Peterborough

A historic city on the Otonabee River known as a gateway to cottage country and the Kawartha region, with a vibrant cultural scene and outdoor recreation. The scenic waterways and nearby trails attract canoeists and hikers.

Things to do

• Lift Lock Boat Tour — Experience the historic hydraulic lift lock on a guided tour that takes you through one of North America's most unique engineering marvels on the Otonabee River.
• Canoe the Kawartha Lakes — Paddle through a chain of scenic lakes connected by waterways, offering multi-day canoe trips and day excursions suitable for various skill levels.
• Petroglyphs Provincial Park — Visit the largest concentration of Indigenous rock carvings in North America, located about 40 kilometers north, with guided interpretive trails and cultural exhibits.
• Peterborough Public Library Heritage Collection — Explore this beautifully restored historic building housing local heritage materials and hosting cultural events in the downtown core.
• Del Crary Park Trail System — Hike scenic trails along the Otonabee River with opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy riverside picnic areas.
• Peterborough Museum & Archives — Learn about the city's industrial past and local history through exhibits on the Quaker heritage, manufacturing, and notable residents.

Food to try

• Quaker Oats Heritage — Sample locally-inspired oatmeal and grain products celebrating Peterborough's history as home to the Quaker Mill and its iconic breakfast traditions.
• Fresh Catch from Kawartha Lakes — Seek out local restaurants serving whitefish, pike, and perch caught fresh from the regional waterways during summer and fall.
• Artisan Farmers Market Fare — Visit the Peterborough Farmers Market (weekends) to sample local maple syrup, cheese, baked goods, and seasonal produce from regional producers.
• Craft Brewery Scene — Explore local craft breweries like Publican House Brewery and Tall Grass Brewing Company for regionally-themed beers and gastropub fare.
• Wild Mushroom Dishes — Look for seasonal restaurants featuring foraged mushrooms and wild edibles from the surrounding Kawartha forests in their menus.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect the Waterways — Peterborough's identity centers on water; locals take canoe culture and river conservation seriously, so practice Leave No Trace principles on all waterways.
• Indigenous Land Acknowledgment — The area is Michi Saagiig Anishinaabek territory; visitors should be respectful at Petroglyphs Provincial Park and in conversations about local history.
• Cottage Country Etiquette
• Arts and Festival Season — The city hosts numerous cultural events May through October including the Peterborough Musicfest and various artist studio tours; check local calendars for visitor-friendly programming.