What to Do in Scarborough: Top Activities & Hidden Gems

Wondering what to do in Scarborough? Explore local attractions, hidden gems, family-friendly activities, and events to enjoy all year round.

Key Takeaways

• Scarborough is known for beautiful outdoor spots like the Bluffs and Rouge Park.

• Popular family-friendly attractions include Toronto Zoo and Scarborough Town Centre.

• Unique local cafes, cultural gardens, and seasonal festivals offer an experience for anyone.

• A variety of free, affordable, and worthwhile activities cater to all interests.

>> Grab The Local's Guide to Toronto for Everything You Need

Free Activities & Attractions

Thompson Park

Visit Thompson Park to explore the historic Scarborough Museum, featuring old houses often open to the public with homemade baked goods or soup made from traditional recipes.

The park offers dog parks, scenic walking and biking trails, and picnic areas.

Guild Park and Gardens

Guild Park features intriguing sculptures scattered among beautiful gardens.

Enjoy free family movies under the stars and Scarborough’s Shakespeare in the Park performances at the outdoor Greek theatre.

Rosetta McClain Gardens

Stroll through these charming, beautifully maintained gardens offering tranquil walks and breathtaking views of Lake Ontario.

Scarborough Bluffs

The iconic Scarborough Bluffs provide stunning panoramic views and a beautiful beach with a boardwalk.

Ideal for picnics, beach days, or scenic photography.

Rouge National Urban Park

Explore Canada’s largest urban park, featuring scenic trails, wildlife sightings, and outdoor adventures.

A must-see for nature lovers and active families.

Festivals & Events

• Taste of Lawrence (July 7-9): Enjoy live music, games, and diverse food vendors.

• Scarborough Rib Fest (August 4-7): Delicious BBQ, fun rides, games, and live entertainment.

• Scarborough Afro-Carib Fest (August 19-20): Celebrate vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture with food, merchants, and music.

• Aga Khan Museum: Free entry every Wednesday evening.

• Toronto Zoo: Free tickets available from the local library if you arrive early on Saturdays.

Affordable Activities

Putting Edge

Located near Scarborough Town Centre (STC), Putting Edge offers glow-in-the-dark mini golf at just $14 per person.

Combine it with shopping or dining nearby for a perfect day out.

Worthwhile Experiences

Go Smash

Unwind by breaking bottles and more at Go Smash, a popular smash room experience.

Nearby eateries like Hana Ramen, Johnny's Shawarma, and Kathy’s Grill make for great dining afterward.

Omniscape Scarborough

Challenge your group with exciting escape rooms offering fun team-building experiences and memorable moments.

Family-Friendly Things to Do in Scarborough

Toronto Zoo

Discover over 5,000 animals at the Toronto Zoo, featuring educational exhibits and interactive fun. An ideal spot for families and animal lovers of all ages.

Scarborough Town Centre

Shop, dine, or catch a movie at Scarborough’s bustling shopping mall. With a range of activities, it's a convenient destination for all ages.

Local Favorites & Hidden Gems

Lazy Cat Café

Relax at this charming café surrounded by friendly cats. It's the perfect cozy spot for coffee, conversation, and animal companionship.

>> Read about more restaurants in Scarborough here!

Modo Yoga

Find balance and relaxation at Modo Yoga, offering yoga classes suitable for beginners and experienced yogis alike. Great for stress relief and wellness.

Nearby (Outside Scarborough but Worth Visiting)

Evergreen Brickworks

Explore repurposed brick-making facilities with free ice skating in winter, farmers' markets on Saturdays, and trails offering scenic city views.

Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO)

Enjoy free AGO entry (ages 25 and under anytime, all others on Wednesday evenings), then explore nearby Chinatown for affordable eats and unique local shopping.

FAQs: Visiting Scarborough

How do I spend a day in Scarborough?

Start at the Scarborough Bluffs, explore the trails at Rouge Park, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, and finish with shopping or entertainment at Scarborough Town Centre.

Is Scarborough Toronto worth visiting?

Absolutely! Scarborough offers stunning natural attractions, diverse culinary experiences, cultural landmarks, and activities for the whole family.

Is there a lot to do in Scarborough?

Yes, Scarborough provides a wide range of activities including outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, festivals, shopping, dining, and family-friendly attractions.

What is there to do on a wet day in Scarborough?

Visit indoor attractions like the Toronto Zoo’s indoor exhibits, Scarborough Town Centre, local cafes such as Lazy Cat Café, or relax at a yoga class at Modo Yoga.

>> Explore more about Scarborough here!

Final Thoughts

Scarborough offers endless opportunities for exploration, relaxation, and family fun.

Thinking about moving to Scarborough or want more local recommendations?

As experienced real estate agents in Scarborough, we’re happy to help. Reach out or call (416) GET-ALDO today—we’d love to welcome you to our neighborhood!