Doors Open Ontario presenting sponsor
Doors Open Ontario presenting sponsor

Viewing

Doors Open Ontario:

Oshawa

in-person event information

Saturday, May 4, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Doors Open Oshawa is a free, annual event that provides an opportunity to explore Oshawa's diverse heritage and cultural sites. Spend a day discovering local history first-hand and celebrating our community’s heritage.

This year's theme is adaptive reuse, which allows us to showcase heritage sites that have been repurposed to better serve their communities while retaining their heritage attributes. Through the contained use and reuse of historical structures, we realize their contribution to sustainability and the economic and cultural energy of our urban and rural communities.

New for the centennial year: The City of Oshawa is offering a free hop on/hop off shuttle to a variety of sites throughout the day, with a northbound and southbound shuttle operating from the Colonel R.S. McLaughlin Armoury throughout the day.

Close


Contact information

24 In-person Doors Open sites

420 Wing Oshawa Inc.Doors Open Oshawa

New

  • In-person Doors Open Ontario

420 Wing Oshawa Inc.

The 420 Wing has been in operation since 1948 when returning Air Force veterans formed a "Wing," as did many other cities and towns across Canada. Offering support and encouragement to the Royal Canadian Air Cadet squadrons and individuals involved in various aspects of aviation, it remains a fully accessible vital organization. Light refreshments will be available while supplies last.

  • Full wheelchair access
  • Guided tours available
  • Parking
  • Washrooms
  • Photography allowed

Contact info

1000 Stevenson Road North
Oshawa, Ontario
https://420wing.com

Architecture

Year built: 1943
Building type: Military

Dates/hours open

May 04 - May 04

70 King StreetDoors Open Oshawa

New

  • In-person Doors Open Ontario

70 King Street

Previously the Genosha Hotel, this designated building has an illustrious history. During the Second World War, James Bond creator Ian Fleming was a frequent visitor here. It also hosted several future CIA directors, including J. Edgar Hoover, before they were secretly sent overseas. Additionally, the Canadian rock band Rush performed here. The site has been redeveloped as luxury apartments.

  • 2024 theme: Adaptive reuse
  • Guided tours available
  • Parking
  • Partial wheelchair access
  • Site is protected by the Ontario Heritage Trust

Contact info

70 King Street East
Oshawa, Ontario
https://www.70king.ca

Architecture

Year built: 1925
Building type: Private residence
Architect: J.W. Butler & Co. (1925) and Joel Gerber Architecture

Dates/hours open

May 04 - May 04

Biltmore TheatreDoors Open Oshawa

  • In-person Doors Open Ontario

Biltmore Theatre

Established in 1940, the Biltmore Theatre was built by the Okum Bros. of Toronto. Under different names over the years, it has operated as a movie theatre, nightclub and music venue. When the last movie house here closed in 1989, the site was renovated to what you see today — a public hall for touring concerts, special events and community rentals.

  • Guided tours available
  • Partial wheelchair access
  • Washrooms
  • Photography allowed
  • Rental opportunities

Contact info

39 King Street East
Oshawa, Ontario
Email: diana@biltmoretheatre.com
https://www.biltmoretheatre.com

Architecture

Year built: 1930-40
Building type: Theatre
Architect: Wilbur Ralph Webb, Alex Blythe and Wallace C. Sproule

Dates/hours open

May 04 - May 04

BOND|ST Event CentreDoors Open Oshawa

New

  • In-person Doors Open Ontario

BOND|ST Event Centre

Originally constructed for the General Motors United Auto Workers Union Local 222, this site is now — following recent renovations — a thriving event centre. The unique venue provides multiple spaces, including the Mainstage music venue, TwoTwoTwo, the Local Lounge, Café and Snack|Bar. During Doors Open Oshawa, BOND|ST will be open for self-guided tours. And enjoy a live concert at 2 p.m.

  • 2024 theme: Adaptive reuse
  • Full wheelchair access
  • Kid-friendly
  • Parking
  • Self-guided tours available
  • Washrooms
  • Photography allowed

Contact info

44 Bond Street East
Oshawa, Ontario
https://www.bondst.ca

Architecture

Building type: Attraction Food and drink Theatre Union hall

Dates/hours open

May 04 - May 04

Canadian Automotive MuseumDoors Open Oshawa

  • In-person Doors Open Ontario

Canadian Automotive Museum

The Canadian Automotive Museum was established in 1962 to promote the history of the automotive industry and tourism in the area. Currently, it is home to the world's most significant collection of Canadian vehicles. Located in a former 1920s auto dealership building across from Memorial Park, more than 70 vehicles are on display —including Lighting McQueen from Disney/Pixar’s Cars.

  • 2024 theme: Adaptive reuse
  • Guided tours available
  • Kid-friendly
  • Partial wheelchair access
  • Self-guided tours available
  • Washrooms
  • Photography allowed

Contact info

99 Simcoe Street South
Oshawa, Ontario
Email: agates@canadianautomotivemuseum.com
https://www.canadianautomotivemuseum.com

Architecture

Year built: 1920
Building type: Museum

Dates/hours open

May 04 - May 04

Central Lake Ontario Conservation AuthorityDoors Open Oshawa

New

  • In-person Doors Open Ontario

Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authority

The Central Lake Ontario Conservation Authority (CLOCA) headquarters was erected in 1920. The site was originally the Cedar Dale Works, making farm implements in the late 1800s. From 1898 to 1977, the site was home to Robson Leather, turning out hides for shoe and boot leather. During Doors Open, view historical information and artifacts or talk with CLOCA staff.

  • 2024 theme: Adaptive reuse
  • Full wheelchair access
  • Parking
  • Self-guided tours available
  • Washrooms
  • Photography allowed

Contact info

100 Whiting Avenue
Oshawa, Ontario
http://www.cloca.com

Architecture

Year built: 1920

Dates/hours open

May 04 - May 04

Charles HallDoors Open Oshawa

  • In-person Doors Open Ontario

Charles Hall

The former Alger Press Building was renovated and refurbished in 2010 by Ontario Tech University. Today, it is one of the university's key academic hubs. Charles Hall's features include extensive classroom spaces, lecture halls, research labs and common areas for students and faculty. It also houses the faculties of Social Science and Humanities, as well as the Education Library.

  • 2024 theme: Adaptive reuse
  • Full wheelchair access
  • Guided tours available
  • Parking
  • Washrooms
  • Photography allowed

Architecture

Year built: 1903
Building type: Educational facility

Dates/hours open

May 04 - May 04

City of Oshawa GreenhouseDoors Open Oshawa

  • In-person Doors Open Ontario

City of Oshawa Greenhouse

This is one of the few remaining city-run glass greenhouses in Ontario. Once containing the city's tropical plant collections, it now produces most of the annual bedding plants used in the city's flower beds, hanging baskets and planters. Come and see where city gardeners and seasonal staff grow the plants that adorn Oshawa’s streets, gardens and parks.

  • Full wheelchair access
  • Parking
  • Photography allowed

Contact info

919 Farewell Street
Oshawa, Ontario
https://www.oshawa.ca/en/parks-recreation-and-culture/gardens.aspx

Architecture

Year built: 1964

Dates/hours open

May 04 - May 04

Colonel R.S. McLaughlin ArmouryDoors Open Oshawa

  • In-person Doors Open Ontario

Colonel R.S. McLaughlin Armoury

This brick armoury on a stone foundation contains a large drill hall. The square towers that flank the drill hall façade emphasize its fortress motif. The armoury is a recognized federal heritage building because of its historical associations and its architectural and environmental values. Come and view the military equipment and visit the main floor and officers' mess.

  • Full wheelchair access
  • Kid-friendly
  • Parking
  • Self-guided tours available
  • Washrooms
  • Photography allowed

Contact info

53 Simcoe Street North
Oshawa, Ontario

Architecture

Year built: 1914
Building type: Military

Dates/hours open

May 04 - May 04

Durham College — Oshawa CampusDoors Open Oshawa

New

  • In-person Doors Open Ontario

Durham College — Oshawa Campus

Durham College — Oshawa Campus, a leader in teaching and learning, boasts a vibrant campus culture, serving more than 13,700 full-time and 14,600 professional and part-time students. During Doors Open, guided campus tours (registration required) will showcase the campus and its state-of-the-art learning spaces. If you can’t make it on May 4, register for their May 7 Program Information Night.

  • Full wheelchair access
  • Guided tours available
  • Kid-friendly
  • Parking
  • Washrooms

Contact info

2000 Simcoe Street North
Oshawa, Ontario
https://durhamcollege.ca/event/program-information-night-oshawa-3

Architecture

Building type: Educational facility

Dates/hours open

May 04 - May 04

Fire Station No. 6Doors Open Oshawa

New

  • In-person Doors Open Ontario

Fire Station No. 6

Oshawa’s newest fire station is a 992-square-metre (10,675-square-foot) single-storey building, designed to complement the historical legacy of Windfields Farm. Built on the former Windfields Farm land (the birthplace of champion racehorse Northern Dancer), the building also reflects the area's agricultural history. Tour this unique space, explore a collection of Windfields Farm memorabilia and view fire safety information.

  • Full wheelchair access
  • Guided tours available
  • Kid-friendly
  • Parking
  • Self-guided tours available
  • Washrooms

Contact info

2339 Simcoe Street North
Oshawa, Ontario
https://www.oshawa.ca/en/fire-services-community-support/fire-stations.aspx

Architecture

Year built: 2016
Building type: Green building Fire station
Architect: Thomas Brown Architects Inc.

Dates/hours open

May 04 - May 04

Hamilton-Oshawa Port AuthorityDoors Open Oshawa

  • In-person Doors Open Ontario

Hamilton-Oshawa Port Authority

The Port of Oshawa is Durham Region's gateway to the world, handling more than 500 vessels carrying over 3 million metric tons of cargo. Oshawa is one of the few cities that has an airport, rail lines, a deep-sea port and a 400-series highway all within proximity, offering importers and exporters a competitive edge. Come and join this shuttle-bus tour.

  • Guided tours available
  • Parking
  • Photography allowed

Contact info

1621 Simcoe Street South
Oshawa, Ontario
https://www.hopaports.ca

Architecture


Dates/hours open

May 04 - May 04

Intrepid Park/Camp XDoors Open Oshawa

  • In-person Doors Open Ontario

Intrepid Park/Camp X

Located on the shore of Lake Ontario, the memorial to Camp X at Intrepid Park is dedicated to the men and women who were employed at the British Security Coordination spy training school and communications centre located here during the Second World War. During Doors Open, take a 90-minute tour (only one available). Uneven terrain. Parking is across the street.

  • Guided tours available
  • Kid-friendly
  • Parking
  • Photography allowed

Contact info

2008 Boundary Road (meet at the monument)
Oshawa, Ontario
http://www.camp-x.com

Architecture

Year built: 1941
Building type: Attraction Historical landmark Military
Architect: Canadian Corps of Engineers

Dates/hours open

May 04 - May 04

Islamic Centre of OshawaDoors Open Oshawa

  • In-person Doors Open Ontario

Islamic Centre of Oshawa

The Islamic Centre of Oshawa is the first purpose-built mosque built in Oshawa. Reminiscent of the Ottoman Empire, it features ornamental crescent moons in the main prayer hall dome and the dome atop the minaret. Over the years, Muslims and non-Muslims have used the premises for meetings, lectures, studies and community and educational purposes. Shoes must be removed to enter.

  • Full wheelchair access
  • Guided tours available
  • Parking
  • Washrooms

Contact info

23 Lloyd Street
Oshawa, Ontario
Email: info@oshawamosque.com
https://oshawamosque.com

Architecture

Year built: established in the late 1970s; current building constructed in 2012
Building type: Place of worship
Architect: Array International Architects

Dates/hours open

May 04 - May 04

McLaughlin BandshellDoors Open Oshawa

  • In-person Doors Open Ontario

McLaughlin Bandshell

The art deco-inspired bandshell — designated in 2024 — was a gift from R.S. McLaughlin, founder of General Motors Canada, in 1942 to the City of Oshawa. During Doors Open Oshawa, enjoy a performance by the Oshawa Civic Band at 11:30 a.m. The War Memorial and Cenotaph set in Memorial Park celebrates its 100th anniversary this year.

  • Full wheelchair access
  • Kid-friendly
  • Parking
  • Site is protected by the Ontario Heritage Trust
  • Washrooms
  • Photography allowed

Contact info

110 Simcoe Street South
Oshawa, Ontario
https://www.oshawa.ca

Architecture

Year built: 1942
Building type: Theatre

Dates/hours open

May 04 - May 04

Ontario Regiment MuseumDoors Open Oshawa

  • In-person Doors Open Ontario

Ontario Regiment Museum

The Ontario Regiment Museum is the official military history museum of Durham Region's own local Canadian Army unit, the Ontario Regiment Royal Canadian Armoured Corps. It is also home to Canada's largest collection of operational, historical military vehicles. Rides in the museum's M548 "Battle Bus" and M113 armoured personnel carriers will be available at an additional cost during Doors Open.

  • Full wheelchair access
  • Kid-friendly
  • Parking
  • Self-guided tours available
  • Washrooms
  • Photography allowed

Contact info

1000 Stevenson Road North (Airport South Field)
Oshawa, Ontario
Email: sam@ontrmuseum.ca
https://www.ontrmuseum.ca/tankmuseum

Architecture

Building type: Attraction Military Museum

Dates/hours open

May 04 - May 04

Oshawa Museum: Henry House and Guy HouseDoors Open Oshawa

  • In-person Doors Open Ontario

Oshawa Museum: Henry House and Guy House

Learn about life in the late 19th century at the Oshawa Museum. Henry House was the family home of Thomas Henry, a local minister, farmer and harbourmaster. Built circa 1840, it showcases life in a traditional Victorian-era home. Museum staff will be on hand to talk about the family and answer questions. While you’re here, visit the Guy House, too.

  • 2024 theme: Adaptive reuse
  • Full wheelchair access
  • Guided tours available
  • Kid-friendly
  • Parking
  • Washrooms
  • Photography allowed

Contact info

1446 Simcoe Street South, Lakeview Park
Oshawa, Ontario
Email: membership@oshawamuseum.org
http://www.oshawamuseum.org

Architecture

Year built: c. 1840
Building type: Museum

Dates/hours open

May 04 - May 04

Oshawa Public Libraries — McLaughlin BranchDoors Open Oshawa

  • In-person Doors Open Ontario

Oshawa Public Libraries — McLaughlin Branch

Forming part of Oshawa's Civic Centre, this library was a gift of Col. R.S. McLaughlin. Architect Arthur Eadie was influenced by Frank Lloyd Wright in his design of the building, now the city’s central branch. Enjoy a display of materials in the Local History Room or take a guided tour that showcases the library’s evolution over the past 70 years.

  • Full wheelchair access
  • Guided tours available
  • Kid-friendly
  • Parking
  • Washrooms
  • Photography allowed

Contact info

65 Bagot Street
Oshawa, Ontario
https://oshawalibrary.ca

Architecture

Year built: 1954
Building type: Library
Architect: Arthur H. Eadie

Dates/hours open

May 04 - May 04

Oshawa Union CemeteryDoors Open Oshawa

  • In-person Doors Open Ontario

Oshawa Union Cemetery

The Oshawa Union Cemetery, formerly Thornton's Burying Ground, is the final resting place of many famous individuals from Oshawa and Canada. Recently designated, the site spans 12 hectares and includes private mausoleums and a Gothic-revival chapel. Enjoy a walking tour of 1920s Oshawa available at 2 p.m., courtesy of the Oshawa Museum, starting at the King Street Gates.

  • Guided tours available
  • Site is protected by the Ontario Heritage Trust

Contact info

760 King Street West
Oshawa, Ontario
https://www.oshawa.ca/residents/union-cemetery-services.asp

Architecture

Year built: 1837
Building type: Cemetery

Dates/hours open

May 04 - May 04

Regent Theatre Ontario Tech UniversityDoors Open Oshawa

  • In-person Doors Open Ontario

Regent Theatre Ontario Tech University

The Regent Theatre's façade, built in 1919 for Famous Players theatres, has Georgian architectural lines. One of the town's few remaining examples of this classically inspired style, the building reopened in 2010 as a lecture theatre for Ontario Tech University, as well as for community and cultural events. Still in use for film screenings, the site has been sensitively restored.

  • 2024 theme: Adaptive reuse
  • Full wheelchair access
  • Guided tours available
  • Parking
  • Self-guided tours available
  • Washrooms
  • Photography allowed

Contact info

50 King Street East
Oshawa, Ontario
Email: gm@regenttheatre.ca
http://regenttheatre.ca

Architecture

Year built: 1919; designated in 2001
Building type: Educational facility Theatre
Architect: John McNee Jeffrey

Dates/hours open

May 04 - May 04

Robert McLaughlin Gallery, TheDoors Open Oshawa

  • In-person Doors Open Ontario

Robert McLaughlin Gallery, The

The Robert McLaughlin Gallery (RMG) was founded in 1967, expanded in 1987 and designated in 2024. It is the largest public art gallery in Durham Region with a collection of over 4,700 works, focusing on the continuing story of Canadian abstraction. During Doors Open Oshawa, try some hands-on artmaking from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

  • Full wheelchair access
  • Guided tours available
  • Kid-friendly
  • Parking
  • Self-guided tours available
  • Site is protected by the Ontario Heritage Trust
  • Washrooms
  • Photography allowed

Contact info

72 Queen Street
Oshawa, Ontario
https://rmg.on.ca

Architecture

Year built: 1969; Erickson addition 1987
Building type: Museum Gallery
Architect: Arthur Erickson

Dates/hours open

May 04 - May 04

Second Marsh Wildlife Area and McLaughlin Bay Wildlife ReserveDoors Open Oshawa

New

  • In-person Doors Open Ontario

Second Marsh Wildlife Area and McLaughlin Bay Wildlife Reserve

This outdoor, city-owned area, run by the Friends of Second Marsh, connects people with nature through interpretative, educational and stewardship services. It is a coastal wetland that features marshes, meadows and woodlot habitats. Visitors arrive at the adjacent McLaughlin Bay Wildlife Reserve. Discover this incredible natural area that is unknown to most citizens of Oshawa.

  • Full wheelchair access
  • Guided tours available
  • Kid-friendly
  • Parking
  • Photography allowed

Contact info

1908 Colonel Sam Drive (parking lot)
Oshawa, Ontario
Email: president@secondmarsh.ca
http://www.secondmarsh.ca

Architecture


Dates/hours open

May 04 - May 04

St. George's Memorial ChurchDoors Open Oshawa

  • In-person Doors Open Ontario

St. George's Memorial Church

The current stone St. George’s Memorial Church — a distinctive landmark in Oshawa for 100 years — replaced a wooden structure that previously stood on this site. It continues to have an integral place in the city’s history, recognized by its bell tower and carillon. During Doors Open, come and view the church’s interior, which showcases its architectural artistry, beauty and serenity.

  • Parking
  • Partial wheelchair access
  • Self-guided tours available
  • Washrooms

Contact info

51 Centre Street South
Oshawa, Ontario
Email: church@stgeorgesoshawa.org
https://stgeorgesoshawa.org

Architecture

Year built: 1924
Building type: Place of worship
Architect: Eden Smith; parish hall designed by Forsey Page & Steele

Dates/hours open

May 04 - May 04

Windfields FarmDoors Open Oshawa

  • In-person Doors Open Ontario

Windfields Farm

The historical Windfields Farm — birthplace of celebrated horse Northern Dancer — has been transformed into a sustainable agricultural research centre for the Ontario Tech University. This open-air laboratory pioneers innovative farming methods, conserves biodiversity and integrates renewable energy. Shuttle-bus access only: In celebration of Oshawa’s centennial, a shuttle bus will take you from Ontario Tech’s Campus Ice Centre to the site.

  • 2024 theme: Adaptive reuse
  • Guided tours available
  • Kid-friendly
  • Parking
  • Self-guided tours available
  • Photography allowed

Contact info

285 Britannia Avenue West (or catch the shuttle bus from the parking lot at 2200 Simcoe Street North, Founders Lot 5)
Oshawa, Ontario
Email: events@ontariotechu.ca

Architecture

Building type: Educational facility Farm

Dates/hours open

May 04 - May 04