Life in Pembroke, Ontario
Climate
Pembroke experiences a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. While it’s true that Pembroke gets a bit more snow than Toronto, the city’s scenic beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities make it a winter wonderland. Be prepared for:
- Cold winters with average temperatures ranging from -10°C to -20°C (14°F to -4°F)
- Warm summers with average temperatures ranging from 18°C to 28°C (64°F to 82°F)
- Moderate precipitation throughout the year, with an average annual snowfall of 300 cm (118 in)
Amenities
Pembroke has everything you need to live a comfortable and convenient life:
- Groceries: Several supermarkets, including Walmart, NoFrills, Food Basics, Metro, and Giant Tiger.
- Dining: A variety of restaurants serving Canadian, Italian, Chinese, Mexican, and fast-food cuisine
- Shopping: Downtown Pembroke offers unique boutiques, antique shops, and specialty stores
- Services: Banks, medical clinics, dental offices, and other essential services
Outdoor Activities
Pembroke is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with the Ottawa River providing a beautiful setting for:
- Hiking: numerous trails, including the Kiwanis Way Trail: a 2.5 km paved trail along the Pembroke riverfront, perfect for walking, jogging, or biking
- Fishing: plenty of lakes, rivers, and streams filled with trout, bass, and other species
- Canoeing and Kayaking: explore the Ottawa River and surrounding lakes
- ATV Trails: an extensive network of trails for off-road adventures
- Skiing and Snowshoeing: enjoy winter sports at nearby hills and trails
Community
Pembroke is known for its friendly residents and strong sense of community:
- Community events: festivals, parades, and fairs throughout the year
- Volunteer opportunities: get involved with local organizations and charities like Terry Fox Run
- Clubs and organizations: join groups that align with your interests, from sports to hobbies
Education and Healthcare
Pembroke has a range of educational institutions and healthcare services:
- Schools: public, Catholic, and private schools, including Algonquin College
- Hospitals: Pembroke Regional Hospital and nearby Ottawa hospitals
- Healthcare services: medical clinics, dental offices, and specialized services
Public Transportation
While Pembroke itself has limited public transportation options within the city, there are connections to nearby cities and Ottawa:
- Buses: Ontario Northland offers bus services connecting Pembroke to Ottawa, Toronto, and other nearby cities
- Local Transportation: Taxi services are available for getting around town, but there is no public bus system within Pembroke
- Note: There is no train service available in Pembroke
Getting Around
Pembroke is a relatively small city, making it easy to get around:
- Cars: convenient for exploring the surrounding area and nearby cities
- Biking: a great way to enjoy the scenic trails and fresh air, with many bike-friendly routes
- Taxi services: available for those who don’t have access to a vehicle
Entertainment
Pembroke has a few entertainment options:
- Skylight Drive-In: a historic drive-in cinema located at 199 Forest Lea Rd, Pembroke, ON K8A 6W6, open from Victoria Day long weekend in May to Thanksgiving in October, showing two feature movies every night in July and August
- Pembroke Community Center: a hub for community events, activities, and gatherings
- Local festivals and events: Pembroke hosts various festivals throughout the year, including the Pembroke Folk Festival, Pembroke Ribfest, Santa Claus Parade Parade of Lights in Downtown Pembroke, and the Pembroke Farmer’s Market every Wednesday and Saturday from 9 A.M. to 1 P.M.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Pembroke offers a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and small-town charm, making it an excellent choice for those who love the outdoors and a relaxed pace of life. With its friendly community, modern amenities, and scenic surroundings, Pembroke is a great place to call home.