Oshawa Travel Guide
Explore the best things to do, places to visit, hiking & biking routes, food & drink scene, where to stay, and more with our travel guide to Oshawa, Canada.
- A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Oshawa, Canada
- Introduction to Oshawa
- List of Places to Visit in Oshawa
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Oshawa
- Best Things to Do in Oshawa: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Oshawa
- Food and Drink Scene of Oshawa
- Where to Stay in Oshawa: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Oshawa: Souvenirs, and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Oshawa
- Best Time to Visit Oshawa
- Do’s and Don’ts of Oshawa
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Oshawa: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Oshawa
- Where to Go Next from Oshawa: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Oshawa, Canada
Welcome to Oshawa, a charming city in the Durham region of Ontario, Canada, located just a few miles away from Greater Toronto Area. Oshawa is a city of rich history, profound culture, and beautiful nature that attracts thousands of tourists every year. This guide will help you explore the best things to do, places to visit, hiking & biking routes, food & drink scene, where to stay, and more with our travel guide to Oshawa, Canada.
Introduction to Oshawa
Oshawa is a city of approximately 170,000 residents, situated on the shore of Lake Ontario. This year-round destination is perfect for nature lovers and those who want to learn and explore Canadian culture.
List of Places to Visit in Oshawa
No tour to Oshawa is complete without visiting the following places:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums, and Historical Places
- Canadian Automotive Museum
- Oshawa Community Museum
- Parkwood Estate
- Robert McLaughlin Gallery
- The Ontario Regiment RCAC Museum
Natural Attractions of Oshawa: Outdoor Adventures, and Scenic Views
- Oshawa Valley Botanical Garden
- Oshawa Creek Trail
- Lakeview Park
- Pumphouse Marsh
- Second Marsh Wildlife Area
Hiking/Biking Routes of Oshawa
If you love hiking and biking, you’ll enjoy the following trials:
- Harmony Valley Conservation Area
- Grandview Trail
- Oshawa Creek Bike Trail
- McLaughlin Bay Wildlife Reserve Trail
Best Things to Do in Oshawa: Activities and Tours
- Explore Parkwood Estate
- Visit the Canadian Automotive Museum
- Walk down Oshawa Creek Trail
- Experience the thrill of skydiving
- Enjoy water sports at Lakeview Park.
Week-Long Itinerary for Oshawa
Day 1: Visit Robert McLaughlin Gallery Day 2: Explore the Canadian Automotive Museum Day 3: Hike the Grandview Trail Day 4: Relax at Lakeview Park Day 5: Go skydiving or explore Durham College. Day 6: Enjoy the Second Marsh Wildlife Area Day 7: Shop for unique souvenirs and try local cuisine.
Food and Drink Scene of Oshawa
Local cuisine is one of the best ways to experience a city’s culture. Here are a few must-try dishes and local beverages:
Must-Try Dishes
- Peameal bacon on a bun
- French fries with gravy & cheese
- Butter tarts
- Poutine
Local Beverages
- Ice Wine
- Beer & Cider
Where to Stay in Oshawa: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- Central Motel Courtyard by Marriott
- Quality Suites Whitby
- La Quinta Inn Toronto Oshawa
What to Buy in Oshawa: Souvenirs, and Local Products to Bring Home
- Maple Syrup
- Canadian wine
- Local cheese
- Handmade souvenirs from local markets
Local Culture and Customs of Oshawa
- Canadians are known for being polite and friendly, so be sure to greet them with a smile.
- Tipping is customary in restaurants and bars, so add 15-20% of the bill as tip.
- Smoking in public places is not allowed in Canada.
Best Time to Visit Oshawa
The best time to visit Oshawa is from May to September when the weather is mild, and all the attractions are open. You can also enjoy various outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and water sports.
Do’s and Don’ts of Oshawa
Do:
- Carry your ID card when buying alcohol.
- Tip in restaurants and bars.
- Use public transport or hire a car to explore the city.
- Greet everyone with a smile.
Don’t:
- Smoke in public places
- Carry illegal substances or firearms
- Forget to dress according to the weather.
Safety and Health
Safety in Oshawa
Oshawa is a safe city, but it is always wise to take basic precautions like keeping your valuable safe, avoid walking alone in dark alleys, and ask locals for assistance.
Health in Oshawa
Carry your travel insurance, keep a valid prescription, and carry essential medications to avoid any medical emergency.
Getting to Oshawa: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Oshawa
- Toronto Pearson International Airport
- Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport
Bus Stations Near Oshawa
- Oshawa Bus Terminal
- Whitby GO Station
Other Options
- You can also hire a car or taxi to reach Oshawa.
How to Get Around in Oshawa
Oshawa has an excellent public transport system with buses and trains connecting to all major attractions. You can also hire a car, bike, or walk to explore the city.
Where to Go Next from Oshawa: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Toronto
- Niagara Falls
- Kingston
- Ottawa
Conclusion
Oshawa is a city of fascinating culture, breathtaking nature, and warm-hearted people that will create an unforgettable travel experience for you. Use this comprehensive travel guide to explore the city at your pace and make lifetime memories.
