertainers in downtown Oshawa.
• Biltmore Theatre  hosts concerts, special events, wedding parties, corporate functions and more.
• Catch a performance from  Oshawa Little Theatre ,  Driftwood Theatre  and  Durham Shoestring Performers .
• Peony Festival
• Doors Open Oshawa
• Kars on King
• Purple Woods Conservation Area's Maple Syrup Festival
• Show and Shine 
• Tank Saturdays

From cute boutiques to high-end fashion, Oshawa has it all!

Find something unique from our local businesses  and share it on social media with #OshawaLovesLocal .

Explore the  Oshawa Centre , the largest and busiest shopping centre in Durham Region!

Find something unique from our local businesses  and share it on social media with #OshawaLovesLocal .

Explore the  Oshawa Centre , the largest and busiest shopping centre in Durham Region!

Get outside

• Explore  city gardens  such as the  Oshawa Valley Botanical Gardens , site of North America's largest Peony collection.
• Visit the  Oak Ridges Moraine , home to  Treetop Eco-Adventure Park , a zip-line and outdoor adventure park.
• Enjoy a day visiting animals at the  Oshawa Zoo .
• Hike through  Pumphouse Marsh ,  Second Marsh  and  McLaughlin Bay Wildlife Reserve .
• Plan the day at  Lakeview Park , offering several picnic areas, playgrounds, sports fields, a waterfront pier and a  beach .
• Cycle along 70+ km of bike lanes and 27 km of paved trails on our  trail network .

Looking for a bite to eat? Oshawa is home to a variety of culinary options. 

Discover your new favourite food

Looking for a bite to eat? Oshawa is home to a variety of culinary options. 

Why not extend your stay?

Find hotel and travel options in Oshawa

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Home » Travel Guides » Canada » 15 Best Things to Do in Oshawa (Ontario, Canada)

15 Best Things to Do in Oshawa (Ontario, Canada)

This Toronto suburb is more than just a suburb. It is a city that sits on the shore of Lake Ontario and is a prominent centre for sports events and entertainment.

Oshawa is also extremely rich in culture, as well as having plenty of parks and trails. This makes it not only a lovely place to live, but also a great place for a holiday.

Not many tourists go much further than Toronto , so Oshawa is often missed. But it has so much to offer, especially if you are looking for a laid-back place to enjoy. If you ever find yourself in city, these are the best things to do in Oshawa :

1. Look at cars

One of the city’s most visited attractions is the Canadian Automotive Museum. Come here if you want to look at cars, especially Canadian-made ones.

The 2,300 square metre museum is housed in what used to be a local car dealership. Today, it is filled with cars that date all the way back to 1902.

There are two levels in the museum, with the second level featuring Canadian-made cars. When walking through the museum, you can expect to see a 1908 De Dion-Bouton Rpadster, 1926 Bentley 3 litre Speed Model, 1937 Rolls-Royce Phantom III, 1957 Dodge Regent and a plethora of other fantastic automobiles.

2. Wander around an estate

The Parkwood Estate was once the residence of the founder of General Motors of Canada; Samuel McLaughlin. Today, the magnificent property is open to the public.

Wander around the estate and admire the landscape, architecture and interior design of the mansion. There are housewares, artwork, memorabilia and books all set up like they were when the family inhabited the estate.

Today, Parkwood Estate is a national historic site. It features 55 rooms and an incredible garden where weddings and photos shoots often take place.

3. Look at art

Look at contemporary and modern Canadian art at the Robert McLaughlin Gallery. The gallery was opened by and features works by the Painters Eleven; a group of abstract artists.

Walk around the gallery and admire the art displayed on the walls. There are over 4,500 works in the gallery’s collection.

Paintings, prints and sculptures created by artists in the Painters Eleven can be seen throughout, particularly those of Alexandra Luke who founded the gallery.

4. Learn about the Canadian Forces

Since 1980, the Ontario Regiment (RCAC) Museum has opened its doors to the public. The museum is a great place to explore if you want to learn more about the Canadian Forces.

The museum collects and preserves history and artefacts of the Canadian Forces, especially the Oshawa-based Ontario Regiment. It also features the largest collection of armoured vehicles in the country!

Visit the Ontario Regiment (RCAC) Museum to see vehicles like the leopard 1A5, M60, universal carrier, ferret scout car and many more. There are also weapons, uniforms and medals on display.

5. Go for a long walk or ride

The 994 mile long Waterfront Trail stretches from Niagara-on-the-Lake to Brockville, passing through Oshawa along the way. It is one of the best places in the city to go for a walk or a bike ride.

The trail goes through the entire city along the edge of Lake Ontario. Parts of it are off-road, while others are on-road.

There are a few car parks and washrooms along the trail, as well as two lookout points. This portion of the trail happens to be one of the most significant remnant coastal wetlands in the entire area.

6. Visit a park

The lovely Darlington Provincial Park is located just to the east of the city on Lake Ontario. It is a small park, but it is a nice place to spend a day.

Darlington Provincial Park is home to a plethora of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, coyotes, grey wolves and monarch butterflies. In fact, there are so many butterflies that it is part of a conservation program.

If you want to spend more time here, there are three campgrounds onsite. There is also a beach, hiking trails and picnic facilities.

7. Smell flowers

Sitting along the Oshawa Creek from Adelaide Avenue to Gibb Street is the Oshawa Valley Botanical Garden. This network of parks it is fantastic place to stop and smell the flowers.

The summer is the best time to explore the gardens, although it is open year-round. The gardens feature beautiful trails, pavilions and picnic areas, as well as a playground for the kids to enjoy.

Parts of the Oshawa Valley Botanical Garden have outdoor fitness equipment and places to sit and relax. It should be noted that it is a popular place for wedding photographs, so you may want to avoid visiting on the weekends.

8. Celebrate Oshawa

Or learn about the city’s history by going to the Oshawa Museum. The historical museum is both a museum and an archival storage.

The museum displays items that date back to the 15th century, all of which celebrate the history of the city.  The permanent collections are within two buildings, both of which date back to the 19th century.

Robinson House is where you will find the archaeology exhibit, whileis a living museum. The third building at the Oshawa Museum (Guy House) is not open to the public.

9. Hike through a wildlife reserve

There are around seven kilometres of walking and cycling trails in the McLaughlin Bay Wildlife Reserve. Some of these are mown grass trails while others are gravel, wood or hard surface.

The McLaughlin Bay Wildlife Reserve has 11 trails to choose from, though often visitors walk along more than one. One of the trails was designed specifically for the visually impaired.

There are three entry points, two of which have car parks. There are also a couple of information boots, viewpoints and picnic areas within the reserve.

10. Look at animals

And even interact with them at the Oshawa Zoo and Fun Farm. The nine hectare zoo is home to over 45 animal species.

Sheep, pigs, mini donkeys, belted Galloway and goats are some of the domestic animals you will see at the Oshawa Zoo and Fun Farm. You will also see camels, lemurs, monkeys, llamas and wallabies.

The zoo often saves abandoned or injured animals. Some of the animals you will see were these animals, which have since been given food and love.

11. Explore the city centre

There is so much to see in Downtown Oshawa and a walking tour is the best way to explore it. Many top attractions are here, as are some lovely parks.

Downtown Oshawa sits on the west side of the Oshawa River. There are numerous cafés, restaurants and local shops in the area that are fun to relax or browse in.

There are two trails in the area that head south to Lake Ontario, or just stay in the area and explore it. This is also the most popular part of the city in terms of accommodations.

12. Go for a swim

There are a number of swimming pools throughout Oshawa, some of which are indoors and some that are outdoors. Head to any of these pools to go for a swim.

The Civic Recreation Complex Pool is the largest, having six-lanes for doing laps. There is also a diving board and a sauna.

The 25-metres indoor heated Donevan Pool is also a great option, as is the 30-metre heated outdoor Rotary Pool. Then there is the Legends Centre Pool, which features a lazy river, a beach and two waterslides.

13. Watch a game

Oshawa is a haven for sports lovers, as it is home to numerous local teams. There is a hockey, lacrosse, basketball, rugby and football team in the city.

The Oshawa Generals hockey team is probably the city’s most well-known team, as it has famous alumni like Bobby Orr, Wayne Cashman, Eric Lindros and Dave Andreychuk. The Oshawa Green Gaels lacrosse team is also pretty top notch.

If you are a sports lover, watching a game is a must. Some are quite popular and may sell out fast, so be sure to buy tickets ahead of time.

14. Please your taste buds

Oshawa has recently become a food city, with many restaurants and emerging chefs popping up at every corner. Downtown is the area that has the most options, though food can be enjoyed all over the city.

Everything from healthy eats to Southern BBQ joints can be found in the city, giving you plenty of opportunities to please your taste buds. Indian, Italian, Chinese, Japanese and Mexican cuisine are just a few of the options available.

Some restaurants have live music, while others offer a fine-dining experience. No matter what you are looking for, you are sure to find it here.

15. Shop till you drop

There are numerous opportunities to do this in the city, both in shopping malls and along streets. You will find local boutiques and known chain shops in Oshawa.

If you are looking for unique items, head to Downtown Oshawa and explore the local boutiques and artesian shops. If indoor shopping is more your thing, head to the Oshawa Centre.

Oshawa also outdoor malls with a few larger shops, like Walmart and Best Buy. These also often have outlet shops.

15 Best Things to Do in Oshawa (Ontario, Canada):

• Look at cars
• Wander around an estate
• Look at art
• Learn about the Canadian Forces
• Go for a long walk or ride
• Visit a park
• Smell flowers
• Celebrate Oshawa
• Hike through a wildlife reserve
• Look at animals
• Explore the city centre
• Go for a swim
• Watch a game
• Please your taste buds
• Shop till you drop

Top Things to Do in Oshawa - Oshawa Must-See Attractions

Things to do in oshawa, tours in and around oshawa.

Fun Scavenger Hunt in Oshawa by Zombie Scavengers

Niagara Falls Day Tour from Toronto w/ Boat, Lunch, Winery Stop

Niagara Falls One Day Sightseeing Tour from Toronto

Best of Toronto Small Group Tour with CN Tower and Harbour Cruise

Niagara Falls Day Tour From Toronto with Skip-the-Line Boat Ride

Niagara Falls Day Tour from Toronto

Kensington Market -Toronto's Neighborhood International Food Tour

Niagara Falls Day Tour From Toronto With Boat and Tower

Show me the City! Toronto Walking Tour

Niagara Falls Day and Evening Tour With Boat Cruise & Dinner (optional)

Top attractions in oshawa.

Other Top Attractions around Oshawa

What travelers are saying

• Canadian Automotive Museum
• Parkwood National Historic Site
• Lakeview Park
• The Ontario Regiment RCAC Museum
• Tribute Communities Centre
• Oshawa Valley Botanical Gardens
• McLaughlin Bay Wildlife Reserve

Looking for something to do? Click here

Register Your Oshawa Business

WHERE IS THIS?

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS & SUITES

VISIT THEIR WEBSITE

STAY IN OSHAWA

There's so much to do in Oshawa, you'll probably want to stay overnight, for the weekend or even longer! Below, we've listed some great hotel, motel and B&B options for a safe, enjoyable and comfortable stay in Oshawa.

BUSINESS LISTINGS

Below is an ever-growing list of places to stay in Oshawa. Check back often as we're always updating this list. This list is in alphabetical order. Note: these listings are all Expedia products.

Courtyard by Marriott/TownePlace Suites Hotels Oshawa

We are a Marriott dual property that is all brand new. Two hotels under one roof. TownePlace Suites boasts fully equipped kitchens for long term stay guests. The Courtyard boasts 115 guestrooms with 55 Inch TV's with extensive cable package. We have a lounge, restaurant, indoor heated saltwater pool, fitness center and a full conference center on site for meeting requirements.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Oshawa

Guests can appreciate our convenient downtown location within minutes of restaurants, shopping, movie theaters and corporate offices. There's plenty to do within walking distance. From the Tribute Communities Centre to the famous Parkwood Estate and The Robert McLaughlin Gallery, our hotel's convenient location in downtown Oshawa has it all. The Holiday Inn Express® hotel offers a number of amenities to make your stay more enjoyable.

Top Things to Do in Oshawa, Canada - Oshawa Must-See Attractions

Things to do in oshawa, tours in and around oshawa.

Fun Scavenger Hunt in Oshawa by Zombie Scavengers

Niagara Falls Day Tour from Toronto w/ Boat, Lunch, Winery Stop

Niagara Falls One Day Sightseeing Tour from Toronto

Best of Toronto Small Group Tour with CN Tower and Harbour Cruise

Niagara Falls Day Tour From Toronto with Skip-the-Line Boat Ride

Niagara Falls Day Tour from Toronto

Kensington Market -Toronto's Neighborhood International Food Tour

Niagara Falls Day Tour From Toronto With Boat and Tower

Show me the City! Toronto Walking Tour

Niagara Falls Day and Evening Tour With Boat Cruise & Dinner (optional)

Top attractions in oshawa.

Other Top Attractions around Oshawa

What travellers are saying

• Canadian Automotive Museum
• Parkwood National Historic Site
• Lakeview Park
• The Ontario Regiment RCAC Museum
• Tribute Communities Centre
• Oshawa Valley Botanical Gardens
• McLaughlin Bay Wildlife Reserve

Oshawa Visitor Information Centre

Customer ratings and reviews, photos of oshawa visitor information centre.

Oshawa Visitor Information Centre On the Web

Oshawa visitor information centre - about | facebook.

Oshawa Visitor Information Centre . 53 likes · 8 were here. Make this your first stop to find out what's happening in the Oshawa area! ... Call +1 905-725-4523 . HOURS ...

Oshawa Visitor Information Centre - Home | Facebook

See more of Oshawa Visitor Information Centre on Facebook. Log In. or. ... +1 905-725-4523 . www.oshawachamber.com. Tour Agency · Tourist Information Center. Price ...

Tourism - Location & Hours | Durham Prosperity

Oshawa Visitor Information Centre 2 Bloor Street East Oshawa, Ontario L1H 8S9 (Bloor & Simcoe) Tel: 905.725.4523 Open Victoria Day - Labour Day 7 days a week - 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Oshawa Visitor Information Centre - m.facebook.com

Oshawa Visitor Information Centre is on Facebook. To connect with Oshawa Visitor Information Centre , join Facebook today. Join. or. Log In. ... Call +1 905-725-4523 . 3.5.

PDF Oshawa, ON Durham Regional Police Service 77 Centre Street ...

Oshawa Visitor Information Centre 2 Bloor St E, Oshawa, ON L1H 8S9 ... Phone: (905) 725-4523 Lakeridge Health Ajax Pickering 580 Harwood Ave S, Ajax, ON L1S 2J4 ...

2018 Visitor's Guide by Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce ...

Issuu is a digital publishing platform that makes it simple to publish magazines, catalogs, newspapers, books, and more online. Easily share your publications and get them in front of Issuu's ...

Travel and transportation Oshawa, Ontario - cybo.com

Best Travel and transportation in Oshawa, Ontario. Breakaway Travel Inc, Strawberry Suite Bed & Breakfast, Blueline Taxi, Kemp Travel Group - Oshawa, Canadian Pacific Railway Co

Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce - CIOC

Phone 905 -668-5803 Auto Attendant 905 -430-4300 Email [email protected] Information Durham is a program of United Way of Durham Region. This database runs on the OpenCIOC Platform

Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce | 211Toronto.ca

905 -432-1259 . Email. [email protected] ... information on employee benefits programs * operate Oshawa Visitor Information Centre year round at 44 ...

Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce - Findhelp

905 -728-1683: Fax: 905 -432-1259: Address ... information on employee benefits programs * operate Oshawa Visitor Information Centre year round at 44 Richmond St W ...

Questions & Answers

What is the phone number for oshawa visitor information centre.

The phone number for Oshawa Visitor Information Centre is (905) 725-4523.

Where is Oshawa Visitor Information Centre located?

Oshawa Visitor Information Centre is located at 2 Bloor St E, Oshawa, ON L1H 8S9, Canada

What is the internet address for Oshawa Visitor Information Centre?

The website (URL) for Oshawa Visitor Information Centre is: https://www.oshawachamber.com/tourism-location-a-hours

What days are Oshawa Visitor Information Centre open?

Oshawa Visitor Information Centre is open: Monday:9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday:9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Wednesday:9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Thursday:9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Friday:9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday:9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday:9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

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Attractions and Places To See around Oshawa - Top 20

Attractions around oshawa.

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Whitby Harbour Lighthouse

Road Cycling Highlight

Pretty little lighthouse on the shores of Lake Ontario in Whitby. Nice spot to ride out to on a warm day to sit, have a snack and take the obligatory bicycle photo!

Spencer school

Bike Touring Highlight

Very interesting peace of Canadian history. This one classroom school was established in 1850 and served community for over the century. Even more interesting is the big silver maple right … read more

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Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.

Intrepid Park

Very interesting -- and little-known -- piece of Canadian and WWII history. Not much to see at the site other than the monument and plaques, but you can read about it on Wikipedia and elsewhere. read more

Joseph Kolodzie Oshawa Creek Bike Path

Hiking Highlight ( Segment )

The Joseph Kolodzie Oshawa Creek Bike Path runs from Lakeview Park at Lake Ontario north along the Oshawa Creek to Adelaide Avenue West in downtown Oshawa. The pedestrian and bicycle … read more

Pumphouse Marsh Wildlife Reserve

Hiking Highlight

Pumphouse Marsh Wildlife Reserve is one of the smallest coastal wetlands at the City of Oshawa in Durham Region with a wetland size of 7 ha. Inputs of water to … read more

Tip by Hubert Trapp

Popular around Oshawa

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Explore the most popular Tours around Oshawa

Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:

• Lake Ontario
• Nipissing, Unorganized, South Part
• Algonquin Provincial Park
• Algonquin Highlands
• Niagara Falls
• Niagara-On-The-Lake
• Mississauga
• Richmond Hill
• Bruce Peninsula National Park
• Péninsule de Northern Bruce
• Adjala-Tosorontio
• Halton Hills
• Rouge National Park
• Georgian Bluffs
• Saugeen Shores
• Lake Of Bays
• Mcnab/Braeside
• Greater Madawaska
• Macgregor Point Provincial Park
• Thunder Bay, Unorganized
• Le nord-est de Manitoulin et les îles
• The Blue Mountains
• Grey Highlands
• Cabot Head Provincial Park
• Guelph/Eramosa
• Killarney Provincial Park
• Madawaska Valley
• Whitchurch-Stouffville
• Mississippi Mills
• Uxbridge Woodlands
• Lake Saint Clair
• Arran-Elderslie
• Inglis Falls Conservation Area
• St. Catharines
• Frontenac Islands
• Sudbury, Unorganized, North Part
• La péninsule South Bruce
• Lanark Highlands
• Alfred And Plantagenet
• Centre Wellington
• Admaston/Bromley
• Central Frontenac
• Kawartha Lakes
• North Frontenac
• South Frontenac

Ontario, Canada

Canada's motor city, oshawa, ontario.

Located on Lake Ontario in the Canadian province of Ontario, Oshawa is a dynamic city of 176,000 people with a long and proud history. It is approximately 60 km from downtown Toronto, and is the biggest city in Durham Region.

Formerly a manufacturing powerhouse, Oshawa has rapidly transformed itself in recent years. It is still home to a General Motor’s assembly plant, and takes pride in its history as Canada’s Motor City, but the rapid expansion of post secondary education in the city has revitalized Oshawa. It is now home to three universities and colleges; Ontario Tech University (Ontario’s newest), Trent University’s Durham campus, and Durham College. Oshawa’s relative proximity to Toronto, coupled with improved transportation links, has lead to an influx of commuters from throughout the GTA.

Oshawa Upcoming Events

Centennial 2024.

March, 2024 marks Oshawa's hundredth year as a city. For more information on this milestone, and how the City plans to celebrate, click here.

Kars on King

A celebration of classic car culture, Kars on King is being held on August 23, 2024. Over 400 classic vehicles, from 1991 and older, will line the streets of downtown Oshawa. For more information, click here .

As part of the Doors Open event on May 4, 2024, there will be walking tours of the Camp X site in Oshawa. The camp was a training ground for Allied spies during World War 2, and one of those who trained there was Ian Fleming, creator of James Bond. For more information on Doors Open, click here.

While considered part of the Greater Toronto Area, Oshawa has managed to maintain Its own distinct identity.

A growing city, oshawa highlights.

Downtown Oshawa

Oshawa's downtown core has been revitalized in recent years with the arrival of several Ontario Tech University facilites. The downtown features specialty shops and eateries, hotels (including a new Holiday Inn), a court house, City Hall, Robert McLaughlin Gallery, and the Tribute Communities Centre (home of the Oshawa Generals).

Planes, Trains, Automobiles... and Ships

Oshawa has a competitive industrial advantage in the form of a thriving port on Lake Ontario, a municipal airport, railway lines and the presence of the 401 Highway in the south end of the city and the 407 Highway in the north end.

Post Secondary Education

Years ago, Oshawa residents wishing to get a university education had to go to Toronto or beyond for it. Now, the city boasts not one but two universities (Ontario Tech University and Trent University Durham), as well as a top-notch college (Durham College).

Looking to Move to Oshawa?