Richmond Hill History
The first settlers arrived in Richmond Hill in 1797, and by 1800 Abner Miles built a mill which became the centre of the new community. In 1819, the settlement was renamed Richmond Hill, in honor of the Governor-in-Chief of Canada , Charles Lennox, the fourth Duke of Richmond.
Richmond Hill was a rest stop on Yonge Street that started at the Toronto (then York) waterfront. which initially went as far as Holland Landing (eventually it was extended north to North Bay and west to Nipigon for a length of 1700 km) and had lots of hotels, taverns and blacksmiths. When the railway came in 1853, Richmond Hill lost its importance until 1912 when a number of greenhouses were built in the community, growing roses. After World War Two, the immigration boom first grew Richmond Hill from a rural town to a bedroom community for Toronto, and more recently into a vibrant urban centre.
Richmond Hill Attractions
Canadian Museum Of Hindu Civilization
8640 Yonge Street, Richmond Hill, L4C 6Z4
(just north of Highway 7)
905-764-5516
This 17,000 sq. ft. building opened in early 2004 as a part of a larger complex that is also home to the 1984 Vishnu Mandir temple. The three storey museum has a central atrium, with reception and cloakroom on the first floor, and gift shop n the second floor. Exhibits include religious artifacts, to increase understanding of this religion, and discuss the contribution of Hinduism to the World.
David Dunlap Observatory
123 Hillsview Drive (1 km south of Major MacKenzie Drive, off the #400 or the 404)
PO Box 360, Richmond Hill, L4C 4Y6
905- 884-9562 Ext. 232 fax: 905-884-2672
Opened in 1935, it is the largest optical telescope in Canada, used as a research facility by the University of Toronto.
Open for public tour,and on Tuesday and Saturday evenings, the public is welcome to look through the powerful telescope.
Farintosh Farms
11858 Warden. Ave, Gormley, L0H 1G0
905-887-5727
Hwy 404 North to Stouffville Rd. head east to 2nd set of lights (Warden) turn right (South) for 1 Km south, on right (west) side of rd.
Incredible selection of pick-your-own produce. Nothing is fresher than picking your own. Their Market always has extra items worth checking out. Open August 1-October 31 Call for which vegetable is available for picking & hours
Kiddies Korner
10288 Yonge St. Unit #7 (lower level), Richmond Hill, L4C 3B8
905-883-9373
An indoor playground designed for children under the age of seven. Features a ball pit, play structure, playhouse, dress up box, bouncing castle and more.Typically booked for parties. Parents night out (Friday nights, with pizza for the kids) rates (by the hour)
Kinder Zone
420 Hwy. #7, Richmond Hill
905-882-8396
Climbing wall, play houses, toys and more. Party packages available.
Laser Quest Richmond Hill
9625 Yonge St., Richmond Hill, L4C 5T2
905-678-4492 Fax: 905-883-8614
Laser Quest is an interactive adventure game for ages 7-77. Fun for social or group outings, sports teams, birthday parties. Open extended hours during school holidays. We offer corporate team-building and educational field trip programs during the day.
Mill Pond Park
Mill Street & Trench Street, Richmond Hill
Mill Pond is just one of Richmond Hills many parks. Featuring a playground for kids and a gazebo, the city’s Concerts in the Park Series is held here each summer.
Richmond Green Sports Centre & Park
1300 Elgin Mills Road East, Richmond Hill, L4S 1M5
905-737-1236
Both locals and visitors alike will find something to do at this sports centre and park which includes two ice rinks, a Sports Hall of Fame, baseball and softball diamonds, soccer pitches, a water park and an indoor sports complex. A number of local shows and festivals, including the city’s Canada Day celebrations, are held here.
Richmond Hill Heritage Centre
19 Church St. North, Richmond Hill, L4C 3E6
905-780-3802 Fax: 905-787-1847
The Richmond Hill Heritage Centre is an 1840’s Regency Style Cottage surrounded by the beautiful gardens of Amos Wright Park. Meander through the galleries highlighting the rich history of the community, participate in a hands-on workshop, enjoy afternoon tea and take home a package of one of our private blends as a souvenir of your visit. Birthday parties, Group Tour, Activity Packages and Rentals available.
Southbrook Winery
1061 Major McKenzie Drive
Richmond Hill, L4C 4X9
905-832-2548
This winery got its start in 1860, when it was known as Don Head Farm. Today it offers the chance to get away from the urban bustle while enjoying some quality vintages. Retail Sales on Site.
Spunky Monkey (Let’s Get Started)
1550 16th Ave, Building “A” Unit #11/12,
Richmond Hill, L4B 3K9
905-737-2335
An indoor children’s playground suitable for ages 18 months to 7 yrs. Slides, climbers, games infant/toddler room and party room.