Best Things to Do in Peterborough: Museums & Historic Sites

The history of Peterborough runs deep through its Canadian landscape. From the settlers who tamed the land to the indigenous people who were stewards before them, this quiet little slice of southern Ontario has plenty to discover for those who appreciate history. The myriad of galleries, museums, and preserved historical sites in and around Peterborough are enough to fill several days worth of intrepid investigation. 

To help you plan your trip, we wanted to take a moment to point out the very best places everyone should visit. Here’s our picks for the top historical attractions worth visiting on your trip through Peterborough.

Canadian Canoe Museum

Ever wanted to know the comprehensive history of Canadian canoes, kayaks, and paddle boats? We didn’t think so, but you’ll still be glad you stopped by this unique location that sits right on the shore of Little Lake in Peterborough. The surprisingly popular Canadian Canoe Museum offers much more than meets the eye, with engaging exhibits and a well-documented history of early watercraft. 

The first thing you’ll notice on arrival is the building’s stunning architecture that resembles a giant canoe. This modern establishment blends seamlessly into the surrounding environment, and every aspect pays homage to the watercraft innovations it celebrates. Inside you’ll find canoes, kayaks, paddle boats, and everything in-between. It’s a truly unique exhibit and will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the ways our ancestors first explored the Great Lakes region.

And don’t forget about the events! The Museum's close proximity to Little Lake means that after you’re done exploring the museum you can join a class and practice your kayaking skills on the water. It’s a fun activity for all ages, so check their calendar before you visit to be sure you don’t miss out.

Lang Pioneer Village

Lang Pioneer Village is a unique location just outside of Peterborough that’s absolutely worth a visit. This “open-air museum” encompasses the entire town and sets itself apart through its living demonstration of early 19th and 20th-century pioneer life. Each building perfectly reflects the style of an early Ontario settlement, while townspeople dressed in authentic 1800s clothing tell the history of the region.

There are over 30 historic buildings in the town, including homes, shops, a church, a general store, a mill, and more. Each one is accurately furnished and can be toured to experience what it was like to live and work in the early days of pioneer settlements. They also feature a variety of hands-on activities that demonstrate common jobs of the day, such as blacksmithing, woodworking, cheesemaking, and more.

Lang Pioneer Village hosts themed weekends and special events throughout the year that highlight different aspects of pioneer life. If you’re visiting during one of these events you can enjoy live music, theatrical performances, artisan markets, and plenty of other activities that provide both entertainment and education. Whether you’re visiting by yourself or with your family, Lang Pioneer Village offers an incredible experience for all ages. 

Peterborough Lift Lock

For those who enjoy the marvels of modern engineering, the Peterborough Lift Lock is sure to impress. This 20th-century hydraulic boat lift was designed to help transport watercraft through different levels of the Trent-Severn Waterway between Lake Ontario and Lake Huron. Designed by Richard Birdsall Rogers and completed in 1904, it represented an incredible feat of engineering and has been designated a National Historic Site of Canada. 

This ingenious landmark involves a hydraulic lift system that can raise and lower a water-filled basin up to 20 meters to reach the higher or lower parts of the waterway. Boats can enter from either end, depending on which way they’re going, and once the chamber has been sealed off the magic starts. It has to be seen to be believed, and the fact that the mechanisms were designed and built more than 100 years ago makes it even more awe-inspiring.

Visitors to the Peterborough Lift Lock can learn about its history and operation at the on-site visitor center while watching boats being raised and lowered from viewing platforms. For the truly adventurous, a section of the Trent-Severn Waterway can be traversed in a kayak, and groups of kayakers can be taken up and down the lift at once. No matter what your thrill level, the Peterborough Lift Lock is worth checking out.

Peterborough Museum and Archives

The most traditional museum on our list is the Peterborough Museum and Archives, which showcases a large variety of history, artifacts, and other relics of the region. Visitors can experience history through a variety of rotating exhibits that cover the indigenous periods, early settlement, transportation, and technological advancements of Ontario. 

The archives house an extensive collection of important historical documents, including maps, newspapers, photographs, and written histories. Anyone can access these resources to study local history, conduct genealogical research, or explore interesting topics. There are helping hands available to offer research assistance, as well as educational programming to further support inquiry and learning. 

A variety of educational programs and events are also on offer at the Peterborough Museum and Archives. Visitors can participate in workshops, tours, and events that provide hands-on learning and engagement with historical topics for all ages. Lectures, panel discussions, and community celebrations are also available throughout the year.

Art Gallery of Peterborough

Last, but not least, is the Peterborough Art Gallery, a premiere location housing art from all corners of the globe. Various artistic mediums are showcased here, including paintings, sculptures, photography, and printmaking. The central focus of the AGP is to preserve and celebrate the visual arts, which it accomplishes through both its permanent and rotating exhibits. 

The collection includes works by Canadian and international artists, with a focus on contemporary and modern art. Educational programs, workshops, and events suitable for all ages further enhance the experience and elevate the gallery to one of the best places to experience art in Ontario.

The modern facility includes the exhibition space, a gift shop, and several multipurpose rooms for programs and events. The Peterborough Art Gallery is actively involved in the local community and fosters connections between artists and audiences through lectures, special speakers, and community forums. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or a casual critic, you’ll find something to love at the AGP. 

Book Your Stay at Lake Edge Cottages.

Peterborough is a unique location brimming with historic significance. From the day-to-day struggles of early settlers to advances in technology that ushered in the future, the history of the region is worth experiencing for yourself. Each museum and historic site offers a unique look at the people, places, and events that shaped Ontario, and we hope you leave here with a newfound appreciation for the communities that existed before us. 

When you’re done museum hopping for the day, stop by Lake Edge Cottages in nearby Lakefield and soak up the local landscape as you relax by the lake. Our pet-friendly cottages are the best way to experience the lush Katchewanooka region as you watch the sun set over the water. Book your stay today and experience a tranquil vacation in one of nature’s most beautiful settings.