Self-guided Tour
Downtown on a Dime
New to Peterborough? This tour is your guide to the best student-friendly spots downtown… and you can do it all on a budget! From tasty bites to fun hangouts and hidden gems, you’ll discover places to eat, play, and explore without breaking the bank.
Tour Details
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Soupcon Bistro
No downtown food adventure is complete without a stop at Soupçon. Warm up with a bowl from their ever-changing lineup of soups (you might never see the same one twice) and don’t skip the beer bread. We're serious when we tell you it’s iconic. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or a meat lover, you’ll find a flavour you’ll want to come back for. It’s also a budget-friendly choice, making it a go-to spot for students looking for a hearty, homemade meal without spending much.
187 Charlotte Street, Peterborough, ON, Canada
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The Boardwalk Board Game Lounge
Looking for a spot to unwind, meet new friends, and challenge your brain? The Boardwalk Game Lounge has you covered with an epic library of board games, lively trivia nights, and cozy tables perfect for an evening of fun. Pair your game with great eats and a laid-back vibe that makes it a go-to hangout for students looking to mix playtime with good food and good vibes.
261 George Street North, Peterborough, ON, Canada
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Niche
Discover a little bit of everything at Niche, a George Street thrift shop where every visit feels like a mini treasure hunt. Browse through shelves of books and records, racks of vintage clothing, quirky home décor, furniture finds, and even comics. Perfect for students looking to furnish a new place on a budget or score unique pieces with plenty of character.
404 George Street North, Peterborough, ON, Canada
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The Vanilla Room
This charming café and bakery is a downtown favourite for students craving comfort food with a twist. Known for their legendary cookie sandwiches and must-try “croiffles” (a croissant-waffle dream come true), Vanilla Room also serves up delicious drinks, light bites, and plenty of cozy vibes. Perfect for a study break or a sweet reward after class.
386 Water Street, Peterborough, ON, Canada
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Bobo Tea
Craving something sweet, cold, and definitely photo-worthy? Bobo Tea is the go-to for bubble tea lovers downtown Peterborough, serving up everything from their staple Bobo Shakes to fruity blends and your topping of choice! Perfect for a mid-day pick-me-up or a refreshing study break treat.
154 Charlotte Street, Peterborough, ON, Canada
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Sam's Place
"The best dam sandwiches in town" and they aren't lying to you either. Sam's Place Deli is a downtown staple for fresh sandwiches, hearty soups, and baked goods, all made with plenty of love and care. Sam’s Place is perfect for a quick lunch between classes or a grab-and-go bite that might just end up being the best dam sandwich you've ever tasted.
288 Hunter Street West, Peterborough, ON, Canada
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Brothers Pizza
Nothing hits the spot like a hot, cheesy slice, and Brothers Pizza delivers (literally!). Affordable, fast, and made with care, it’s the perfect stop for students on the go or for sharing with friends during a study session or casual hangout. From classic pizza flavours to generous portions, this downtown favourite also offers sandwiches, wraps, burgers, appetizers, baklava, and more. Feeling indecisive? You can even grab your favourite by the slice for a quick bite that never disappoints.
402 George Street North, Peterborough, ON, Canada
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Do it your wayOther Self-guided Tours
The Thrift & Treasure Trail
Explore the best thrift stores and vintage shops downtown, where you can find everything from retro clothing and records to home décor, furniture, and collectibles. This tour offers a fun, budget-friendly way to explore eclectic shelves and shop sustainably while discovering the character of Peterborough’s urban core. Perfect for fashion lovers, collectors, or anyone looking for one-of-a-kind finds.
Brain Fuel & Cozy Corners
Find your perfect study spot in downtown Peterborough with this self-guided tour of student-friendly cafés, cozy nooks, and inspiring spaces. Each stop offers a unique atmosphere to focus, recharge, and connect. Settle in with your laptop, grab a tasty bite, and explore the best corners downtown to study, sip, and stay inspired.
Downtown Arts & Culture Tour
Step into Peterborough’s creative soul with a self-guided tour of galleries, shops, and spaces that celebrate art and imagination. Explore contemporary exhibits and hands-on workshops at Artspace Peterborough, browse curated collections at Watson & Lou and Whimsy & Wonder, and ignite your creativity at The Art School of Peterborough. Stop by the Peterborough Public Library for free events, makerspace tools, and cozy corners, then finish at Platform D Gallery for thought-provoking works. Perfect for art lovers, makers, and the creatively curious.
Downtown on a Dime
Taste your way through downtown without breaking your budget. From pizza by the slice to bubble tea, plant-based snacks to decadent baked goods, this tour hits all the best spots for $10 or less.
Stroll between cozy cafés, takeout counters and hidden gems serving flavours from around the world. Perfect for a quick study break, a grab-and-go lunch between classes, or a weekend treat with friends.
Family Fun Day
Looking for the perfect day of family fun? This tour takes you on an exciting adventure filled with toy shopping, sweet treats, an escape room challenge, and a visit to the Boardwalk Board Game Lounge. With plenty of surprises along the way, it’s the ultimate way to make memories together in the heart of Peterborough!
Date Night
Love is in the air in The Boro. Cozy restaurants and cocktail bars, live music and game lounges set the scene for an unforgettable night with someone special. Let us tour you through some great spots to wine, dine, and enjoy a night out to remember.
Local Makers & Coffee Lovers Crawl
Downtown Peterborough is a special hub of creativity. Do you love exploring local art, charming cafes, or trying your hand at a new craft? This tour invites you to slow down and experience the creative spread of local makers and perfectly crafted drinks. Indulge in a house-made pastry, join a workshop and explore at your own pace.
The Outdoor Enthusiast
Do you love the great outdoors, either on two wheels or two feet? Whether you’re an avid cyclist, a paddler, or just someone who enjoys fresh air and adventure, this is your perfect guide to exploring downtown Peterborough’s best outdoor shops and scenic spots.