Durham Date Ideas: When You Don’t Want To Spend A Lot Of Money This Summer

As the days grow longer, so do our summer bucket lists. With summer on the horizon and the weather heating up, it’s time to ditch the couch and get outside to explore Durham Region. To help you make the most of this beautiful weather, we’ve created this list of must-try experiences—with your wallets in mind—so that you can enjoy the best of what the season has to offer, without having to break the bank.

Attend A Free Concert

There’s nothing quite like live music. Spend a warm summer evening outside, listening to local bands at a free concert in Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, Oshawa, or Clarington! Bring a picnic blanket or some lawn chairs, relax, and enjoy the sights and sounds of summer.

Watch A Movie Under The Stars

Grab your lawn chair, blankets and snacks, and enjoy free outdoor movies in the park in Port Perry, Ajax, Whitby, or Oshawa. If the outdoors after dusk isn’t really your thing, check out The Roxy Theatre in Uxbridge for an authentic movie lover’s experience.

Spend The Day At The Beach

Durham is situated on three beautiful lakes—Lake Ontario, Lake Simcoe, and Lake Scugog. Check out the Port of Newcastle Marina for a bite to eat along the waterfront in Clarington, bring your blanket and soak up the views at Beaverton Harbour, or enjoy a waterfront stroll through Palmer Park in Port Perry.

Hike The Trail Capital Of Canada

If you’re looking for a great place to start your hiking journey, why not head to the Trail Capital of Canada? Explore picturesque, recreational hiking trails throughout Uxbridge, including beautiful landscapes and four-season recreational experiences at Trail Hub—the Greater Toronto Area’s ultimate outdoor destination.

Visit A Free Art Gallery Or Museum

Durham region offers a variety of art galleries, museums and historical sites to explore. Step back in time and discover life in another era. Explore enchanting estates and gardens for an experience you’ll never forget, or head to a local art gallery for a day filled with contemporary, traditional, and public art—all within stunning architecture.