Port Hope offers the best of both worlds. In this close-knit town, you don’t have to choose between the convenience of modern amenities and the beauty of Ontario’s natural scenery. You can update your wardrobe at a downtown Port Hope boutique or celebrate a birthday at a local restaurant. But you can also take a riverside hike, explore local lavender fields or zip line through the forest.
This part of Port Hope isn’t your typical small-town urban community. It’s home to an impressive range of weekday and weekend activities. Browse the shops, grab a bite at a restaurant or watch a live theatre performance downtown. And when you want to change things up, relax on a sunny beach, hike a local trail, enjoy a waterfront picnic or even watch a fish migration without going far from home.
Wander Ontario's best preserved main street, discover a new favourite shop, make friends with a local merchant and enjoy a great meal at one of Port Hope’s fine restaurants or casual pubs. Or grab a coffee and a croissant from a local cafe to enjoy along the riverbank. Check out Port Hope’s Farmers' Market from May to October where you’ll find fresh, hand-picked produce from one of the many local family farms.
The Capitol Theatre is one of the few remaining original theatres that once graced every town of note in North America. Art Deco meets old English charm in this restored 1930s space. To truly appreciate its splendour, experience one of the many professional live theatrical productions that grace the Capitol’s stage each year.
Established in 1799, Port Hope is one of Canada's oldest settlements. Graced by many early 19th century homes, and the best preserved Main Street in Ontario, Port Hope offers a unique glimpse into Canada’s past. Drop by the Port Hope Visitor’s Centre and pick up a self-guided walking or driving tour to experience the Town’s many heritage homes, buildings and churches.
Port Hope is blessed with water! Two clean sandy beaches, located east and west of the river are the perfect places to take a dip or work on your tan. Picnic and playground areas are available at Memorial Park just steps from the banks of the Ganaraska River.
The annual fish migrations up the Ganaraska River are a spectacular sight! In the spring up to 9,000 rainbow trout make their way up the river. In the fall, watch as salmon (some weighing up to 40 lbs) swim upstream to their spawning grounds in the north. The best place to catch migrating fish in action is at the Corbett's Dam fish ladder.
Gain a better appreciation of the Ganaraska River by hiking the looped Ganaraska Millennium Trail, discovering marsh habitats and Port Hope’s scenic river. The Waterfront Trail meanders along the river bank leading to breathtaking views of Lake Ontario. Or hop on a bike to take advantage of the many trail and mountain biking opportunities within the area.
In rural Port Hope, Ontario’s natural beauty isn’t a road trip away. It’s right in your backyard. Enjoy the great outdoors while visiting a working farm, zip lining in the Ganaraska Forest or strolling through the town’s lavender fields. And when you’re looking to soak up scenic landscapes, go for a drive through the local hills, take in the panoramic view from a lookout or explore the town’s heritage sites.
Reserve your spot at the Ganaraska Forest Centre and get a bird's-eye view of Port Hope's breathtaking scenery. This aerial adventure park offers tree-top trekking and zip lining with instruction for beginners and challenges for experienced climbers.
Primitive Designs is the must-see tourist attraction you have yet to experience. A giant T-Rex and towering robots greet you from the road. Imagination springs to life with unique gifts and much more. And don't forget to visit Herma's and discover an array of gourmet food products, cheeses and dining accoutrements to make your next dinner party a success.
Take a scenic driving tour through the Northumberland hills and stop at Richardson's Lookout for an incredible panoramic view. Enjoy the natural beauty of the Garden Hill Conservation Area or take a picnic lunch to Sylvan Glen Conservation Area.
Meet the goats and discover some of the wonderful products offered at Haute Goat. You are sure to enjoy your visit to this working farm just minutes from downtown. The Port Hope Fall Fair (est. 1831) celebrates all things rural every September and is not to be missed!
Breathe in the fragrant air at Laveanne Lavender. Take a relaxing stroll through the farm's lavender labyrinth and see the largest selection of lavender varieties in Canada. A visit to Laveanne is a delight for all five senses.
Get off the beaten path and discover the rural charm of Port Hope. See the community's many churches, including Perrytown Church, or visit an authentic 1860's-era working man's cottage at Dorothy's House Museum.
