Peterborough is more than just a city nestled on the Otonabee River. Over the last decade, it’s become a bustling hub of food and culture — with a healthy outdoor adventure scene. To this day, it’s one of the best market town’s we’ve visited. It’s also the urban hub of the Butter Tart Tour. So, butter tart lovers beware: you may never leave.
1. Even in the coldest months, the Peterborough Farmers’ Market is bustling. We like to pop in early for a breakfast burrito, hot off the griddle. Farm fresh eggs, loads of salsa and peppers — ain’t nothing wrong with that!
2. Whatever the weather, we’d then head for Harper Park. It’s the only cold water brook trout stream that runs through a municipal area in Ontario — and naturally, it’s been touted as ‘the most ecologically important natural area in the city of Peterborough’. There’s tons of birds, trees and weird plants to surround yourself with too.
3. After your hike, warm up with a coffee and a good ‘ol slice of quiche or pie at The Pastry Peddler. Even during the coldest months, the staff here will warm your heart. The pie ain’t half bad either.
4. Definitely make time to visit The Canadian Canoe Museum. The place holds more than 600 canoes, kayaks and paddled watercraft with over 100 on display in the galleries! Together they span the country from coast to coast to coast and represent many of the major watercraft traditions of Canada.
5. In case you haven’t heard, there’s a super cool barbeque scene in Peterborough. Our (current) favorite is Muddy Pit BBQ, technically in Keene. This is good, ‘ol fashioned wood smoked BBQ served by the pound. Extra napkins highly recommended.
BONUS: Just outside of town, Elmhirst�s Resort�s sought-after annual Winemakers Dinners pair premium wines from very select vineyards with fine, locally-sourced cuisine � the provisions often originating from Elmhirst�s own farm.Definitely book your spot before coming!