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Top 10 things to do downtown Peterborough with your kids and teens

Downtown Peterborough isn’t just for adults. It’s a playground of discovery for the whole family!

Whether you’re planning a weekend adventure, a summer staycation or just looking for ways to keep everyone entertained… you’ll find PLENTY of kid-approved and teen-friendly fun right in the heart of Peterborough.

Here’s your guide to a day (or two! or three!) filled with laughter, treats, games, and memories you’ll cherish for a lifetime.

This guide will help you turn “Ugh, what should we do today?” into “That was the BEST day ever!”

1. Pamper Day

Why not swap screen time for SPA time instead? Treat yourselves to a mani/pedi, or a fresh new style at spots like Spa Euphoria, Country Nails or Juniper Salon. It’s a great way to relax, chat and enjoy a little self-care time together.

2. Free Yoga at the Park! Stretch, Breathe & Flow for Free

We’ve teamed up with some local wellness studios to bring you free outdoor yoga to Quaker Foods City Square during the Saturday Farmers’ Market! Now extended through August & September… you can start your weekend with a healthy dose of movement, mindfulness and sunshine.


🧘‍♀ Yoga Schedule:

  • August 2 – Restore Yoga
  • August 16 – Salti Yoga
  • August 23 – Peterborough Yoga Wellness Centre
  • August 30 – Salti Yoga
  • September 6 – Restore Yoga
  • September 20 – Peterborough Yoga Wellness Centre
  • September 27 – Salti Yoga
Just bring a mat, water, and sunscreen — all levels and all bodies welcome. Come for the flow, stay for the community vibes and fresh market finds.

3. Taste Your Way Around the World
From pizza fresh straight out of the oven to sushi rolled to perfection, downtown’s restaurants offer a world of flavours within walking distance. Make it a game: each family member picks a cuisine you’ve never tried before. Who knows, you might find a new favourite!


4. Storytime & Learning at the Peterborough Public Library
Escape into a world of books at the Peterborough Public Library. With a free membership, you can borrow everything from graphic novels to the latest YA hits. The library also hosts a plethora of events and problems that are just perfect for curious minds and creative souls.


5. Team Up and put your heads together for an ESCAPE ROOM Challenge!
For families and teens who love puzzles and adventures, Lift Lock Escape is an absolute must. Work together to solve clues, unlock secrets and make your wild escape – it’s a bonding experience you’ll be talking (and hopefully not fighting about) for weeks.


6. Scenic Stroll at Millennium Park

Talk a walk along the waterfront trails in Millennium Park and watch the Otonabee River sparkle in the sun! Make it extra sweet with a stop for ice cream or bubble tea along the way.


7. Sweet Treats from Around the World
Step inside Couture Candy – your local candy wonderland, and explore shelves filled with treats from near and far. From sour gummies to international chocolate bars, pick a few, take some home and have a taste-test night.


8. Shop & Play at the Second Saturday Sidewalk Sale

On the second Saturday of each month, George Street transforms into a lively marketplace. There’s shopping, games, music and surprises around every corner. A true downtown festival vibe and street party for the whole family!


9. Free Live Music by the Lake

Bring your blanket and chairs to Del Crary Park for Peterborough Musicfest! Enjoy an evening of live music right by the water. The PERFECT way to end a summer day in Peterborough.


10. A Family Foodie Crawl
Make your own mini food festival! Stop at a cafe for drinks, have a snack at a local bakery and share an app at a local downtown restaurant. Finish with dessert! A Tasty way to explore downtown Peterborough together.



Downtown Peterborough is your family’s playground.


Every visit is a chance to laugh, explore, and create memories that stick. Whether you come for a few hours or the whole day, you’ll always find something new to discover in the core.