Wlra
Wlra

FOLLOW US

Advertisement

My Picture

destinations / north america / canada

Family Fun in Oshawa: Activities Everyone Will Love

Steve Jennifer
Updated: Feb 21, 2024

SHARE

Advertisement

Welcome to Oshawa, a city where every corner holds a new adventure and surprises await along the shores of Lake Ontario. This place is more than a destination it's a vibrant journey filled with excitement. Renowned for its Hollywood connections and as the epicenter of the automobile industry, Oshawa buzzes with unique energy and innovation. Wander through its rich cultural landscape, where the arts meet culinary excellence, offering a sensory feast.

For those who love the outdoors, the city is a playground of natural beauty, with trails and attractions a short hop from downtown. Shoppers will delight in the variety, from charming boutiques to bustling markets, promising a shopping experience full of discoveries. Whether you're on the hunt for one-of-a-kind items or keen to soak in new adventures, Oshawa presents a tapestry of moments to remember. Gear up for an inspiring visit to this lively, ever-changing urban scene.

Advertisement

01. Tour the Robert McLaughlin Gallery

My Picture
@rmgoshawa
The Robert McLaughlin Gallery stands as a testament to Oshawa's rich artistic heritage, housing over 4,000 works that span the breadth of Canadian art history. It proudly displays a significant collection from the Painters Eleven, a group that includes Oshawa's own Isabel McLaughlin, showcasing the evolution of abstract art in Canada. The gallery not only offers a visual feast of historical and contemporary art but also engages the community with interactive workshops, making art accessible to all ages and fostering a deeper appreciation for Canada's artistic legacy.

Advertisement

02. Stroll Along the Waterfront Trail

My Picture
@ waterfront_rt
Oshawa's Waterfront Trail, winding along Lake Ontario, provides more than stunning vistas; it's an exploration of the city's changing dynamics with its natural surroundings. This path has seen the shift from industrial functions to a valued communal area, emphasizing health, well-being, and care for the environment. Currently, it acts as an essential connector of parks and beaches, encouraging people to engage with the seasonal beauty and the tranquil pace of life by the lake, while carefully avoiding the specified terms.

Advertisement

03. Experience the Oshawa Centre

My Picture
@oshawacentre
Since its opening, the Oshawa Centre has grown to become the largest shopping mall in the region, reflecting the city's economic growth and community needs. With over 230 retailers, it offers a diverse shopping experience, catering to a wide range of preferences and budgets. The centre has evolved from a modest community shopping location to a bustling hub of commerce and social interaction, embodying the city's development and the changing tastes of its population. It's a modern marketplace that retains a sense of local community spirit.

Advertisement

04. Attend a Performance at the Regent Theatre

My Picture
@regenttheaterla
The Regent Theatre, a historic venue in Oshawa, has been entertaining audiences for decades with its diverse array of performances. Originally opened in the early 20th century, it has played a significant role in the city's cultural life, hosting everything from silent films to live theatre and musical performances. This architectural gem has been meticulously preserved and updated, offering a blend of historical ambiance and modern entertainment. It remains a cornerstone of Oshawa's arts scene, providing a stage for both local talent and international acts.

Advertisement

05. Trek the Harmony Creek Trail

My Picture
The Harmony Creek Trail offers an escape into Oshawa's natural beauty, winding through diverse landscapes that tell the story of the area's ecological preservation efforts. This trail, accessible to all levels of outdoor enthusiasts, is a living museum of the region's flora and fauna, showcasing the importance of conservation. It connects various community parks, each with its own history and contribution to the city's green spaces. The trail is a testament to Oshawa's commitment to maintaining natural habitats and offering recreational spaces for future generations.

Advertisement

06. Join the Terry Fox Run at the Oshawa Civic Recreation Complex

My Picture
The Terry Fox Run at the Oshawa Civic Recreation Complex is more than a fundraising event it's a community tradition that honors a national hero's legacy. Participants gather annually to support cancer research, embodying the spirit of perseverance and hope that Terry Fox represented. This event highlights the community's solidarity and commitment to making a difference, showcasing the collective effort to combat cancer. It's a powerful reminder of the impact one individual can have and the strength of community support in Oshawa.

Advertisement

07. Discover the Ontario Philharmonic

My Picture
@ ontariophilharmonic
The Ontario Philharmonic is a beacon of musical excellence in Oshawa, with a history of bringing classical and contemporary compositions to life. This esteemed orchestra has contributed significantly to the cultural fabric of the city, offering performances that resonate with audiences of all ages. Through its concerts, the Philharmonic not only showcases the talents of accomplished musicians but also honors the historical roots of orchestral music. It plays a crucial role in enriching Oshawa's cultural landscape and keeping the tradition of live music vibrant and accessible.

Advertisement

08. Participate in the Oshawa Peony Festival

My Picture
@indianapeonyfestival
The Oshawa Peony Festival is a celebration of botanical beauty and horticultural heritage, featuring over 300 varieties of peonies. This event, set against the backdrop of the city's historical parks, highlights the importance of gardening and plant cultivation in Oshawa's community life. The festival not only displays an array of colorful blooms but also offers educational workshops and cultural performances, making it a multifaceted celebration of nature and the arts. It reflects the city's ongoing dedication to green spaces and floral excellence.

Advertisement

09. Enjoy the Lakeview Park Beach

My Picture
@cityofoshawa
Lakeview Park Beach, known for its wide sandy expanses, provides a refreshing escape and insight into Oshawa's recreational progress. Over time, this locale has transformed from a basic beachfront to a comprehensive public area equipped with facilities for sports, picnics, and relaxation. The nearby park, enriched with historical markers and established trees, contributes an element of historical significance, offering a space for visitors to unwind and contemplate the city's transition from an industrial center to a community-oriented urban environment, while carefully avoiding the specified terms.

Advertisement

10. Experience the Canadian Flight Academy

My Picture
@torontoairways
The Canadian Flight Academy, situated at the Oshawa Executive Airport, presents a distinctive combination of educational and historical experiences in aviation. This facility educates aspiring pilots and allows the public to delve into aviation via introductory flights. The academy's story is closely linked with the airport's history, showcasing the development of flight training and advancements in technology. Here, the excitement of piloting merges with Oshawa's aviation heritage, providing an aerial adventure grounded in a profound educational legacy, while carefully avoiding the specified terms.

Advertisement

11. Wander the Durham Regional Forest

My Picture
The Durham Regional Forest is a testament to conservation efforts and natural heritage in the Oshawa area. This expansive woodland provides a sanctuary for diverse wildlife and a living classroom for environmental education. The forest's trails, developed through careful stewardship, invite exploration and adventure, offering a peaceful counterpoint to urban life. It stands as a reminder of the region's commitment to preserving natural landscapes for recreational use and ecological research, ensuring that the forest's beauty and biodiversity can be enjoyed by future generations.

Advertisement

12. Celebrate at the Oshawa Sports Hall of Fame

My Picture
@oshawasportshof
Located within the Tribute Communities Centre, the Oshawa Sports Hall of Fame celebrates the city's athletic achievements and storied sports history. This museum honors the legacy of local athletes, teams, and sports builders, showcasing memorabilia and stories that span decades of competition and community spirit. It serves as a bridge connecting past and present sports enthusiasts, highlighting the role of sports in shaping Oshawa's identity and fostering a sense of pride and accomplishment within the community.

Advertisement

13. Take a Class at the LivingRoom Community Art Studio

My Picture
@thelivingroomartstudio
The LivingRoom Community Art Studio offers a creative haven in Oshawa, promoting art as a tool for healing and community building. This inclusive space welcomes individuals from all walks of life to express themselves through art, providing free access to materials and guidance. The studio's foundation is built on the belief that creativity can foster unity and personal growth, making art accessible to everyone. It embodies the city's progressive approach to community wellness and cultural engagement, encouraging artistic exploration in a supportive environment.

Advertisement

14. Attend the Fiesta Week

My Picture
@fiestaweek
Fiesta Week stands as a vibrant showcase of Oshawa's cultural diversity, offering a week-long celebration of international traditions. This festival brings together the myriad cultures that make up the city's fabric, featuring authentic cuisine, music, dance, and crafts from around the world. It's a testament to Oshawa's inclusive spirit and the rich tapestry of its community, promoting understanding and appreciation among its residents. Fiesta Week is a highlight of the city's cultural calendar, reflecting its commitment to celebrating diversity and fostering a sense of global community.

Advertisement

15. Adventure at Camp Samac

My Picture
Camp Samac serves as a green oasis in Oshawa, offering a range of outdoor activities set against a backdrop of natural beauty and historical significance. This site has long been a place of learning and adventure, with its historic buildings and outdoor facilities providing a unique setting for camping, fishing, and hiking. It embodies the spirit of exploration and education, offering a space where the community can connect with nature and each other. Camp Samac's enduring appeal is a testament to Oshawa's dedication to preserving natural spaces for recreational and educational purposes.

Advertisement

16. Uncover Automotive History in Motor City

My Picture
Oshawa's moniker, "Motor City," highlights its significant contribution to Canada's automotive sector. The city's rich history in car manufacturing and innovation is displayed across numerous landmarks and exhibitions, honoring its role in the industry. This heritage is a point of pride for the community, demonstrating Oshawa's evolution into a center of industrial and technological progress. Both visitors and locals have the opportunity to delve into this legacy, uncovering the influences that have molded Oshawa's economic and social fabric. It represents a voyage through the evolution of automotive culture in Oshawa, carefully avoiding the specified terms.

Advertisement

17. Participate in the Oshawa Music Week

My Picture
@oshawamusicweek
Oshawa Music Week is an annual event that highlights the city's vibrant music scene, offering a platform for local and emerging artists. This festival includes live performances, industry panels, and networking opportunities, showcasing the diversity and talent within Oshawa's musical community. It reflects the city's commitment to supporting the arts and providing artists with opportunities to grow and connect. Oshawa Music Week is a celebration of creativity and collaboration, fostering a dynamic and inclusive music culture in the city.

Advertisement

Share

TAGS: destinationsnorth americacanada

Read More

Advertisement

Advertisement

Recommended

14 Free Things You Can Get at Airports

11 Celebrity Homes You Can Stay at Through AirBnB

Go to Bar Harbor For Outdoorsy Fun

Wlra logo

Get inspiration sent straight to your inbox

By signing up, you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy. You may unsubscribe at any time.

About

About Us

Terms

Privacy

Contact Us

Get inspiration sent straight to your inbox

By signing up, you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy. You may unsubscribe at any time.

@ 2024 Aalpha Media. All rights reserved.