"The 'Shwa:" It Ain't So Dirty

Friday Aug 23rd, 2019

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We've all heard people say it: "The Dirty 'Shwaaaaaaaa."

Oshawa, Ontario - often referred to as a 'bedroom' community as many residents commute into Toronto on a daily basis. It does however have its own ecosystem, or at least it did for nearly 100 years.

Oshawa is an old city with many historic buildings, including many beautiful century homes. It also has many newer homes at a variety of price points. When new houses are built, amenities for the residents generally follow. Take a trip up Simcoe St. between Taunton Rd. and Winchester and you'll see hundreds of new homes surrounding the Durham College/ Ontario Tech University Campus.

In my line of work, I get to talk to a lot of people and I always hear the same thing; "I'm never going to be able to buy a house - they're just too expensive nowadays." I always mention that houses are still very affordable out here and generally well maintained. "But it's....Oshawa" is the usual reply. Stop hating on Oshawa and check out this list of reasons to move here.

 

1. McCoy Burger Company. 2069 Simcoe St., North.

One of my favourite burger places and one of only two locations; one here and one in Ajax. The beef is hormone free and from Canadian farms. The fries are always fresh and never frozen. Try one of their many Signature burgers like the Brunch Burger, The Rock Burger (in partnership with 94.9 The Rock), or my personal favourite, The Teddy Reader Burger. Ted Reader is a well-known BBQ chef who is famous for his sense of adventure and creativity on the grill.

 

2. Parkwood Estate. 270 Simcoe St., North

A one-hundred-year-old National Historic Site, Parkwood Estate is somewhat hidden from plain view due to its tall fences and lush greenery. It is the former home of Sam and Adelaide McLaughlin, Oshawa's "First Family." Many tours are available and include the art collection, servants’ quarters, basement and garden. Tea service is also available. Parkwood Estate has been the backdrop for many film and television productions including Chicago, Workin' Moms, Hannibal, 12 Monkeys and Billy Madison.

 

3. All or Nothing Brewhouse. 439 Ritson Rd., South

Founded by brothers Jeff and Eric Dornan on the core philosophy that with hard work, any insurmountable obstacle can be overcome, no matter the odds. They don't cut any corners. The ingredients are premium quality and the customer service is the best in the business. Thir 20,000 square foot facility includes a tasting room, retail space, event space and a brewhouse. Stop by for a tour or a 6-pack to go.

 

4. The Canadian Automotive Museum. 99 Simcoe St., South

You might be familiar with Oshawa’s 100-year history in automotive manufacturing, but I bet you didn’t know that so many models were designed, built and sold here. The museum is located right downtown and inside a former car dealership. There are both permanent and temporary exhibits located on 2 floors. If you’re a fan of Pixar’s movie Cars, Lightning McQueen is on display until November 2019.

 

5. Lakeview Park, Waterfront Trail and the Oshawa Museum. 55 Lakeview Park Ave.

Sitting on the shores of Lake Ontario, Oshawa is home to many recreational trails, pathways and parks. It’s always a great place to relax and unwind, walk the dogs or attend a family event. The Oshawa Museum is the only Community Museum in Oshawa and the curators take great pride in the City’s diverse history.

 

Honourable Mention: We Grow Food (community gardens and promoting sustainability), The McLaughlin Gallery (live music Fridays!), Tribute Communities Centre (Durham Region's premiere sports and entertainment venue) and last but certainly not least, La Pizza (ALWAYS our go-to when we're in the area).

 

 


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