Only in Peterborough

There are certain moments that define a place, capture its personality, and leave us wanting more. We’ve curated the must-do experiences from the region that allow you to discover the pulse of local communities, and attractions and events that capture the attention of visitors and travel experts alike. The toughest part? Deciding which to do first.

Traverse the Trent-Severn Waterway

The historic Trent-Severn Waterway has been putting our region on the map for visitors for a long time. This year, discover the waterway that shapes our communities and discover why it was named one of New York Times’ top 52 Places to Visit in 2025.

Bring your Trent-Severn experience to the next level by checking out an engineering marvel: the Peterborough Lift Lock. Lock into relaxation mode as captain of your own Le Boat canal cruiser. Get a “taste of the Trent-Severn” with culinary delights like craft brews, butter tarts, and more.

Explore Canada by Canoe

In 2024, it opened doors of a brand-new home to the world to much fanfare including being named one of the Best Cultural Spots on National Geographic's Best of the World.

The Canadian Canoe Museum is located along the water’s edge in Peterborough. Visit the world’s largest collection of canoes, kayaks and paddled watercraft, where you can explore some of Canada’s most iconic tales and personalities with the canoe as your vessel. Take the paddle into your own hands with rentals, voyageur canoe tours, and workshops.

Sing, Dance, or 'Stompa' along with our Music Scene

Peterborough and The Kawarthas is truly a performer’s destination. Serena Ryder, Three Days Grace, Greg Wells, and The Strumbellas, are just some of the notable names with local connections. Sing a long at Peterborough Musicfest, check out the vibes at unique venues, or join annual events like the Lakefield Jazz, Art & Craft Festival and Peterborough Folk Festival.

Pedal Your Way to Adventure

Peterborough and The Kawarthas is a well-loved destination for cyclists of all types… whether you’re on the roads, gravel, or rail trails. Here, beginners and avids alike can ride along drumlins, peek at scenic lake vistas, and enjoy sweet stops along the way. Our routes are favourites for training cyclists and casual rides with family and friends.

Monkey Around at the Riverview Park and Zoo

Along the shores of the Otonabee River, Peterborough is home to Canada’s only FREE-admission accredited zoo. With 55-acres of park that includes 25 animal exhibits and home to more than 150 animals. The Riverview Park and Zoo is fun for all ages – especially for those travelling with kids. Enjoy the nostalgic fun of the playground, splash pad, and guided train ride.

Lean into Canadian Literary Heritage

Are you a literature lover? You might be intrigued to learn about connections to iconic Canadian authors. 19th century authors Catharine Parr Traill and Susannah Moodie settled in Lakefield in the late 1800s. Margaret Laurence spent her later years in Lakefield and served as chancellor of Trent University. Robertson Davies was once the editor of the Peterborough Examiner. Explore this history at the Peterborough Museum & Archives – home to three nationally-designated collections. See the local history come to life at Millbrook’s 4th Line Theatre. Stop in at the Christ Church Community Museum, or plan a trip to Lakefield Literary Festival in July.

Mingle with the Makers 

With beautiful landscapes, treasured waterways, and spectacularly connected communities, it comes as no surprise that our region attracts creative folks of all kinds. Visit in September to take part in self-drive tours with the Kawartha Autumn Studio Tour. Enjoy a stop at the Art Gallery of Peterborough on the shores of Little Lake in Peterborough. Plan a weekend getaway to Peterborough for First Friday Art Crawl– a downtown art crawl through galleries, studios and shops on the first Friday of each month.

Get a Taste of Craft Beers, Downtown Eats, and the County’s Bounty

We’ve saved a spot at the table for you. In Peterborough and The Kawarthas you’ll discover a proverbial feast for the senses for foodies. The bounty of nearby Peterborough County farms is served up by talented chefs who draw inspiration from a diverse palette of global flavours. Sip and savour unique, award-winning beer and beverages crafted right here.