Richmond Hill Heritage Centre
Discovery Day for Guides and Scouts – Saturday, May 24!
The City of Richmond Hill Heritage Services section is hosting a one-of-a-kind event, where Scouts and Guides organizations from all branches will come together for a jam-packed morning or afternoon full of interactive activities. Participants will explore S.T.E.A.M. through a variety of activity stations that celebrate the spirit of adventure, learning and community.
Discovery Day In Richmond Hill – Saturday, May 24 |
Calling all Scout and Guide Organizations Join us on May 24, 2025, at the Richmond Hill David Dunlap Observatory! Heritage Services is hosting this one-of-a-kind event, where Scouts and Guides organizations from all branches will come together for a jam-packed morning or afternoon full of interactive activities. Participants will explore the Richmond Hill David Dunlap historic Administrative Building, Observatory Dome and surrounding park as they rotate between 20-minute activity stations. Each activity will support one or more badge connections. World of Archaeology Uncover the Past, Discover the Future Participants will handle real prehistoric and historic artifacts. They will practice artifact analysis and preservation while learning how these objects help us understand history. Participants will document their findings and explore the fascinating significance of the artifacts they uncover. Badge themes:
Weaving a Story Crafting Patterns, Creating Connections Participants will explore fibre and textile arts as they learn the basics of weaving and practice techniques using yarn and fabric. This hands-on experience fosters both creativity and critical thinking while participants practice a traditional skill that spans across cultures. Badge themes:
Build A Time Capsule Preserve Your Story for the Future Participants will reflect on their favorite stories and imagine how they would preserve them for future generations. They will write journal entries and create artwork based on characters from their favorite books, sealing their creations in a time capsule to capture the essence of today. Badge themes:
Makerspace Tour Innovation Meets Craftsmanship Participants will learn about cutting-edge tools like computer programming machines and 3D printers. They will explore various materials, learn the basics of crafting, and view innovative projects made with a variety of techniques, from blacksmithing to laser cutting. Badge themes:
Meet the Astronomers and Telescope Tour Explore the Stars and Beyond Participants will explore the wonders of space with our astronomers as they learn about the observatory and how it is used to observe distant stars and planets. They will see a working demonstration of the RHDDO’s 74” telescope. Please note: there is no viewing from the RHDDO’s 74” telescope included in this activity. Badge themes:
Event: Discovery Day In Richmond Hill Date: Saturday, May 24, 2025 Location: Richmond Hill David Dunlap Observatory (123 Hillsview Drive) Time: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. or 1 to 4 p.m. Age of Participants: 5 - 14 Fee:
Please Note: As required, we will join smaller groups together to be able to accommodate everyone.
Registration is limited. Registration Deadline is Thursday, May 22 at 12 p.m. (noon) To request a booking, please fill out the Discovery Day request form. |
Afternoon Teas
Come enjoy our popular Afternoon Teas. We are delighted to present an array of options for you to enjoy. Indulge in our timeless Traditional Afternoon teas, and don't miss our unique offerings lined up for this season.
Check the schedule and use our online reservation request form to book your sitting.
View the schedule and book your spot!
Visit the Galleries!
Drop by our Heritage Centre at 19 Church Street to explore our new galleries and exhibits, showcasing the rich heritage and history of Richmond Hill. These exhibits are suitable for all ages.
Exhibits
Explore exhibits showcasing the history of Richmond Hill, including a collection of historically significant artifacts from the early 19th century to the present.
Standing in the Doorway: Lived Histories and Experiences of the Chinese Community |
Exhibit on display at the Richmond Hill Heritage Centre from March 29 to August 16, 2025. Standing in the Doorway: Lived Histories and Experiences of the Chinese Community 縈繞中華文化: 華人社區歷史和生活展覽 萦绕中华文化: 华人社区历史和生活展览 Home. Place. Belonging. Throughout Canadian history, people of Chinese descent have contributed to the development of our nation. They resisted and persevered, overcoming stereotypes, labels, and racist policies. They created homes and built places and spaces to foster connection and community. Now, we commemorate and remember the contributions of Chinese Canadians over the past 100 years since the Chinese Exclusion Act. Explore, learn, and listen to the stories, traditions and knowledge of the diverse Chinese Canadian community from York Region. This exhibit was developed by the Markham Museum and the York Region District School Board Museum and Archives working in conjunction with YRDSB students, and the University of Toronto Museum Studies program. Now accepting requests to book an exhibit tour or discovery package.
Additional funding provided by: Government of Canada |
Museum of the Streets
Online Artifact Collection
View over 10,000 artifact images through our online artifact collection database. An ideal resource for students, researchers and history enthusiasts.
Programs
The Heritage Centre hosts a variety of programs. Learn more by visiting our Heritage Programs page.
Rentals
The Richmond Hill Heritage Centre is housed in the architecturally restored 1840s Regency-style cottage that was originally home to Amos Wright, the first Reeve of Markham Township. Located in picturesque Amos Wright Park, the Heritage Centre serves as a unique venue for special celebrations for anyone looking for a historical and authentic setting for meetings, small weddings, baby/bridal showers, photo shoots, private parties and more!
Plan early! Our rental permits are processed 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Mondays to Fridays. Staff will respond to your request within five business days. Rental permits take up to 10 business days to process.
Rental of the Gardenview Room and Patio | ||||||||||||
This bright, east facing room provides a beautiful indoor setting for intimate gatherings. Overlooking the manicured gardens with direct access to the patio, this room is perfect for small group celebrations like birthdays and baby/bridal showers. The Patio is included with rental May through October. Patio furniture can be permitted for an additional fee. Upgrade your rental permit by adding Amos Wright Park, the All Occasion Package and/or the Beverage Package. Tour the Heritage Centre virtually by clicking here. Room size: 20’x10’ Capacity: 15 people - Class or conference set up (Tables and Chairs) 20 people - Theatre set up (Chairs Only) Hourly Rental Includes:
Fee (in effect until September 3, 2025) HST Applicable: May to October
November to April
Patio Furniture: Set up on the Patio Only – Seating for 20 May to October
Submit a Heritage Centre Permit Request for your preferred date and time. |
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Rental of Amos Wright Park | ||||||||||||
Weddings, Picnics and Events
This beautifully landscaped historic park is a popular destination for wedding ceremonies and picnics. Amos Wright Park can accommodate parties of up to 75 guests. Fee (in effect until December 31, 2025) HST Applicable: Picnic/Event Permit:
Three-Hour Wedding Permit:
Submit a Facility rentals request to book Amos Wright Park. Photo Permits For wedding or family photos, we offer a two hour permit. A photography permit must be purchased for use of the grounds on a set date. Fee (in effect until December 31, 2025) HST Applicable:
Submit a Photography Permit Request to book your preferred photo shoot location and time. |
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The All Occasions Package – Exclusive to the Heritage Centre | ||||||||||||
Offering a delightful option for your next meeting, bridal shower or get-together with friends, the All Occasions Package offers a hassle-free way to host a function while enjoying the tranquil atmosphere of the Gardenview Room overlooking Amos Wright Park. The Heritage Centre staff will provide a traditional Victorian tea served buffet style, which includes finger sandwiches, delicious treats and bottomless cups of tea and/or coffee. Capacity: 10 – 20 people Package Includes:
Fee (in effect until December 31, 2025) HST Applicable: May to October
November – April
Submit an All Occasions Permit Request to for your preferred date and time. |
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Beverage Service– Exclusive to the Heritage Centre | ||||||||||||
If all you need are the beverages for your next meeting or event, let us handle that for you!
Package includes:
Fee (in effect until December 31, 2025) HST Applicable:
If you would like to book the Beverage Service, please include this in your Heritage Permit Request. |
Heritage Centre Advisory Committee
Decisions related to Richmond Hill's Heritage Centre are reviewed by the Heritage Centre Advisory Committee. The Committee is part of the Community Services Department and gives advice and makes recommendations about the following topics:
- Short and long-term planning
- Programs and services
- Marketing and fundraising
- Facility development
- Management of the Heritage Collection
Service Charter
Learn more about our Service Charter.
Service Commitments |
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Subscribe to our Heritage Services/RHDDO Mailing List
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