Durham (region, Ontario) Travel Guide

Get ready to explore the natural and cultural wonders of Durham, Ontario with this in-depth travel guide covering must-visit places, things to do, food and drink scene and more.


Introduction to Durham (region, Ontario)

Durham is a region in Ontario, Canada, situated in the Greater Toronto Area. It is an ideal destination for all travelers – from history enthusiasts and culture buffs to outdoor lovers and adventure seekers. The region boasts of an impressive range of attractions, including museums, parks, trails, and natural wonders.

Whether you are planning a short or extended vacation, Durham won’t disappoint. Get ready to explore the natural and cultural wonders of Durham, Ontario with this in-depth travel guide that covers must-visit places, things to do, food and drink scene, and much more.

List of Places to Visit in Durham (region, Ontario)

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Durham is home to several museums and historical sites that provide a glimpse into the region’s rich history and culture. Here are a few must-visit ones:

  1. Canadian Automotive Museum - It is the only museum in Canada dedicated to cars, trucks, and buses manufactured in Canada.

  2. Archibald’s Estate Winery - It is an 1830s estate turned vineyard offering tours, tastings, and beautiful views of the region.

  3. Canadian Tire Motorsport Park - It is a legendary race track that hosts various motorsports events throughout the year.

  4. Parkwood Estate National Historic Site - It is a stately mansion built in 1917, which now operates as a museum and event venue.

  5. Lennox and Addington County Museum and Archives - It is a museum that showcases the history and heritage of Lennox and Addington County.

Natural Attractions of Durham (region, Ontario): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Durham’s natural beauty cannot be overstated. The region has several parks, trails, and other natural attractions that will appeal to outdoor enthusiasts. Here are a few must-visit ones:

  1. Altona Forest - It is a 102-acre forest that offers hiking trails through wetlands and mature forests.

  2. Lakefront West Park - It is a beautiful park that offers stunning views of Lake Ontario, fishing opportunities, and a playground for children.

  3. Rouge National Urban Park - It is Canada’s only national park in an urban area and offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and fishing.

  4. Darlington Provincial Park - It is a popular camping destination that offers a sandy beach, fishing opportunities, and a picnic area for families.

  5. McLaughlin Bay Wildlife Reserve - It is a wildlife reserve that provides a close look at diverse bird species and their habitats.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Durham (region, Ontario)

Durham is a paradise for hikers and bikers, thanks to the numerous trails that offer stunning views of the region. Here are a few must-visit ones:

  1. Great Lakes Waterfront Trail - It is a 3,900 km trail that stretches along the shore of the Great Lakes.

  2. Bruce Trail - It is a 900 km trail that leads through the Niagara Escarpment and provides breathtaking views of the natural surroundings.

  3. Durham East Cross Forest - It is a scenic trail that passes through mature hardwood and coniferous forests.

  4. Greenbelt Route - It is a 475 km trail that connects a network of parks, conservation areas, and forests in the region.

  5. Lynde Shores Conservation Area Trail - It is an easy trail that provides an excellent opportunity for bird watching and wildlife spotting.

Best Things to Do in Durham (region, Ontario): Activities and Tours

Durham offers a wide range of activities and tours to suit all interests. Here are a few must-do ones:

  1. Go on a brewery tour - Durham has several craft breweries that offer tours and tastings. Some of them include 5 Paddles Brewing Co., Manantler Craft Brewing, and Second Wedge Brewing Co.

  2. Visit a farmer’s market - Durham has several farmer’s markets that offer fresh local produce, including Oshawa Centre Farmers’ Market and Clarington Farmers’ Market.

  3. Explore a lavender farm - Purple Woods Conservation Area is a popular stop for those looking to take in the sweet scent of lavender blooms.

  4. Attend a festival or event - Durham hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, including the Durham Craft Beer Festival, Downtown Oshawa Sidewalk Sale, the Bowmanville Santa Claus Parade, and many more.

  5. Go on a fishing trip - Durham has several lakes, rivers, and streams that offer excellent fishing opportunities, including Lake Ontario, Soper Creek, and Bowmanville Creek.

Week-Long Itinerary for Durham (region, Ontario)

Day 1: Visit The Robert McLaughlin Gallery and Parkwood Estate, National Historic Site.

Day 2: Hike the Lynde Shores Conservation Area Trail or explore McLaughlin Bay Wildlife Reserve.

Day 3: Go on a brewery tour and taste some local brews.

Day 4: Visit Darlington Provincial Park for camping, hiking, and fishing.

Day 5: Attend a festival or event, like Durham Craft Beer Festival or Downtown Oshawa Sidewalk Sale.

Day 6: Visit a local lavender farm or the Canadian Automotive Museum.

Day 7: Spend the day at Lakefront West Park.

Food and Drink Scene of Durham (region, Ontario)

Must-Try Dishes

Durham has a diverse food scene and offers a range of delicious dishes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Here are a few must-try ones:

  1. Shawarma - Durham is home to several shawarma joints that serve up a delicious blend of seasoned meat, vegetables, and hummus.

  2. Butter Tarts - This is a Canadian classic, and Durham has several cafes and bakeries that serve up their version of this sweet treat.

  3. Canada’s Favourite Dumplings - Ukrainian food is popular in Durham, and pierogies are one of its iconic dishes.

  4. Fish and Chips - Since Durham is situated next to Lake Ontario, it’s no surprise that fish and chips is a local favorite.

  5. Poutine - A popular Canadian dish, Durham does this right with crispy fries, melted cheese curds, and hot gravy.

Local Beverages

Durham has a thriving craft beer scene, with several breweries producing excellent quality beer. Here are a few must-try ones:

  1. 5 Paddles Brewing Co. - This brewery is known for its experimental and unique beer offerings.

  2. Manantler Craft Brewing Co. - This brewery produces small batch, handcrafted beer that focuses on quality and taste.

  3. Second Wedge Brewing Co. - This brewery’s flagship beer is the “3 Rocks IPA,” which has garnered a strong following among locals.

  4. Brock Street Brewing Company - It is a popular hangout spot that offers tasty beer options.

  5. Archibald’s Estate Winery - This winery produces award-winning wines from locally grown grapes.

Where to Stay in Durham (region, Ontario): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Durham offers several options for accommodation, from budget-friendly hostels to high-end hotels and resorts. Some popular choices include:

  1. Holiday Inn Express Whitby Oshawa - A comfortable hotel with all modern amenities.

  2. La Quinta Inn & Suites - A budget-friendly hotel with free breakfast and Wi-Fi.

  3. Courtyard Marriott - Located in North Oshawa, this hotel offers a fitness center to help guests stay active.

  4. Residence Inn by Marriott - The spacious suites of this hotel make it perfect for long-term stays.

  5. Calabogie Peaks Resort - It is a luxurious hotel in a scenic location that offers panoramic views of the region.

What to Buy in Durham (region, Ontario): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Durham has several local shops and markets that offer souvenirs and locally produced products. Here are a few must-visit ones:

  1. Oshawa Centre - It is a popular shopping mall where you can find everything from fashion and accessories to gadgets and more.

  2. Farmer’s Markets - Durham has several farmer’s markets that offer fresh vegetables, fruits, and baked goods.

  3. The Casual Gourmet - It is a specialty food store that offers a range of gourmet foods and kitchen wares.

  4. Purple Woods Conservation Area - They sell a small selection of lavender products, from soaps to essential oils.

  5. The Gifted Shop - Located in the historic downtown area of Bowmanville, this store offers an eclectic collection of unique gifts and souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Durham (region, Ontario)

Durham has a diverse culture that is influenced by its history, geography, and people. Here are a few cultural highlights to keep in mind:

  1. Ukrainian heritage - Durham has a sizable Ukrainian population, and Ukrainian culture is widely celebrated in the region.

  2. Indigenous heritage - Durham has several Indigenous communities that have a rich history and culture.

  3. Sporting culture - Durham is home to several sports teams, including the Oshawa Generals hockey team.

Best Time to Visit Durham (region, Ontario)

The best time to visit Durham is during summer (June-August) when the weather is warm and pleasant. This is also a popular time for festivals and events. Fall (September-October) is another good time, especially for those who enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and camping.

Do’s and Don’ts of Durham (region, Ontario)

Do:

  • Explore the natural attractions of Durham.
  • Attend local festivals and events.
  • Try the local dishes and beverages.
  • Go on a brewery tour.
  • Respect the Indigenous heritage and culture of the region.

Don’t:

  • Litter or pollute the natural attractions of Durham.
  • Disrespect local customs and cultures.
  • Ignore the safety guidelines for outdoor activities like hiking and camping.

Safety and Health

Safety in Durham (region, Ontario)

Durham is a relatively safe region. However, travelers should take standard precautions like locking their car doors, taking care of their possessions, and avoiding unsafe or unknown areas.

Health in Durham (region, Ontario)

Travelers to Durham should ensure that their routine vaccinations are up to date. It is recommended to carry travel insurance that provides coverage for emergency medical treatment.

Getting to Durham (region, Ontario): Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Durham (region, Ontario)

The closest airport to Durham is Toronto Pearson International Airport, which is about 35 km away. Other airports in the region include Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport and John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport.

Bus Stations Near Durham (region, Ontario)

Durham is well-connected by road and has several bus stations that offer services to major cities in the region. Some popular options include Greyhound, Megabus, and Coach Canada.

Other Options

Durham is also accessible by train, with Via Rail offering services to major cities like Toronto, Ottawa, and Montreal. There are also several car rental agencies in the region, making it easy to explore the area at your own pace.

How to Get Around in Durham (region, Ontario)

Durham has several transportation options to help travelers get around the region. This includes public buses, taxis, and car rentals. Travelers can also explore the region on foot or by bike by taking advantage of the numerous trails and paths in the area.

Where to Go Next from Durham (region, Ontario): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Durham is a great starting point for exploring other destinations in the region. Some nearby places worth visiting include:

  1. Toronto - Canada’s largest city is just a short drive away from Durham and offers a range of attractions, including the CN Tower, Toronto Islands, and the Royal Ontario Museum.

  2. Niagara Falls - One of Canada’s most iconic attractions is just a few hours’ drive from Durham and offers stunning views of the Niagara Falls.

  3. Prince Edward County - A scenic rural area known for its vineyards, beaches, and historic towns.

Conclusion

Durham, Ontario, is a region that offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you are interested in exploring the natural beauty of the region, delving into its history and culture, or simply relaxing and enjoying the local food and drink scene, Durham won’t disappoint. Use this comprehensive travel guide to plan your trip and make the most of your time in this beautiful region of Canada.

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