Parkwood Estate Oshawa
A stunning National Historic Site featuring a grand Beaux-Arts mansion and meticulously kept formal gardens, once home to GM Canada's founder.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Gardens are in full bloom
Parkwood Estate Oshawa
Best Time
Gardens are in full bloom
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning National Historic Site featuring a grand Beaux-Arts mansion and meticulously kept formal gardens, once home to GM Canada's founder.
"This is truly a hidden gem in Oshawa, offering a fascinating glimpse into history and beautiful surroundings."
Book Tours in Advance
Popular tours fill up quickly, especially themed ones. Secure your spot online to avoid disappointment! :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the mansion and extensive grounds. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Mansion
Interior
Step back in time inside the opulent former home of R.S. McLaughlin, founder of General Motors Canada.
Expansive Formal Gardens
Exterior Grounds
Wander through meticulously maintained gardens, featuring vibrant flowers, lush greenery, and a picturesque fountain.
The Tea House Experience
Near the Pool
Enjoy a delightful lunch or afternoon tea amidst beautiful garden views, with reservations highly recommended.
Filming Location Spots
Various locations on estate
Discover the iconic backdrops used in popular films and TV shows, a treat for cinephiles.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Grounds Access, Paid Tours
+1A Filming Hotspot
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Tours in Advance
Popular tours fill up quickly, especially themed ones. Secure your spot online to avoid disappointment! :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the mansion and extensive grounds. :athletic_shoe:
Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a casual meal in the beautiful gardens. The Tea House is also an option for a more formal experience. :sandwich:
Check for Events
Parkwood hosts various events like afternoon tea, holiday tours, and markets. Check their schedule! :calendar:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Tours in Advance
Popular tours fill up quickly, especially themed ones. Secure your spot online to avoid disappointment! :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the mansion and extensive grounds. :athletic_shoe:
Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a casual meal in the beautiful gardens. The Tea House is also an option for a more formal experience. :sandwich:
Check for Events
Parkwood hosts various events like afternoon tea, holiday tours, and markets. Check their schedule! :calendar:
Photography Paradise
The estate is a dream for photographers, with stunning architecture and gardens. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Parkwood Estate as a beautiful and well-maintained hidden gem, offering a glimpse into historical grandeur. The stunning gardens and the opportunity to tour the opulent mansion are major highlights, with many also enjoying the dining experience at The Tea House. Some visitors note that tours can be crowded, and advance booking is essential for popular times.
"My mom and I attended a Film Tour led by Parkwood this weekend. It was so much fun and so well organized! The tour was for one of our favourite shows, The Way Home, which has scenes filmed at Parkwood Estate. The tour took us to filming spots across Durham region and speakers from each municipality would share information about filming in their city/town. We were provided a coach bus, lots of food, and awesome behind the scenes details. People even drove/flew in from the States to attend. It was certainly a day to remember!"
Natashia
"This is truly a hidden gem in Oshawa. The house/Museum is amazing & deceptively huge. We took the Entertainment Tour (1st floor). The guides (Elizabeth & Gavin) were wonderful, knowledgeable, personable and patient (our small group asked a lot of questions). The grounds & gardens are beautiful. During the warmer months, make sure you have lunch, or High Tea, in the Tea House. Reservations are a must. Umbrella-covered tables surround one end of a gorgeous pool amid the colourful garden. The food & service were outstanding. Can't wait to return for the Christmas Tour."
Colleen Bentley
"Really beautiful place! Definitely take the tour — there’s so much to explore inside the house. It’s fascinating to see how the wealthy lived in the 1920s, with features that many of our modern homes still don’t have. What stood out most is how, when you have money, everything can be custom-made exactly the way you want it. A must-visit for history, design, and architecture lovers."
Pratik Singh
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Parkwood Estate is located in Oshawa, about an hour's drive east of Toronto. You can drive via ON-401 E and exit onto Harmony Rd N. Public transit options involve GO Transit trains or buses to Oshawa, followed by a local bus or taxi to the estate.
Yes, there is parking available on the grounds. However, it can get busy on weekends, especially during events, so arriving early is recommended.
While having a car offers flexibility for exploring Oshawa and surrounding areas, you can reach Parkwood Estate via public transit from Toronto, followed by a local bus or taxi.
Yes, you can reach Oshawa via GO Transit from Toronto. From the Oshawa GO station, you would need to take a local bus or taxi to get to Parkwood Estate.
Driving is the most convenient way for a day trip from Toronto, allowing you to explore the estate and potentially other nearby attractions. Public transit is also feasible but requires more planning.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The grounds and gardens of Parkwood Estate are free to explore. However, to tour the interior of the mansion, you will need to purchase tickets for a guided tour.
Ticket prices vary depending on the type of tour. The 'Auto Baron Tour' and other guided tours of the mansion have specific admission fees. Check the official Parkwood Estate website for current pricing.
It is highly recommended to book your tour tickets in advance, especially for popular tours or during peak seasons, to guarantee your entry and preferred time slot.
Opening hours can vary seasonally and for special events. The mansion tours typically start in the afternoon. It's best to check the official Parkwood Estate website for the most up-to-date hours of operation.
Yes, Parkwood Estate offers various tours, including the 'Auto Baron Tour' focusing on the estate's history and R.S. McLaughlin, and sometimes themed tours like film tours or holiday tours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the beautiful gardens, tour the historic mansion, enjoy lunch or afternoon tea at The Tea House, and discover filming locations from popular movies and TV shows.
Yes, photography is generally permitted on the grounds and in designated areas of the mansion. It's a very popular spot for photoshoots and weddings.
Yes, children can enjoy exploring the vast gardens and learning about the history of the estate. Special family-friendly events are also sometimes held.
Restrooms are available on the property, typically located near the gift shop and behind the mansion.
The 'Auto Baron Tour' is a popular guided tour that delves into the life of R.S. McLaughlin and the history of the estate, offering detailed insights into the mansion's architecture and furnishings.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Parkwood Estate features The Tea House, which serves lunch, dinner, and afternoon tea. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during warmer months.
The Tea House offers a delightful menu that includes lunch options and a popular afternoon tea service, often featuring sandwiches, pastries, and tea.
You are welcome to bring your own picnic to enjoy on the beautiful grounds. It's a great way to experience the estate in a more casual setting.
Reservations are strongly recommended for The Tea House, particularly for lunch and afternoon tea, to ensure you get a table, especially during busy periods.
If you're only visiting the grounds, you can still enjoy the offerings at The Tea House or bring your own picnic to enjoy amidst the gardens.
📸 📸 Photography
Absolutely! Parkwood Estate is renowned as a stunning location for photoshoots, including engagement, wedding, and fashion photography, due to its architecture and gardens.
While general photography is allowed, it's always a good idea to check with the estate if you plan on a professional photoshoot or commercial filming, as specific permits or fees might apply.
The formal gardens, the grand fountain, the mansion's exterior architecture, and the elegant interiors (during tours) offer numerous picturesque opportunities.
Drone usage typically requires special permission and adherence to aviation regulations. It's best to contact Parkwood Estate directly to inquire about drone policies.
Its grand architecture and manicured gardens make it ideal for romantic, vintage, and elegant-themed photography, including weddings, portraits, and architectural shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look out for any special family-friendly events that Parkwood Estate may host throughout the year, such as holiday-themed activities or seasonal markets. These can add an extra layer of fun and engagement for younger visitors.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts & Content Creators
+1Beyond the visual appeal, the estate's history as a filming location adds another layer of interest. You can capture iconic spots from movies like 'Billy Madison' or 'The Umbrella Academy.' Remember to check for any specific guidelines or permits if you plan on a professional photoshoot.
❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways
Consider booking a tour that delves into the history of the McLaughlin family, adding an educational and engaging element to your romantic outing. The estate's picturesque nature also makes it an ideal location for engagement photos.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into the Past: The McLaughlin Legacy
+2Visitors can explore the opulent interiors on guided tours, marveling at the custom-made furnishings, intricate details, and the sheer scale of the estate. The guides often share fascinating anecdotes about the family and the era, bringing the history to life. It's a unique opportunity to understand how wealth and design intersected during a pivotal time in Canadian industrial history.
Beyond the mansion, the estate boasts expansive formal gardens, a testament to meticulous landscaping. These grounds, complete with a striking fountain, offer a serene escape and are a significant part of the Parkwood experience. The combination of historical architecture and beautiful natural surroundings makes it a truly captivating destination.
+1Parkwood Estate: A Cinematic Canvas
From the comedic antics in 'Billy Madison' to the dramatic settings in 'X-Men' and the supernatural intrigue of 'The Umbrella Academy,' Parkwood Estate has played a significant role in bringing these cinematic worlds to life. Visitors often express excitement about recognizing familiar scenes and locations from their favorite movies and shows.
For film enthusiasts, Parkwood sometimes offers special film tours that highlight specific filming spots and provide behind-the-scenes insights. These tours, like the one mentioned for 'The Way Home,' offer a unique perspective on how the estate is utilized in the entertainment industry, making the visit even more engaging.
The Culinary Delights of The Tea House
Many visitors rave about the quality of food and service at The Tea House. The menu typically features a selection of sandwiches, pastries, and, of course, a variety of teas, all served in an elegant setting. The picturesque views of the gardens from the dining area add to the overall ambiance, making it a perfect spot to relax and savor the moment.
Due to its popularity, especially during the warmer months and for afternoon tea services, reservations are highly recommended. This ensures that you can secure a table and fully enjoy the culinary offerings without any disappointment.
+1
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit