Oshawa is a vibrant city in Ontario, Canada, offering a diverse range of attractions and activities for visitors and residents alike. Here are some of the best places to visit and things to do in Oshawa:
1. Parkwood National Historic Site
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Explore the grandeur of the former residence of R.S. McLaughlin, a prominent Canadian industrialist. This historic mansion offers guided tours through its opulent rooms, exquisite gardens, and stunning architecture.
2. Canadian Automotive Museum
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Car enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to this museum, showcasing the history and evolution of automobiles in Canada. It houses an impressive collection of vintage and classic cars, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in automotive heritage.
3. Oshawa Valley Botanical Gardens
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Spend a peaceful day surrounded by nature at these beautiful gardens. Enjoy leisurely walks amidst the well-maintained flower beds, serene ponds, and lush greenery.
4. Lakeview Park and Beach
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Relax by the shores of Lake Ontario at Lakeview Park, which features a sandy beach, picnic areas, walking trails, and fantastic views of the lake.
5. The Robert McLaughlin Gallery
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Art enthusiasts can explore this public art gallery, featuring a diverse collection of Canadian and contemporary art. The gallery often hosts engaging exhibitions and events.
6. Oshawa Centre
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For shopping enthusiasts, the Oshawa Centre is the place to be. This large shopping mall offers a wide variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.
7. Darlington Provincial Park
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Just a short drive from Oshawa, this provincial park is perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. It offers hiking trails, camping sites, and a picturesque beach area along Lake Ontario.
8. Tribute Communities Centre
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Catch a hockey game or enjoy live concerts and events at this modern multi-purpose arena in downtown Oshawa.
9. Parkwood Estate Gardens
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Apart from the Parkwood mansion, the estate also boasts beautifully manicured gardens. Take a leisurely stroll and admire the floral displays and landscaping.
10. Oshawa Zoo and Fun Farm
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Ideal for families, this attraction allows you to get up close with various animals and participate in interactive experiences like feeding and petting.
11. McLaughlin Bay Wildlife Reserve
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Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts will appreciate this conservation area, which provides a habitat for numerous bird species and wildlife.
12. Oshawa Museum
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Learn about the city’s history and heritage at the Oshawa Museum, featuring exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of the region.
13. Lake Ontario Waterfront Trail
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Take a scenic walk or bike ride along the Lake Ontario Waterfront Trail. This trail offers breathtaking views of the lake and is a great way to enjoy the outdoors.
14. Cedar Park Resort
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During the summer months, visit Cedar Park Resort for a fun day of water activities and amusement park rides. The park features water slides, pools, mini-golf, go-karts, and more, making it an excellent spot for families and thrill-seekers.
15. Oshawa Community Museum and Archives
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Discover more about Oshawa’s past at the Community Museum and Archives. The museum showcases historical exhibits and hosts events that bring the city’s heritage to life.
16. Lynde Shores Conservation Area
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Nature lovers will appreciate the diverse wildlife and birdwatching opportunities at Lynde Shores Conservation Area. The marshlands and trails provide a serene escape from the city.
17. Oshawa Valley Railroad
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If you’re interested in trains and railways, check out the Oshawa Valley Railroad, a miniature railway that offers rides for children and families on weekends and holidays.
18. Oshawa Little Theatre
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Enjoy a night of entertainment at the Oshawa Little Theatre, which regularly presents a variety of stage productions, including plays, musicals, and performances by local artists.
19. Breweries and Pubs
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Oshawa has a burgeoning craft beer scene, with several breweries and pubs offering a wide range of locally brewed beers. Consider taking a brewery tour or tasting some unique craft brews.
20. Canadian Tire Motorsport Park
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Motorsports enthusiasts will want to visit this iconic racetrack, which hosts various racing events throughout the year, including NASCAR, IMSA, and more.
21. Harmony Creek Trail
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Explore this picturesque trail that winds through parks and natural areas, offering a peaceful retreat for walking, jogging, or biking.
22. Oshawa Public Libraries
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If you prefer a quieter pursuit, spend time at one of the Oshawa Public Libraries. They offer a wealth of books, digital resources, and community programs.
23. Cultural Festivals and Events
Check the city’s event calendar for cultural festivals, fairs, and concerts that take place throughout the year. These events often celebrate the diversity and talents of the Oshawa community.
24. Oshawa Farmers’ Market
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Visit the farmers’ market to indulge in fresh produce, artisanal foods, and unique handcrafted items from local vendors.
25. Parkwood Estate Outdoor Concerts
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During the warmer months, Parkwood Estate hosts outdoor concerts on its beautiful grounds. Enjoy live music performances in a unique and historic setting.
26. Oshawa Escape Rooms
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Challenge your problem-solving skills by trying out one of the escape rooms in Oshawa. Gather a group of friends or family to solve puzzles and riddles, working together to escape within a set time limit.
27. Lake Ridge Ski Resort
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If you’re visiting Oshawa in the winter, head to Lake Ridge Ski Resort for some skiing and snowboarding fun. The resort offers slopes suitable for all skill levels, along with lessons and equipment rentals.
28. Canadian Aviation Expo
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Aviation enthusiasts will love attending the Canadian Aviation Expo when it takes place. The event features aircraft displays, aviation technology demonstrations, and opportunities to interact with pilots.
29. Kids’ Fun-Filled Activities
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Oshawa has plenty of family-friendly activities to keep kids entertained, such as laser tag arenas, indoor trampoline parks, and arcades.
30. Oshawa Creek Trail
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Walk or bike along the scenic Oshawa Creek Trail, which runs through the heart of the city. This trail offers a peaceful escape within the urban environment.
31. Oshawa Golf and Curling Club
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If you enjoy golfing or curling, check out this club offering well-maintained golf courses and curling facilities.
32. Ontario Regiment Museum
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History buffs will appreciate a visit to the Ontario Regiment Museum, which showcases military vehicles, artifacts, and exhibits related to Canadian military history.
33. Annual Peony Festival
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If you happen to be in Oshawa during June, don’t miss the Annual Peony Festival at the Oshawa Valley Botanical Gardens. The festival showcases thousands of blooming peonies in various colors and sizes.
34. Taste of Oshawa
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Discover the local culinary scene by exploring the diverse restaurants and eateries in the city. From cozy cafes to ethnic cuisines, Oshawa offers a range of dining experiences to suit all tastes.
35. Arts and Crafts Workshops
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Keep an eye out for arts and crafts workshops hosted in the city. These events provide an opportunity to unleash your creativity and learn new skills.
36. Picnic in the Parks
Oshawa has numerous parks and green spaces, making it ideal for picnics. Pack a basket with your favorite treats and enjoy a relaxing day outdoors.
37. Lakeview Park Carousel
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Take a nostalgic ride on the historic Lakeview Park Carousel, which has been delighting visitors since the early 1900s.
38. Oshawa Trails
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Explore the city’s extensive network of trails, perfect for walking, jogging, or biking. The trails wind through various parks, woodlands, and natural areas, offering a great way to stay active while enjoying the outdoors.
39. The Waddell
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This historic venue hosts a wide range of live performances, including concerts, comedy shows, and theatrical productions. Check their schedule for upcoming events to experience some local talent.
40. Treetop Eco-Adventure Park
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If you’re seeking some adrenaline-pumping activities, head to this adventure park featuring aerial courses, ziplining, and other challenging obstacles set amongst the treetops.
41. Bloor Street West Heritage Conservation District
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Take a leisurely stroll along Bloor Street West to admire the well-preserved historic homes and buildings, which showcase Oshawa’s architectural heritage.
42. Camp Samac
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This large outdoor space is perfect for camping, hiking, and enjoying nature. It also hosts various events and activities for outdoor enthusiasts.
43. Oshawa Skate Park
Skateboarders and rollerbladers will enjoy this well-designed skate park, providing ramps, rails, and bowls for skaters of all skill levels.
44. Tribute to the Stars Music Festival
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If you’re a music lover, plan your visit to coincide with the Tribute to the Stars Music Festival. This annual event features tribute bands paying homage to famous musicians and bands.
45. Oshawa Lakefront West Park
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This scenic park along Lake Ontario offers picturesque views, picnic areas, and walking paths, making it an excellent spot for a relaxing day by the water.
47. Ontario Philharmonic
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Catch a classical music performance by the Ontario Philharmonic, showcasing talented musicians and renowned conductors.
Places and Things To Do