
Newmarket Riverwalk Commons
A lively waterside hub with seasonal splash pools, skating rinks, and community events, nestled beside historic Main Street.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Splash pad fun!

Newmarket Riverwalk Commons
Best Time
Splash pad fun!

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A lively waterside hub with seasonal splash pools, skating rinks, and community events, nestled beside historic Main Street.
"A beautiful, clean, and safe place for a walk anytime, with something always happening!"

Winter Magic Awaits! ✨
Don't miss the Festival of Lights in winter; it's absolutely magical!
Saturday Market Delights 🍎
The farmers market on Saturdays is a favorite for fresh local finds.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Seasonal Splash Pool & Skating Rink
Riverwalk Commons
A vibrant hub for summer water play and winter ice skating, perfect for family fun.

Festival of Lights
Riverwalk Commons
Experience a truly magical winter wonderland with dazzling lights and festive cheer.

Farmers Market
Riverwalk Commons
Discover local produce and artisanal goods every Saturday morning.

Fairy Lake Loop Trail
Adjacent to Riverwalk Commons
An accessible, paved path offering serene views around the picturesque Fairy Lake.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Seasonal Fun & Events
Explore Main Street
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Visiting Newmarket after years, decades being away.
Winter Magic Awaits! ✨
Don't miss the Festival of Lights in winter; it's absolutely magical!
Saturday Market Delights 🍎
The farmers market on Saturdays is a favorite for fresh local finds.
Accessible Strolls 🚶♀️
The paved path around Fairy Lake is wheelchair accessible year-round.
Evening Safety 🌃
While family-friendly, stick to well-lit areas at night on Main Street.
Tips
from all over the internet
Winter Magic Awaits! ✨
Don't miss the Festival of Lights in winter; it's absolutely magical!
Saturday Market Delights 🍎
The farmers market on Saturdays is a favorite for fresh local finds.
Accessible Strolls 🚶♀️
The paved path around Fairy Lake is wheelchair accessible year-round.
Evening Safety 🌃
While family-friendly, stick to well-lit areas at night on Main Street.
Eventful Evenings 🎶
Check for live music and outdoor movie nights; there's always something happening!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Newmarket Riverwalk Commons as a clean, safe, and vibrant community hub. Its seasonal attractions, like the summer splash pad and winter skating rink, are highlights, complemented by the lively atmosphere of Main Street and the peaceful Fairy Lake trail. While generally family-friendly, some note the need for caution on Main Street at night.
"Beautiful place for an after dinner walk on main st Newmarket!
Easily a go to spot for a walk anytime of day. The area is clean and most importantly safe.
The area includes a beautiful water feature where children can cool off in the summer or skate on in the winter.
My favourite part of this area is the farmers market on Saturdays."
Francesco Ferrara
"Riverwalk Commons is truly within the heart of Newmarket. Live concerts, outdoor theatre/movie nights, farmers markets… there’s always something happening.
On a day when it’s quieter in the area, there is a beautiful, looping trail that goes around the pond in Fairy Lake. It’s accessible for wheelchair and other various mobility devices to utilize year-round, and even in the winter, the paved path seems to be fairly well-kept and clear of snow and debris.
In the summer, there’s a clean and open-access splash pad that’s always bustling with activity. There’s a ramp leading into the water, which is perfect for young children or those using mobility aids. In the winter, it’s turned into a skating rink that’s maintained by the town throughout the day and they (may) have support bars available for those less confident in their skating skills.
Along Riverwalk Commons, there are tons of small shops and local businesses within walking distance. Walk 500 metres to Main Street and you’ll find a wide variety of restaurants, some offering live music on certain nights. Like many small town Main Streets, it’s family-friendly and bustling with events and activities during the day, although it’s important to travel in pairs and in well-lit areas at night, especially if you’re taking advantage of the various late-night restaurants and local bars.
The older buildings are well-maintained and some have been turned into historic sites to learn more about the rich history of the Newmarket area. There are tons of hidden gems and no matter how many times you visit, there’s always something new to discover."
Kai Farnum
"They have really done a great job at the Riverwalk Commons and children had a lot of fun playing in the Splash pad. We went to the music in the park from 7 to 9pm and it was a blast. Great music in spite of the rain."
Deanne K
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Commons is centrally located in Newmarket, easily accessible by car with ample free parking available. Public transit options are also available, with bus routes serving the Main Street area. For specific routes and schedules, check the York Region Transit website.
Yes, there is plenty of free parking available near the Riverwalk Commons, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Absolutely! The area is pedestrian-friendly, and there are pathways that connect to the surrounding neighborhoods. Biking is also a great option, with bike racks available.
Yes, the paved path around Fairy Lake is designed to be accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, ensuring everyone can enjoy the scenery.
Many visitors enjoy walking along Main Street to discover local shops and restaurants after visiting the Commons. The Fairy Lake loop trail also offers a pleasant stroll.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to Newmarket Riverwalk Commons is free! You can enjoy the splash pad, skating rink (seasonal), and walking trails without any cost.
The splash pad is a seasonal feature, typically open during the warmer months. While specific hours can vary, it's generally accessible during daylight hours. It's best to check the Town of Newmarket's official website for the most up-to-date information.
The skating rink at Riverwalk Commons is a winter attraction, usually opening once temperatures are consistently cold enough. The 'Festival of Lights' often coincides with its opening, creating a magical atmosphere.
Most events like concerts and movie nights are free and open to the public, so no booking is required. However, for special ticketed events, it's advisable to check the Town of Newmarket's event calendar or website for details.
While pets are generally welcome in outdoor public spaces, it's always a good idea to check local bylaws regarding leash requirements and designated pet areas. Always clean up after your pet.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Riverwalk Commons offers a seasonal splash pool for summer fun, a skating rink in winter, live concerts, outdoor movie nights, and a popular farmers market on Saturdays. There's also a beautiful trail around Fairy Lake.
Yes, it's very family-friendly! The splash pad is a huge hit with kids in the summer, and the skating rink is great fun in winter. The accessible trail and nearby playground also make it a perfect spot for a family outing.
The Commons frequently hosts live concerts, outdoor theatre, movie nights, and community festivals. The 'Festival of Lights' in winter is a particularly popular event.
Yes, there's a lovely paved loop trail that goes around Fairy Lake, offering scenic views and a peaceful walk. It's accessible for all mobility levels.
Amenities include a splash pad, skating rink (seasonal), washrooms, and change rooms. There are also benches and open green spaces for relaxing.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Riverwalk Commons is adjacent to Newmarket's historic Main Street, which is lined with a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars offering diverse cuisines.
Picnics are generally welcome in public parks. There are open green spaces and benches where you can enjoy your own food. Remember to clean up any trash.
Main Street offers everything from casual cafes and pubs to more upscale dining experiences. You'll find options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with some establishments offering live music.
During larger events like concerts or festivals, food vendors may be present. It's best to check the specific event details for information on available food options.
Main Street is generally considered safe and family-friendly during the day. At night, it's advisable to travel in pairs and stick to well-lit areas, especially if visiting bars or late-night restaurants.
📸 📸 Photography
The splash pad area offers vibrant shots in summer, while the skating rink and surrounding lights are picturesque in winter. The Fairy Lake trail provides scenic natural backdrops year-round.
Absolutely! Summer brings lush greenery and water features, while winter transforms the area into a festive wonderland with the Festival of Lights. Autumn also offers beautiful foliage around Fairy Lake.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) offers beautiful lighting. For event photography, evenings during concerts or the Festival of Lights provide dynamic opportunities.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, for commercial photography or filming, you may need to obtain permits. Always be respectful of other visitors' privacy.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for general shots. For winter events, a faster lens or one with good low-light performance is beneficial. A wide-angle lens can capture the expanse of the Commons and Fairy Lake.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit