Top 15 Must-Do Activities in Oshawa, Ontario

This Toronto suburb is more than merely a residential area. It is a city situated on the shores of Lake Ontario and serves as a significant hub for sports events and entertainment.

Oshawa is also incredibly rich in culture, boasting numerous parks and trails, making it not only an attractive place to reside but also an excellent destination for leisure.

While many tourists do not venture beyond Toronto, Oshawa is often overlooked. Nonetheless, it offers an abundance of attractions, particularly suited for those seeking a relaxed atmosphere. Should you find yourself in the city, here are the best activities to experience in Oshawa:

1. Explore the Canadian Automotive Museum

Among the city’s most frequented attractions is the Canadian Automotive Museum. Visit this venue to view automobiles, particularly those manufactured in Canada.

The 2,300 square meter museum resides in what was once a local car dealership. Today, it showcases automobiles dating back to 1902.

The museum features two levels, with the second floor dedicated to Canadian-made vehicles. While exploring, one can encounter a 1908 De Dion-Bouton Roadster, 1926 Bentley 3 Litre Speed Model, 1937 Rolls-Royce Phantom III, and 1957 Dodge Regent, among other impressive automobiles.

2. Stroll through Parkwood Estate

Parkwood Estate was formerly the residence of Samuel McLaughlin, the founder of General Motors of Canada. Presently, this splendid estate is accessible to the public.

Wander through the grounds and appreciate the landscape, architecture, and interior design of the mansion. The estate contains housewares, artwork, memorabilia, and books displayed as they were during the family’s residency.

As a national historic site, Parkwood Estate encompasses 55 rooms and an exceptional garden, often utilized for weddings and photographs.

3. Visit the Robert McLaughlin Gallery

Discover contemporary and modern Canadian art at the Robert McLaughlin Gallery. The gallery was inaugurated by and features works from the Painters Eleven, a group of abstract artists.

Wander through the gallery to appreciate the artwork adorning the walls. The collection includes over 4,500 pieces.

Paintings, prints, and sculptures by the Painters Eleven, particularly those from Alexandra Luke who established the gallery, can be seen throughout.

4. Discover the Ontario Regiment (RCAC) Museum

Since 1980, the Ontario Regiment (RCAC) Museum has welcomed the public. The museum serves as an informative space for those seeking to learn more about the Canadian Forces.

The museum compiles and conserves artifacts and historical materials regarding the Canadian Forces, particularly the Oshawa-based Ontario Regiment. It also boasts the largest collection of armored vehicles across the nation.

Visitors to the Ontario Regiment (RCAC) Museum can observe vehicles such as the Leopard 1A5, M60, Universal Carrier, Ferret Scout Car, and many more. In addition, there are exhibits of weapons, uniforms, and medals.

5. Bike or walk the Waterfront Trail

The 994-mile Waterfront Trail extends from Niagara-on-the-Lake to Brockville, traversing through Oshawa along the route. It represents one of the premier locations in the city for walking or cycling.

The trail weaves through the city along the edge of Lake Ontario. Some segments are off-road, while others are on-road.

Along the trail, there are several car parks and restrooms, as well as two lookout points. This section is among the most significant remaining coastal wetlands in the area.

6. Enjoy Darlington Provincial Park

The charming Darlington Provincial Park is located east of the city on Lake Ontario. Although it’s a small park, it is an ideal spot to spend a day.

The park hosts a rich array of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, coyotes, grey wolves, and monarch butterflies, with a notable conservation effort in place for the butterflies.

For those wishing to linger, the park features three campgrounds, a beach, hiking trails, and picnic facilities.

7. Explore Oshawa Valley Botanical Garden

Situated alongside the Oshawa Creek, from Adelaide Avenue to Gibb Street, the Oshawa Valley Botanical Garden is a wonderful location to pause and appreciate nature.

The gardens are best explored during the summer but are open year-round. They feature picturesque trails, pavilions, picnic areas, and a playground for children.

Parts of the Oshawa Valley Botanical Garden are equipped with outdoor fitness equipment and resting spots. It is popular for wedding photography, so it may be advisable to schedule visits during weekdays.

8. Learn at the Oshawa Museum

The Oshawa Museum provides insight into the city’s history through a combination of exhibit and archival space.

The museum showcases artifacts that date back to the 15th century, celebrating the heritage of the city. The permanent collections are housed in two buildings, both dating to the 19th century.

Robinson House features the archaeology exhibit, while the third building at the Oshawa Museum (Guy House) is not open to the public.

9. Hike in McLaughlin Bay Wildlife Reserve

McLaughlin Bay Wildlife Reserve offers approximately seven kilometers of walking and biking trails. These include mown grass paths as well as gravel, wood, and hard-surface options.

The reserve features 11 trails to explore; visitors often traverse multiple routes. One pathway is specifically designed for individuals with visual impairments.

With three entry points—two equipped with car parks—visitors can also find informational kiosks, viewpoints, and picnic areas within the reserve.

10. Experience Oshawa Zoo and Fun Farm

Interact with various animals at the Oshawa Zoo and Fun Farm, which spans nine hectares and is home to over 45 species of animals.

Visitors can expect to see domestic animals such as sheep, pigs, mini donkeys, Belted Galloway cattle, and goats, as well as more exotic species like camels, lemurs, monkeys, llamas, and wallabies.

The zoo is committed to rescuing abandoned or injured animals, providing them with care and shelter.

11. Explore downtown Oshawa

A walking tour is an optimal way to explore the numerous attractions in Downtown Oshawa. This area contains a variety of parks and notable sites.

Downtown Oshawa is located on the west side of the Oshawa River, featuring an abundance of cafes, restaurants, and local shops where visitors can unwind or browse.

Two trails run southward toward Lake Ontario, or visitors may remain in the vicinity to discover its offerings. This is also the most popular section of the city for accommodations.

12. Swim in local pools

Oshawa boasts a number of swimming facilities, both indoor and outdoor. Visitors can enjoy swimming at various pools throughout the city.

The Civic Recreation Complex Pool is the largest, featuring six lanes for lap swimming, along with a diving board and sauna.

Additionally, the 25-meter indoor heated Donevan Pool is a great choice, as is the 30-meter heated outdoor Rotary Pool, which includes a lazy river, a beach area, and two waterslides.

13. Attend a local sports game

Oshawa is a paradise for sports enthusiasts, hosting a myriad of local teams, including those for hockey, lacrosse, basketball, rugby, and football.

The Oshawa Generals hockey team is likely the most renowned, having produced notable alumni such as Bobby Orr, Wayne Cashman, Eric Lindros, and Dave Andreychuk. The Oshawa Green Gaels lacrosse team also holds a strong reputation.

For sports fans, attending a game is a must-do activity. Some events can be quite popular and may sell out quickly, thus planning ahead for tickets is advisable.

14. Savor the culinary delights

Oshawa has recently emerged as a culinary destination, with numerous restaurants and innovative chefs establishing themselves throughout the city. The downtown area is particularly rich in dining options, although cuisine can be enjoyed throughout Oshawa.

The city offers a diverse array of dining possibilities, from healthy meals to Southern BBQ, providing ample opportunities to indulge your palate. International cuisines, including Indian, Italian, Chinese, Japanese, and Mexican, represent just a few of the options available.

Some dining venues feature live music, while others provide a fine dining ambiance. Regardless of your preferences, you are sure to discover something delightful.

15. Shop in Oshawa

Oshawa offers multiple opportunities for shopping, encompassing both shopping malls and local streets. Visitors will find a combination of local boutiques and well-known chain stores.

For unique items, Downtown Oshawa is the ideal destination, featuring a variety of artisanal shops and local boutiques. For a more traditional shopping experience, consider visiting the Oshawa Centre.

In addition, outdoor malls present options for popular retailers, including Walmart and Best Buy, which frequently feature outlet stores.