Richmond Hill
Richmond Hill feels like an extension of Canada’s largest city. As a residential hub just north of Toronto, you’ll find unique neighbourhoods, beloved parks, art galleries, festivals, theatres and plenty of shopping and eating. Nestled between the cities of Vaughan and Markham, Richmond Hill offers the best of both worlds: treasured green spaces and cultural heritage.
The city’s southern portion features leafy streets lined with 19th century homes. You can enjoy attractions such as the Heritage Centre and Canada’s largest telescope at the David Dunlap Observatory. To the north, you’ll discover Richmond Hill’s expanse of nature, with plenty of lakes, parks, golf courses and conservation areas. These favoured spaces include Lake Wilcox Park, Saigeon Trail Eco Park and the water features (including a waterfall) at the Richmond Green Sports Centre and Park.
To learn more about all there is to see and do in Richmond Hill, scroll down or visit the city's tourism website.
Where is Richmond Hill?
Richmond Hill is a residential city just north of Toronto. It’s a part of the Greater Toronto Area and the province’s York Region. It’s about a 30 minute drive to Richmond Hill Centre from Toronto Pearson International Airport.
Things to Do in Richmond Hill
Richmond Hill is best known as the home of Canada’s largest telescope, housed in the city’s famed David Dunlap Observatory, opened in 1935. Aside from an evening under the stars, you can take in regular programs, lectures and events. Learn all about astrology and the mysteries of space with your entire family, the observatory features family-friendly programming several times throughout the year.
Before observing the celestial, you can step back in time and visit the Richmond Hill Heritage Centre. The museum features a fully restored Regency-style home from the 1840s. Aside from its superb example of regional architecture, the centre also offers a comprehensive display of the area’s history. Learn about industries such as lumber, iron, agriculture and distilleries. Enjoy the centre’s historic home and surrounding park with a cultural afternoon tea.
Richmond Hill also features an abundance of outdoor opportunities. You’ll find popular green spaces like Lake Wilcox — home to three recreational parks — in the northern part of the city. You can fish, paddle, swim, windsurf or have a leisurely picnic on the shore. Other attractive green spaces include Crosby Park, Oak Ridges Corridor Conservation Reserve and Heron Pond.
Saigeon Trail Park offers paths through forests or along boardwalks above wetlands. Other popular trail networks in the city include Beaufort Trail, East Humber Trail, Thomas Broadhurst Trail and Rouge River Headwaters Valley & Trail. The city’s largest green space is Richmond Green Sports Centre and Park, where you can compete in sports, savour a picnic, play at the waterpark, brave the skate park or appreciate the water features.
Lastly, if you’re looking for other cultural activities to experience, consider the self-guided Richmond Hill Studio Tour. You’ll explore different art galleries, studios and shops while mingling with local artists. The city is well known for its art and cultural achievements. Afterward, enjoy a show at one of many theatres.
Things to Know About Visiting Richmond Hill
Make the most of your trip to Richmond Hill with these insider tips.
Where to take an Instagram photo
A stunning waterfall, blooming of perennial and annual flower beds, a bustling boardwalk makes Richmond Green the place to step up your Instagram game.
Where to watch the sunrise and sunset
The largest kettle lake on the Oak Ridges Moraine, Lake Wilcox is home to a variety of wildlife and fish and some of the prettiest views around.
Where to see local art
Burr House Artisans Gallery and Tea room. Art lovers will appreciate the wide selection of handcrafted work in a historical setting.
Where to get a great cup of coffee
Covernotes Coffee House. Enjoy locally roasted organic coffee & a premium selection of nearly 100 loose leaf teas for your sipping delight.
Last updated: December 30, 2022