Scarborough Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, eat, stay, and things to do in Scarborough with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Scarborough

Scarborough is a suburban district located in the eastern part of Toronto, in the Greater Toronto Area, in Ontario, Canada. It is a culturally diverse and vibrant neighborhood that offers a unique blend of modern infrastructure and natural scenery. The district is mainly known for its beautiful parks, stunning beaches, and unique cultural attractions.

Scarborough is a perfect destination for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and history buffs. The district is home to several national parks, museums, and historical sites. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or with family, you’ll find something for everyone in Scarborough.

List of Places to Visit in Scarborough

Here is a list of the top attractions and places to visit in Scarborough:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Scarborough Museum: It is a historic house museum that showcases the lifestyle and heritage of Scarborough’s early settlers.

  • The Guild Park and Gardens: It is an open-air museum that features sculptures and architectural fragments from Toronto’s lost buildings.

  • Agincourt Village: It is a historic neighborhood that offers a glimpse of Scarborough’s rural past.

  • Cedar Ridge Creative Centre: It is a cultural hub that features art galleries, studio spaces, and workshops.

Natural Attractions of Scarborough: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Scarborough Bluffs: It is a picturesque natural wonder that features towering cliff formations and stunning views of Lake Ontario.

  • Rouge National Urban Park: It is a wildlife reserve that offers hiking trails, birdwatching, and camping opportunities.

  • Toronto Zoo: It is one of the largest zoos in the world that features over 5,000 animals.

  • Highland Creek: It is a beautiful creek that winds through Scarborough’s natural landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Scarborough

Scarborough offers some of the best trails and routes for hiking and biking in the Greater Toronto Area. Here are some popular routes:

  • The Waterfront Trail: This trail spans for over 3,000 km and offers scenic views of Lake Ontario and the Toronto skyline. The Scarborough section of the trail is perfect for cycling and hiking.

  • Rouge Valley Conservation Centre: It is a natural oasis that features several hiking trails, picnic areas, and fishing spots.

  • Scarborough Bluffs Park: It offers several hiking trails that provide panoramic views of Lake Ontario and the bluffs.

Best Things to Do in Scarborough: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of things to do and see in Scarborough. Here are the top activities and tours:

  • Beach Day: Spend a relaxing day at Scarborough’s beaches, including Bluffers Park Beach, Rouge Beach, and Scarborough Beach.

  • Zoo Visit: Visit the Toronto Zoo and see over 5,000 animals from around the world.

  • Toronto Island Tour: Take a ferry ride to the Toronto Islands and explore its many parks, beaches, and attractions.

  • St. Lawrence Market: It is a must-visit attraction for foodies. The market features over 120 vendors offering a wide range of delicious food.

Week-Long Itinerary for Scarborough

If you’re planning to spend a week in Scarborough, here is a suggested itinerary:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Scarborough Museum, Guild Park, and Cedar Ridge
Day 2 Hike the Waterfront Trail or Rouge Valley Trail
Day 3 Visit Toronto Zoo
Day 4 Spend the day at the beach
Day 5 Take a guided tour of Agincourt Village
Day 6 Visit St. Lawrence Market and explore downtown Toronto
Day 7 Explore Scarborough Bluffs Park

Food and Drink Scene of Scarborough

Scarborough is a melting pot of different cultures and cuisines. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bak Kut Teh: It is a flavorful pork rib soup that originated from Malaysia.

  • Roti Canai: It is a popular Malaysian dish that features a fluffy flatbread served with curry sauce.

  • Pho: It is a Vietnamese noodle soup that is popular in Scarborough’s Asian community.

  • Jerk Chicken: It is a spicy and flavorful Jamaican dish that is popular in Scarborough’s Caribbean community.

Local Beverages

  • Bubble Tea: It is a sweet and refreshing Taiwanese drink that features chewy tapioca pearls.

  • Kopi: It is a strong and sweet Malaysian coffee that is served with condensed milk.

  • Sorrel: It is a classic Caribbean holiday beverage made from hibiscus flowers.

Where to Stay in Scarborough: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Scarborough offers a wide variety of accommodation options that cater to different budgets and preferences. Here are some popular choices:

  • Delta Hotels by Marriott Toronto East: It is a modern hotel located in the heart of Scarborough.

  • Holiday Inn Express Toronto East – Scarborough: It is a budget-friendly hotel that provides easy access to Scarborough’s top attractions.

  • The Only Backpacker’s Inn: It is a popular hostel that offers affordable accommodation for budget-conscious travelers.

What to Buy in Scarborough: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Scarborough offers a variety of unique and affordable souvenirs and local products that make great gifts for friends and family. Here are some popular choices:

  • Scarborough Bluffs Prints: Bring home a beautiful print of Scarborough’s iconic natural wonder.

  • Local Craft Beer: Scarborough has several craft breweries that offer unique and flavorful beers.

  • Handmade Jewelry: Scarborough is home to several artisanal jewelers who create beautiful and unique handmade jewelry.

Local Culture and Customs of Scarborough

Scarborough is a diverse and multicultural neighborhood that embraces different cultures and traditions. Visitors are expected to respect local customs and beliefs.

Best Time to Visit Scarborough

The best time to visit Scarborough is during the summer months, from June to August. The weather is warm and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities and beach days.

Do’s and Don’ts of Scarborough

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Scarborough:

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.

  • Explore Scarborough’s natural scenery and cultural heritage.

  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Litter or vandalize public property.

  • Disrespect local customs and beliefs.

  • Be careless or disrespectful towards wildlife.

Safety and Health

Safety in Scarborough

Scarborough is a safe neighborhood, but visitors should still take precautions to ensure their safety. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep valuables out of sight.

Health in Scarborough

Scarborough has several hospitals and medical facilities that provide quality healthcare services.

Getting to Scarborough: Transportation Options and Logistics

Scarborough is easily accessible by public transportation and car.

Airports Near Scarborough

The nearest airports to Scarborough are Toronto Pearson International Airport and Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport.

Bus Stations Near Scarborough

Scarborough Town Centre Bus Terminal and Farewell Station are the main bus stations in Scarborough.

Other Options

You can also get to Scarborough by train, taxi, or rideshare services.

How to Get Around Scarborough

Scarborough is well connected by public transportation, with several bus routes and subway stations. You can also rent a car or bike to explore the neighborhood at your own pace.

Where to Go Next from Scarborough: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of the Greater Toronto Area, here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Downtown Toronto: Explore Toronto’s bustling downtown scene, including its many cultural attractions, museums, and world-renowned restaurants.

  • Niagara Falls: Take a day trip to Niagara Falls and experience one of the world’s most spectacular natural wonders.

  • Prince Edward County: Visit Prince Edward County and explore its many wineries, beaches, and charming small towns.

Conclusion

Scarborough is a diverse and vibrant neighborhood that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions. Whether you’re a nature lover, foodie, or history buff, you’ll find something to suit your interests in Scarborough. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’re now equipped with all the information you need to plan your perfect Scarborough getaway.

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