Things To Do
in Newmarket
Newmarket is a friendly town north of Toronto that blends a charming historic downtown with modern shops and green spaces. It sits along the Holland River and Fairy Lake, offering pleasant waterfront strolls and parks. The community hosts regional events, farmers markets, and art spaces that give it a small-town feel with easy access to the GTA.
With its walkable core and nearby nature trails, Newmarket serves as a welcoming base for exploring southern Ontario.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the picturesque streets of downtown Newmarket. Enjoy the charming architecture and unique boutiques, stopping for a warm cup of coffee at a local café. This area exudes small-town charm, making it a perfect place to soak in the community vibe.
After lunch, visit the Newmarket Riverwalk Commons, where scenic trails along the river offer a perfect backdrop for a peaceful walk. You can also enjoy various recreational activities, including paddle boating or simply relaxing by the water. The vibrant atmosphere and community events often taking place here add to the experience.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at one of Newmarket's diverse restaurants, ranging from cozy bistros to international cuisine. Post-meal, take a walk along the riverbank to witness the beautiful twilight setting over the water. Cap off the night with live music at a local venue or a quiet drink at a nearby pub.
Kick off your Saturday by visiting the Newmarket Farmers' Market, where local vendors offer fresh produce, artisan goods, and homemade treats. Engage with friendly vendors and discover the region's agricultural bounty while enjoying the festive atmosphere. The market is an excellent opportunity to sample local flavors and meet the community.
Post-market, explore the historical sites in Newmarket, including the Old Town Hall and the Newmarket Heritage Center. Join a guided tour to learn about the rich history and culture of this charming town. Stop for lunch at a nearby café that features dishes made from fresh, local ingredients.
In the evening, attend a performance at the Newmarket Theatre, where you can enjoy local plays or visiting shows. The vibrant arts scene here makes it an exciting experience whether you're a theater enthusiast or just looking for something entertaining. Afterward, indulge in dessert at a nearby artisan bakery to sweeten your night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🏠1-bedroom apartment (city center, monthly) | $1,700-2,200 |
| 🚆Monthly public transit pass | $140-170 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming historic downtown with easy access to green spaces
- Strong community events and farmers markets
- Proximity to Toronto with a quieter, small-town feel
- Less nightlife and large-scale entertainment than bigger cities
- Commute to some GTA destinations may require a car or transit
- Seasonal market activity can be weather-dependent
Places to Visit in Newmarket
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic lakeside setting ideal for sunrise or sunset photography with reflections on the water and tree-lined promenades.
Colorful storefronts and preserved heritage architecture provide plenty of character shots and street photography opportunities.
Historic buildings and quaint corners perfect for capturing small-town ambience and architectural details.
Riverside views along the Holland River offer tranquil landscape scenes and seasonal wildlife photography.
Food in Newmarket
Newmarket Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Canadian staple often found at local diners and sandwich shops; look for it on Main Street for a satisfying protein-packed lunch.
Must-Try!
A traditional Ontario dessert available at bakeries and markets; great with a coffee break while exploring town streets.
A classic comfort dish widely served in pubs and casual spots; sample with gravy, cheese curds, and crispy fries.
Ontario-made treats that pair well with a morning stroll through the downtown area.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering local produce, baked goods, and artisanal products; a good spot to sample regional flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
People value polite greetings, saying please and thank you, and orderly queues. A simple hello or good morning goes a long way in local interactions.
Yield to pedestrians at crosswalks, especially near schools and parks. Keep noise levels reasonable in residential areas in the evening.
Respect private property and public spaces; avoid loud behavior late at night and pick up after yourself in parks and markets.
Safety
Tipping in Newmarket
Ensure a smooth experience
In Canada, a standard tip in restaurants is 15-20% before tax. For counter-service or takeout, tipping is optional or smaller (about 5-10%). Taxi drivers typically receive 10-15%.
Most places accept credit and debit cards, contactless payments, and mobile wallets. Cash is widely accepted, and Interac e-Transfer is common for larger transactions or within local services.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with occasional thunderstorms; best for outdoor markets, waterfront strolls, and long evenings on Main Street patios.
Colorful foliage and crisp air; great for scenic drives, park hikes, and photographing fall scenery along the trails.
Cold with possible snow; plan for indoor activities and cozy cafés, while some lakeside paths may be icy and require caution.
Mild temps with showers; ideal for gardens, parks, and the reopening of outdoor markets and cafés.
Newmarket at Night
Hiking in Newmarket
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A premier hiking and biking route in the area, offering shaded sections and scenic views intertwined with neighborhoods.
Riverside trails and viewpoints along the Holland River provide opportunities for nature photography and gentle hikes.
Airports
How to reach Newmarket by plane.
Major international hub about 30-60 minutes by car or rail from Newmarket, depending on traffic and connections.
Close-in airport offering short domestic and regional flights; convenient for quick trips within Ontario.
Another regional option located to the west; useful for some domestic or international connections via couple hours’ drive from Newmarket.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many mid-range homes and good schools draw family-oriented residents.
Proximity to GTA job markets and the presence of local businesses attract working-age adults.
A steady presence in the community with a range of services and healthcare facilities.
A growing mix of cultures contributing to a diverse local cuisine and cultural events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport across Ontario, with local rinks and recreation leagues accessible to residents and visitors.
Community leagues and club teams provide opportunities to watch or join games on weekends.
Several nearby courses offer casual rounds and scenic fairways for visitors of all skill levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Newmarket.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most venues in Newmarket offer vegetarian options such as salads, veggie burgers, pastas, and grain bowls. When in doubt, ask for meat-free sauces and confirm that dishes are prepared in a separate kitchen area if cross-contamination is a concern.