Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Ajax, Ontario to Peterborough, Ontario

Driving from Ajax, Ontario to Peterborough, Ontario takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. This straight shot down Highway 115 may seem like just a mundane drive, but it's nothing short of breathtaking. Not only does this drive take you through some beautiful Canadian scenery, but there are also some must-visit pit stops along the way. This article will give you a guide of five unexpected places to stop that are sure to make the drive even more memorable.

Orono, ON - The Halfway Point

Before we dive into the other extraordinary places to stop on your way from Ajax to Peterborough, it would be remiss not to mention the halfway point, Orono, ON. This small village is full of charm and history. Be sure to take a stroll and explore the local shops, including The Dusty Decorator, which carries unique home decor items. Stop for lunch at White Cliffe Terrace, a lovely tea room with a peaceful outdoor patio. The Quirky Carrot also serves up healthy and delicious meals, with plenty of options for vegans and vegetarians.

1. Jungle Cat World Wildlife Park

First on the list is Jungle Cat World Wildlife Park, located in Orono, ON. This animal sanctuary is home to lions, jaguars, tigers, and a wide range of other exotic animals. Visitors can take guided tours of the park and learn about each animal's unique characteristics. The park focuses on conservation and educating visitors about the importance of protecting endangered species. Among many other things, they are inviting people to participate in virtual tours, camps and animal encounters. During the summer months, Jungle Cat World offers a Safari Zoo Camp for children where they can learn about the environment, animals, and ecology.

If you're looking for a bite to eat, the Jungle Cat World has a cafe that serves up some light snacks, sandwiches, and salads.

2. Canadian Canoe Museum

If you're interested in Canadian history, then the Canadian Canoe Museum in Peterborough is a must-visit. The museum has an extensive collection of canoes, kayaks, and paddled watercraft, all with a rich history. The museum offers self-guided tours, guided group tours, or virtual tours.

After touring the museum, take a break at the museum's cafe, The Snackery. Their menu includes a variety of sandwiches, salads, and soups, with vegetarian options available.

3. Warsaw Caves Conservation Area

Located about halfway between Orono and Peterborough, the Warsaw Caves Conservation Area is a natural wonder. The area has several caves to explore, hiking and walking trails, and the Indian River running through it. The caves are a unique geological formation, with some of them being over 100 million years old. Visitors can take a guided tour or explore the caves on their own.

After a day of hiking, check out the local restaurant, Marty Moo's, located in the nearby town of Douro-Dummer. The restaurant serves homemade burgers, fries, and milkshakes.

4. Liftlock and the Riverboat Cruises

If you're in Peterborough, the Liftlock and the Riverboat Cruises is a must-visit. The canal liftlock is the highest in the world. Visitors can book a riverboat cruise and watch the liftlock in action as their boat is lifted 65 feet in the air. This liftlock and canal are incredibly historic, allowing boats to travel across the country in the 19th century.

After your riverboat cruise, head to Ashburnham Ale House, located in downtown Peterborough. The restaurant offers elevated pub fare, with a focus on locally-sourced ingredients, and it features an extensive beer menu.

5. Petroglyphs Provincial Park

Lastly, Petroglyphs Provincial Park is the perfect place to explore and learn about Indigenous history in Canada. The park is home to the largest collection of ancient Indigenous rock carvings, or petroglyphs, in Canada. Visitors can take guided tours of the site and learn about the carvings' significance to Indigenous culture.

After touring the park, stop by Chemong Lodge, a family-owned restaurant that has been around for over 75 years. The restaurant offers a menu of casual pub fare, including burgers and fish and chips.

Conclusion

Taking a road trip from Ajax, Ontario, to Peterborough, Ontario, may seem like a straightforward drive, but as we've seen, there are many interesting and significant stops along the way. From the exotic animals of the Jungle Cat World Wildlife Park to the Indigenous petroglyphs of Petroglyphs Provincial Park, or the canoes at the Canadian Canoe Museum, there is something for everyone on this drive.

So, pack a picnic, make a playlist, and hit the road - you won't be disappointed.