+20 Ultimate Things to do in Uxbridge Ontario

Nestled along the Oak Ridges Moraine is one of the most charming small towns in Ontario! Set among rolling hills is the town of Uxbridge. Known as the Trail Capital of Canada, it’s a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts! However, there are so many things to do in Uxbridge Ontario that go beyond outdoor recreation. Visitors will find everything from historic sites to cultural attractions.

I regularly visit Uxbridge, as it’s a great day trip from my home south of Barrie. There’s always something going on, things to do, and new hidden gems to discover. Oh, and the trails!! So, I’m delighted to share my list of top Uxbridge things to do!

A Little About Uxbridge

Uxbridge is a perfect weekend getaway destination or day trip from Toronto. It’s located in the Durham region of south-central Ontario and is roughly an hour drive from Toronto.

The town is named after Uxbridge in London, England. (Where I oddly enough have also spent a lot of time in, since my brother lived there)

Quakers from Pennsylvania started settling in the area in 1806. In 1871, the railroad arrived! This helped put Uxbridge on the map and it became a village the year after. It then went on to become a town in 1885.

Many notable people have called the area home! Thomas Foster, a former mayor of Toronto, lived here and made his mark. As did Lucy Maud Montgomery, the author of Anne of Green Gables!

Plus, you’ve probably seen Uxbridge in movies and on TV! Movies like A Map of the World and Serendipity are among the many that have been filmed in the area. Most notably, Schitt’s Creek was filmed in nearby Goodwood. Another TV classic, Road to Avonlea, was filmed here too!

16 of the Best Things to do in Uxbridge

If you’re looking for fun things to do near me, then you should plan a day trip to explore Uxbridge! It’s within one to two hours’ drive from many places in the GTA, Barrie, and Kawartha Lakes area. This charming small town offers a wealth of activities for all ages and interests! So, grab your friends, family, or head out solo and discover all the best things to do in Uxbridge!

Explore Downtown Uxbridge

A great place to start any day trip to Uxbridge is by taking a stroll through downtown! The main street running through town is Brock Street. Along here you’ll find many of the area’s best restaurants, cafes, and shops.

If you’re planning on shopping in Uxbridge then you’ll be delighted to know there are a ton of fun and interesting shops. One of my favourites is The Lemonade Stand! This shop sells a variety of interesting goods, many by local and Canadian brands.

Walking through the doors in the summer, you’ll likely be met with hanging lavender. The Lemonade Stand is a great place to find unique gifts, home décor, and more!

Next door is another fabulous shop, Brooklyn Vintage Décor! It’s filled with one of my favourite things to browse, antiques! There’s everything from vintage lunch boxes to stunning old windows!

Other shops to check out include Presents Presents Presents and The Passionate Cook’s Essentials. However, if you’re on the hunt for clothing, Uxbridge has some fine boutique as well! Pop into Jillian’s and Woods Clothing.

Downtown Uxbridge is also full of iconic sights and historic buildings! A few places to check out are the Roxy Theatre, with its Art Deco design, Rutledge Jewellers, and the Uxbridge sign right out front!

On the corner of Brock and Toronto sits the Uxbridge Public Library. This stunning building dates to 1887 but is beautifully restored. Plus, it’s home to a wealth of tourist information. Be sure to pop in to pick up brochures on things to do in Uxbridge, including a trail map of the Lucy Maud Montgomery Trail!

Browse Blue Heron Books

As I mentioned above, Uxbridge is a treasure trove for book nerds like myself! Not only was it home to one of the great Canadian authors but it’s also home to one of the best bookstores in the country! Actually, Blue Heron Books is a two-time winner of The Libris Award for Best Bookstore in Canada!

The bookstore is among the incredible downtown shops in Uxbridge. It’s located in a 200-year-old building and is filled with all the amazing goodies that great bookshops have!

There’s an array of book titles that cover everything from children’s books to best sellers! Plus, there’s a ton of literary classics like works from Lucy Maud Montgomery.

Blue Heron Books is also a stop on the Lucy Maud Montgomery Trail! (More on that below!)

This bookstore is so much more than its books! Along with selling a range of book-related gifts, it’s also connected to the local coffee shop in town, The Bridge Social! Plus, for over 30 years Blue Heron Books has continued to be a meeting place.

Locals and visitors alike descend on it day after day for books and a host of events! It’s home to book clubs, readings, and one of the top festivals in Uxbridge – The Book Drunkard Literary Festival!

Address: 62 Brock Street West, Uxbridge

Enjoy Lucy Maud Montgomery Trail

Another must on the long list of fun things to do in Uxbridge is to embark on the Lucy Maud Montgomery Trail!

For those who don’t know, Maud as she was called for short, was the author of the Anne of Green Gables series. She wrote 20 novels, over 500 short stores, and more!

While her popular works were based in Prince Edward Island, she did much of her writing during the 15 years, from 1911 to 1926, she lived in the Uxbridge area.

Uxbridge is a virtual theme park for literary fans of this Canadian author! Visitors can enjoy a self-guided tour through Uxbridge and area, where you can walk in the footsteps of this literary icon!

The Lucy Maud Montgomery Trail has 15 unique stops in and around Uxbridge. Each features a significant connection to the author. You can follow along on your mobile while listening to a podcast about the author’s life here.

A Few Key Stops!

The first stop is at the Uxbridge Railway Station, just a few minutes’ walk from downtown. Here, in 1911 Lucy Maud arrived in Uxbridge and would go on to return to the platform for frequent visits to Toronto.

Another stop is the Leaskdale Manse National Historic Site! This was Montgomery’s home. Plus, across the street is the Leaskdale Historic Church. Between the Manse and Church, they offer tours, tea services, and other fun events!

The Anne & Maud Experience is great for the whole family! Be sure to pick up Anne of Green Gables activity books from the library for the kids. This will allow them to get to know this beloved classic and have fun along the trail!

Note: The total drive takes roughly two hours and makes stops at both local shops and historic sites.

Local Tips: Be sure to pop into the gardens beside the church for a photo-op with Maud herself! And stop at Concession 6 Studio for a souvenir! They make wooden blocks with quotes by Maud.

Go Hiking

With the title of Trail Capital of Canada, hiking is one of the top outdoor activities Uxbridge has to offer! There are over 300km of trails in Uxbridge, both in town and in the surrounding area!

Two of Ontario’s top hiking trails run right through Uxbridge, the Oak Ridges Trail and the Trans Canada Trail. Trails throughout range from easy and accessible to more challenging ones. Many are also ideal for cyclists and snowshoeing in the winter.

Uxbridge Trails in Town

With around a dozen of trail in the town of Uxbridge, below are a few of my top picks.

Historic Trail – This trail takes you through old areas of Uxbridge as well as woodlands and along streams. The trail is 2.5km and features six information plaques along it that share stories of the history of Uxbridge.

Ewen Trail – At 3.5km, this trail is a blend of country and urban. It takes you through Elgin Park as well as past some of the historic homes in Uxbridge and three ponds.

John McCutcheon Way – Also part of the Trans Canada Trail running through Uxbridge, this trail has a big highlight! Along this stretch of trail, you’ll find the 1872 Trestle bridge used by the Toronto-Nipissing Railway. The bridge is now restored and pays tribute to the incredible rail heritage of Uxbridge.

Elgin Pond Trail – For those looking for a short and easy trail, this 1.3km trail is great! Both wheelchair accessible and great for kids and strollers, the trail goes around Elgin Pond.

Other Places to Hike

A few top places to hike in the area include:

Glen Major Forest & Walker Woods – Covering over 1,500 hectares on the Oak Ridges Moraine, these are both great places to hike! Two hike options include the Glen Major Forest Loop Trail, which is 6.1km through part of the Durham Regional Forest network. Or the Walker Woods Trail, which is 7.1km.

Secord’s Pond & Oak Ridges Trail Loop – This 4.3km trail takes you through wetlands and woodlands, around a pond, and past and old barn.

Take a Ride on the York Durham Heritage Railway

PLEASE NOTE: York Durham Heritage Railway has ceased operations as of January 2024.

One of the top landmarks in Uxbridge is the York Durham Heritage Railway! The station dates to 1904 and is built in a unique Victorian style with a ‘witch’s hat roof.’ This heritage building is interesting inside and out, and is home to a railway museum in the baggage room.

Uxbridge has a deep-rooted railway history. The line was built in the 1860s by William Gooderham, yes, the famous distiller from Toronto. In 1871, the first passenger-carrying narrow-gauge railway in North America, pulled into Uxbridge. Many notable people came through this station including Lucy Maud Montgomery and Sir John A Macdonald.

Now, riders can enjoy a seat on one of the nearly 70-year-old passenger coaches. As the train operates scenic and themed tours that run between Uxbridge and Stouffville.

One of the top things to do in Ontario in the fall is take a scenic train ride! And you can enjoy the always popular fall ride here in Uxbridge! You can also enjoy high tea, dinners, and murder mystery tours too.

For those looking for fun things to do in Uxbridge in winter you’ll love a ride along the Santa Express or the North Pole Light Up Express!

Address: 19 Railway Street, Uxbridge

Do an Uxbridge Historical Walking Tour

Step back in time and discover the history and culture of Uxbridge on a walking tour! The town has an interesting history. It’s filled with the early Quakers to English, Irish, and Scottish settlers. Then there’s the railway!

On the Uxbridge Cultural Heritage Walking Tour, visitors will learn all about the various historic places and people of Uxbridge. There are over 40 stops, which include churches, businesses, heritage homes, and other landmarks.

The self-guided walking tour is 4.5km and takes approximately 2 hours to complete. You can pick up a brochure from the library or enjoy the mobile version here.

At every stop you’ll learn about the history and story behind each place. A few key landmarks along the walking tour include the library, the railway station, one of the oldest homes in Uxbridge that dates to 1860.

Visit Elgin Park

Whether you’re looking for a scenic spot for a picnic or a trail in town then a visit to Elgin Park is a must! This beautiful park is located just south of downtown. It’s home to a variety of easy trails, like the 0.75km Elgin Park Trail and the 1.3km Elgin Pond Trail.

While there is parking within the park, it’s an easy 10-minute walk from downtown. I highly recommend a stroll by Elgin Pond!

This picturesque pond is located just north of the park entrance. The pathway running by it is filled with some hidden gems in Uxbridge! There’s a bunch of photo-worthy spots along the pond too!

Along with six kilometres of trails, the park is home to two playgrounds, a baseball field, and bandshell. Plus, the park also hosts an assortment of fun events throughout the year! On the third weekend in August, it’s Art in the Park. Held for over 25 years, the event showcases nearly 100 local vendors and artisans.

Every September, the park puts on the Uxbridge Fall Fair! Then, in the winter its home to one of the cutest free Christmas light displays in Ontario, the Fantasy of Lights! Throughout December, the park is filled with fun festive light displays. Plus, it’s free!

Address: 180 Main Street South, Uxbridge

Go to Thomas Foster Memorial

One of Ontario’s hidden gems is in Uxbridge is the Thomas Foster Memorial! Hedgerows lead you to a mini Hagia Sofia! This incredible historic site was created by Thomas Foster, a local, who went on to become the Mayor of Toronto.

Fortune didn’t go to his head. He remained true to his family and morals. After travelling the world, he was inspired by the Taj Mahal to build his own memorial to his beloved wife. Within lies both his wife and only child, a young daughter.

Design elements were drawn from Byzantine and the perfect pyramid architecture. The Thomas Foster Memorial is absolutely unique and awe-inspiring! The doors are solid bronze. The windows are stain glass that are hand painted and fired. Plus, the interior has coloured terrazzo floors and marble mosaics, all of which are filled with symbolism.

Now, you can visit during the summer for a guided tour. Tours are only $5 and chalked full of interesting information about the building and Thomas Foster. Plus, thanks to its incredible acoustics, they run a concert series on Friday nights from May to October!

Address: 9499 Durham Regional Road 1, Uxbridge

Explore Uxbridge Historical Centre

The best place to learn about Uxbridge and its history is at the Uxbridge Historical Centre! Established in 1972, the museum preserves and shares the history of the Township.

Set on 5 acres, the Historical Centre is home to 10 buildings and over 10,000 artifacts. Within the museum and throughout its buildings, visitors get to learn about the people and stories of Uxbridge. For those on the LM Montgomery Trail, you’ll see several buildings that date to when she lived here. Plus, there’s a Red Cross quilt that has her name sewn in it!

Open from May through October, visitors can enjoy a guided tour of the museum. In addition, they host a variety of programs, workshops, and other special events.

A few noteworthy buildings on the property include: the Stokes-Kydd House built in 1908, Victoria Corners Lodge Hall built in 1856, and the adorable Fifth Line Church built in 1870.

Local Tip: Between the parking lot and the main building is a lovely bench. Here, you’ll find incredible views of the Uxbridge Valley and the Oak Ridges Moraine. Plus, it is the perfect spot to catch the sunrise!

Address: 7239 Concession Road 6, Uxbridge

Visit Nearby Uxbridge Farms

One of the top things to do in Uxbridge Ontario is to visit one of the nearby farms! Many have something for everyone, like family-friendly activities, fun events, as well as markets, and more!

Cooper’s CSA Farm & Maze – A 15 min drive northwest of Uxbridge, this Cooper’s Farm is located in Zephyr. This organic and sustainable family run farm produces a variety of vegetables. There’s plenty to do on the farm like pick your own berries, pumpkins, and flowers! However, they’re best known for their 10-acre corn maze!

Forsythe Family Farms – This is a great farm full of things to do! Kids will love visiting the farm animals and the play area. They also have walking trails, seasonal events, and a market with a ton of great local goods. Plus, in the summer you can pick your own strawberries and in the fall pumpkins!

Brooks Farms – In Mount Albert, a short 15 min drive from Uxbridge, is Brooks Farms. For over 125 years this farm has continued to bring good times to the community! The farm has a playland, market and bakery (that serves up awesome donuts!), as well as various events. It’s home to one of Ontario’s maple syrup festivals. Plus, you can pick your own berries, peas, and more!

Other great farms to visit include Apples of Glasgow (for pick your own apples!), Pefferlaw Creek Farms (on the Leaskdale Loop!), and Spring View Farms.

Go to the Roxy Theatre

Who can resist a fun night out at the theatre! If you’re looking for things to do in Uxbridge on a rainy day then head to the Roxy!

Originally built in the 1940’s, the theatre is a showstopper when you walk by. Built in an Art Deco style, it later become a drug store. However, in 1996 it became the Roxy Theatre again! It’s now filled with classic red 1950’s seats and a retro concession stand.

There are also a few cool finds in the hallways of the theatre! Seats from the original 1940’s line one wall. Plus, on display are two projectors from the 1930s!

Visitors can pop in seven days a week to catch new releases as well as old classics. Along with real butter popcorn and typical concessions, they serve Second Wedge Brewing Company craft beer and grazing boxes from another local business, North of 48 Grazing!

Address: 46 Brock Street West, Uxbridge

Take a Cooking Class at The Passionate Cook’s Essentials

The Passionate Cook’s Essentials is a bit of a gem! The owner, Lisa Hutchinson, shares her passion for all things food with an incredible selection of high-quality goods!

Inside The Passionate Cook’s Essentials, you’ll find an array of artisan cheeses. There are cheeses from around the world as well as right here in Ontario! You’ll find everything you need to make a fabulous charcuterie board, like cheeses and local meats. The selves are also stocked with local chocolate, prepared foods, and plenty of gluten free items.

In addition to an awesome store, Lisa also teaches cooking classes inside! Whether you’re looking to amplify your cooking skills or expand your list of recipes, these classes are a great place to do both!

Plus, if you can round up 12 or more foodie friends, Lisa and her team offers private classes too!

Address: 68 Brock Street West, Uxbridge

Grab a Drink at The Bridge Social Inc.

Rising up the ranks as one of my new favourite coffee shops is The Bridge Social! This café, located along the main street, is all about sustainable, organic, and local!

The Bridge Social is coffee shop meets grocery, with a side of cute kids clothing and tasty baked goods! They sell a long list of local goods that are either made right in Uxbridge, Ontario, or in Canada! Products include teas, local artisan pieces, body care items, and so much more!

Inside visitors will find a cozy spot to sit in front of the window as well as an easy flow browsing experience. Outside the shop, a couple of tables with umbrellas are set up for more seating. Plus, there’s even a hopscotch calk drawing on the sidewalk to let out your inner child!

One thing that really stands out about the Bridge Social is that they offer their range of drinks in mason jars! Once your drink is done, drop it in the baskets out front or bring it when you return!

A couple of my favourite drinks are their maple latte and chaga elixir. Plus, you can have a Anne & Maud Experience here! Ask for their organic cold brew raspberry cordial! This is a twist on the beloved drink of Anne, from Anne of Green Gables!

Address: 64 Brock Street West, Uxbridge

Enjoy the Uxbridge Music Hall

Built in 1901, the Music Hall has seen the likes of Shakespearean plays and visits from notables like Sir Wilfred Laurier. Known for its amazing acoustics, it’s a cultural hub for live music and theatre!

Within the Hall you’ll find the original opera chairs, chandelier, and stunningly carved iron railing. Along with the original features, the hall is restored to include both air conditioning and heat for comfortable performances all year long.

On the list of events, you’ll find musicals, stand-up comedy, concerts, and more! This fall there’s two awesome concerts coming! One is Canada Rocks with cover bands celebrating the Tragically Hip and Alanis Morrisette. The other is Juno-award winning jazz saxophonist, Allison Au!

Local Tip: Look closely and you’ll see cat prints on the brick work to the right of the door as well as above the cornerstone.

Address: 16 Main Street South, Uxbridge

Visit the Uxbridge Friends Meeting House of Quaker Hill

If you’re a history buff like myself then you should swing by the Quaker Meeting House! The original building was built in 1809, it was replaced by the current structure in 1820. At over 200 years old, it’s the oldest building in Uxbridge Township!

The Meeting House of Quaker Hill was Uxbridge’s first place of worship. It’s an incredible example of board and batten construction. Inside you’ll see hand hewn pine pews in two different styles. One has an open back for women and their large dresses as well as ones with backs for men.

It closed 100 years ago, but reopened as a heritage monument and has an annual service.

Address: 6800 Concession Road 6, Uxbridge

Hunt for Art

I’m always on the hunt for street art in Ontario! So, I was delighted to find an array of art in Uxbridge! Across downtown and in surrounding locations you’ll find different mediums of art like murals, sculptures, and more.

Discover Uxbridge has put together four distinct art tours that you can take! (All are mobile phone friendly!) Each tour covers a different area of Uxbridge. There’s a downtown, north, central, and south tour.

I have a few favourite pieces! One is a wings mural that’s located on Ash’s Lashes & Esthetics. This one is perfect for grabbing a photo of yourself for the gram! Another great piece is behind Blue Heron Books. It’s a series of sign language!

Across from the train station is another large mural. This one depicts an old train thundering along the track! In addition, you can find one on the building across from the library. Here, you’ll find the mural titled, Uxbridge goes to War.

Modern Kinetic, which is located next to the library, is one that hits home! This moving metal art piece is by Ron Baird. He’s the man behind the Spirit Catcher in downtown Barrie! While you’re here, be sure to pop into the library. Inside you’ll find a fun piece of art! Behind the checkout desk is a towering stack of books. Look for the cat perched atop!

Places to Eat in Uxbridge

After all that exploring, you’re going to need fuel! Throughout downtown visitors will find a vast array of amazing Uxbridge restaurants! There’s everything from fab pub grub to tasty vegan fare!

Urban Pantry – This FeastOn™ restaurant serves elevated Canadian cuisine. They are committed to sustainable dishes that are made with locally-sourced goods. I highly recommend their stir fry! It comes with pork, shrimp, and vegetables from Uxbridge. I like the vegetarian version!

Jurgen’s Deli – If you’re looking for a classic sandwich and soup combo then head to Jurgen’s Deli! This local favourite is located in an adorable little house and offers dine in as well as take out. Plus, everything is made in house! Try the popular Reuben!

Fig Kitchen & Market – For those looking for a vegan restaurant in Uxbridge, head to the Fig Kitchen! All of their dishes are plant based and there’s something for the whole family! This restaurant also has a market that sells a variety of staples, fresh food, and gift ideas! I recommend their tacos!

More Fun Things to do in Uxbridge

There is so much more to do in and around Uxbridge! In every season, visitors will find fun activities to suit their interests. From fun day trips to outdoor adventures, and even a refreshing cider or two, you’ll find it all in Uxbridge!

Attend the Farmers Market

The Uxbridge Farmers Market is one of the best in Ontario, in my opinion! The market runs every Sunday 9am – 2pm, between May and October. You can shop a variety of vendors selling local goods and produce. Plus, there’s live music and a special Christmas market in November.

You can find the market at the Uxbridge Area at 291 Brock St W.

Grab a Cider

Need something refreshing? Uxbridge is home to two amazing cideries! At Slabtown Cider you can browse their farm store and sit on their patio atop the Oak Ridges Moraine. They serve a wide assortment of food that will pair well with one of their ciders.

Banjo Cider is home to a historic orchard as well as patio and tasting room. They also host various events that include everything from yoga to food trucks. Plus, if you’re on the Lucy Maud Montgomery Trail, stop in to try their special raspberry cider!

Do the Leaskdale Loop

A great option for a day trip from Uxbridge is to do the Leaskdale Loop! This self-guided tour covers 20km and showcases over 15 locations. There are a variety of stops that include historic sites, farms, artist studios, and more! You’ll find a bunch of Ontario hidden gems on this tour!

Plus, the second Saturday of the month is Loop Day! This means that every location is open and there’s live music, family-friendly activities, and more!

A few of my favourite stops are Concession 6 Studio, Greenmantle Pottery, and the Leaskdale Country Store!

Visit the Countryside Preserve

This 140-acre preserve is home to scenic rolling hills, woodlands, wetlands, and more! If you’re looking for a nice hike, try the Countryside Preserve Trail loop. This 2.9km trail is the longest in the park.

Ski

For those looking for things to do in Uxbridge in the winter you’ll be delighted to know there are a couple of ski resorts. You can hit the slopes and ski Lakeridge or Dagmar Ski Resort or go tubing!

Golf

There are a bunch of great golf course in Uxbridge and the surrounding area! A few top courses are Foxbridge Golf Course, Mill Run Golf Club, Wooden Sticks Golf Club, and Wyndance Golf Club.

Frequently Asked Questions about Visiting Uxbridge Ontario

When planning your day trip to Uxbridge Ontario, you may have a few questions. Below you’ll find answers to when to visit Uxbridge, where to park, and where is it.

When is the Best Time to Visit Uxbridge? – The best time to visit Uxbridge depends on what you’re looking for. In the summer, there are various festivals and events. Plus, it’s a great time to visit the parks and the trails. For a magical experience, visit during the holidays in November and December. The main street is decked out for the season and there are a bunch of fun and festive events going on.

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