Trent-Severn Waterway, Peterborough Lift Lock Visitor Centre - Peterborough, Ontario

Eric L.

Incroyable et accueil sympathique!

Sidaqpreet K.

I visited the Trent-Severn Waterway Visitor Centre in Peterborough during the summer of 2024, and it turned out to be one of the highlights of my trip. Nestled beside the iconic Peterborough Lift Lock, the centre offers a perfect blend of history, engineering marvels, and natural beauty.

The exhibits were well-curated and informative, taking us through the fascinating story of the waterway's construction and its role in connecting Ontario’s lakes and rivers. Watching the Peterborough Lift Lock in action was truly impressive—its massive hydraulic lift is an engineering masterpiece and a rare sight to behold.

The Parks Canada staff were incredibly friendly and knowledgeable, always ready to answer questions and share interesting facts. My family especially enjoyed the interactive displays and the scenic walking trails around the area. The picnic spots nearby made it easy to spend a relaxed afternoon soaking in the peaceful surroundings.

Overall, the Trent-Severn Waterway Visitor Centre is a hidden gem—ideal for families, history buffs, and anyone who appreciates Canadian heritage. I highly recommend making it part of your summer itinerary if you're anywhere near Peterborough.

Christina B.

Really interesting and well maintained place! Parks Canada has a building beside the lift locks, full of historical information. There is a little movie theater, a museum, and staff available for any questions you might have. There is also a washroom! Surrounded by well maintained public areas, it's a nice place for a picnic... at the very least. If you're lucky, you'll get to see the locks in action as boats traveling up and down the river use the locks...as they were when they were first engineered and built! Apparently there are only 8 of these locks in the world! Kids and adults alike will learn and enjoy visiting here! There is also a gift shop.

parthiban S. (.

Less maintenance place, but just a historical place to see the lift lock with how the hydraulic system works here in this water way.

Christopher M.

Very cool piece of architecture. One of eight lift locks in the world. This one states that it is the tallest. Don't just walk around at the bottom. Be sure to explore all the stairs and go up to the top. It's totally worth it. There are historic signs posted that help you appreciate it for what it is. Definitely a must stop place.

Mohammad D.

One of the greatest waterways structures, that was the # one in the world for years. It works using water and gravity , the best practical example of the Lift Lock is a Seasaw ! You can find many good videos online about how a lift lock works, but remember do not mix the lift lock with Lock !!!!!
The Peterborough Lift Lock , has a great picnic area around the lift lock, very good visitor centre with great services, also there is a two hours cruise that passes through the lift lock. If you like engineering structures, do not miss this !!!!!

Bob B.

Visit June 26, 2018. Nice visitors centre and park area around this fascinating structure and marvel of engineering. Trent-Severn waterway Lock #21 is uplifting. Great spot for a picnic or moving a marine vessel up or down 19.8 meters.

Kim M.

Offered interactive free activities for kids, some excellent historical static displays explaining the lift lock development and construction. Nice little movie about the Trent-Severn construction. Staff were very friendly and informed.