Brianna HarrisonMy first trip to Oshawa was a spur-of-the-moment decision, which turned out to be a pleasant surprise. As someone who always associated the city with its automotive history, I expected extensive museum tours but I got to experience so much more.
From popular local hangouts to hidden cultural gems, Oshawa has a little something for every type of traveler.
That’s why I’ve put together this guide to help you discover the best things to do in Oshawa and uncover the surprises this vibrant city holds.
- 1. Book a tour of Parkwood National Historic Site
- 2. Explore the city’s rich heritage at Oshawa Museum
- 3. Watch battle re-enactments at the Canadian Tank Musem
- 4. Go ziplining at Treetop ECO Adventure Park
- 5. Visit the Oshawa Zoo and Fun Farm
- 6. Take a dip in Darlington Provincial Park
- 7. Take memorable photos at Oshawa Valley Botanical Gardens
- 8. Play arcade games at NEB’s Fun World
1. Book a tour of Parkwood National Historic Site
Media credit: parkwoodestate
Website: http://www.parkwoodestate.com/
Location: 270 Simcoe St N
Operating hours:
- Summer, Daily 10:30 AM to 5 PM
- Winter, Wed-Sun 1 PM to 5 PM
Phone: +19054334311
Guided tour price (main floor):
- Adult, $18
- Seniors (ages 55 and up), $15
- Youth (ages 7-14), $15
One of the most touristy things you can do in Oshawa is visit Parkwood National Historic Site, a neoclassical mansion built in 1917. This was the former home of the late R.S. McLaughlin, Canada’s first auto baron.
Since access to the 11-acre estate is free, you might as well pay a quick visit to see what the fuss is all about. There, you’ll find a sprawling garden, fountains, and a grand estate.
If you want to delve into the estate’s history and learn more about the family that once called it home, book a specialty tour. You should make a reservation and pay the fees prior to your visit!
Pro Tip:
Schedule your visit when there are community events or workshops to make the most out of your trip to Oshawa.
2. Explore the city’s rich heritage at Oshawa Museum
Media credit: oshawamuseum
Website: http://oshawamuseum.org/
Location: 1450 Simcoe St S
Operating hours:
- Tue-Fri, 9 AM to 4 PM
- Sun, 12 PM to 4 PM
Phone: +19054367624
Located along the shores of Lake Ontario, Oshawa Museum has exciting exhibits that tell the stories of the Indigenous inhabitants and settlers.
It houses 50,000+ artifacts and photos, chronicling the city’s journey through time—from its cultural roots to its advancements in science and technology. But what sets it apart is its hands-on activities, allowing you to experience what life was like back in the day.
Don’t miss the historic houses—Henry House, Guy House, and Robinson House. While you can take free photos outside, a tour is well worth it to explore their rich history.
Pro Tip:
Reservations aren’t necessary for drop-in tours. However, if you’re hoping for a special tour with a large group, a reservation is required.
3. Watch battle re-enactments at the Canadian Tank Musem
Media credit: canadian_tank_museum
Website: https://www.ontrmuseum.ca/tankmuseum/
Location: 1000 Stevenson Road N
Operating hours:
Summer, Daily 12 PM to 4 PM
Phone: +19057286199
A visit to the Canadian Tank Museum is bound to capture your interest. While the main battle tanks steal the show, be sure not to overlook their impressive collection of logistics and reconnaissance vehicles.
The museum features a variety of iconic vehicles like BMW motorcycles with sidecars, Ford ambulances, and Chevrolet staff cars—many of which you’ll recognize from famous films and TV shows.
For the most action-packed experience, plan your visit during Aquino weekend, the largest historical military show in North America. It’s when the museum comes to life with battle re-enactments and thrilling one-on-one tank battles.
Pro Tip:
Although they are open daily, check their website prior to visiting as they might close the museum for private events.
4. Go ziplining at Treetop ECO Adventure Park
Media credit: treetopecoadventurepark
Website: http://www.treetopeco-adventurepark.com/
Location: 53 Snow Ridge Ct
Operating hours: Daily 9 AM to 4 PM
Phone: +19056551113
Admission fee:
- Children ages 6+ (2 courses), $35.40
- Youth 10-15 y/o (3 courses), $48.67
Treetop ECO Adventure Park is a thrilling outdoor playground for adrenaline seekers. Known for its exciting zipline and aerial courses, you can see the forest from the treetops—provided you meet their respective height requirements.
For those craving adventure, the zipline, Tarzan rope swings, and floating logs will get your heart racing while navigating the courses mid-air. If you’re new to this—don’t worry, easier courses, like the cargo nets and barrels, offer a great introduction to the experience.
But if you’re scared of heights, iBounce is a fun alternative. It offers a spacious, cushioned environment, where you can bounce around safely.
Pro Tip:
Schedule a trip on the weekends so you can get early bird discounts on the aerial courses and the iBounce park. Make a reservation prior to your trip so you can avoid long lines and potential disappointment.
5. Visit the Oshawa Zoo and Fun Farm
Website: http://www.oshawazoo.ca/
Location: 3377 Grandview St N, Oshawa, ON L1H 0J5, Canada
Operating hours:
- Mon-Fri, 10 AM to 3 PM
- Sat-Sun, 10 AM to 5 PM
Phone: +19056555236
Admission fee (individual pass):
- Adult, $17
- Seniors, $15
- Youth, $13
- Children under 2, FREE
Oshawa Zoo offers fun, family-friendly adventures with cute farm animals and other exotic creatures. Its laid-back atmosphere and hands-on experiences make it a refreshing alternative to larger, busier zoos.
Here, you’ll find a wide range of animals, from exotic species like ring-tailed lemurs and emus to farm favorites like mini horses and cows. The playful goats and friendly pot-bellied pigs are also popular with younger visitors.
If you’re traveling with kids, you might want to take them to the pony rides. They cost extra, $6 per ride, but it’s worth the experience for the little ones.
Pro Tip:
The zoo is dog-friendly, but strict rules do apply to your furry travel buddies. They must be well-behaved and quiet, so they don’t scare the zoo animals.
6. Take a dip in Darlington Provincial Park
Media credit: darlingtonprovpark
Website: https://www.ontarioparks.com/park/darlington
Location: 1600 Darlington Park Rd
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Phone: +19054362036
Darlington Provincial Park is a beautiful natural escape located along the shores of Lake Ontario, just east of Oshawa. Known for its scenic landscapes, the park features a mix of forested trails, wetlands, and sandy beaches, making it a perfect spot for outdoor fun.
If you’re in the mood for a refreshing dip, the park’s beach offers a great place to cool off. There are no lifeguards on duty, so stay close to shore, especially if you aren’t a confident swimmer.
What makes Darlington even more special is its abundance of wildlife. Whether you’re lounging at the beach or hiking the trails, there are plenty of opportunities to spot local fauna, from white-tailed deer to great blue herons and northern cardinals.
Pro Tip:
Before your trip, book your Daily Vehicle Pass to ensure access to the park. You can do that through their website or by giving them a call.
7. Take memorable photos at Oshawa Valley Botanical Gardens
Media credit: pixelmisc
Website: https://www.oshawa.ca/en/parks-recreation-and-culture/oshawa-valley-botanical-gardens.aspx
Location: 155 Arena St
Operating hours: Daily 6 AM to 10 PM
Phone: +19054363311
The Oshawa Valley Botanical Gardens is a picture-perfect attraction. Featuring stunning floral displays, winding pathways, and beautiful, water features, it’s an ideal destination if you’re hoping for a relaxing day out in nature.
While I do love the Peony Gardens, which come to life in late spring and early summer, the Memory Garden is a must for photos. With its well-manicured grass and gazebos, you can promenade like the beautiful ladies and gents from Bridgerton.
Aside from that, the gardens have water features and park benches where you can simply sit and admire the view.
Pro Tip:
Local fitness centers often host their yoga classes at the gardens. If you want to stay fit while you travel and meet the locals, sign up for a class.
8. Play arcade games at NEB’s Fun World
Media credit: nebsfunworld
Website: https://www.nebsfunworld.com/
Location: 1300 Wilson Rd N
Operating hours:
- Sun-Thu, 9:30 AM to 10 PM
- Fri-Sat, 9:30 AM to 11 PM
Phone: +19057232631
NEB’s Fun World in Oshawa is a must-visit for anyone looking for a fun-filled day. I recommend going on the mini golf course for some light-hearted competition with friends or family.
But don’t miss out on the rides, especially the Skylight Screamer. It catapults you 30 feet into the air before dropping you in a stomach-churning free fall—a wild experience that’s definitely not for the faint of heart.
With plenty of activities to try out, you can easily spend hours here. You won’t even have to leave the arcade to refuel because they have a cafe and lounge, which offers hearty meals and refreshing drinks.
Pro Tip:
Visit during weekdays or early mornings on weekends to avoid the crowd, and grab an all-access pass for the best value!
