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Things to do in Oshawa

Oshawa's activity scene leans heavily on food and shopping, but the outdoor options are where the city really stands out.

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Oshawa's activity scene leans heavily on food and shopping, but the outdoor options are where the city really stands out. You can spend a morning walking conservation trails, an afternoon at a museum, and still have time for burgers and a comedy show. It's a practical city with enough variety to fill a weekend without leaving town. Here's what's worth knowing before you plan a day here.

The waterfront and conservation areas are the strongest draw. Harmony Valley Conservation Area has 28 hectares of trails and off-leash areas, while McLaughlin Bay Wildlife Reserve has walking paths and viewing platforms. For families, the Oshawa Zoo & Fun Farm lets kids pet and feed goats and camels, and the Treetop Eco-Adventure Park adds ropes courses and zip-lining. On the cultural side, Parkwood Estate's 1917 mansion and gardens, the Canadian Automotive Museum's historic cars, and the Canadian Tank Museum's military vehicles each cover a different angle.

Frequently asked questions about Oshawa

What are the best outdoor things to do in Oshawa?▾

The conservation areas are the top pick. Harmony Valley Conservation Area has 28 hectares of trails and off-leash dog areas, while McLaughlin Bay Wildlife Reserve has walking trails and viewing platforms with a lot of plant and animal life. Lakefront West Park and Lake Vista Park also have trails and green space, with Lake Vista adding a playground and splash pad.

Where can families take kids in Oshawa?▾

The Oshawa Zoo & Fun Farm is a solid choice—kids can pet and feed goats, camels, and over 40 other species. The Treetop Eco-Adventure Park has ropes courses and zip-lining for older kids, and NEB's Fun World and Funvilla Oshawa provide indoor play options. Lakeview Park Playground is a simple outdoor spot as well.

What museums and historical sites are worth visiting in Oshawa?▾

Parkwood Estate is the standout—a 1917 neoclassic mansion with formal gardens and a bowling alley. The Canadian Automotive Museum focuses on historic Canadian cars, and the Canadian Tank Museum / Ontario Regiment Museum has over 80 military vehicles. The Oshawa Museum traces the region's history from pre-settlement to modern times, and the Colonel R. S. McLaughlin Armoury is a 1914 landmark with a WWII tank out front.

Where are good places to eat in Oshawa?▾

Teddy's Restaurant & Deli is a historic spot known for thick deli sandwiches and classic entrees. Mr Burger serves burgers, onion rings, and fries in a no-frills setting decorated with Elvis memorabilia. For something a bit different, Portly Piper Pub has craft beer and a large comfort-food menu, and Avanti Trattoria does stone-fired pizzas and traditional Italian dishes.

Is there any nightlife in Oshawa?▾

Nightlife is limited but it exists. Yuk Yuk's Oshawa is a comedy club with beer, wine, and cocktails, and Club 717 is a nightclub that hosts events for the LGBT community. For a more laid-back evening, Portly Piper Pub gives a sports-bar vibe with lots of TVs and a big beer list.

Things to do in Oshawa