Background

Parkwood National Historic Site: A Glimpse into Canada's Automotive Aristocracy

Experience the elegance of Canada's automotive aristocracy at Parkwood, a National Historic Site showcasing a grand mansion and stunning gardens.

4.6

Step back in time at Parkwood, the grand estate of Canadian auto baron R.S. McLaughlin. Explore the meticulously preserved mansion and its stunning gardens, offering a unique window into the life of a prominent family during the early 20th century in Oshawa, Ontario.

A brief summary to Parkwood National Historic Site

Local tips

  • Check the Parkwood Estate website for special events, such as afternoon teas and garden tours, to enhance your visit.
  • Wear comfortable shoes to explore the extensive gardens, which feature a variety of terrains.
  • Book tickets online in advance, especially for guided tours, to ensure availability.
  • Take advantage of the free parking available on-site, but arrive early as it can be limited.
  • Consider visiting the Tea House Restaurant for lunch or afternoon tea, and make a reservation in advance.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Toronto's Union Station, take the GO Train to Oshawa GO Station (approximately 1 hour, CAD 10-15). From Oshawa GO Station, transfer to Durham Region Transit Bus #401 towards Oshawa Centre. Get off at Simcoe Street North and walk 15 minutes north to Parkwood National Historic Site at 270 Simcoe St N. Check GO Transit and Durham Region Transit schedules for accurate timings. A local transit bus is also available from the Oshawa bus terminal.

  • Car

    From downtown Toronto, take the Gardiner Expressway East to the Don Valley Parkway North, then merge onto Highway 401 East. Take Exit 403 for Simcoe Street North towards Oshawa. Merge onto Simcoe Street North and continue for about 10 minutes. Parkwood National Historic Site will be on your left at 270 Simcoe St N. Free parking is available on-site, though space is limited. There may be updates regarding parking on Parkwood's website.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    A taxi or ride-share from downtown Toronto to Parkwood National Historic Site will cost approximately CAD 70-100. The address is 270 Simcoe St N, Oshawa, ON L1G 4T5. A taxi/rideshare from Oshawa GO Station will be significantly less.

Unlock the Best of Parkwood National Historic Site

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Parkwood National Historic Site

Parkwood National Historic Site, located in Oshawa, Ontario, offers a captivating journey into the past. This meticulously preserved estate was once the home of Robert Samuel McLaughlin, the founder of General Motors of Canada, and his family, from 1917 to 1972. The 55-room mansion, inspired by early 20th-century Beaux-Arts design, showcases the opulent lifestyle of one of Canada's most influential families. Designed by Darling and Pearson, the same firm behind Toronto's General Hospital and the Royal Ontario Museum, the house itself is a masterpiece of architecture. The interior boasts a rich collection of period furnishings and decorative arts, reflecting the revival styles popular during the interwar period. Additions in the Art Deco style were made in the 1930s and 40s by John M. Lyle. The estate is surrounded by 4.8 hectares (12 acres) of elaborately designed grounds. The gardens, initially refined in the 1920s by H.B. and L.A. Dunington-Grubb, feature distinct outdoor 'garden rooms,' including an Italian Garden, Sunken Garden, and a formal garden designed by John Lyle. The gardens also include a rose garden, cutting garden, orchard and Art Deco style water garden. Three greenhouses display palms, orchids and tropical plants, and are home to the Japanese Garden and the Greenhouse Tea Room. Visitors can explore the mansion and grounds through guided tours, experiencing the estate as guests of the McLaughlin family once did. The tours provide insight into the family's life, the architecture, and the original furnishings. The 11-acre gardens can be visited without charge. Parkwood also hosts seasonal events and educational programs, enhancing the visitor experience.

Popular Experiences near Parkwood National Historic Site

Popular Hotels near Parkwood National Historic Site

Select Currency