A shallow man-made lake, Lake Scugog's quiet waters add beauty to the Port Perry environment and offer recreation as well. Palmer Park hugs the waterfront at the edge of the downtown district. Picnic tables, ball fields, a playground and a splash pad offer entertainment for all ages. A boating destination, Lake Scugog accommodates sailboats and windsails, paddle boats and more.
Lunch and dinner sightseeing cruises on the lake provided by Scugog Island Cruises highlight Port Perry's bird habitats found along secluded sections of the shore. The two-hour public cruises on board The Woodsman include narration about the local history.
Discover how Port Perry's First Nations and early settlers lived. Scugog Shores Historic Village and Heritage Center on Scugog Island, is an isle connected to the Port Perry mainland by a causeway. The village reveals tales of yesteryear through its collection of 12 restored buildings dating back to the mid-1800s. Guided tours showcase authentic log cabins, blacksmith and print shops, two barns, and a beef ring. Heritage flower and vegetable gardens and Ojibway Heritage Interpretive exhibits, including a traditional wigwam demonstrate the early residents' relationship to the land.
The 4,000 square foot Scugog Shores Heritage Center inside Scugog Arena contains township archives and public galleries. Permanent exhibits provide a glimpse into the history of area First Nations people and settlers. Rotating art exhibits and other traveling exhibits ensure there's always something new to discover.
High action gaming takes place at the Great Blue Heron Charity Casino on Scugog Island, just east of the mainland via the causeway. The 25,000-square-foot casino is open 24 hours a day. It offers 60 table games, 545 slots, two restaurants and two bars. Its indigenous theme and tent-like roof celebrate First Nation heritage.
Ocala Orchards Farm Winery sits above the valley leading into Port Perry. Twenty acres of grapes and more than 3,000 fruit trees are grown here to produce to Ocala wines and sparkling nonalcoholic juice products. The winery character is enhanced by the old beam dairy barn that houses the tasting room and other winery operations. Special events, such as Dine in the Vines culinary experience and the Ocala Harvestfest, enhance winery visits.
Downtown Port Perry is known for its attractive Victorian architecture. Its friendly and historic main streets are home to a variety of shops and bistros. Brock's general store on Queen Street is the grandaddy of the district. Established in 1851, it is operated by the 5th generation of the founding family. The apparel store maintains the original display cases and other vintage items. During the growing season, downtown hosts Port Perry's Farmers' Market. Set up along the waterfront, market vendors offer locally produced fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, baked goods and more.
