Things To Do
in Clarington
Clarington is a diverse municipality in Durham Region, Ontario, located east of Oshawa along the shores of Lake Ontario. It blends rural farmland, lakeside escapes, and historic towns like Bowmanville and Newcastle. The area is known for Darlington Provincial Park, waterfront trails, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
Visitors can enjoy outdoor recreation, farmers markets, and approachable local culture just outside the GTA.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the vibrant hiking trails at the Darlington Provincial Park. Breathe in the fresh air as you take in stunning views of Lake Ontario's shoreline. Capture the essence of the natural beauty surrounding you during a refreshing morning walk.
After a hearty lunch, rent a kayak or canoe to explore the waters of Lake Ontario. This adventurous afternoon activity allows you to experience Clarington from a unique perspective while enjoying the sunshine. Look for local wildlife as you paddle along the peaceful waterways.
As the sun sets, join one of the local dining spots for a delightful meal featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients. Enjoy the warm atmosphere and maybe even catch some live music while dining al fresco. Wind down your day with a leisurely stroll along the lake shore, soaking in the tranquil ambiance.
Begin your morning discovering the rich history of Bowmanville at the local museums, where you can learn about the area's past. Engage with interactive exhibits that bring the stories of Clarington's heritage to life. Grab a coffee from a nearby café to fuel your exploration.
After lunch, visit the local shops and galleries showcasing unique artisan crafts and products. Get a taste of the local culture as you chat with artisans and perhaps pick up a memorable souvenir. Later, take a stroll through the scenic downtown area, admiring its historic architecture.
Conclude the day by attending a performance at the local community theater. Whether it’s a play, concert, or dance performance, immerse yourself in the vibrant arts scene. Cap off the night by enjoying a dessert at a charming café nearby.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $110-170 |
| 🚌Public transport day pass | $7-12 |
| 🧺Groceries (monthly estimate for a small household) | $250-350 |
| ☕Coffee shop | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Access to lakeside scenery and nature just outside the GTA
- Family-friendly communities and a slower pace of life
- Affordability relative to bigger cities with good regional connectivity
- Limited nightlife compared to Toronto or Oshawa
- Smaller selection of big-city attractions and international dining
- Dependence on car travel for many destinations within the municipality
Places to Visit in Clarington
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic lakeside promenade with views of Lake Ontario, ideal for sunrise or golden hour silhouettes and family photography.
Brick storefronts and period architecture provide charming backdrops for street photography and candid portrait shots.
Forest trails and lake viewpoints offer wildlife, fall colors, and wide landscapes perfect for nature photography.
Food in Clarington
Clarington Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty Ontario staple, often served in local diners with coleslaw and pickles. Look for versions featuring local beef and house-made bun options.
Must-Try!
A seasonal treat from nearby orchards, often featured at farm markets and cafés during harvest season.
Classic Canadian dessert made with a flaky shell and a gooey, sweet filling; found in bakeries across Clarington.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering local produce, baked goods, preserves, crafts, and seasonal treats from nearby farms.
Rural stalls east of Bowmanville and in Orono provide fresh fruit, vegetables, honey, and seasonal snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings and saying please/thank you go a long way; people value orderly queues and courtesy in public spaces.
Residential areas and parks appreciate quiet behavior after evening hours; children’s play areas are common in parks with family-friendly norms.
Dispose of trash properly and respect local farmland and parks; keep dogs on leash where required and clean up after pets.
Safety
Tipping in Clarington
Ensure a smooth experience
In Canada, a tip of 15-20% before tax is customary in restaurants for good service. Tableside service and delivery may warrant tips at the higher end; rounding up on small bills is common for casual café purchases.
Credit cards and debit (Interac) are widely accepted; cash is handy for markets and smaller shops. Most places also support mobile payments and contactless transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with frequent outdoor events and farmers markets. Humidity can be high; pack sunscreen and stay hydrated while exploring lakeside trails.
Cold with possible snow; winter activities around lakes and parks require warm layers and traction for icy paths.
Mild temperatures and budding greenery; great time for outdoor walks, birdwatching, and farm fresh produce at markets.
Colorful fall foliage and harvest festivals; ideal for scenic drives, hiking, and photography along lakes and woodlands.
Clarington at Night
Hiking in Clarington
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest and lakeside trails suitable for day hikes, wildlife viewing, and photo opportunities.
Relaxed creekside trails ideal for easy walks, birdwatching, and family outings.
Airports
How to reach Clarington by plane.
Close to downtown Toronto; easy access for domestic flights and connections, reachable via driving or transit from Clarington.
Major international hub about 60-90 minutes away by car or via transit; wide range of domestic and international flights.
Small regional airport near Oshawa used for general aviation and business charters; practical for private aircraft trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Strong presence of family households attracted to good schools, parks, and community events.
Residents who travel to Oshawa, Whitby, or Toronto for work, often using highways and regional transit.
Active senior communities with healthcare facilities and community programs.
Growing diversity, with residents from various backgrounds contributing to local culture and cuisine.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple of Ontario winters with local youth and adult leagues; community arenas host games regularly.
Outdoor leagues and pickup games in parks during warmer months; suitable for all ages.
Summer leagues and park facilities provide opportunities for casual and competitive play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Clarington.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose from veggie burgers, salads, grain bowls, and seasonal vegetable plates; many spots offer meat-free mains and clearly labeled options.
Ask for gluten-free bread or pasta options; many cafés accommodate dietary needs with dedicated prep areas or separate utensils.