Ultimate Guide to Things to do in Stratford Ontario
Imagine a story-book town that will make you feel like you’re walking through the set of a Hallmark movie. That place is Stratford Ontario! As soon as you step foot on the streets of downtown Stratford you’ll understand why so many movies and TV shows are filmed here. While it’s famous for their theatre festival, there’s plenty of fun things to do in Stratford Ontario.
Stratford is a great weekend getaway destination and offers a wide array of attractions. For those who love the arts, you’ll love attending the Stratford Festival and strolling the art galleries. Foodies take note as Stratford is one of the best foodie towns in Ontario. It has food trails that range from chocolate to bacon. Plus, I love that many of the restaurants and cafes are big advocates for eating local, by sourcing their meat and produce from local Perth County farms.
As I return again and again, I love that I always discover something new! Whether it’s a new restaurant or piece of street art, there’s plenty of reasons to plan return trips. In this travel guide to Stratford you’ll find everything you need to know to plan your trip throughout the year. In addition to all the best attractions and activities, I’m sharing my favourite places to eat and stay as well as places to visit nearby.
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Attend the Stratford Festival
Stratford is best known for the Stratford Festival. For many, it hits top of the list for things to do in Stratford. Plus, it’s one of the top Ontario attractions!
And for those who love the arts, it’s a great place to start your Stratford itinerary. The Stratford Festival has been going strong for over 60 years. It is noted as being the largest classical repertory theatre company in North America.
While it originally started out as the Shakespearean Festival it now encompasses an array of performances, from Shakespearean plays to films turned stage show. With a dozen shows each year there is a show for everyone. Whether you’re young or old, looking for dark or comedy, a musical and even family friendly, the Stratford Festival has something for you.
The season runs from spring to fall and shows take place across four different theatres. Get your tickets here! And be sure to check out the new and stunning Tom Patterson Theatre, named after the visionary behind the Stratford Festival.
Get your tickets here!
Visit Gallery Stratford
It wouldn’t be an artsy town without an art gallery. And Gallery Stratford is home to a permanent collection as well as revolving exhibition. With a focus on regional and Canadian art, the Gallery is a great place to wander and be inspired. And if you’re looking for something more they offer workshops and classes.
If you’re looking for things to do in Stratford with kids then check out their children’s programs.
The Gallery Stratford is one of the longest operating public art galleries in Ontario and is located just a short walk from downtown in the city’s historic former pump house. Surrounded by scenic parkland and outdoor sculptures. So be sure to take time to wander the grounds as well.
If you love art then you should check out the Art Walk Audio Tour that starts at the Gallery Stratford and take you to over a dozen locations around town.
Hunt for Street Art
Every great city has street art and there’s a ton to be found in Ontario! Stratford is full of it! Sometimes it’s out in plain sight and sometimes it’s hidden down alleyways. Around town, you can spot it on electric boxes that are painted. They all showcase highlights of the city, like the swans of Stratford and on another of you’ll see William Shakespeare himself.
There is also a large mural right downtown, on Ontario Street, welcoming you to Stratford! But there are two little gems.
One is on Google Maps, just like Graffiti Alley is in Toronto. It’s Allen’s Alley. Located off Wellington Street, this alley is home to some of Stratford’s famous musicians.
The other one is O’Higgins Alley and can be found behind Gallery Indigena, off of Downie Street. This alleyway showcases portraits of some of Stratford’s famous actors who’ve graced the stage here, like Sir Alec Guinness and William Shatner.
On a recent visit to Stratford I found a few more pieces! One of which can be found behind Revival House. Here you’ll find a large shipping container that has been transformed into the Love Wins Mural. If you’re looking for Instagrammable places to go in Stratford then this is where it’s at! You can also find another shipping contain mural behind the Gallery Stratford.
Are you an art lover? Here’s your Art Lover’s Guide to Stratford.
Explore the Gardens in Stratford
Stratford is home to an array of beautiful gardens to explore. Two of the best ones are the Shakespearean Gardens and the Festival Gardens.
For all visitors, one of the top things to do in Stratford is to visit the Shakespearean Gardens. Set along the Avon River, it was created in 1936 and is home to a wide range of plants and flowers. Molded after a classic English garden, it’s like a slice of Europe in Ontario.
Wander along sculpted hedged pathways, past a towering chimney that is the only remnant of an 1874 mill, over a wooden bridge and onto a shaded island and you’ll feel a world away. Among the roses you’ll also meet a bronze bust of Shakespeare himself.
Another of the best gardens in Stratford is the Festival Gardens. These are made up of three separate gardens that can all be found surrounding the Festival Theatre. The Arthur Meighen Gardens sits west of the Theatre and always has something blooming any time your visit. It’s a great place to stroll before your play.
The Elizabethan Gardens, set to the south side of the Theatre is home to plants that were known in Shakespeare’s time, many of which are mentioned in his writings. You’ll also find statues, sculptures, and even a fountain inscribed with a quote from Shakespeare – “these flow’rs are like the pleasures of the world.” And again, you’ll meet the man himself, a strong statue of William Shakespeare.
The other garden by the Theatre is the Carpet Gardens. In recent years they have been designed to feature symbols related to plays from that season. Some are easy to figure out while others you’ll have to sit and think hard to decipher them.
Enjoy the Avon River
Winding its way through Stratford is the Avon River. There are a wealth of ways it can be appreciated, both by land and by water. One of the top dates back to the mid 1800’s and you can still do it today! Avon Boat Rentals offers a range of experiences along the Avon River. You can enjoy a boat tour or opt to rent paddle boats, kayaks or canoes. Getting out on the river is a must while in Stratford!
A stroll along the Avon River is the perfect way to burn off all the great food you’ll be eating. Plus, you’ll spot a plethora of wildlife, from the famous swans of Stratford to heron stalking in the reeds.
Another great way to enjoy the Avon River is to wander along it riverside trails. This trail system is part of the 110 kilometre Avon Trail which runs from St. Marys to Conestogo. Part of the trail, called the Stratford Side Trail, spans the length of the Avon River through Stratford.
Insider Tip: Be sure to explore all along the river, not just in the downtown. There are hidden gems found throughout! Like a wooden pedestrian bridge that crosses the river and leads to an enchanting boardwalk trail through the forest.
Hike the T.J. Dolan Trail
You don’t have to leave the city to go for a hike in Stratford. The T.J. Dolan Trail that runs right through the city. From the T.J. Dolan Natural Area through downtown, and around the Avon River, this hike is one of the top things to do outdoors in Stratford! With several side trails, all of which are well marked, this beautiful trail is a great way to enjoy Stratford’s green side.
Within the T.J. Dolan Natural Area you’ll feel a world away from the city. Spot deer in the bush, songbirds in the trees, and monarchs following you along the trail. And don’t forget a hat for those open sections and bug spray for those dense areas close to water.
Stratford is an incredibly green city, with over 1000 acres of groomed parkland, it boasts the largest parkland per capita of any other city in Canada. And so, offers visitors a wealth of gardens, hiking trails, and of course, the Avon River. Nature addicts will love all the things to do outdoors in Stratford.
Visit the Stratford Perth Museum
Stratford is considered one of Canada’s best preserved heritage communities. To learn more about the area’s history plan a visit to the Stratford Perth Museum.
Set on 5 acres, in an 1870 Victorian home that is dubbed the Holliday House, after the gentleman it was built for, the museum has some incredible exhibits.
The Stratford Perth Museum has a few ongoing exhibits. One of my favourites is the Railway Century. This exhibit tells the story of Stratford’s history as a railway hub.
FUN FACT: Did you know that Stratford was home to the locomotive repair shop operated by the Grand Trunk Railway? You can see the tools they used, lamps, a uniform, and incredible photos from Stratford’s rail era at the museum.
There are also revolving exhibits every year. A few years ago I got to see one that was beyond memorable! The Harper Lee: To Kill a Mockingbird exhibit was a dream come true to see. To Kill a Mockingbird is one of my all-time favourite books! To go along with the play, which was also running at the Stratford Festival, it was the perfect way to learn about the significance the book has had and continues to have, as well as learn about Harper Lee herself.
Of course, one of the most popular exhibits at the Stratford Perth Museum is the Justin Bieber: Steps to Stardom. The exhibit shares the story of Justin, born and raised in Stratford, and his rise to fame. But the museum has a bunch of great exhibits, both permanent and rotating ones, so be sure to visit on every visit!
Insider Tip: The museum has a trail that can be accessed from the parking lot. It features information boards about that tell the history of the area. The trail is under 1 km and is free to hike! Plus, in the winter you can borrow snowshoes from the museum.
Visit the World’s Smallest Cinema
The first time I visit the tiny little cinema in Stratford, now known as Little Prince Micro Cinema, it was hidden behind a unique shop called Meet Your Maker back in 2018.
Now, the shop is transformed into an awesome lobby for the cinema that feels like you’re stepping back in time to the golden ago of movie magic. And the coolest part is that the cinema is recognized by Guinness World Records as the world’s smallest movie theatre!
With a vintage vibe, the Little Prince Micro Cinema is home to 12 seats. You can enjoy one of their public screenings of classic old movies. Or book the entire theatre for your own private movie night with friends and family – talk about a unique night out!
And don’t worry, there’s popcorn and candy available to enjoy with your movie!
Take a Self-Guided Walking Tour
One of the best things you can do in a city is to take a walking tour. It’s a great way to get your bearings and learn about the place your visiting from a local. If you’re looking for activities in Stratford then try one of their amazing walking tours.
There are self-guided ones that you can download on your mobile or pick up a printed copy from the tourist office. A couple of great choices are the Riverwalk Heritage tour and the Heritage Festival Stroll. Plus, there’s even a Justin Bieber’s Stratford tour!
Stratford’s newest tour series comes in the form of an audio tour. These incredible audio tours are a fun way to explore Stratford, learn about the stories behind some popular places, and find hidden gems. There are currently nine audio tours to choose from.
Head to Visit Stratford’s website to find the tours, click the tour you want to take and it will bring up a map of all the stops. Each stop has an audio clip telling you about the history and story behind it.
A few tours I recommend are the Epitaphs & Headstones Tour, perfect for chasing ghosts, Saints & Sinners Tour, and the Stratford Garden Tour.
Go on a Ghost Walk
Speaking of walking tours, one of the things that will get your heart racing is to go on a ghost walk. Who doesn’t like to wander the streets at dark, hearing stories of hauntings and looking over your shoulder? So, if you’re looking for what to do in Stratford at night then add a ghost walk to your itinerary. Did you know that Stratford is one of the most haunted places in Ontario?
The Ghosts of Stratford walks are put on by actors from the Playmakers Theatre School in Stratford. There is the Pubs, Pilsners and Spirits Tour where you can hear about the haunted places in Stratford to enjoy a pint.
I went on the God’s Acre Tour, where I heard tales from the city’s dark history – from mishaps at the Grand Trunk Railway to their very own Jack the Ripper. Stratford is full of stories of haunted homes, strange and unusual happenings at the jail and Perth County Courthouse, and even has a ghost that lurks along the Avon River.
Taste the Chocolate Trail
If there is one reason to visit Stratford for foodies it is Chocolate! Stratford is home to some of the best chocolate shops in Ontario. Even the Food Network called it an “ideal destination for chocolate lovers.” So, it’s no surprise that one of the top things to do in Stratford is indulge in the Chocolate Trail.
The Chocolate Trail is a self-guided trail that takes you to dozens of shops, restaurants, and more to try their chocolate treats. How does it work? You purchase your Chocolate Trail pass that includes a brochure showcasing all of the stops along the trail, what they offer, a map, and of course your vouchers. You get 6 vouchers to exchange for either delicious treats, discounts, or other cool gifts from the participating shops.
The Chocolate Trail is always changing things up with new stops but there are always a few staples to count on! A few must stops along the trail for delicious chocolate treats are Rheo Thompson Candies for their famous Mint Smoothies and Small Mart for their fun retro chocolate bars.
Do the Bacon & Ale Trail
Many are drawn to the Chocolate Trail and I totally get that! It’s the sweetest one! But there’s another great foodie trail in Stratford, the Bacon & Ale Trail.
The Bacon & Ale Trail features over a dozen stops and you’ll get 5 vouches to use at them when you purchase the trail package.
What I love about this trail is that it showcases both the local breweries in Stratford but also Perth County’s history of fresh local pork. Stops include everything from local bacon and beer pairings to fun treats like bacon cheddar popcorn.
I loved the offering at Mercer Kitchen & Beer Hall! My voucher got me a plate of perfectly grilled bacon and the choice of one of their local Ontario craft beers.
Insider Tip: This trail has businesses that are in Stratford as well as many throughout Perth County. But make sure to check that the business is open before you go.
Eat at Stratford Restaurants
Stratford is a treasure trove for unique and truly local places to eat and drink. Being surrounded by some of Ontario’s best farmlands takes Stratford’s food scene to a whole other level. Using locally grown and sourced ingredients is a standard for many of Stratford’s restaurants, cafés, and eateries.
This makes for incredibly tasty food, like Revel’s strawberry cake! Using local strawberries that are roasted for a salivating pop of flavour that only fresh produce can give.
There are over 40 amazing restaurants in Stratford. With everything from international cuisine to classic pub grub you’ll find something to quell your hunger here. But with so many places to eat how do you choose? For the top restaurants in Stratford I have a few recommendations.
Revival House is located in a stunning converted old church and prepares a mix of Canadian and Thai-fusion dishes.
Pazzo Pizzeria is an Italian restaurant with some of the best homemade pasta and pizzas in Stratford.
At Braai House you’ll a fabulous patio and South African inspired cuisine with a modern twist.
If you’re looking for tasty treats there are so many great bakeries and cafes in Stratford. A few must-visit ones include Black Angus Bakery, Revel, and Balzac’s. Stratford’s Balzac’s location is the first café in the chain that now spans across Ontario.
Visit the Cat Café
One of my favourite things to do downtown is explore the many Stratford cafes! A fun one that pairs good coffee with cute cats is Alley Cat Café.
I still remember the first time I visited in their opening year of 2019. I enjoyed a cup of coffee and a tasty treat in the café before heading in to the ‘cat lounge’ to hang out with the adorable cats.
As one of only a few cat cafes in Ontario, Alley Cat Café has a number of permanent resident cats as well as ones that are available for adoption. All of the cats come from local shelters and they’ve successfully adopted out hundreds of cats since they first opened.
There are a few things to keep in mind before you go. I highly recommend making a reservation in advance, especially on weekends and in the summer months. However, in the winter you can generally easily get in without a reservation. Also, there’s a fee to enter the lounge to hang out with the adorable cats. This helps to pay for their food and care.
Grab a Drink or Two!
Along with all the great restaurants in Stratford you’ll find a ton of fun places to drink! There’s everything from breweries to cocktail bars! If you’re looking for breweries in Stratford, there are a few, including Black Swan and Jobsite.
The Relic Lobby Bar is a fun stop too! This cocktail lounge has a Cuban bartender behind the bar and is filled with quirky décor. Along with a creative cocktail list they have a snack menu too! A couple of great drinks to try are their Singapore Sling and Hemingway Daiquiri! Plus, many of the cocktails come in funky glasses!
Browse Unique Shops
If you’re anything like me and love exploring and browsing unique shops, then you’ll love Stratford’s shops. Stratford is home to a host of fun, fabulous and unique shops. Many of which showcase goods from local artisans. Shops in Stratford range from clothing to home décor as well as creative gift ideas. All are all about high quality goods that you’ll cherish for a lifetime!
Whether you’re looking for a cool pair of earrings, one of a kind artwork, theatre inspired goods, or fun gifts, Stratford has a shop for you! Here are a few of my favourites are Harmony for fun clothing, Distill Gallery for unique accessories, and Indigena for incredible designs by Canadian Aboriginal Artists.
Oh, and of course, any visit to Stratford isn’t complete without a stop at the Festival Shop! The Festival Shop sells items inspired by Shakespeare and the fabulous shows from the Stratford Festival.
Chase the Bronze Stars
You don’t need to go to Hollywood to find bronze stars! As so many stars flock to Stratford to take part in the Stratford Festival it’s no surprise that the city’s sidewalks are lined with bronze stars. You’ll find everyone from William Shatner to Justin Bieber.
But the Stratford Bronze Stars don’t just recognize celebrities. The City Council, in partnership with the Stratford Festival, also celebrates those that have contributed greatly to both the culture and the social aspects of Stratford.
The Stratford Bronze Stars started back in 2002. At this time five stars were placed in front of the Avon Theatre. If you want to learn more about the bronze stars and the people behind them there’s a Bronze Star Audio Tour available.
Check out Lights On Stratford
One of the newest attractions in the city is Lights On Stratford. This fun winter festival launched in the winter of 2020. Now a new annual tradition, Lights On Stratford brings incredible illuminating art installations to various locations throughout town. The theme changes every year. While this is a perfect excuse to visit Stratford in the winter you don’t have to wait!
Right now you can enjoy their summer and fall pop up light displays on Tom Patterson Island and at the Festival Theatre. If you’re looking for romantic things to do in Stratford Ontario then take an evening stroll along the Avon River and cross the illuminated bridge with its range of colours over to Tom Patterson Island. Here you can enjoy dinner Al Fresco under the stars on the Island that’s lit by strings of lights. At the Festival Theatre you’ll find a large heart that glows at night.
Lights On Stratford is one of the best things to do in the winter in Stratford! The festival runs from mid-December through mid-January.
For more incredible places to see lights check out these Magical Light Displays in Ontario!
More Fun Stratford Activities
Can’t get enough? There are a host of events in Stratford Ontario to keep you busy and coming back for more! There is always something going on in Stratford, from the Christmas Market in December and don’t forget the Garlic Festival in the fall!
Check out Art in the Park
For those who love art in all of its formats you’ll definitely want to add Art in the Park to your list of things to do in Stratford. Held from the end of May through to October, on Wednesday, Saturday, and Sundays, Art in the Park can be found along the banks of the Avon River, on Lakeside Drive. Here you’ll find local and regional artists and their incredible works of art. There is everything from oil paintings to sculptures.
A wander through Art in the Park is a great way to get to know some of the local artists. Learn what inspires them or what locations speak to them. Another thing I love about Art in the Park, besides being held outdoors, is the ability to watch the artists in action as they create everything from sculptures to oil paintings. And it’s a perfect place to grab a unique souvenir from your trip.
Do a Guided Tasting at Junction 56
Many people miss Junction 56 on their visit, but I highly recommend you plan to go.
This small batch distillery in Stratford is just minutes from downtown and makes handcrafted, award-winning spirits using natural and local ingredients. You’ll find Ontario grains in their vodka and some of the coolest liqueurs made with hyper local ingredients too.
Junction 56 is a great spot to pop in if you’re looking for a local souvenir, like their vodka, gin or whisky. Plus, I love their unique liqueurs like pumpkin spice and my favourite – Mint Smoothie. There’s even a butter tart one!
You can also book a guided tasting and distillery tour. Tours can be booked on Saturdays and run between 30 and 45 minutes. I loved learning about their history, 2025 marked their 10th year, their process and of course tasting some of their offerings.
Visit the Farmers Market
While I’m not an official foodie, I do love a farmers market. They’re always full of great local food, interesting people, and fabulous deals. And Stratford’s Slow Food Market is all of that and more! It features local producers and high-quality goods. You’ll find everything from bread to vegetables and even Revel’s delicious donuts!
You can visit the Stratford Slow Food Market every Sunday, from 10am to 2pm May through October, in Stratford’s Market Square. If you’re visiting Stratford in the winter and wanting to visit the market don’t worry! During the winter months you can find the Market indoors to Festival Square at 10 Downie Street.
Explore Historic Buildings
Stratford has so many great historic buildings! Many are unique and iconic like Stratford City Hall but there are more historic buildings to be found. One of my favourite things to do is to simply wander the places I visit.
You never know what hidden gems you might find. If you’re looking for more activities in Stratford then I recommend taking a stroll through the charming and historic neighbourhoods that hug the downtown. My favourite neighbourhood is the one can be found close to the Festival Theatre.
Between Ontario Street and the Avon and flanked by Romeo Street you’ll find one of the loveliest neighbourhoods in Stratford. A wander along Cobourg and Water Streets, as well as those running off each, will give you a taste of Stratford’s history and charm.
Here you’ll find a wealth of historic buildings, many of which have plaques to share when they were built and who once lived there as well as their occupation. There are homes dating back to the mid-1800s and some look like they’re trapped in time. And you’ll also stumble upon some adorable little libraries!
Please note that Water and Cobourg Street are one way streets.
Attend the Winter Film Festival
A recent addition to the list of fun festivals in Stratford is the Winter Film Festival. With the first event taking place in 2024, this is in my opinion one of the top things to do in February in Stratford!
The Stratford Winter Film Festival is the perfect escape in the winter. It boasts a variety of films, there’s something for everyone, from comedy to adventure. Plus, the films are shown in unique locations downtown; the City Hall and two beautiful churches.
As a frequent visitor to Stratford, I was so excited to finally get to go inside the grand City Hall. The film is shown in their large auditorium that has balcony seating and the acoustics are perfect!
The festival takes place over a 3 day weekend in February. It’s the perfect excuse to book a weekend getaway to Stratford.
Learn to Cook with Stratford Chefs School
If you love to cook and are looking for a unique experience in Stratford then this is for you! At the Stratford Chef School you can learn from world renowned chefs how to cook everything from fabulous dishes to specific items or even create a whole meal itself.
From spring through summer the Chef School offers Open Kitchen Cooking classes for the public. You can check out the list of classes, events and more here.
Places to Visit Near Stratford
With a perfect location to explore more of Perth County, you’ll find a bunch of great places near Stratford to visit! Ranging from quaint small towns to finding a wealth of history, you’ll want to add this day trips from Stratford to your itinerary.
Shakespeare
How fitting to have a charming little hamlet (pun intended!) named Shakespeare right next door to Stratford? Located a 5-minute drive east, Shakespeare is dubbed the Antiques Capital of Ontario thanks to the numerous antique shops in this small village.
But there’s more than antiques in this little picturesque gem. Looking for a little English culture and goodies you can only find in the United Kingdom? Head to British Touch. Or maybe you’re looking for a treat and a spot of tea? Stop in at the adorable Harry Ten Shilling Tearoom.
Castle Kilbride
Another great day trip from Stratford is to Castle Kilbride in Baden. While it’s not a castle in the traditional sense, Castle Kilbride is full of history, wonder, and hidden treasures like anyone would find in a real castle.
This Victorian mansion was built by James Livingstone, a Scottish immigrant who made his fortune here in the flax industry. Made for his family, three generations lived in Castle Kilbride. Much of their furniture, toys, and other interesting artifacts can be seen in this home turned museum.
While there are many of reasons to visit, one that stands out to me is its famous art work. This National Historic Site has some of the best examples of Trompe l’oeil wall and ceiling murals in Canada. Don’t know what Trompe l’oeil is? I didn’t before my visit. It’s French for ‘deceive the eye’. These pieces have hidden images within and will really wow you!
St Marys
Only a 20 minute drive from Stratford, St. Marys is a beautiful little town to spend the day exploring. Nicknamed The Stone Town, because of the wealth of limestone in the area many of St. Marys’ buildings in the 19th century were built from it.
This attractive town is home to great shops, cafés, and even its own theatre. And for the nature addict, you can enjoy the Grand Trunk Trail. Running along a section of the old Grand Trunk Railway line the trail has some cool features. Like limestone cliffs, the only original Grand Trunk station in Southwestern Ontario, and panoramic views over town.
If you’re looking for more things to do in Perth County there is a wealth of outdoor activities, small towns to explore, tasty farm gates, and something for everyone – from solo travellers to families!
Travel Tips for Planning a Trip to Stratford
There are so many things to factor in when planning a trip. Especially if it involves travelling to a new destination. Here is everything you’ll need to know about planning a getaway to Stratford Ontario.
Where to Park in Stratford
There is plenty of places to park in downtown Stratford. There is metered parking along, Erie Street, Cobourg Street, York Street, and Albert Street.
But if you’re looking for free parking there is plenty along Lakeside Drive (along the Avon River) and even a large free lot beside the University of Waterloo Campus on Downie Street (called Cooper Lot).
From the Cooper Lot you can get to nearly anywhere in the downtown core within 5 to 15 minutes.
There is also an electric vehicle charging station at Market Place, beside City Hall.
How to Get to Stratford
For those driving, Stratford is 2 hours west of Toronto and 2 hours north of Niagara Falls.
If you’re flying in the closet airport to Stratford is the Waterloo regional airport. Other popular airports to fly into include Hamilton International Airport, Toronto Pearson International Airport and the Toronto Island Airport.
Discounts on Stratford Festival
Compared to some theatres, the Stratford Festival has reasonable prices for their seats. But if you are looking for discounts they offer various discounts throughout the season. There are 2-for-1 deals, Lucky $29 deals, and more. Go over and LIKE their Facebook page to be notified of upcoming deals!
Check Hours
Be sure to check for hours of operation before heading to specific shops and cafés. Some are not open during the beginning of the week. Plus, some open a little later and close early.
Bring a Cooler!
For my last travel tip I encourage you to bring a cooler! YES, that’s right! You won’t be going camping but you’ll be eating a lot during your time in Stratford. So, if you don’t have enough room to eat all the amazing chocolate and goodies you pick up then pack them up in your travel cooler. You’ll thank me when you get home and are craving a taste of Stratford!
What to spend a few great days in Stratford? Then check out this 3 day Stratford Itinerary!
Best Time to Visit Stratford
It’s ALWAYS a good time to visit Stratford! But it all depends on what you’re after, when your vacation time is as well as what you want to see and do.
Spring
Spring is a good time to visit Stratford. Things are starting to buzz as the Stratford Festival begins and flowers and trees start to bloom. Also, if you visit in the spring you can enjoy one of Canada’s most unique events. Every spring, Stratford’s famous swans throw a spring fling! Over a weekend in early April the swans take centre stage. And the highlight is the Swan Parade, where the swans parade down Lakeside Drive to the Avon River.
Summer
Summer in Stratford is all about enjoying the city by foot, soaking in the sun on the Avon River and fueling your adventures on their incredible patios. During the summer you can experience Stratford’s award-winning gardens, their Summer Music Series and Art in the Park.
Fall
Fall in Stratford is fabulous. The temperatures are comfortable, the leaves are beginning to change, the vibe is more relaxed, Stratford is less busy but the Theatre is still going strong, and accommodation is usually cheaper. You can explore the haunted places in Stratford as well as attend the Stratford Fall Fair that takes place mid-September!
Winter
Winter is a fabulous time to explore Stratford as it takes on a whole new ambiance. Blankets of snow create a magical feel and you can enjoy fabulous dining and year round Stratford food trails. Plus, during the holiday season you can enjoy their Christmas Trail. Other things to do in December in Stratford include Christmas markets and the Winter Festival of Lights.
Where to Stay in Stratford
There is a wide variety of places to stay in Stratford. Whether you’re looking for an historic inn or modern hotel, there is something for everyone’s budget. One thing to note when looking for hotels in Stratford is that many book up fast during the Stratford Festival. So, if you plan to visit from May through October be sure you book in advance.
Edison’s Inn – If you’re looking for a great place to stay right downtown then Edison’s Inn is ideal. This inn is home to three unique and amazing rooms with views of the city or the Avon River. One of these rooms is where Thomas Edison once lived!
The Bruce Hotel – One of the best Stratford hotels is The Bruce Hotel! This luxury hotel is close to the Festival Theatre and has 25 beautiful rooms. The hotel is also home to a restaurant, indoor pool and plenty of unique experiences.
Best Western Plus The Arden Park Hotel – Another great hotel near the Festival Theatre is the Best Western Plus The Arden Park Hotel. This family friendly has a ton of amenities along with the spacious and contemporary rooms.
Parlour Inn – For those looking to stay in a slice of Stratford history then consider staying at the Parlour Inn. Located downtown and close to all the best shops and restaurants, the Parlour Inn has been welcoming guests to Stratford for well over 100 years!
So, next time you’re looking to take a road trip somewhere new or a fun place to keep you busy during your vacation, consider this guide to Stratford to help plan your visit!
I was a guest of Visit Stratford, but as always all thoughts, opinions, and suggestions are my own.
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