Are you the type of person who likes the idea of supporting small businesses? If so, Peterborough might just become one of your favourite places to visit. Once you get a taste of the fantastic service you receive nearly everywhere you go, you may even be tempted to pack your bags and make this vibrant city your new home!
In Peterborough, you’ll find every service and convenience you could ever hope for. We have all the big box stores and chains that make running your errands a snap. But even more importantly, we are home to some of the best independently owned shops and restaurants around, at least in our humble opinion! In this post, we’ll highlight just a few of our favourite small businesses that you have to visit.
Indulge Your Senses in Affordable Luxury
Your busy schedule may have you on the go from sunup to sundown, but that doesn’t mean you can’t take some time to relax and unwind here and there. A quick stroll down Peterborough’s quaint downtown streets leads to many affordable luxuries to pamper yourself or your loved ones whenever possible. Here are just two examples:
Massage Addict
Has the stress of your daily routine put a damper on your lifestyle or a kink in your neck? There is no need to suffer or despair. Not when the expert staff members at Massage Addict are standing by to provide a thoroughly relaxing and rejuvenating experience.
You can choose from a range of services, from therapeutic treatments that target specific areas to luxurious hot stone massages that melt away stress. Trained staff will personalize each session to provide a sweet escape from the daily tensions of your life. It isn’t possible to leave without being in much higher spirits than when you arrived!
Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain, stress, muscle soreness from exercise, or simply need a relaxing hour to yourself, an appointment at Massage Addict might just be what the doctor ordered. Speaking of appointments, their flexible booking services make it easy to move self-care and wellness to the top of your to-do list.
A Fetching Place
Your furry friends are part of your family, and they deserve some luxurious treatment and pampering too! Located in the heart of Peterborough, A Fetching Place is like a home away from home for that special canine in your life. It’s an open-concept, free-roaming daycare where dogs can socialize with other fur-babies, exercise, and enjoy human companionship all day long.
If you work long days or are planning a vacation, you can rest assured that your pup will be happy and cared for in this loving and cage-free environment. And that’s not all. They also provide grooming services, from simple trims to luxurious spa treatments that help your pets look and feel sensational. You will also find a well-stocked boutique with premium food, stylish collars and leashes, and unique toys that are sure to get those tails wagging.
Most doggy clients love and highly recommend A Fetching Place, and the word has spread far and wide. There is a waiting list for their services at the time of this writing, so you might want to call ahead to book a spot for your precious loved one.
What other amenities can you expect in Peterborough? The posts below are just the beginning:
- Top Schools in Peterborough
- All About Peterborough’s Stunning Green Spaces
- Top Activities for Kids in Peterborough
Shop ‘Til You Drop in Peterborough
Nothing compares to the glorious finds you’ll stumble upon when visiting the unique shops that help to give Peterborough its unforgettable character. Gourmet food items, luscious plants and flowers, and one-of-a-kind gifts are all on fabulous display in the shops lining the city streets. Here are just a few must-visit stops:
Plant Goals
Do you have a soft spot for all things green and glowing? Plant Goals is a botanical haven where gardening enthusiasts can feast their eyes on beautiful plants that breathe life into any space. From vibrant tropical palms to elegant succulents and lush ferns, Plant Goals has something for everyone, even rank beginners or those cursed with a “brown thumb.”
Walk in the door, and the first thing you will notice is the sweet scent of greenery while sunlight dances through the leaves. It’s easy to imagine spending hours exploring and discovering new additions to transform your home into a natural paradise. There is even a collection of shirts and merchandise to help you commemorate your exciting journey into the world of vibrant plants and flowers.
The Neighbourhood Vintage
You never know what treasure you’ll uncover once you step through the doors of The Neighbourhood Vintage! It’s like entering a time machine and visiting an era when nostalgia and style joined together in a harmonious symphony.
The shelves are adorned with an assortment of clothing, accessories, home decor items, and collectibles that take you to a whole new world. One minute, you’re immersed in the roaring ’20s, an unforgettable era of elegance and sophistication. A moment later, you’re living it up with the colourful styles of the groovy ’70s.
Once you’ve found that perfect article of vintage clothing, the search can begin for the ultimate statement piece to grace your living room, all to the soundtrack of bopping 80s music on vinyl.
The Neighbourhood Vintage also hosts themed events and workshops throughout the year, allowing you to delve deeper into the fascinating world of vintage fashion, styling, and restoration.
Wild Rock Outfitters
Attention, fellow lovers of the great outdoors! Peterborough is the place for you, with its many trails and cycling paths just waiting to be discovered. A visit to Wild Rock Outfitters helps you be prepared for anything during these adventures, wherever they may lead!
Located on George Street, you’ll discover an extensive range of the latest gear for hiking, camping, rock climbing, paddling, and more. From sturdy backpacks and reliable tents to high-performance footwear and technical clothing, you’ll find everything you need to make your outdoor excursion comfortable and extraordinary.
Inside the store, friendly and knowledgeable staff members will happily assist you with advice and expert recommendations tailored to your needs. Wild Rock Outfitters is actively involved in the community, sponsoring several events and outdoor education programs throughout the year.
A World of Entertainment Awaits
Peterborough is a city full of rich culture, heritage, and laugh-out-loud fun. Hardly a week goes by without a concert, play, festival, or other event to make you feel alive! Whether you love listening to local bands on an open field, laughing out loud to improve night, or can’t resist a unique and out-of-this-world experience, you’ve got it. You will never run out of new and entertaining adventures to explore in Peterborough. Below, you will find two notable examples:
Peterborough Axe Club
If you’ve ever longed to unleash your inner lumberjack, Peterborough Axe Club is the attraction to visit! Our favourite axe-throwing haven will provide you with a thrilling, exciting experience that combines skill, a touch of friendly competition, and a ton of heart-pumping adrenaline! It’s a unique outing that you and your friends can talk about for years. And what better way to relieve stress than by hurling an axe through the air?
As you enter the club, you’ll be greeted by the thunk of axes hitting wooden targets and the triumphant shouts of players who successfully hit the mark. The facility boasts a range of axe-throwing lanes where you can test your accuracy and technique. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-time axe thrower, our expert instructors are here to guide you and ensure a safe experience. No one loses a limb, and a great time will be had by all!
Peterborough Theatre Guild
There is nothing quite like the magic of live entertainment. And the Peterborough Theatre Guild eagerly awaits to provide you with the out-of-this-world experience you’re craving. This historic venue immerses you into a colourful universe of imagination, storytelling, and enchantment.
A range of captivating productions showcase the talents of local actors, directors, and designers. Take your pick between thought-provoking dramas, side-splitting comedies, and everything in between! Whatever your tastes, you’ll find something to captivate you from start to finish.
From the moment the curtain rises, the air buzzes with anticipation and excitement while ambient lighting illuminates the grandeur of the stage. Plush seats and ornate decor provide the final touches of elegance and comfort to earn your applause!
Looking for a new place to live but are unsure where to start? The resources below can give you a helping hand:
- 6 Peterborough County Towns You Have to Know About
- Peterborough vs. Other Small Cities in Ontario
- Rural vs City Life: What Should You Choose?
- A Guide to Peterborough’s Luxury Housing Market
Wine and Dine to Your Heart’s Content
We could almost sum up the joy of living in or visiting Peterborough in just two words: the food. Our one-of-a-kind restaurants and cafes hold their own with anything you find in the GTA, without the crowded parking lots and long wait times. With so many culinary options, a downtown stroll is almost like taking a trip around the world! If you’re ready to treat your tastebuds, here are a few of our top-rated restaurants:
One Fine Food
Culinary excellence meets sustainability at One Fine Food, where you’ll discover a selection of premium products and gourmet delights.
The shelves are packed with artisanal cheeses, carefully crafted charcuterie, succulent meats, fresh produce, and locally sourced specialty ingredients. Whether you’re an amateur chef seeking to create your next delectable masterpiece or a connoisseur of epicurean delights, you’ll find everything you need to indulge your palate.
The aroma of freshly baked bread and exotic spices tantalizes your senses throughout your visit, while staff members are standing by to provide expert culinary advice. One Fine Food takes great pride in its vast selection of local and global flavours. We also love how they strive to make a better world for everyone by using eco-friendly packaging and minimizing their environmental impact.
Jasmine Thai
At Jasmine Thai, you can experience the deluxe cuisine of Thailand right here in Peterborough. The diverse menu is a celebration of Thai favourites that highlight the richness and delicate balance of sweet and savoury flavours. If “presentation is everything,” the experience at Jasmine Thai does not disappoint. The aromas of exotic spices will whet your appetite and set the stage for a tantalizing taste experience!
Menu options range from fragrant curries and aromatic stir-fries to fresh salads and irresistible appetizers, all catered to your preferences.
When your meal arrives, the vibrant colours of their dishes and the enticing presentation will captivate your eyes. At first, you might think your entrée is too beautiful to eat. However, the first bite is sure to leave you hungry for more.
The skilled chefs at Jasmine Thai are obsessed with using high-quality ingredients, local produce, and authentic Thai spices. Add in the friendly service and welcoming hospitality, and you’ll soon see why this is one of our most beloved culinary destinations!
Hanoi House
Dreaming of a faraway land where you can experience a whole new world of aroma and flavour? At Hanoi House, an authentic menu brings the flavours of Vietnam to life, with options ranging from fragrant pho and savoury banh mi to tasty spring rolls and delicious noodle dishes.
Talented chefs craft each plate with the finest ingredients and authentic techniques that perfectly capture the essence of Vietnamese street food.
A visit to Hanoi House is about much more than a simple meal. Instead, it’s an exciting journey that begins when the aroma of herbs and spices enchants you and ignites your appetite. Then, you’ll feast with your eyes as you behold the vibrant greens of fresh herbs and the rich reds of chilli peppers. Finally, you’ll delight your tastebuds from the first scrumptious bite to the last.
If all this talk about food has made you hungry, you won’t have to go far to satisfy your cravings. Hanoi House is conveniently located on Lansdowne Street and is sure to become one of your go-to choices for romantic dinners and casual nights out.
Berc’s Steakhouse
Welcome to Berc’s Steakhouse, a place that meat lovers often describe as heaven on earth! This local gem has mastered the art of grilling and takes pride in using only the finest cuts of meat.
The mouthwatering menu is a celebration of prime cuts of beef cooked to perfection, tender ribeye steaks, juicy filet mignon, and more, all crafted with the utmost care and attention to detail. Each steak is aged to perfection and expertly grilled to your expectations. Their dedication to quality, flavour, and over-the-top service is reflected in every bite.
The aroma of sizzling steaks may leave you filled with hunger and anticipation, but your entree will be worth every minute of the wait. Looking for the perfect wine pairing or a side dish to complement your meal? Attentive and friendly staff are happy to guide you through the menu and offer personalized suggestions.
Next time you celebrate a special occasion, Berc’s Steakhouse invites you to relax in its welcoming atmosphere while they grill up a steak that can only be described as a masterpiece.
Hungry for more information on the many amenities and attractions in Peterborough? We are happy to tell you everything you need to know to decide if this is the perfect place for your family to call home! Reach out at team@jeffandkatie.ca or call 705-243-9797 to get started.
