You spend much of your first semester at university making friends, going to student events, and becoming familiar with campus. Make sure you don’t neglect to spend time in Oshawa city — it’s packed with great activities you’ll enjoy doing alone or with your new friends. Here are a few ideas to start your list.
1. Visit McLaughlin Bay Wildlife Reserve
A highlight of Oshawa has to be McLaughlin Bay Wildlife Reserve, which is home to hundreds of species of flora and fauna. In fact, you’ll probably want to come here several times to walk the various trails through the forests, past the marshes, and along the beaches. However, to enjoy your time at the wildlife reserve, make sure you bring insect repellent!
2. Check Out Parkwood National Historic Site
Another top tourist destination in Oshawa is Parkwood National Historic Site. Dating back to the early 1900s, it was the home of the McLaughlin family until the 1970s. Today, you can have a tour of the mansion (which still has all the original decor) and eat a meal at the teahouse.
3. Go Shopping
Whatever your shopping style, there’s something for you in Oshawa. The largest mall in the Durham region is the Oshawa Centre, which has 230 stores, including all the brands you’d expect to find in a modern mall.
Alternatively, you may prefer Courtice Flea Market. It’s open every weekend and hosts more than 200 vendors, who sell a wide range of products. There’s also an outdoor farmer’s market on Sundays between May and November, meaning you’ll have the chance to visit during your first semester at university.
4. Pick Up Produce at Linton’s Farm Market
Another option for farm-fresh produce is Linton’s Farm Market, located at the farm itself and open every day. At some times of the year, customers also have the opportunity to pick their own fruits and vegetables — fall is pumpkin season.
5. Have a Picnic Near the Waterfront
Take advantage of the pleasant weather before it turns cold by having a picnic next to the Oshawa waterfront. A top option is Lakeview Park, which has a gazebo to keep you sheltered while you eat. You could pack your own food or buy lunch at Firehouse Subs. If you feel like having some exercise as well as a picnic, walk out to Lakewoods Park Lookout for views of the water or bike along the trail.
6. Treat Yourself to Dessert at Hollywood Cone
If you want to celebrate a big achievement — such as receiving an excellent grade on a paper or even finishing your first semester — there’s no better option than Hollywood Cone. You’ll need to head out to Whitby, but it’s only about a 10-minute drive. The restaurant has theater seating to make you feel fancy as you enjoy an elaborate shake, cake, or ice cream. The establishment’s signature desserts are called mutant shakes: milkshakes topped with treats like donuts, candy bars, and s’mores. There’s also the huge Titanic Split, which is free if you can finish it in 20 minutes. All the desserts make for great Instagram pictures.
Students tend to spend more time exploring their surroundings when they live in an off-campus student rental. Oshawa has the ideal housing for you at Foundry Simcoe. With your own room and en suite bathroom in a flat suite or townhouse, you’ll be much more comfortable than you would be living in a student residence. Plus, there are numerous restaurants, cafés, parks, and shopping options in the neighbourhood. Apply now to join the waitlist.