Toronto.com – June 23, 2025 –Looking for your next day trip? How about a visit to “Ontario’s favourite lakeside heritage town?”

On the southern shore of Lake Scugog, about a one-hour drive northeast of the Greater Toronto Area, lies Port Perry — a charming town with a scenic countryside and a “vibrant and historic” downtown area, according to Destination Ontario.

In fact, it’s downtown has even been designated as a heritage district in the Township of Scugog, the Port Perry Business Improvement Area (BIA) website states. If you’re visiting, be sure to keep your eyes out for the historical plaques that are on display throughout the area.

Port Perry’s downtown is also a hot spot for movie and TV film crews. “Jack Reacher,” “American Gods,” “Hemlock Grove,” “Thanksgiving” and “The Way Home” were all filmed in the area.

“Discover the perfect day trip in downtown Port Perry,” the Port Perry BIA states on its social media.

While you’re there, you could also check out Palmer Park to take in the picturesque views of Lake Scugog. Inside the park, you’ll find sandy Kinsman Beach. On Wednesday and Thursday evenings there will be free live concerts at this spot until Aug. 28.

If you want to watch the boats float by as you enjoy a meal, you could also make a stop at Boathouse Grill, located at the town’s marina.

And, if you’d like to indulge in a brew after you eat, Old Flame Brewing Co. is a go-to for “award winning” craft beer.

To catch some live theatre, check out Theatre on the Ridge, which holds performances in and around Port Perry, including at the historically designated Town Hall 1873 Theatre.

You may decide to rest your head after a long day of adventuring at The Piano Inn and Café, located in the heart of the downtown.

“This beautiful award-winning historical space is true to form of what the building looked like in the 1800’s,” the inn’s website states.

So, whether you’re looking for a day trip away from the city or want to spend a little vacation close to home, Port Perry might just be your next destination.