Things To Do
in Oshawa
Oshawa is a city located in the province of Ontario, Canada. It is known for its automotive industry, as it is home to General Motors of Canada and a major assembly plant. The city has a population of over 160,000 residents and offers a mix of urban amenities and natural beauty, with parks, trails, and Lake Ontario nearby.
Oshawa has a rich history, including heritage buildings, museums, and cultural events that showcase its past as a prominent industrial center.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2.50 - $3.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Oshawa Valley Botanical Gardens, enjoying the beautiful flora. Grab a coffee at a local café nearby.
Head to the Canadian Auto Museum to learn about the city's automotive history. Enjoy lunch at a nearby bistro with local flavors.
Stroll along the waterfront at Lake Ontario, taking in the sunset views. Dine at a waterfront restaurant, savoring fresh seafood.
Visit the Harmony Valley Trail for a refreshing morning hike surrounded by nature. Bring a packed breakfast to enjoy on the trail.
Visit the Oshawa Centre for shopping and dining options. Try a different local eatery for a tasty lunch and enjoy some retail therapy.
Unwind at the Memorial Park with an evening walk and enjoy the local art installations. Dinner at a cozy restaurant will round off the day nicely.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities like Toronto
- Access to beautiful natural surroundings, including Lake Ontario and various parks
- Growing job market with opportunities in different sectors such as healthcare and manufacturing
- Strong community spirit with various local events and activities
- Transportation options including GO Transit for easy access to Toronto and surrounding areas
- Public transportation can be limited compared to larger urban centers
- Winter weather can be harsh with significant snowfall and cold temperatures
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to bigger cities
- Economic fluctuations due to dependence on manufacturing jobs
- Higher crime rates in certain areas compared to Canadian averages
Best Activities in Oshawa
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade, have a picnic, or play beach volleyball at Lakeview Park, offering a serene outdoor escape.
Explore the extensive trail network for hiking, birdwatching, and nature appreciation in the lush woodlands of Harmony Valley Conservation Area.
Experience outdoor activities such as swimming, boating, fishing, and camping at Darlington Provincial Park, known for its picturesque sandy beach.
Tours
Uncover the best of Oshawa with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Oshawa
Visit one of these nice places.
A beautiful waterfront park offering stunning views of Lake Ontario, with plenty of photo opportunities of the lake, marina, and surrounding scenery.
An enchanting place with well-maintained gardens, walking paths, and picturesque floral displays, perfect for capturing nature's beauty in photos.
A scenic trail that runs along Harmony Creek, providing opportunities to capture the natural landscapes, wildlife, and serene water views.
Food in Oshawa
Oshawa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Canadian sandwich featuring peameal bacon on a Kaiser roll, often served with mustard and pickles. Must-try at Tedd's Hut or Cork & Bean.
Must-Try!
A sweet pastry consisting of butter, sugar, and eggs, often with a runny filling. Bakeries like Just Love Pie are known for their delectable butter tarts.
A beloved Canadian comfort dish featuring crispy fries topped with cheese curds and smothered in gravy. Try authentic poutine at Kenzo Japanese Noodle House.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Oshawa better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
An indoor market offering a variety of fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal food products. A great spot for sampling local flavors and finding unique ingredients for home cooking.
A recurring event featuring a wide array of food trucks offering diverse cuisines, from gourmet burgers to international street food. A must-visit for foodies seeking a lively outdoor dining experience.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Oshawa, it's important to respect personal space and maintain an appropriate physical distance when interacting with others, especially in public spaces.
Punctuality is valued in Canadian culture, so it's considered respectful to arrive on time for appointments and meetings in Oshawa.
Civility and politeness are highly regarded in Oshawa, so it's important to use courteous language and show consideration for others in social interactions.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Oshawa with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Oshawa
Ensure a smooth experience
In Oshawa, Canada, it is common practice to tip between 15-20% in restaurants, bars, and for other services such as hairdressing or taxi rides. Tipping is generally expected for good service, and is considered a part of the overall cost of the service.
In Oshawa, Canada, cash, debit, and credit cards are widely accepted for payment. Contactless payment methods are also becoming increasingly popular. It's important to note that while tipping is often done in cash, many establishments also allow for tips to be added to credit or debit card transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Oshawa.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a good time to visit Oshawa, as the city comes alive with blooming flowers and warming temperatures. Visitors can expect milder weather and lower hotel rates compared to the summer months. It is a great time for outdoor activities such as hiking and visiting local parks.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Oshawa. Visitors can expect warm temperatures and plenty of outdoor events and festivals. It's a great time for enjoying the beaches and exploring the waterfront. However, it's also the busiest time, so expect larger crowds and higher hotel rates.
Fall in Oshawa is beautiful, with the changing colors of the leaves creating a picturesque landscape. It's a great time for nature walks and hiking, as well as exploring the local vineyards and orchards. The temperatures start to cool, but it's still generally pleasant for outdoor activities.
Winter brings cold temperatures and snowfall to Oshawa. Visitors can expect winter sports activities such as skiing and snowboarding in the nearby resorts. The city also hosts winter festivals and holiday events, making it a festive time to visit. However, be prepared for colder weather and the possibility of winter storms.
Oshawa at Night
Hiking in Oshawa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located a short drive from Oshawa, Heart Lake Conservation Area offers a variety of hiking trails surrounded by beautiful forests and scenic lake views.
This forest features several trails that are perfect for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. It offers a peaceful natural setting close to Oshawa.
A popular trail in Oshawa that runs along the waterfront, offering scenic views of Lake Ontario. Ideal for both walking and biking.
A bit further away, this park features extensive hiking trails through rugged terrain and offers beautiful views of lakes and forests.
Located within the Oak Ridges Moraine, this trail features elevated views and forested paths, ideal for a quiet hiking experience.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Oshawa through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Oshawa by plane.
Major international airport serving Toronto, located about 70 kilometers southwest of Oshawa.
An airport located on Toronto Islands, approximately 60 kilometers west of Oshawa, serving regional flights and limited international destinations.
International airport located about 90 kilometers southwest of Oshawa, serving southern Ontario.
Located about 130 kilometers south of Oshawa, this airport serves as a hub for flights to the United States and some international destinations.
Located approximately 120 kilometers west of Oshawa, this airport offers flights primarily to Canadian and some U.S. destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Oshawa, primarily of British and Irish descent, along with other European ancestries.
A significant community in Oshawa, contributing to the cultural diversity of the city.
A growing demographic in Oshawa, representing various cultures from the Indian subcontinent.
A vital part of the city’s population, contributing to its multicultural fabric.
Includes First Nations, Métis, and Inuit, with a notable presence in Oshawa.
A smaller but increasing demographic group that adds to the city's diversity.
Individuals from various racial backgrounds, reflecting a broader trend of multiculturalism.
The Soul of Oshawa
Discover the essence of Oshawa through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Hockey is a highly popular sport in Oshawa, known for its strong community support and local teams, including junior leagues and recreational leagues.
Soccer enjoys a growing popularity in Oshawa, with various youth leagues and adult leagues fostering community involvement and skill development.
Basketball is a popular sport in Oshawa, with numerous recreational leagues and school programs that encourage participation among youth and adults.
Baseball is a cherished sport in Oshawa, featuring local leagues and teams that engage players of all ages in the community.
Lacrosse has a rich history in Oshawa, with several clubs promoting the sport and providing opportunities for players to develop their skills.
Rugby is becoming more popular in Oshawa, supported by local clubs and leagues that encourage participation and competition.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Oshawa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries in Oshawa have vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes. Bistro 238 and Avanti Trattoria are known for their extensive vegetarian selections and accommodating vegan options.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can find suitable options at Cork & Bean, which offers gluten-free pastries and thoughtful menu items catering to gluten-free dietary needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Oshawa with these cultural adventures.
