10 of the Coolest Indoor Things to do in Oshawa
Winter in Ontario is snow joke! And if you’re looking for where to go to escape the cold then this cozy guide to Oshawa is for you. I’m sharing my top picks for things to do indoors in Oshawa that include museums, cafes and hidden gems.
If you love cozy cafes and exploring a place’s history through its museums, then this guide is for you! But that’s not it. I’ve found some gems, like a board game cafe, an independent book store and a couple of great cozy restaurants. Most of these stops are centrally located in downtown Oshawa and easy to walk between. Plus, at the end you’ll find a made for you day trip itinerary.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy day trip from Toronto, or like me from Barrie, Oshawa is a surprising city full of gems. It’s about an hour drive east of Toronto. Or if you don’t have a car, you can hop on the Go Train. So, let’s bundle up and get exploring!
Explore the Robert McLaughlin Gallery
When it comes to one of my favourite indoor activities in Oshawa it’s exploring the art at Robert McLaughlin Gallery.
This incredible art gallery in the heart of downtown Oshawa is home to over 4700 works. The gallery showcases an array of Canadian contemporary and modern art. And it’s home to the largest collection of Painters Eleven works in the world!
For those unaware, Painters Eleven refers to a group of Canadian artists from the 1950s that brought abstract art to the forefront in Canada.
I’m a huge Group of Seven fan, of which I was thrilled to see a few pieces at the gallery, including a few I had never seen before.
Fun Fact: Robert McLaughlin Gallery is the largest public art gallery in Durham region.
During my visit there were some really interesting exhibits. One of which, Building Black Civilizations: Journey of 2,000 Ships by Ekow Nimako, a Toronto based artist, was incredible with ships and giant scenes built from black Lego.
I also really enjoyed the exhibit by Olivia Whetung, a member of the Curve Lake First Nation. It included both sculptural installations as well as prints. The pieces showcase the connectivity of our environments, from woodland to garden. It was the perfect escape during the winter.
If you’re looking for free things to do in Oshawa, the gallery is a great place to visit!
Cozy up at Coffee Shops
There’s a number of great coffee shops in Oshawa each with a different vibe but equally cozy. One of my favourites is Kareza Cafe!
Kareza Cafe is the definition of warm and cozy! As soon as you enter this converted home in downtown, you’ll be wrapped in cottage vibes.
They even have note on the counter that reiterates not being in a rush. But I honestly love the esthetic in here. The front room has glided mirrors, art work that looks like it’s from the pages of Pride & Prejudice with an English countryside feel, and various nooks to cozy up in.
At the back is a small room wrapped in bookshelves. You’ll find a variety of books to browse while you enjoy your coffee too.
Another great coffee shop to check out is Cork & Bean! With exposed brick walls and a rustic, industrial chic vibe, it’s ideal for cozying up in.
Game at Brew Wizards Board Game Cafe
If you’re looking for indoor things to do in Oshawa with kids then head to the Brew Wizards Board Game Cafe! It’s a great spot for adults to gather too, grab a beer or coffee and enjoy one of their countless board games.
The owner was so friendly and welcoming, it’s that community vibe I love. Along with the diverse range of beers on tap and coffee from local Toronto roaster Java Works, you’ll find a game to suit any craving.
Their wall full of games includes classics like Trivia Pursuit (an ‘80’s edition and Star Wars one too!) and one of my favourites, Sorry! But there’s so many, like Bananas, Cranium, The Simpson’s Life game, and so many more.
Plus, they host a variety of fun events every month like learn to crotchet and clothing mending. Check Brew Wizards out on Instagram for the latest events.
Browse the Canadian Automotive Museum
One of the most popular indoor attractions in Oshawa is the Canadian Automotive Museum.
Established in 1962, the museum is home to nearly 100 vehicles, some of which date back to the early 1900s. It’s a cool spot to learn more about the city’s automotive history while seeing some really cool cars.
Fun Fact: The Canadian Automotive Museum is located in an over 100-year-old car dealership!
Along with plenty of Canadian cars, the museum also features European vehicles too. But there are a few highlights that I recommend keeping an eye out for:
- 1965 Amphicar from West Germany is a blend of road vehicle and boat for the water.
- 1983 GMC DeLorean which was built in Canada and originally sold in downtown Oshawa. A must see for any Back to the Future fan!
- The full-scale model of Disney Pixar’s Lightning McQueen (a hit for any kid!)
Enjoy Afternoon Tea at Lobby Bar
One of the newest places to enjoy afternoon tea in Ontario is now open in Oshawa!
The Lobby Bar, is set on the main level of what was once an iconic hotel that saw a lot of famous folks. It’s now a luxury rental complex with a main floor dining hub called Market at 70 King. The Lobby Bar is one of the eateries.
They offer a delightful afternoon tea in cozy booths, with chandeliers hanging over head. And they have a winter afternoon tea menu that’s full of warm and comforting treats.
It’s a fun experience for foodies and the perfect addition to a cozy day trip to Oshawa.
Local Tip: They take reservations (at least 24 hours in advance) through their website. However, I spoke with an employee and she said you can also call Berry Hill Bistro if you want to confirm your reservation.
Browse Gnu Books
If you’re looking for a bookstore in Oshawa then head to Gnu Books. I’m always looking for independent bookstores wherever I travel and this one is full of great books.
Located just a short drive from downtown, Gnu Books sells a large selection of used books as well as comics. Plus, it is literally a gem – they sell gems too!
Explore the Oshawa Museum
Another great place to visit in Oshawa that brings you indoors is the Oshawa Museum. It’s the perfect place to learn more about the history of the city.
What I loved about the museum is that it’s not in a boring location. The museum is spread out across 3 historic buildings that are all grouped together. Plus, the location is scenic, Lakeview Park – even when I visited in the winter.
Start your visit in the Guy House. This unassuming building dates back to 1845 and is the welcome centre for the museum. It is free to enter and showcases some unique pieces of the Oshawa’s history through changing exhibits.
To visit the other two buildings, you’ll need a guided tour which is by donation. ($5 is recommended)
The guided tour is great to learn more about the buildings and the people that called them home. Like the Henry House that dates back to 1840 and is set up as the Henry’s would have lived in it with period pieces. Wander through Henry’s office, the parlour, kitchen, and bedroom.
Insider Tip: Don’t miss asking about the old music box in the parlour. It still works!
In the last building, the Robinson House, which dates to 1856, it is set up like a museum with two exhibits, one on the main floor and one upstairs.
Insider Tip: Want to have the museum to yourself? Try visiting during the week in winter. We had a private tour.
Take in a Show at Regent Theatre
I still remember the first time I visited the Regent Theatre for a Doors Open event in Oshawa. It was like stepping back in time as soon as I entered the lobby. The building still maintains some of its old-world charm, even after a lot of changes since it was first built in 1919.
The Regent Theatre still boasts classic movies and live performances. So, it’s a great spot to take in a show while you’re in the city.
Fun Fact: The theatre is a historic building in Oshawa and is now owned by Ontario Tech University, where they host lectures.
Enjoy some Shopping
Oshawa has some unique shops, and who doesn’t enjoy a browse of some local ones, I know I always do.
One of my favourite downtown shops in Oshawa is the Roberts & Inkster Trading Company. I loved the diverse mix of items, from bath products to fun local merch – like an Oshawa map.
Plus, there were a lot of local businesses represented. There was a local Ontario coffee roaster’s coffee – Cafezia that’s roasted in London. And it was great to see Peace by Chocolate treats, a chocolate company out of Nova Scotia. They have so many unique items, like backpacks and knitted toques too.
If you’re looking for a mall to do some shopping in, check out Oshawa Centre. A couple of great shops inside include: Virtue Vintage – for vintage clothing and Shop Makers – that sells Canadian products from local makers and artisans.
Enjoy a Cozy Meal at Berry Hill Bistro
Best known for their award-winning brunch, any meal at Berry Hill Bistro is amazing!
Berry Hill Bistro is a staple in downtown, and an ideal spot if you’re looking for cozy restaurants in Oshawa. Their menu features something for nearly every dietary need, from carnivore to vegan. Plus, they are passionate about handmade dishes and using locally ingredients.
If it’s a cozy meal you want, ask about their daily soup. It’s homemade and comes in a side or full portion. I also really loved their Sticky Sesame Cauliflower Tempura and their garlic and parmesan fries.
And the service was so lovely! I swear I nearly befriended our server, she was so friendly and made us feel like we were dining at a friend’s place.
Oshawa Day Trip Itinerary
Want to visit these indoor spots in Oshawa in one fun and cozy day trip? Check out my suggested itinerary below.
Morning:
- Start with coffee (Kareza Café or Cork & Bean)
- Then visit the Robert McLaughlin Gallery or Canadian Automotive Museum
- Do some shopping
Afternoon:
- Enjoy afternoon tea at the Lobby Bar
- Play games at Brew Wizards Board Game Cafe
- Visit the Oshawa Museum
Evening:
- Dinner at Berry Hill Bistro
- Enjoy a show at Regent Theatre
With so many things to do indoors, Oshawa is a great destination for a cozy day trip in the winter or on a rainy day.
Looking for more indoor things to do?
Cozy Guide to Indoor Things to do in Whitby
The Best Places for Afternoon Tea in Ontario
I partnered with Central Counties to create this post, but all opinions expressed are my own.
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