Port Perry
Located on the southern tip of Lake Scugog, the charming town of Port Perry beckons visitors with a vibrant downtown area, scenic countryside, and welcoming hamlets. In fact, Port Perry is so lovely it has been used numerous times as a filming location for movies and television shows, most notably in the 1996 film Fly Away Home.
Settled in 1821 (the original homestead built by Reuben Crandell is still in use), the Port Perry community has grown to a population of nearly 10 thousand and swells to significantly more on summer weekends.
To learn more about all there is to see and do in Port Perry, scroll down or visit the town's tourism website.
Where is Port Perry?
Port Perry is a quaint lakeside community Durham Region, about an hour northeast of Toronto. Travel by car from Toronto to Port Perry is easy and scenic. GO Bus service to Port Perry is available from the Whitby GO station.
TOK Coachline offers casino group tours that depart Toronto’s Union Station for the Great Blue Heron casino in Port Perry.
For those travelling to Port Perry from further afield or abroad, Toronto Pearson International (YYZ) is the largest in Canada and the primary airport for the greater Toronto area.
Things to Do in Port Perry
From gorgeous lakeside parks to unique boutiques and an array of internationally-inspired restaurants, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Port Perry.
Take advantage of Port Perry’s location by enjoying plenty of time by glistening Lake Scugog, the perfect location for boating and fishing. Those who prefer to keep their feet on solid ground can still enjoy being near the water by exploring Palmer Park, Birdseye Park, and the Port Perry Marina. Grab a bite while gazing out at the water at the Boathouse Grill, the marina's licensed cafe and patio, or head to one of numerous fantastic dining options along Queen Street, the town's historic main thoroughfare.
Those wanting to learn more about the history of Port Perry and Lake Scugog should check out the Scugog Shores Museum Village. The Museum Village sits at the south end of Scugog Island and is comprised of 11 restored buildings and thousands of original artifacts donated by local community members.
To rival the sparkling waterfront, there’s Port Perry’s charming Victorian Era downtown area. Make sure to set aside some time to stroll Queen Street and gaze up at the architecture while visiting the shops. Queen Street is lined with clothing boutiques, vintage stores, bookstores, furnishing shops, and art galleries. It’s far too easy to spend an entire day indulging in some good old fashioned retail therapy.
Outside of the town centre, visitors can hit the links at Sunnybrae Golf Club, try their luck at the craps table at the Great Blue Heron Casino, or sample the fruit wines at Ocala Winery & Orchards.
Port Perry is constantly a hub of activity, with an extensive yearly lineup of festivals and events. From Theatre on the Ridge to the Mississauga First Nation Pow Wow, the Dragon Boat Festival to the annual Port Perry Fair on Labour Day weekend, there’s always something going on in this lakeside gem.
Things to Know About Visiting Port Perry
Port Perry is a great place to plan a day trip or a weekend getaway. Here are a few insider tips to make your visit absolutely perfect.
Favourite local bookshop
Books Galore houses a wide selection and eclectic mix of both new and used books, with a level of expertise you will rarely find elsewhere.
Where to go for a drink
Head to the Old Flame Brewing Co., located in the former Ontario Carriage Works Factory, for a lager or specialty beer after an afternoon of exploring the quaint downtown streets.
Where to get great ice cream
“If it’s not fresh it’s not perfect” is the motto at The Perfect Scoop, purveyors of handmade authentic Italian style gelato and ice cream, smoothies and shakes.
Hidden gem
Nestleton Waters Inn is an oasis of rural luxury on the shore of a spring-fed pond in a picturesque setting.
Last updated: April 22, 2021