Peterborough, Ontario
Ontario/Peterborough

Peterborough

The Kawarthas' lakeside city of lift locks and art

CanadaOntarioPeterborough
Province
Ontario
Best For
Paddlers, families & history lovers
Best Time to Visit
May–October for paddling and trails
Recommended Stay
2 days
Destination Guide

Ride the world's highest hydraulic lift lock on the Trent-Severn Waterway, canoe the lakes, explore the Canadian Canoe Museum, and visit Petroglyphs Provincial Park.

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Things to Do

Ride the world's highest hydraulic lift lock on the Trent-Severn Waterway, canoe the lakes, explore the Canadian Canoe Museum, and visit Petroglyphs Provincial Park.

Where to Stay

Downtown hotels and B&Bs sit along the Trent-Severn Waterway, minutes from the Kawartha Lakes.

Best Time to Visit

May–October for paddling and trails

How Many Days

2 days

Best for

Paddlers, families & history lovers

Where to Stay

Where to stay in Peterborough

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Peterborough offers a range of lodging from budget to luxury. For the most convenient base, stay in the central area close to top attractions and dining. Families will appreciate quieter neighborhoods or resorts with pools, while couples may prefer boutique hotels in the historic or waterfront districts.

Hotels & Lodging

Where to stay in Peterborough

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Holiday Inn Peterborough-Waterfront

Mid-range

Lakefront hotel near the lift lock and downtown.

Waterfront$$

The Only on Hunter

Boutique

Stylish boutique inn in downtown Peterborough.

BoutiqueWalkable$$$

Comfort Inn Peterborough

Budget

Convenient roadside base near Highway 115.

Budget$
Things to Do

Best things to do in Peterborough

Book tours

Peterborough Lift Lock

World's highest hydraulic vessel lift lock on the Trent-Severn Waterway.

1 hourFree

Canadian Canoe Museum

The world's largest collection of canoes and kayaks in a lakeside home.

2 hours$

Trent-Severn Waterway

Paddle or boat the 386 km historic canal linking Lake Ontario to Georgian Bay.

Half day$$

Jackson Park

Riverside trails, a historic footbridge and old-growth pines.

1–2 hoursFree
Quick Answers

Peterborough FAQ

Yes β€” Peterborough is worth visiting for paddlers, families & history lovers. The Kawarthas' lakeside city of lift locks and art Ride the world's highest hydraulic lift lock on the Trent-Severn Waterway, canoe the lakes, explore the Canadian Canoe Museum, and visit Petroglyphs Provincial Park.

Most travelers spend 2 days in Peterborough. That gives you enough time to see the main attractions, enjoy ride the world's highest hydraulic lift lock on the trent-severn waterway, and explore at a comfortable pace. If you want a slower trip with day excursions to nearby areas, add an extra day or two.

Peterborough is known for ride the world's highest hydraulic lift lock on the trent-severn waterway, canoe the lakes, explore the canadian canoe museum, and visit petroglyphs provincial park.. The Kawarthas' lakeside city of lift locks and art

The best time to visit is May–October for paddling and trails. Shoulder seasons usually offer fewer crowds and better lodging rates.

Costs in Peterborough vary by season and travel style. Lodging is the biggest expense β€” book early and consider staying just outside the center. Many top attractions and outdoor activities are free or low-cost.

A car is helpful but not essential in Peterborough. Downtown is walkable, but a car gives you the freedom to reach nearby attractions and scenic areas.

Yes, Peterborough works well for families. Look for lodging with pools or suites, plan a mix of attractions and outdoor time, and take advantage of parks and free activities. Family-friendly areas tend to be a bit outside the busiest core.

Yes, Peterborough is a lovely destination for couples. Stay in a boutique hotel or cozy inn, plan scenic walks and good dinners, and enjoy the quieter side of the destination for a romantic trip.

Don't miss: ride the world's highest hydraulic lift lock on the trent-severn waterway, canoe the lakes, explore the canadian canoe museum, and visit petroglyphs provincial park.. It's especially great if you love paddlers, families & history lovers. Also leave time to wander and discover local cafΓ©s, neighborhoods and views that aren't in every guidebook.

Downtown hotels and B&Bs sit along the Trent-Severn Waterway, minutes from the Kawartha Lakes. See our full guide to the best hotels in Peterborough for area-by-area recommendations.

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Travel Guides

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Written by the Canadiana Lodging Travel Team