A Museum Lover’s Guide to Peterborough & the Kawarthas

Canadian Canoe Museum

Immerse yourself into the world of paddling at the Canadian Canoe Museum, a national treasure dedicated to preserving and showcasing the cultural significance of canoes in Canada. Explore a vast collection of canoes, kayaks, and other watercraft, while gaining insights into their role in shaping exploration, transportation, and Indigenous traditions. The Canadian Canoe Museum’s brand new purpose-built, world-class, two-storey, 65,000 sq. ft. lakefront museum and campus opens to the world on May 13.

This lakefront location offers visitors ways to explore Canada by Canoe, including hands-on workshops, voyageur canoe tours, and canoe and kayak rentals.

Peterborough Museum & Archives

Travel through the corridors of time at the Peterborough Museum & Archives. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Peterborough and beyond. From its Indigenous roots to its industrial boom. Uncover fascinating artifacts, delve into local stories, and learn about the people who have shaped Peterborough into the vibrant city it is today. Here all ages of visitors can engage with interactive elements throughout the museum. Kids will love the opportunity to play as they learn and enjoy the fantastic playground and picnic area adjacent to the Museum. View their current featured exhibition Words & Beyond: How Communication Brings Us Together.

Lang Pioneer Village Museum

Open for the season May 21st
Lang Pioneer Village Museum in Peterborough County offers a captivating journey through over 30 restored buildings, showcasing a century of local history. Costumed interpreters bring the past to life, depicting the struggles and triumphs of settlers through traditional chores and trades. The museum highlights the region’s First Nations history through exhibits and partnerships with local communities. Visitors can explore a functioning Grist Mill and a Weaver Shop featuring rare looms. Literary enthusiasts will appreciate the connection to renowned authors Susanna Moodie and Catherine Parr Traill, whose works provide insights into pioneer life and influence the museum’s authentic portrayal of the era.

Hutchison House Museum

Hutchison House Museum in downtown Peterborough offers year-round access to the region’s nineteenth-century social history. Built in 1837 by volunteers for Dr. John Hutchison, the city’s first resident physician, it now stands as a stunning historical attraction. Dedicated to preserving the past, the museum features a room honouring Sir Sandford Fleming, Dr. Hutchison’s cousin and a significant figure in Canadian history. Annually, around 7,000 visitors enjoy guided tours and special events, including Scottish Teas in July and August and heritage lunches during winter. Noteworthy is the museum’s connection to prominent historical figures like Susanna Moodie, Catharine Parr Traill, and Samuel Strickland, reflecting its integral role in the narrative of Upper Canada’s literary and medical history.

Whetung Ojibwa Centre

At the Whetung Ojibwa Centre, visitors can immerse themselves in a diverse collection representing Indigenous cultures from across Canada. Spanning 10,000 square feet, the centre features a museum showcasing totem poles, sculptures, headdresses, moccasins, and dreamcatchers. It offers a rich cultural experience, inviting guests to explore and learn about Indigenous heritage through various artifacts and exhibits.

OFAH Hunting & Fishing Heritage Centre

The OFAH | Mario Cortellucci Hunting and Fishing Heritage Centre celebrates fish and wildlife conservation history while honoring hunting, fishing, and trapping traditions. Visitors can enjoy self-guided tours of stunning wildlife displays with interactive touch screens providing interesting facts. The centre boasts a large collection of Canadian wildlife, antique lure and decoy exhibits, and a giant Shimano Aquarium showcasing Ontario’s warm water fish. Visitors can also participate in free Tackleshare programs, fish feedings, and conservation seminars in a state-of-the-art amphitheater.