Durham, just east of Toronto, needs to find itself on the itinerary of your Canadian road trip. If you’re an outdoorsy type, you’ll get to wander through its green trails. Or if you’re a history buff, there’s no shortage of sites and museums to explore. Whether you love adventure, parties, or history, Durham can deliver it all.
When taking a break from exploring all Durham has to offer, why not enjoy a bit of gaming? If you’re a fan of casinos but don’t really feel like hitting the town during cold Ontario nights, you can always stay in and play online.
Make sure to look for the same day withdrawal online casino sites so you get your payout with no fuss while you’re still on the road. And what’s the best way to spend your lucky winnings? You guessed it: on our top 5 must-visit places in Durham!
1. Parkwood Estate
One of Canada’s most stunning landmarks, Parkwood Estate, was the home of automotive tycoon R.S McLaughlin and is now a National Historic Site. Its meticulously preserved architecture and interiors will transport you into the lifestyle of Canada’s industrial elite. While inside, you get to wander the rooms adorned with period furnishings, detailed woodwork, and artwork. Once you feel like going out for some fresh air, take a stroll through the gardens, which were designed in the style of classic European estates.
Unsurprisingly, Parkwood Estate also frequently serves as a filming location, thanks to efforts to maintain its original quality and shape. The estate has already welcomed a number of famous actors and film crews, such as:
- Handmaid’s Tale
- X-Men
- Anne, with an E
- Nightmare Alley
- Hannibal
- Gotham Knights
2. Tyrone Mill
Durham’s history is not just made up of grand estates but also of charming reminders of simpler times. Tyrone Mill has been operating since 1846, but for the last 30 years, it’s been owned and operated by Robert Shafer, who will show you the beauty of traditional craftsmanship and the simpler rhythms of rural life. The visitors’ favorites include fresh apple cider, old-fashioned donuts, and locally milled flours.
Tyrone Mill continues to produce lumber using its original water-powered sawmill, and visitors can browse unique items like handmade furniture, baked goods, and local preserves. The mill is open Wednesday through Sunday, from 10 am to 5 pm.
3. Uxbridge Urban Park
This one is for our lovers of active vacation and eco-tourism. We give you Uxbridge Urban Park. It’s made up of 532 hectares of land, split into individual parcels within the Uxbridge area. The only one that’s currently available to the public is on Old Stouffville Road. Though there are play areas for kids, the park is known as the ‘’Trail Capital of Canada’’ for a reason. It’s an ideal place for those looking to break a sweat while enjoying the beautiful scenic nature. Some of the activities it’s perfect for are hiking, cycling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.
Excitingly, the park is about to grow even larger, with 3,819 acres set to be added to its grounds. This expansion will bring even more trails, natural habitats, and recreational opportunities to one of Uxbridge’s crown jewels.
4. Shoeless Joe’s Sports Grill
If you’ve had enough of hiking through the great outdoors, the Shoeless Joe’s Sports Grill is just what the doctor ordered. It’s the perfect place to catch the big game with friends or family, thanks to the wall-to-wall screens. The menu highlights classic wings, burgers, and refreshing drinks, but what people really come for is the friendly crowd. If you find yourself in Durham during football season, this is the go-to spot for catching all the action.
Football fans will especially love the energy at Shoeless Joe’s. Beyond the excitement on the screen, football has become a global phenomenon, even influencing the way people approach sports betting. Football stats play a huge role in betting strategies, offering insights that enhance the thrill of the game. Learn more about how stats impact betting here, and spark up a discussion at this sports grill.
5. Canadian Automotive Museum
If you can recognize an engine by the way it roars kilometers away, then you can’t miss the Canadian Automotive Museum in Oshawa. It’s housed in a historic 1920s car dealership and showcases the evolution of the automobile in Canada and beyond. There’s an impressive collection of over 75 vehicles from the 19th century to the present.
You can explore Canadian-made vehicles featured in their collection, including rare and early models such as the Kennedy, Tudhope, McLaughlin-Buick, and McKay. There are also European classics, like a 1926 Isotta-Fraschini Tipo 8AS, as well as unique models like the 1983 DeLorean DMC-12, known for its futuristic design and gull-wing doors. The museum is a family-friendly venue, too, so car enthusiasts of all ages are welcome.
Conclusion
Unassuming at first, you’ll find that Durham is rich with history and beautiful nature, as well as fun downtime activities and unique cultural establishments. Take your time to uncover its charm at your own pace, and let each stop surprise you with its character. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a bit of both, Durham proves that the best destinations are often those that quietly exceed expectations.
Shoeless Joe’s Sports Grill? Really? While I have no issue with the restaurant itself, I wouldn’t say it is a “must visit site”! There are lots of locally owned establishments around that Region that deserve a visit as well. Also, how about all the wonderful theatre that we have in the area, some in historic buildings, or any of the other wonderful artists with studios displaying their works. I think you can do better than a sports bar chain!