Things To Do
in Markham

Markham, Canada is a diverse and multicultural city located in the Greater Toronto Area. It is known for its strong technology sector and is home to numerous high-tech companies and innovation hubs. Markham boasts a variety of parks, recreational facilities, and cultural attractions for residents and visitors to enjoy.

With a thriving community and vibrant economy, Markham is a dynamic and growing city in Ontario.

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $250
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
  • Coffee: $2 - $5
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $3 - $5
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $60 - $120
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $80

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore Markham's Heritage
morning
:

Start your day by visiting the Markham Museum to learn about the area's history. Enjoy a leisurely walk around the museum grounds to take in the beautiful surroundings.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local café before heading to the historic Unionville district. Stroll through the charming streets, visiting boutiques and galleries.

evening
:

Dine at one of Unionville's quaint restaurants offering delicious, locally sourced food. Finish your day with a scenic walk along the nearby waters.

day 2
Nature and Parks Adventure
morning
:

Begin your adventure at the beautiful Toogood Pond Park, where you can take in nature on a peaceful walk. Don't forget to bring your camera for some great photo opportunities.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch at the park. Afterward, try some outdoor activities like kayaking or biking around the area.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with dinner at one of the nearby family-friendly restaurants. Relax by the pond as the sun sets for a perfect end to the day.

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Diverse community with a rich cultural heritage
  • Strong economy with many job opportunities, especially in technology and finance
  • Excellent public transportation system, including connections to Toronto
  • High-quality educational institutions and schools
  • Abundant parks and recreational facilities for outdoor activities
  • High cost of living, particularly in housing
  • Traffic congestion during peak hours due to commuting patterns
  • Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities
  • Harsh winters with heavy snowfall can be challenging
  • Rapid growth can lead to urban sprawl and decreased green space

Best Activities in Markham

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Rouge National Urban Park

Explore the natural beauty of Canada's first national urban park, featuring hiking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for birdwatching and nature photography.

Milne Dam Conservation Park

Enjoy walking, cycling, or picnicking in the peaceful natural surroundings of this conservation park, which also features a picturesque reservoir and various wildlife viewing opportunities.

Toogood Pond Park

Relax by the scenic pond, take a leisurely stroll on the walking trails, or enjoy a peaceful picnic in this charming park that offers a tranquil escape from city life.

Tours

Uncover the best of Markham with these unforgettable tours.

Places to Visit in Markham

Visit one of these nice places.

Toogood Pond Park

Beautiful park with a pond and walking trails, perfect for nature and landscape photography.

Milne Dam Conservation Park

Scenic park with walking trails, a reservoir, and wildlife, offering great views for photography.

Markham Museum

Historical site with picturesque surroundings, including heritage buildings and gardens, ideal for photography enthusiasts.

Cathedral of the Transfiguration

Architecturally stunning cathedral offering a unique backdrop for photography.

Food in Markham

Markham, Canada offers a diverse culinary experience with a fusion of Chinese, Indian, and Canadian cuisines. The city is known for its vibrant food scene, offering a wide array of delectable dishes and unique dining experiences.

Markham Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Peking Duck

A famous Chinese delicacy known for its crispy skin and tender meat, typically served with hoisin sauce, green onions, and thin pancakes. Head to Casa Victoria for an authentic Peking Duck experience.

Must-Try!

Biryani

An aromatic Indian rice dish layered with marinated meat or vegetables, fragrant spices, and caramelized onions. Try the flavorful Biryani at Kairali Restaurant, renowned for its South Indian cuisine.

Butter Tart

A quintessential Canadian dessert featuring a flaky pastry shell filled with a sweet mixture of butter, sugar, syrup, and eggs. Sample delectable Butter Tarts at Old Firehall Confectionery.

Unique Experiences

Get to know Markham better with these unique experiences.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Pacific Mall

Explore the bustling aisles of Pacific Mall to discover an assortment of Asian street food such as bubble tea, stinky tofu, and skewered meats. Don't miss the diverse food court offerings for a true street food experience.

Unionville Main Street

Stroll along Unionville Main Street to find charming food vendors offering delectable treats like mini donuts, gourmet ice cream, and freshly popped kettle corn. Indulge in a variety of street food delights while taking in the picturesque surroundings.

Weather

The climate in this area is classified as humid continental, characterized by four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and snowy, with temperatures often dipping below freezing, particularly in January, the coldest month. Snow can accumulate, and the region experiences brisk winds during this time. Spring sees a gradual warming, with temperatures rising and snowmelt occurring, leading to a mixture of rainy days and sunny spells. The summer months are typically warm and humid, with July experiencing the highest average temperatures, often reaching into the low 30s Celsius (mid-80s to low 90s Fahrenheit). Thunderstorms are possible during the summer, providing occasional relief from the heat. Autumn ushers in cooler temperatures and provides a beautiful display of fall foliage. Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with slightly wetter conditions in the summer. Overall, the climate supports a variety of seasonal outdoor activities, making it a dynamic environment throughout the year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Diversity

Markham is known for its diverse population, so it's important to show respect for people of different cultural backgrounds, languages, and traditions.

Politeness and Courtesy

Being polite and courteous is highly valued in Markham. Use 'please' and 'thank you' when interacting with others, and be mindful of personal space and boundaries.

Observing Cultural Customs

It's important to be open-minded and willing to learn about and participate in different cultural customs and celebrations, such as festivals and religious events.

Hidden Gems

Discover the hidden gems of Markham with these exclusive activities.

Safety

This vibrant city in Ontario is known for its diverse communities and suburban charm. Safety in this area is generally considered to be high. The local police force actively engages with residents and has various community programs aimed at crime prevention. Crime rates in the city are relatively low compared to larger urban centers. Residents often report feeling secure in their neighborhoods, which are characterized by family-friendly amenities, parks, and recreational facilities. That said, like any urban area, it's important for individuals to remain vigilant and practice standard safety measures. Local authorities encourage community involvement and awareness programs to enhance safety and foster a sense of belonging among residents. Overall, it's a place where people can feel comfortable and enjoy a good quality of life.

Tipping in Markham

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Markham, Canada, tipping is customary in restaurants, bars, and for services such as hairdressing and taxi rides. The standard practice for tipping at restaurants is around 15-20% of the total bill, and for other services, it is also common to tip around 15-20% of the total cost.

Payment

Payment in Markham, Canada is mostly done using credit or debit cards, and cash is also widely accepted. Mobile payment methods such as Apple Pay and Google Pay are becoming more popular. Contactless payment is widely available at most establishments.

Top Things To Do

Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Markham.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring is a great time to visit Markham as the weather is mild and the city comes to life with beautiful cherry blossoms and vibrant greenery.

Summer

Summer is perfect for outdoor activities in Markham, with warm weather and numerous festivals and events taking place.

Fall

Fall brings a stunning display of colorful foliage and cooler temperatures, making it an ideal time for scenic walks and enjoying the autumn beauty.

Winter

Winter in Markham can be cold, but the city offers festive events, winter sports, and opportunities to experience the holiday season in a charming setting.

Markham at Night

Nightlife in this city offers a blend of cultural experiences, vibrant venues, and diverse dining options. You'll find an array of sophisticated bars, lively pubs, and trendy lounges where locals and visitors alike can enjoy a night out. The culinary scene is bustling, with numerous restaurants offering late-night bites that range from traditional Canadian fare to international cuisines reflecting the city’s multicultural population. Live music and entertainment are also key features, with various spots hosting everything from jazz and blues performances to DJ sets and dance floors. Additionally, several cultural festivals and events often extend into the evening hours, providing a unique way to experience the local culture. For those seeking a more low-key evening, there are cozy coffee shops and dessert bars open late, perfect for unwinding with friends. If you're in the mood for some entertainment, you might catch an indie film or participate in one of the numerous escape rooms or virtual reality arcades scattered throughout the area. Despite not being as large as some of the more metropolitan areas, the city has its own distinct charm and vitality when the sun goes down, making it a noteworthy destination for nightlife enthusiasts.

Hiking in Markham

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Rouge National Urban Park

A vast park with diverse trails, showcasing beautiful scenery, wildlife, and natural landscapes right in the urban area.

Toogood Pond Park

A serene park with a loop trail around the pond, ideal for a leisurely hike and picturesque views.

Milne Dam Conservation Park

Features a network of trails along the river, perfect for walking, cycling, and enjoying nature.

Markham Green Park

A small park with walking trails that provide a peaceful environment surrounded by greenery.

Don Valley Trail

An extensive trail that runs through the Don Valley, offering scenic views and various hiking routes.

Unforgettable Journeys

Delve deeper into Markham through these rare and unique activities.

Aiports

How to reach Markham by plane.

Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ)

The primary international airport serving Toronto and the surrounding region, located approximately 30 kilometers southwest of Markham.

Hamilton John C. Munro International Airport (YHM)

Located about 70 kilometers southwest of Markham, this airport offers limited international flights and is a hub for low-cost carriers.

Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF)

Located about 150 kilometers south of Markham, across the border in the United States, it serves the Buffalo and Niagara Falls areas with various international destinations.

London International Airport (YXU)

Located approximately 170 kilometers southwest of Markham, this airport also offers a range of domestic and some international flights.

Walkability

Walkability in this suburban city can vary significantly across different neighborhoods. Generally, walkability refers to how friendly an area is to walking, based on several factors like pedestrian infrastructure, commercial accessibility, safety, and the overall urban design. In many parts of Markham, pedestrians may find it necessary to rely on vehicles due to the sprawling nature of the community and the prevalence of residential areas that are not well connected to commercial zones. Areas near transit hubs or major parks may offer better walking conditions, with sidewalks, crosswalks, and pathways that encourage pedestrian movement. Moreover, newer developments in Markham often incorporate mixed-use designs that enhance walkability by placing residential areas close to shops, schools, and recreational facilities. The presence of trails and green spaces also contributes positively to the walking experience in those neighborhoods. However, challenges exist, such as limited public transportation options in less densely populated areas and a road network primarily designed for car travel. Community initiatives aimed at improving pedestrian infrastructure and promoting walkable environments are ongoing, reflecting a growing trend towards prioritizing active transportation in urban planning.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Chinese

The largest demographic group in Markham, characterized by a significant population with Chinese heritage.

South Asian

A prominent demographic group that includes individuals of Indian, Pakistani, and Bangladeshi descent.

White

A diverse group encompassing various European descents, making up a notable portion of the population.

Black

A growing community in Markham, including individuals of African and Caribbean ancestry.

Filipino

An emerging demographic group with a notable presence in Markham, contributing to the cultural diversity.

Other Asian

Includes individuals from various Asian backgrounds such as Vietnamese, Korean, and Japanese, among others.

Hispanic or Latino

A minority demographic group that includes individuals of Hispanic and Latino descent.

Indigenous Peoples

Includes First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples, representing a smaller percentage of the population.

The Soul of Markham

Discover the essence of Markham through these truly unique experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Hockey

A popular winter sport in Markham, with numerous local teams and a strong community interest.

Soccer

Widely played in Markham, with various leagues and community programs for all ages.

Basketball

A popular sport among youth in Markham, with many recreational and competitive leagues.

Baseball

Enjoyed by families and local teams during the summer, with several parks equipped for the sport.

Lacrosse

A traditional Canadian sport that is gaining popularity in Markham through local clubs.

Volleyball

Played recreationally and competitively in schools and community centers across Markham.

Traffic

Traffic in this city, located within the Greater Toronto Area, is influenced by its rapid growth and suburban character. The road network includes major thoroughfares like Highway 404 and Highway 407, which connect to neighboring regions but can often experience congestion during peak hours. As a bustling area with a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial zones, traffic volume tends to increase significantly during rush hour. Public transportation options, such as buses operated by York Region Transit, serve the community, yet many residents rely on personal vehicles for their daily commutes. The local government has been making efforts to improve transportation infrastructure and promote alternative modes of transport, such as cycling and walking, to alleviate gridlock. Overall, while traffic can be heavy at times, the city continues to develop its transport systems to better serve its growing population.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Markham.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Markham boasts numerous restaurants and eateries offering diverse vegetarian and vegan menus. Explore establishments like Rawlicious for raw vegan cuisine, and Good Catch Boil House for flavorful vegetarian options.

Gluten-Free Dining

Visitors with gluten sensitivities can enjoy a variety of gluten-free dishes at restaurants such as Smash Kitchen & Bar, where a dedicated gluten-free menu ensures a safe and satisfying dining experience.

Cultural Immersions

Experience the heart and soul of Markham with these cultural adventures.

Healthcare

Healthcare in the region is supported by a variety of services and facilities designed to meet the needs of residents. Access to healthcare is facilitated through several hospitals, clinics, and specialized medical services, ensuring comprehensive care options. Local hospitals include organizations like Markham Stouffville Hospital, which provides a range of emergency and inpatient services, as well as specialized care in areas such as surgery, maternity, and rehabilitation. Community health centers also contribute to accessible healthcare by offering preventative services, mental health support, and primary care. In addition to hospitals, there are numerous family physicians, walk-in clinics, and specialized medical practices that cater to various health needs. The healthcare system is integrated with public health services, which focus on community health initiatives, vaccinations, and health education programs. Residents have access to both public and private healthcare options, with the public system primarily funded by the province. However, many choose to complement their public coverage with private health insurance for additional services like dental care, vision care, and physiotherapy. The multicultural nature of the community is also reflected in healthcare services, with many providers offering multilingual support to accommodate diverse populations. Overall, the healthcare landscape is characterized by a commitment to accessibility, quality care, and community health initiatives.

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