Nationally acclaimed for having the best-preserved main street in Ontario, Port Hope is well known for its lovingly restored, 19th century homes. Some of these homes have been transformed into exquisite bed and breakfast accommodations.
Downtown offers everything from footwear to fashion, and a chance to pick up some hand-made leather products at Kirkpatricks. You'll want to make your way to Olympus Burger, a popular place to get a delicious burger. The restaurant was featured on "You Gotta Eat Here" and has a diverse hamburger menu. Heading out of town, Haute Goat farm offers handmade soaps, creams and even popcorn made with goats milk. On Highway 28, Primitive Designs has arts and crafts from around the world. This is a fun stop, an opportunity to treasure-hunt and a chance to take a picture beside their giant transformer and dinosaur.
Port Hope is known for excellent fishing on both the Ganaraska River or Lake Ontario! You can watch the trout and salmon running up the Ganaraska in spring and fall – it's quite a spectacle!
Also at the Ganaraska River at Lake Ontario is the long, high and majestic viaduct that carries daily rail traffic. Learn about its history and the Canadian National Railway here.
Be sure to check out the Capitol Theatre, one of Canada's last remaining atmospheric theatres and designated as a national historic site. Home to the Port Hope Festival Theatre, films, concerts, HD Operas and live theatrical performances. It also houses the Visitors' Centre.
Port Hope's annual events include Float Your Fanny Down the Ganny, an exciting river race that takes place on the Ganaraska River in April. Canoes, kayaks and crazy crafts take to the river to commemorate the 1980 flood that crippled downtown Port Hope. The race draws thousands of spectators every year! Another event not to miss is the historic House Tour, Canada's oldest and longest running tour the last Saturday before Thanksgiving.