We’ve been singing the praises of Peterborough a lot lately; we just can’t help ourselves! There is so much to see, experience, do, and enjoy around town that there’s never a dull moment. The scenic beauty is unparalleled, and the entertainment is as good (or better) than anything you’ll find in the GTA – yes, we said it – because it’s true.
Of course, you can always find a ton of fun things to do anywhere – as long as you’re ready to take out your credit card and say, “Charge it.” The real litmus test of a great place to live is in the number of free (or very low-cost) things to do that bring joy and excitement to your life. That’s yet another area where Peterborough shines! In this post, we’ll highlight a few fun activities that don’t make a dent in your wallet or bank account.
If you’re planning to relocate to Peterborough, our detailed guide will help. Download your copy for free right here.
Explore the Green Space
Peterborough’s vast amount of green space is practically legendary. Prepare to be dazzled, from the tranquil fountain and picturesque setting of Millennium Park to the creekside views at Jackson Park and more.
If you’re up for a leisurely stroll or heart-racing jog, you’re never far from a scenic path that makes you feel miles away from the city. Many are right on the waterfront, which adds even more serenity and beauty to what may become your regular routine!
With over 80 km of spectacular trails, you’ll also be tempted to hop on your bike for a tour of the city. Many of Peterborough’s streets also have generous-sized bike lanes, giving you more variety to your morning commute.
There are too many beautiful green spaces in Peterborough to cover in a few paragraphs. That’s why we wrote an entire blog post, which you can read at All About Peterborough’s Stunning Green Spaces.
Visit the Lift Lock 21
Peterborough’s famous lift lock is well deserving of its own headline! Just imagine venturing downtown for your daily errands only to be greeted by the sight of the world’s largest hydraulic lift lock. This incredible sight is also one of our top tourist attractions, which draws visitors all year long.
- In the summer, it’s the perfect spot for a picnic as you take in the view of the Trent Canal.
- During cold winters, this turns into the ultimate skating rink, where you can take in an exciting game of shinny or just glide along the frozen water.
Peterborough is a fantastic place to live, and that’s not just our opinion. We are sure you will agree after reading the posts below:
- Is Peterborough Dog Friendly?
- Top Activities for Kids in Peterborough
- Where Are Peterborough’s Best Eats?
Check Out the Free Zoo
The Riverview Park and Zoo is the only accredited zoo in Canada that also offers free admission. With over 55 acres of park land and animal sightings, it’s no wonder that this is hands down one of Peterborough’s most beloved landmarks.
Pop by and say hello to over 150 animals from 40 species, including some two-toed sloths, otters, lizards, turtles, meerkats, and more. Regular educational exhibits will hold your rapt attention as you encounter new furry and scaly friends in their naturalized environment.
Other activities include strolling through the butterfly garden, riding the miniature train, and tobogganing on the hill in the north. Fun fact: The zoo also boasts one of Peterborough’s largest playgrounds. The kids will have a blast at the epic splash pad, complete with geysers, water cannons, and a giant dumping bucket.
Admire Some Artwork
We bet you didn’t know that Peterborough is a celebrated hub of art and culture! There are wondrous displays of creativity nearly everywhere, and the majority of it is free to enjoy.
Take the Peterborough Art Gallery (AGP), for instance. Other cities may have galleries of their own, and occasionally may offer a free event here and there. But the AGP is always free to attend, which gives you a chance to appreciate a stunning array of visual artworks. If that’s not enough to satisfy your hunger for creativity, many events at ARTSPACE PTBO are also free, although you may wish to register well in advance.
The City of Peterborough actively encourages public art at every turn, which means many art installations are displayed prominently throughout the city. For example, check out Renaissance on Hunter in downtown Peterborough or the Right of Way project that turns traffic signal cabinets and electrical supply boxes into breathtaking works of art.
Millennium Park boasts numerous sculptures, including Esker, 3 Pillars, and The Hockey Player. To learn more about all of the commissioned displays in Peterborough, take a look at this interactive map.
Ready to pack your bags and move to Peterborough? The posts below can help you plan your next steps:
- A Guide to the Current Peterborough Housing Market
- Why Now Is the Time to Buy a Home in Peterborough
- How Can You Make Your Home Offer More Irresistible?
Bask on the Beach
What better way to spend the day without spending your money than by basking on the glorious waterfront? Peterborough’s location between the Otonabee River and Little Lake means there is plenty to see and explore at all times of the year.
Do you want to swim or catch some rays? Head on over to Beavermead Park, where you’ll find a supervised beach right in town. Jackson Park and Millennium Park also feature waterside views, and Del Crary Park is right on the lake. This is also the site of Peterborough MusicFest, the longest free concert series in Canada.
If you want a day of fun and adventure without breaking the bank, Peterborough is the place to be! The list of free and low-cost activities is endless, which means you’ll never run out of exhilarating events to enjoy.
We can’t pack all of the benefits of living in Peterborough into a single blog post. If you want to know more, get in touch with our Peterborough real estate agents today. Give us a call at 705-243-9797 or email team@jeffandkatie.ca with any questions.
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