York, Durham and Headwaters
Markham & Unionville
The Markham and Unionville region is a large, quaint suburb in the Greater Toronto Area that features not one but two historic Main Streets.
Markham and Unionville, both established in the 1790s, have become popular with visitors due to the way their communities pair culture, modernity, and historic charm. The region features plenty to do, from exploring the historic city centres to perfecting your swing on one of its many golf courses. A lineup of annual events and festivals only adds to the appeal.
To learn more about all there is to see and do in Markham and Unionville, scroll down or visit the region's tourism website.
Where are Markham & Unionville?
Historic Unionville is a hamlet within the larger city of Markham, approximately 30 kilometres northeast of Toronto.
Getting to Markham and Unionville from Toronto is pretty easy by bus, train, or car. Driving e from downtown Toronto on the Don Valley Parkway, ON-404 N, and ON-407 E (Express Toll Route). GO Transit also provides train and bus service to Markham and Unionville. Those heading here from further abroad should plan to arrive at Toronto Pearson International (YYZ), the largest airport in the country.
Some things to do may not be available due to COVID-19.
Many tourism experiences require advance bookings or have restrictions in place due to COVID 19. It is important to check directly with the business operator before you travel. Get the most up-to-date information now.
Things to Do in Markham & Unionville
Both Markham and Unionville have picturesque, historic downtown neighbourhoods perfect for an afternoon of exploring. Historic Unionville — known for its pubs, parks, and restaurants — dates back over 200 years, with buildings that look just as they did in the late 1700s. Meanwhile, Markham Village's Main Street is lined with historic homes turned into shops and restaurants.
To learn more about the region, head to the Markham Museum. This incredible open-air museum preserves and celebrates the area's past through 30 historic buildings that visitors can explore. It's also the perfect spot for a picnic.
Catch a breath of fresh air in one of the area's many parks. Stroll around the pond in Unionville's Toogood Pond Park or take a hike on one of the Milne Dam Conservation Park trails, which is part of the Rouge, Canada's first national urban park. There are nine different golf courses in Markham and Unionville, so be sure to pack your clubs and reserve a tee time.
Channel your inner Gilmore Girl in Unionville. The pilot episode of the popular television show Gilmore Girls was filmed in Unionville, which stood in for the fictional town of Stars Hollow. Get into character by strolling down Unionville's Main Street like Lorelai and Rory.
For local and international art, check out the Varley Art Gallery of Markham. Named after Frederick Varley, a member of the famous Group of Seven, this art gallery features rotating exhibitions, offers art courses and workshops, and hosts other public programs and events throughout the year. It's a must for any art lover.
Markham also features a thriving theatre scene centred around the Flato Markham Theatre and an extensive public art program, which puts incredible art on display in local neighbourhoods.
St. Maurice & St. Verena Coptic Orthodox Church
Book a tour at this unique cultural centre and award-winning landmark in Markham.
Visit siteSt. Maurice & St. Verena Coptic Orthodox Church
Angus Glen Golf Club
Rolling green fairways stretch on for thousands and thousands of yards at Angus Glen Golf Club. Professional and amateur golfers share the course...
Read moreAngus Glen Golf Club
Markham Museum
The past and present converge at Markham Museum. Situated on 10 hectares, this open-air museum has something for everyone to enjoy. Take a walk...
Read moreMarkham Museum
Varley Art Gallery
Varley Art Gallery is the creative heart of Markham and a welcome home for artists and art lovers. It is named in honour of F.H. Varley, a...
Read moreVarley Art Gallery
While the thought of Toronto might not bring to mind plentiful green spaces, wildlife and winding hiking trails, that's exactly what awaits at...
Read moreRouge National Urban Park
Flato Markham Theatre
Flato Markham Theatre rivals its city cousins as one of Ontario's finest theatre houses. Located in the heart of Markham, the theatre is less...
Read moreFlato Markham Theatre
Markham & Unionville Neighbourhoods & Districts
The greater Markham and Unionville area features several neighbourhoods and districts.
Cathedraltown & Victoria Square
Located in the northwestern part of Markham, this formerly rural community is now home to a growing suburban community centred around the Slovak Catholic Cathedral of the Transfiguration, a stunning church with gilded towers and intricate mosaics.
Milliken Mills
This diverse community in the south-central part of the Markham region is home to a large contingent of Asian and South Asian-Canadians and businesses. A visit to the Pacific Mall is a must.
Old Markham Village
Quaint shops and restaurants line Main Street of Old Markham Village, the historic downtown area of Markham.
Things to Know About Visiting Markham & Unionville
Make the most of your trip to Markham and Unionville with these insider tips.
Where to get great ice cream
Located in an old fire station, as the name suggests, Old Firehall Confectionery boasts plenty of frozen flavours, plus cupcakes, fudge, truffles, chocolates, and other desserts.
Where to see the holiday lights
During the annual Magical Lights, the length of Main Street including the town gazebo, bandstand, shops and century homes glisten and sparkle.
The Varley Art Gallery of Markham opened its doors in 1997 on Main Street in Historic Unionville and features both historical and contemporary art by regional and national artists.
Little-known fact
Markham is the most diverse city in Canada with visible minorities representing over 55% of the population, the majority of which are of Chinese heritage.