A Local’s Guide To Durham Region: Visit Like A Non-Tourist
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Left: Tap and Tankard, Whitby by Photo by: _maramoments | Right: Pizza Pino’s, Ajax by sellyfooddiary
Located just outside of Toronto, Durham Region has become a well-known hub for winter sports, waterfront fun, farm experiences and scenic trails. With so many local businesses just a simple Google search away, we created this guide for the non-tourist tourist who's looking to take the road less travelled and plan an experience that’s unique. To help give you the ultimate Durham Region experience, we’ve compiled a list of places that are well-known and well-loved by residents. After all, who better to trust when exploring a new city or town than the people who live there?
Irresistible Eats: Three Hidden Gems in Ajax
855 Westney Road South, Ajax | Photo: yummm.to
Nestled in the heart of Ajax, at the corner of Harwood Avenue and Westney Road, is an industrial-style area that also happens to be a food-lover's haven. If you’re a big fan of pizza, and an even bigger fan of pizza toppings, Pizza Pino's Restaurant & Tavern is a little slice of paradise. Available for takeout or dine-in, it will be hard to choose between the thick and thin crust pizza—but, either way, we promise you won't regret the inch thick extra cheese. Halal pepperoni and chicken are also available upon request.
If you’re gearing up for football Sunday or a night in with friends, then head a few doors down to Falcon Brewing Company. With deliciously bold brews like the Salem Stout or Red Falcon Ale, you can grab a six-pack of local craft beer to pair with your pizza to-go.
If it’s a big breakfast that’s calling your name, Angelique’s Family Restaurant is there to answer. You may find a line out the door, but we promise it’s worth it—just picture pancakes stacked to the roof and larger-than-life portions. Insider tip: if you order two eggs, you always get three.
Scenic Steps: Beaver River Wetland Conservation Trail
532 Blackwater Road, Sunderland | Photo: tailesfromwestport
You may have heard of Sunderland in the Township of Brock, but have you ever heard of Blackwater? This small hamlet south of Sunderland was historically a railway junction and is home to the hub of the Beaver River Wetland Conservation Trail. The trail runs all the way from Uxbridge to Cannington, but in Blackwater, it’s known as the Rail Trail—which is often enjoyed by hikers and cycling enthusiasts in the summer, and snowmobilers in the winter. Along your journey, you’ll also come across a historical display—a great opportunity to learn about the railway and the hamlet’s history.
Just down the road from the trail, you’ll find a unique antique store called the Bric-a-Brac Shoppe—a must visit if you’re in the area and want to enjoy an eclectic shopping experience, with literally any antique item you could ever imagine.
If you need a coffee in hand to accompany you on your shopping trip, or need a warm drink for a winter walk, check out Canter Coffee—a sweet little coffee truck in the heart of Sunderland. Or, if you’re making a trip out of it, check out The Shortiss Café Bar in downtown Beaverton—your morning coffee will be just steps away from your overnight stay in their boutique hotel.
Happy Hoofs: Kavanaugh Farms in Clarington
4601 Old Scugog Road, Hampton | Photo: drea_rmt (right)
You don’t need to fly to New York to visit the Hamptons. This quaint little slice of Clarington is home to a beautiful rural atmosphere, boasting with historic charm and unique farm experiences—like goat yoga and alpaca walks at Kavanaugh Farms!
This boutique farm focuses on community and connection, and offers unique experiences to meet and cuddle with the farm animals. Check out their calendar of seasonal events or book an overnight farm stay and wake up to the sound of happy hoofs running through the farm fields.
Whether you're enjoying the day or spending the night, there’s plenty to see and do nearby. Enjoy a scenic drive through the rolling hills; grab some goodies from the Hampton General Store or rare candies from Taunton Variety; enjoy a slice from Stefano’s Pizzeria; check out Geissberger Farmhouse Cider for some sweet apple cider; head to the Veggie Shack for seasonal produce (open spring to fall); or enjoy even more farm fun at Knox's Pumpkin Farm (open September to December).
Sweet Sounds: BOND|ST Event Centre in Oshawa
The building at 44 Bond Street East has quite a history. From being home to the autoworker's union and an art studio, to laser tag and the beloved Dungeon nightclub, 44 Bond Street East has hosted artists ranging from Diana Ross and the Supremes to Sum 41. The ripple effect on Durham's creative community—especially the music industry—continues today with the newly renovated BOND|ST Event Centre.
This stunning music venue is breathing new life into 44 Bond Street East—featuring a café, snack bar and multiple spaces for performances. If you’re from Oshawa—or if you’ve heard of Oshawa—then you’re probably well-versed in the history of General Motors, Oshawa’s deep roots in the automotive sector and the unique local music scene in the downtown core. To honour this history, BOND|ST Event Centre features spaces like the Local Lounge—playing off the old Autoworker’s Union Local—and TwoTwoTwo—featuring graffiti-covered walls, and the same vibes we knew and loved at the Dungeon (now with new and improved fancy washrooms).
Check out upcoming performances to experience the magic and history of BOND|ST Event Centre yourself.
Favourable Find: Mansion Kitchen Bar in Pickering
If you’re from Pickering, you probably remember the old “Mansion” days. Well, clearly the new owners knew how to steal your heart and get your attention. Built in 1827, Pickering's Old Liverpool House has seen a few new names over the years, but something about the Mansion seems to stick. This striking architectural gem is a massive old home—hence the name—located in the heart of Pickering at the corner of Liverpool Road and Highway 2.
Boasting an unparalleled dining experience, the newly renovated space features three distinct levels. The grand foyer (main level)features a large dining room, bar, and both an indoor and outdoor patio. The grand lounge(lower level) is tucked away with a separate bar and beautiful lighting for a more intimate dining experience. And lastly, the penthouse (the upper level) features a unique space for large events.
No matter where you choose to sit, you’ll discover an elevated dining experience perfect for a date night out or a gathering with friends.
Vintage Vibes: Adawegamig (The Store) in Scugog
22107 Island Road, Port Perry | Photo: notoriouss.b.r.e
Located on the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation, Adawegamig is a vintage clothing and antiques store that prides itself on connecting customers with history through objects. If you love a good vintage find, then this will be your new favourite place. Find exclusive current brands mixed in with vintage selections—where every item you pick up has a story, from the image on the front of the T-shirt to the stitching on your new set of boots.
If you left and you’re still thinking about that vintage tee that you just-should-have-bought, then check out their Etsy storefront—you may still be in luck!
After you’ve worked up an appetite shopping, visit Marcelle’s Gluten Free Kitchen on your way back down Island Road. Find delicious gluten-free pastries and meals like soups and perogies, or stock the fridge and grab some goodies to go. If you're more in the mood for something hearty and delicious, check out Island Grill—just outside Marcelle’s doors—for homemade burgers, hand-cut fries, poutines and more.
Up Fore Fun: Wooden Sticks Golf Club in Uxbridge
If you’ve heard of Uxbridge, then you’ve probably heard of its famous trails and designation as the Trail Capital of Canada. But, did you know Uxbridge is home to some world-famous golfing as well?
Wooden Sticks Golf Club made a name for itself by echoing some of the world’s most famous golf holes. In fact, 12 of the 18 holes at Wooden Sticks were each inspired by a different famous golf hole from the Professional Golfers' Association (PGA). The course is known as more than just a place to play golf—guests can also enjoy learning about the sport’s rich history and grand traditions.
During the winter, you can practise your swing on the golf simulators or book a getaway in one of their cosy winter cabins. The dining room is also open year-round and features delicious “master” pieces for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Dining ‘n’ Dancing: The Tap & Tankard in Whitby
224 Brock Street South, Whitby | Photo by: _maramoments
Ah, the Tap. A Durham Region local’s stomping ground. If you’re from Durham, you probably grew up going to The Tap & Tankard on a Friday or Saturday night—dancing to live music and shouldering your way through the crowd to get to the bar. Every weekend, the bar transforms into one big party with live music and DJs—and a long line out the door.
Right in the heart of Downtown Whitby’s four corners, this local gem is a family-style pub by day and a university and college student’s gathering place by night. Catch the game on the big screen with a pound of wings, or head out for a night of dancing and gathering with friends.
While you’re out exploring Durham Region, we’d love to hear what new experiences you tried and loved the most. Tag @DurhamTourism in your social posts so we can follow along!
Durham Region has lots to explore and discover. Check out the Durham Region Discovery Guide for more travel inspiration!
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