10+ Awesome Things to do in Port Hope Ontario
Set along the shores of Lake Ontario, is a charming small town that is action packed! That town is Port Hope! Noted as one of the most well preserved historic towns in Ontario, many movies and television shows are filmed here. With a scenic downtown, a river running through it, and a rich history, it’s home to a long list of hidden gems! Discover all the best things to do in Port Hope Ontario and add it to your road trip list!
10 of The Best Things to do in Port Hope Ontario
At the crossroads of Lake Ontario and the Ganaraska River, Port Hope is on many lists naming it as one of the best small towns in Canada! The town is also known for many other things like the residence of author Farley Mowat and the filming location for the latest Stephen King IT movies! However, I implore you to dig deeper.
While incredibly beautiful, Port Hope is home to some of the most passionate people I’ve ever met! It’s these people that help make this special town what it is today. It’s no surprise that with a local motto of ‘Port Hope keeping it weird,’ that I’d fall in love with it! So, read on to learn about all the top Port Hope things to do and the people behind each attraction! And find out why its the first must-stop on a Toronto to Ottawa drive.
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Explore Downtown Port Hope
Just south of Highway 401 you’ll find what many call ‘the best-preserved main street in Ontario.’ That main street is Port Hope’s Walton Street!
The historic downtown has a wealth of natural and architectural beauty! Its main street is lined with 19th century buildings, many in pastel colours and each with a story to tell.
Plus, running right through downtown Port Hope is the Ganaraska River! The river is a big draw for both tourists and anglers during the annual fall salmon migration. You’ll find a variety of adorable pedestrian bridges crossing over the river too. Plus, along the river are a number of parks, gardens, and other green spaces that are worth exploring for hidden gems and historic site.
Within these parks you’ll find the Farley Mowat Boat Roofed House and the Farini Gardens. In 1859 where the Gardens are now located, William Leonard Hunt, known as The Great Farini, preformed his tightrope stunt 80 feet above the Ganaraska River. It’s now a historic site!
Along with a long list of unique shops and restaurants, there are a number of historic sites. Many of the historic sites are stops on the Historic Port Hope Self-Guided Walking Tour.
For more information on things to do in Port Hope Ontario, pop into the Capitol Theatre. Here, you’ll find the tourism office with all sorts of brochures and pamphlets on activities and attractions in the area.
Travel Tip: While wandering downtown be sure to look up and down! You’ll find all sorts of hidden treasures from the past, like the tiles for Hyne’s Pharmacy on the entry floor of The Nooks!
Port Hope Makers’ Market
I love local markets and the new one in Port Hope will woo you too! Port Hope Makers’ Market is where farmers’ market meets local artisans. New in 2022, the market runs from the May long weekend through the summer. During the summer it’s rain or shine from 3:30pm to 8pm.
The Market was originally located in downtown Port Hope along the historic Lent Lane. New in 2023, the market is in Memorial Park. You’ll find over 20 vendors selling a variety of things like fresh flowers, food and personal products, antiques, and so much more! There are a few key staples that are there every week. However, there are plenty of rotating vendors, so it’s always a fresh new market!
Depending on when you visit, you’ll also find a host of events, activities, as well as talented buskers! I visited during the Run Salmon Run Festival. There were live cooking demos as well as fun fish activities for children.
I was blown away by the talented artisans and food vendors. There are few stand outs! Lalies Food, a South African woman creating a unique blend of relishes and sauces with temperatures from hot to mild. I’m excited to try my Hot Chilli & Garlic Relish on chicken! Another great food vendor with jars full of tasty rubs is Arrowmatic Foods! Plus, I loved the back to nature approach by Marissa’s Herb Garden with products that blend herbs and wellness!
Shopping in Port Hope
Port Hope is filled with unique shops selling everything from books to fresh flowers. Many of the shops are hyper focused on local goods! One of my favourites is The Nooks! This shop showcases Canadian artisans, including many local ones. Inside the shelves are line with everything from bath bombs to jewellery. The Nooks is a great shop to pick up a gift or a fun souvenir for yourself!
Wherever I go I hunt out book stores! Every time I step into one and smell the books, I immediately feel Zen! I was thrilled to find two different bookshops in Port Hope. Furby House Books is a traditional shop selling new books. It’s named after William Furby, who is known as the “father of local journalism.”
Just around the corner is Gryphon Books, my favourite kind of book store – a second-hand one! Inside you’ll find shelves lined with a wide selection of genres and at great prices!
Port Hope is also home to two great antique shops, each with a wealth of treasures! Antiques on Queen is located beside the historic Capitol Theatre. This shop showcases an array of pieces from multiple dealers. Throughout the three-story shop you’ll find everything from rare books to unique couture garments. Smith’s Creek Antiques is located at the east end of Walton Street. Covering two floors, this shop focuses on Canadiana items with pieces like 19th century furniture, folk art, and pottery.
I adore flowers and plants and was charmed by Holton Flowers! Known as one of Ontario’s finest florist shops, Holton spills out onto the sidewalk under its iconic awning. It’s definitely worth a browse! They sell beautiful fresh bouquets, seasonal flowers, and potted plants too!
Other great places to shop in Port Hope are: Tall Birches and Northumberland Arts Gallery and Shop.
Salmon Migration
Every year, from mid-August to October the salmon migration takes place in Port Hope’s Ganaraska River. The river is one of the healthiest in Ontario! Believe me, the salmon migration is one of the top things to do in fall in Ontario!
The Ganaraska River starts in the Ganaraska Forest on the Oak Ridges Moraine, in Clarington. From there it flows southeast and then south to the northern shore of Lake Ontario.
Visitors come from all over Ontario and the world to see the migration! During this time 5,000 to nearly 20,000 salmon make their way up the Ganaraska River from Lake Ontario. Why the journey? These silvery Coho and Chinook Salmon aren’t travel blogging fish! They are travel up river to their spawning grounds! And Port Hope is one of the best places to see the salmon migration!
All along the river, even right downtown you’ll see them. However, the best place to see the salmon migration is at Corbett’s Dam. The Dam is located just south of Highway 401 and 5 minutes north of downtown Port Hope. Here, you’ll find the Corbett’s Dam Fish Ladder. This entrance has many functions to help the fish make their way up river. But the experience of watching these large fish throw themselves out of the water and into the ladder is astounding!
Fun Fact: Some of the salmon weigh up to 43 pounds!
2022, saw the start of a new festival to celebrate the migration, Run Salmon Run Festival. The free festival takes place at Rotary Park, along with other location across town, on the first weekend of September. There’s plenty of fun activities going on like live performances, walking tours, as well as food and other vendors.
More Port Hope Festivals & Events
Throughout the year you’ll find a long list of things going on in Port Hope! A few fun happenings include the Pumpkin Parade and Candlelight Vendor Market in Lent Lane. If you’re looking for Christmas light displays then visit Port Hope in December. During this time there’s the Candlelight Festival that features a sleigh full of fun events and things to do! Check out their events calendar to see more.
Primitive Designs
Calling all Transformers fans and anyone else looking for hidden gems in Ontario!
A short five-minute drive north of downtown is one of the top Port Hope tourist attractions, Primitive Designs! However, it’s mostly unknown to anyone not from the area!
Covering over two acres, Primitive Designs is a fantastic roadside attraction and shop! As you drive in, you’ll be met with towering Transformers. Their entire parking lot is filled with some of the best outdoor statues and sculptures in Ontario. There’s giant robots like dinosaurs, other animals, and a huge pirate ship.
In their massive two-level shop, you’ll find more one-of-a-kind art like Gremlins, Terminator, and more! The cool part is that all of them are made from recycled motor vehicle parts! Plus, along with crazy creations they also have an interesting shop filled with unique arts and crafts pieces. You’ll find everything from clothing to fun home décor pieces from around the world.
Note: Please note that while it is free to visit and browse, they do accept donations. Scattered around are small donation bins and even small change is appreciated.
Address: 2762 Northumberland County Rd 28, Port Hope, ON L1A 3V6
Foragers Farm
Northumberland County is full of incredible farms! One of them is Foragers Farm. This vegetable farm, 15 minutes north of downtown Port Hope, is all about regenerative farming. What does that mean? In layman’s terms it’s about sustainable farming and grazing practices, which help to rebuild organic soil as well as restore soil biodiversity.
Forager’s Farm is set on 50 acres of farmland with sweeping views of Northumberland County! Erin and Tyler, the owners, grow over 50 vegetables. On their property you’ll also find herbs and flowers growing, and a lovely little farm market store! Inside they sell their vegetables and pasture raised eggs, as well as the herbs and flowers. Plus, the shelves and fridge are also filled with items from other local farms and artisans. The store is open Tuesdays and Fridays from 2 to 7pm.
You’ll also find their products at various farmers markets like Evergreen Brickworks in Toronto as well as the Peterborough Regional Farmers Markets.
That’s not all! These budding entrepreneurs are also running tours of the farm! In addition, if you’re looking for a unique place to stay consider Foragers Farm! They have stunning cabins that are a dream!
Address: 3517 Rowe Rd, Cobourg, ON K9A 4J7
Headwaters Farm
Another wonderful farm that shares the same drive as Foragers Farm is Headwaters Farm. Set on 80 acres, Headwaters is both an ecological farm and education centre. Named after the many underground springs on the property, Headwaters also symbolizes free flowing ideas. Because believe me, Tony and Linda are brilliant and full of ideas! I spent nearly two hours talking with them and learning about their love of the land and how they help bring people and their beautiful land together.
Along with 20 acres of arable land that they use to grow their own food and for their animals, they have a large vegetable garden. They use ecological farming practices as well as a rotating grazing system for their animals. Everything is natural and reminded me of Indigenous practices of giving back to the land when you take from it.
Even their home is built environmentally friendly!
Headwaters Farm offers a variety of experiences, some of which will surprise you! If you’d like to learn more about their farm and practices, they offer farm tours from May through October. You can go hiking, foraging, and even walk a goat! Plus, during the summer they run a concert series with stunning views of the countryside as the backdrop.
For those looking for something different then check out their culinary and filmmaking experiences! With Tony’s background in film, he runs filmmaking workshops for adults and kids. He’s also a master in the kitchen and they’ve built a beautiful commercial kitchen in their home where adults and children can learn some new kitchen skills.
Speaking his food, you’ll want to pick up a bag of his amazing Montreal-style bagels!! I love the everything blend! They are available for purchase at Foragers Farm Store.
Address: 3517 Rowe Rd, Cobourg, ON K9A 4J7
Rolling Grape Vineyard
In the quaint community of Bailieboro, twenty minutes north of downtown Port Hope, is Rolling Grape Vineyard. This is the first grape-to-glass vineyard in the Kawartha’s!
The farm is home to 12 acres under vine and they grow a variety of grapes including Marquette, Frontenac Petite Pearl, and Vidal. They’ve also been testing out Pinot Noir and Cabernet Franc.
Rolling Grape winery is perched high among the rolling countryside. From their large patio you’ll be rewarded with sweeping picturesque views of the vines and beyond! They offer wine tastings and pairing with charcuterie boards that feature local meats and cheeses. You can also indulge in their wood fired pizza or enjoy their Sunday brunch!
Throughout the summer and fall visitors will find live music as well as fall Harvest parties!
If you’re looking for what to try, I highly recommend their Pinot Grigio, followed by their Rose. Or, if like reds then go for their Estate Marquette!
Fun Fact: All of their wines are under 3 grams of sugar!
Address: 260 County Rd 2, Bailieboro, ON K0L 1B0
Visit the Beach
If you’re looking for things to do in Port Hope in the summer then hit the beach! Port Hope is home to two main beaches. While many head to the beach in Cobourg, you don’t need to!
The best and most popular beach in Port Hope is East Beach. Located at the end of Mill Street, East Beach is also next to the boat launch. Plus, there’s a lovely restaurant across the street, Crawford’s Lakeview Café.
East Beach is a large white sandy beach and just a short walk from downtown! There’s a playground for the kids, washrooms, picnic tables, and access to the Waterfront Trail. Plus, it’s the perfect spot to catch the sunrise!
Next to Cameco is West Beach. Located at the end of Marsh Street, this beach is very quiet compared to East Beach. The beach is a mix of sand and rocky shoreline, so plan accordingly.
The Waterfront Trail
One thing I highly recommend, for nature lovers and especially for birders, is to walk the Waterfront Trail in Port Hope! The Waterfront Trail is like an Ontario version of the Trans Canada Trail. It covers 3600 kilometres, from Sault Ste. Marie to Cornwall, and runs along three of the Great Lakes.
Visitors will find a few different parking lots along the waterfront where you can access the trail. You can start at East Beach or if you’re looking for a shorter hike then park at the Sculthorpe Marsh parking lot.
The Waterfront Trail running west of the parking lot is a hidden gem!! Along the trail you’ll find tranquil rocky beaches, stunning views over the lake, as well as a large marshland.
Named after a founder of the local Waterfront Trail Committee, the A.K. Sculthorpe Marsh is a 6-acre nature reserve. It’s home to an awesome stretch of boardwalk as well as a large elevated lookout. I saw a few different heron species, cormorants, ducks, and more!
If you’re a birder like me then this is a hotspot, especially during the spring and fall migrations! However, be sure to keep walking! Continue along the trail and you’ll find even more birds! During my visit I saw large flocks of blue jays, various warbler species, and even had a few inquisitive chickadees land on my hand.
BONUS – Walking Tours
I always say that a great way to explore a new place is to take a walking tour! On a walking tour you’ll learn more about the area’s history, its people, and other interesting facts.
Port Hope runs a few different walking tours. In the spring and fall you can take part in guided walking tours. During the Run Salmon Run Festival, they had a few different tours and I enjoyed the Ganaraska River History Walk, which shared about the river’s history as well as tidbits about local lore.
Visitors can enjoy self-guided tours all year long! There’s a Historic Port Hope self-guided walking tour as well as a driving tour. You can pick up the pamphlets for the tours within the Capitol Theatre or download them here.
The Historic Walking Tour showcases some of the over 200 designated properties and historic sites within the downtown core. The tour has 18 stops and includes landmarks like Farley Mowat Monument, Town Hall, and the library.
For all the Stephen King fans you’ll love the IT Filming Locations Walking Tour! The latest IT movies were filmed in Port Hope. So, you’ll recognize many of the town’s landmarks along this walking tour from the movies. One of the stops not to miss can be found down the laneway beside Avanti Hair Design on Walton Street. Here you’ll find the Quality Meats sign.
More Port Hope Attractions & Things to do
Visitors will find so many more attractions to add to your Port Hope day trip! Much like the top ten list, there’s something everyone’s interests, whether you’re looking to explore the great outdoors or fun farms!
Richardson’s Lookout Conservation Area – Perched atop a hill along Ganaraska Road just outside Campbellcroft is a lookout. The Richardson’s Lookout is a small park with a large lookout platform with epic views over the Northumberland countryside.
Port Hope Conservation Area – Just north of the famous fish ladder at Corbett’s Dam is the Port Hope Conservation Area. This 90-acre park runs along the Ganaraska River, making it a popular fishing spot! However, there are also tranquil woodland trails.
Capitol Theatre – Built in 1930, the Capitol Theatre is one of the last “atmospheric” theatres in Canada. Operating continuously for over 90 years, the theatre continues to put on live shows, films, as well as other events. Check out the latest list of shows before you visit to get tickets!
Laveanne – One of the loveliest lavender farms in Ontario is located in Port Hope! Laveanne is home to over 10,000 lavender plants that you can visit! They also have a shop with a variety of lavender products that remains open throughout the year.
Haute Goat Farm – Another hidden gem in Port Hope is Haute Goat Farm! This incredible farm offers unique encounters with Nigerian Dwarf goats and alpacas. They also have a café serving farm to table food with sweeping views. At Haute Goat Farm you can wander the trails, take a workshop, and so much more!
Where to Eat & Drink in Port Hope
The small town of Port Hope is busting at the seams with incredible and diverse places to eat and drink! After you’ve checked off all your things to do in Port Hope Ontario, you’ll need some fuel! I’ve rounded up a list of some of the best places to eat in Port Hope, that range from casual fine dining to pub fare and even a fun food truck! In addition, if you’re looking to whet your whistle with a beer or cocktail, I’ve got some fabulous places for you too!
Twentysix
With towering ceilings, exposed brick walls and beams dating back 170 years, Twentysix knows how to set the stage for a great space! Beyond the casual fine dining ambiance, their food is high scale thanks to the vibrant Chef Liam Potvin! Located next to its sister bistro, The Social House, Twentysix specializes in small plates. However, the menu also includes a small selection of mains, a couple of desserts, as well as oysters and charcuterie.
Twentysix is also an awesome spot to indulge in a few drinks! With a long bar, wine rack, and cozy seating area by the fireplace, it’s perfect for a date night! Along with wines and a list of classic drinks, they also serve Canadian whiskey flights and some crafty cocktails.
What to order? I recommend starting with the Smoked Potato or Berries & Cream small plates, and go for the Steak Frites or Mushroom Ravioli for your main. Choosing a cocktail is tough, as they have an awesome selection! I had the Sweet N Spicey contemporary cocktail, and loved it!
The Beamish House
I’m always drawn to great pubs and The Beamish House in Port Hope is a classic! The building dates to 1848 and has literally moved a few times in its over 170 years. Now it rests on John Street and has expanded to include an epic patio. Its like Port Hope’s Cheers! Where you immediately feel like you’ve found a friend!
With an extensive list of pints on tap, traditional pub fare, and a selection of lighter options, there’s something for everyone on the menu! Along with their menu that includes everything from shareables to burgers, they also have classic and summer cocktails.
If you’re a fan of beer try the Beamish Mule or The Beamish Lager & Lemonade. I had the refreshing Summer Sangria on the patio overlooking the train trestle bridge.
Olympus Burger
For the best burger in town head to Olympus Burger! Owned and operated by a Greek now living in the area, this burger joint is a popular spot! With a literal Greek theme run inside and out (be sure to check out the Greek Gods mural on the south side of the building), they are best known for their epic burgers. A few years ago, they were even named the Number 1 burger in Canada by Canadian Living readers!
Burgers are the main focus here and are all named after Greek Gods! Patties are 6 ounces of fresh goodness but they also have a black bean patty and chicken breast. In addition, their menu features a variety of sides and salads as well as milkshakes. You can dine in or eat your meal on their large patio that looks up at the incredible Grand Trunk Trestle Bridge that runs through town.
What to order? I highly recommend their Athena burger that’s made with fresh Ontario lamb! It’ll melt in your mouth! Plus, be sure to grab an order of their Olympus Fries. These fresh home-cut fries are topped with heaps of feta cheese and a special sauce! And to even it all out grab their Spartan Salad. Devoid of lettuce, it’s one of the best Greek salads I’ve had outside of Greece!
Ganaraska Brewing Company
Another great place in Port Hope to grab a beer and some food is at the Ganaraska Brewery! This craft brewery opened in 2019 and serve up artisanal beer and have a chef-inspired menu that is one of the best of any brewery I’ve been to! Plus, their rooftop patio offers the some of the best views of Port Hope!
The Ganaraska Brewing Company is located along the river and even from their ground floor patio and taproom you’ll find sweeping views! Be sure to check out their fridge full of fun cans! The branding on them is incredible and each have a personality that you’ll be sure to taste! Many of them pay homage to Port Hope’s iconic people, places, and buildings. Plus, they’re always creating new ones, one more reason to return again and again!
What to order? If it’s your first time one of the lovely servers will guide you in choosing your flight! The best part, other then the beer, is that each flight is served in a fun animal holder. I recommend their Amor with hints of passionfruit. To eat, grab an order of their Korean Chicken Wings and Cheddar Pierogies.
Bestea Boba Pop-Up
Whether you’re looking for a refreshing drink that’s also a snack or mouthwatering food then head to Bestea Boba! This food truck pop-up is located right beside Olympus Burger is becoming a favourite hotspot for locals, especially at night!
Bestea Boba serves up unbelievable bubble tea that comes in a range of flavours and styles! They have fizzy, fruity, and creamy (non-dairy) starters with a long list of fun additions. Honestly, if you’ve never tried bubble tea then try it here first! The man behind the business is an artist, entrepreneur, and all about building community! You’ll notice when darkness descends on the town, the lights flare up here, and the music starts pumping. It’s a fun, relaxed, and cool vibe!
Also on site is The Loco Smoker! Only available on weekends, the Loco Smoker is all about slow cooked meats with a Filipino flare to it that will melt in your mouth!
What to order? I tried the latest flavour concoctions from Bestea Boba. Coco King comes with tapioca bubbles, pineapple pops, and mango jelly. It’s one of their creamy teas and I LOVED it! Another great one is their Pomegranate Grenade. However, if you’re unsure what to order just tell them what you like and dislike and they’ll help you decide.
*****
If you’re looking for some sweets then you’re in luck! There are a number of awesome bakeries and cafes in Port Hope with a variety of tasty goodies! Queenies Bake Shop, Sugar Dust Sweets & Café, and Dreamer’s Café. Be sure to grab one of the famous Port Hope cookies from Dreamer’s Café! It’ll satisfy every sweet tooth!
Where to Stay in Port Hope
With so many fun things to do in Port Hope Ontario, you’re going to want to spend a few days! There are a variety of places to stay in town that range from historic hotels to charming bed and breakfasts.
Historic Downtown Airbnb
One of the coolest places to stay in Port Hope is a historic downtown Airbnb! I’m even adding it to my list of dreamy Airbnbs in Ontario! It’s noted as the most central Airbnb in Port Hope and has the best location right downtown, plus there’s a free parking lot that’s a two-minute walk away.
The building was built in the late 1800s but has been beautifully restored by a local couple. The vibe is moody and eclectic with nods of old-world charm. It has a large modern bathroom, fully equipped kitchen that includes a Nespresso with pods lined up for you, a massive living and dining room, and two bedrooms. A few incredible features of this space include a large library wall, rooftop patio, and epic 90” drop down projector screen!
Along with exposed brick, done in a very artful way I might add, the apartment also has its original floors. However, one of the things (other than the library wall – book nerd here!) that stood out was the attention to detail. Plus, with owner’s passion for supporting local, many of the pieces and supplies found in and used in creating the space are from local businesses.
There are a couple of things to note. This is an old building and does not have an elevator. Also, as mentioned there the closest free parking is a short walk behind the building.
Book your stay here
Hotel Carlyle
Another incredible accommodation in Port Hope is the Hotel Carlyle! Originally a branch of the Bank of Upper Canada, built in 1857, the Hotel Carlyle is now a wonderfully restored building with 10 rooms and restaurant.
The Hotel Carlyle is located downtown, just a few minutes’ walk from Walton Street, and has free on-site parking. This is where boutique hotel meets charming bed and breakfast. Each room is unique in style and has an ensuite, flatscreen tv, and Keurig. Some suites also include balconies, fireplaces, and whirlpool tubs.
My room had the perfect blend of modern amenities and comforts with accents of historic pieces. Plus, my room was on the top floor with views of the church across the street, the trestle bridge, and in the mornings offered a beautiful sunrise!
There’s also a Moroccan-themed restaurant and bar that serves lunch and dinner. In addition to your stay, you can enjoy your breakfast in their glass-enclosed patio. I felt like I was dining in an enchanted garden!
Book your stay here
Frequently Asked Questions about Port Hope
When planning your trip to Port Hope you’ll likely have a few questions. I’ve rounded up a few of those top questions and you’ll find all the information below.
What is Port Hope known for? – Port Hope is best known for its well-preserved downtown. However, it’s also a popular spot for filming and fishing along the Ganaraska River.
Where is Port Hope? – Port Hope is an hour drive east of Toronto along Highway 401. Or you can opt for the more scenic route along County Road 2 that runs through town. As part of the Northumberland Region, it lies between Durham Region and Prince Edward County.
What is Port Hope close to? – At an hour drive away, Port Hope is close to Toronto. Plus, it’s close to Cobourg.
When to Visit? – There is always something going on in Port Hope! Summer in Port Hope is a great time to visit if you want to see it at its best, check out the markets, and visit outdoor attractions as well as the beach.
Things to do in Port Hope – Ganaraska River, Market in Lent Lane, Forager’s Farm, Ganaraska Forest, Primitive Designs, Haute Goat, enjoy a show at Capitol Theatre, and a beer at Ganaraska Brewery.
Where to Park? – There is paid parking along the main streets of downtown Port Hope with the HotSpot App. Plus, there are multiple free parking lots in downtown that allow for up to 12 hours. Lots can be found behind Town Hall, on Cavan Street, and two behind Memorial Park.
How many days in Port Hope? – I recommend staying two days in Port Hope to allow you to explore all the best things this town has to offer. However, Port Hope is a great day trip destination from Toronto!
I was hosted during my stay in Port Hope but all opinions are my own.
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