Peterborough Trip Planner
Why Visit Peterborough: Top Reasons & Highlights
Travelers love Peterborough for its vibrant arts scene, with real reviews praising the lively festivals and local galleries. Explore historic landmarks, enjoy diverse eateries, and immerse in the scenic parks. Pilot simplifies your itinerary with its organized features for a seamless travel experience. Peterborough is approximately 4.5 hours driving from Detroit.
Peterborough travel photos
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What to do in Peterborough
With so much to do and so much to see, use Pilot to make your plan to make the most of your trip.
Explore top things to do
- 🌊 Explore the beautiful trails and waterways at the Otonabee River and Lift Lock. - 🎨 Check out the Art Gallery of Peterborough for local art exhibitions. - 🌳 Walk the picturesque trails in Jackson Park. - 🛶 Canoe or kayak at Beavermead Park. - 🍷 Dine at local favorites like St. Veronus for Belgian beer and Black Honey Bakehouse for coffee and pastries. Use Pilot to create a personalized trip itinerary including all these spots for a seamless adventure.
Find the perfect neighborhood to stay in
- 🏞️ Enjoy peaceful riverside walks in East City; locals adore its charming streets. - 🌳 Wander through The Avenues, blending historic homes and vibrant culture. - 🎨 Explore flourishing art scenes and cafes in the Downtown area, a favorite among indie travelers. - 🎓 Appreciate the youthful vibe at Trent University neighborhood, perfect for lively outings. Pilot helps you find perfect accommodations and discover great hotel deals throughout Peterborough.
Discover the best food and drink
🍁 Experience butter tarts, a Canadian staple. Try iconic spots like Doo Doo's Bakery in Bailieboro. 🍲 Embrace diverse flavors with Indian River Refectory’s butter chicken, celebrated for its rich spices. 🍖 Sample locally-sourced eats at Publican House Brewery, famous for their charcuterie boards. Pilot helps organize your culinary tour for an unforgettable trip!
In popular culture
🎬 A History of Violence (2005) : Filmed in Peterborough, particularly at the Del Crary Park where car scenes were shot. 📺 Hemlock Grove (2013) : Some scenes of this TV show were filmed around the city. 🎥 Cheaper by the Dozen 2 (2005) : Filmed in the area, showcasing parts of Peterborough's natural surroundings. 🌳 The Rez (1996-1998) : This series had scenes shot in and around Peterborough. 📱 Social Media : Local landmarks and events frequently appear on TikTok and Instagram, showcasing Peterborough as a charming backdrop.
Peterborough at a glance
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What reviews say
- Scenic parks and river make it a tranquil retreat. - Historic sites and cathedrals offer a rich history. - Redditors praise friendly locals and small-town charm. - Some reviews mention limited nightlife options. - Ideal for nature walks and relaxing by the river. - Don’t miss the local farmers' market. - Consider day trips to surrounding countryside.
What reddit says
- Locals often recommend the Nene Valley Railway for a ride on a steam train. - Kayaking on the River Nene is popular. - Many mention walking trails in Ferry Meadows. - The Cathedral is described as a must-see. - Some say it's quieter than other cities, which can be a plus or minus. - The city market is great for discovering local produce. - Remember, public transport can be limited.
Travel tips and safety
- Peterborough has a laid-back vibe with friendly locals. - Average meal costs around $15-25 CAD. - No known strange laws affecting tourists. - Tipping around 15-20% is common. - Paddle the Trent-Severn Waterway if you can. It's generally safe but consult travel advisories for updated information as situations can change.
Getting around
- Public transit is limited; buses run hourly. Taxis are available, rideshare is more limited. - Bike rentals are popular; city has many cycling paths. - Downtown is walkable, especially around the waterfront. - For planning your routes and paths, Pilot can help streamline your logistics efficiently.
How much it costs to visit
- Budget travelers spend around $100 per day in Vancouver. - Accommodations: Dorm beds at hostels cost $30-$40. - Meals: Street food and casual dining for $20-$30. - Transport: Public transit day pass is $8. - Attractions: Entry to museums or parks often under $10. - Mid-range travelers spend about $250 per day. - Accommodations: Mid-range hotels are around $150. - Meals: Dinner at a nice restaurant costs $40-$50. - Transport: Rideshare services or car rentals are $30. - Activities: Popular attractions like Capilano Suspension Bridge are about $50. - Luxury travelers might spend $500 or more per day. - Accommodations: High-end hotel rooms start at $300. - Meals: Fine dining for $100 per person. - Transport: Private car services or luxury rentals are $100. - Experiences: Private tours or helicopter rides start around $150. Remember, prices vary at different times of the year and during large events. Check Pilot to find current rates for hotels and activities.
What to do if you only have one day to visit
🗿 Explore the Canadian Canoe Museum to learn about the indigenous culture and the history of canoeing. 🌳 Stroll through Jackson Park's scenic trails and enjoy picturesque views. 🎶 Check out a live music show at the historic Market Hall Performing Arts Centre. 🖼️ Visit the art exhibits at the Art Gallery of Peterborough, showcasing local and national artists. 🚤 Walk along the Trent-Severn Waterway or take a boat tour to experience its engineering marvels. 🍻 Grab a craft beer at Publican House Brewery or sample local cuisine at a cozy downtown restaurant. ☕ Have a relaxed coffee break at the Silver Bean Café by the water, ideal for watching the city go by. Pilot can easily generate and map an itinerary like this for you for free in just a few clicks.
What to do if it rains
- ☕ Grab a coffee at Dreams Café and spend some time chatting with locals or planning your day ahead. - 🎨 Check out the Art Gallery of Peterborough; they have fascinating exhibits that rotate regularly. - 📚 Visit the Peterborough Museum & Archives to dive into the city's history. - 🛍️ Head to Lansdowne Place for shopping; it’s quite easy to spend a few hours here browsing. - 🍷 Enjoy a wine tasting at Black’s Distillery, perfect for warming up and indulging in local flavors. - 🎬 Catch a movie at Galaxy Cinemas for some easy entertainment. - 🍲 Try a local restaurant; the food scene is vibrant and diverse, great for spending a rainy afternoon enjoying hearty meals.
When to visit and how many days to spend
- Best time to visit: May to September - Temperature: 14-24°C, 57-75°F - Weather: Mild and mostly pleasant - Avoid: November to February - Temperature: 1-6°C, 34-43°F - Weather: Cold, damp, sometimes snowy - Climate: Temperate maritime - Biome: Deciduous forest with rolling hills - Effects: Mild summers, cold and wet winters - Activities: Enjoy walking tours, local markets, and historical sites during mild seasons
How to find events during your stay
- Visit the Peterborough Examiner www.thepeterboroughexaminer.com for local news and events. It's a reliable source for upcoming festivals and concerts. - Check out Peterborough Live on www.ptbolive.com for a comprehensive events calendar featuring community occurrences and live music schedules. - Follow the social media handle @VisitPtbo on Instagram for updates on cultural happenings, markets, and seasonal celebrations. - Explore kawarthanow.com which offers detailed information about arts, culture, and upcoming markets. - For local insights, follow @ptbo_canada on Twitter. They often post about events around the city. - Connect with the Peterborough & the Kawarthas Tourism website at www.thekawarthas.ca. They have a section dedicated to events where you can plan your visit around festivals and parades. Enjoy your authentic exploration of Peterborough!
Before your trip, read the history
Peterborough, nestled in the heart of England's Cambridgeshire, boasts a rich historical tapestry. Initially settled by Anglo-Saxons, the city has Roman roots that hint at its ancient past. Its centerpiece, the impressive Peterborough Cathedral, showcases stunning Norman architecture dating back to 1118. The city was named after Saint Peter, and its evolution from a market town to a thriving city was driven by the establishment of the cathedral. Over the centuries, Peterborough served as a hub of commerce in the region, with its burgeoning railway industry in the 19th century solidifying this role.Politically, Peterborough has swung between conservative and liberal influences, reflecting a diverse local demographic. The city's growth attracted a vibrant mix of cultures, making it a dynamic and welcoming community today. Historic figures like Hereward the Wake, known for resisting Norman conquest, add intrigue to its narrative. Visitors can enjoy the Flag Fen Archaeological Park, which offers insight into the Bronze Age, enriching any visit with a sense of continuity from Peterborough’s deep historical roots.
