17 Sensational Things to do in Sudbury Ontario

As the largest city in Northern Ontario, Sudbury has a wealth of adventures and attractions to appeal to a wide audience. With everything from a thriving arts scene to countless places to experience the great outdoors, the list of things to do in Sudbury Canada is long! In this guide to Sudbury, you’ll find all the top sights, a few hidden gems, where to get active, and ideas on where to eat and sleep.

So, whether you’re planning a trip from Toronto to Sudbury or an epic Northern Ontario road trip, I’ve got everything you need to plan your adventure!

A little about Sudbury

Over 1.8 billion years ago a meteor hit the area of Sudbury creating what is known as the Sudbury Basin. It’s the third largest crater on Earth. The downtown core of Sudbury sits on the southern rim of the basin. Visitors can still see evidence of the meteor impact in various places in Sudbury in the form of shatter cones. Easily accessed ones are in Science North and on the A.Y. Jackson Lookout Trail.

Founded in 1883, the city of Sudbury was formed thanks in part to the railway running right through what was then Sudbury Junction. At this time the city’s growth was dependent on the railway as well as the lumber industry.

A few years later, Sudbury’s first mine, Copper Cliff Mine, began operation. Following was the big mining boom that put Sudbury on the map. Not just in Canada but the world. With nine mines in operation, a nickel refinery and more, Sudbury became known as the ‘hard rock mining capital of the world.’

Fun Fact: There are over 5000 km of mining tunnels under Sudbury! That’s like driving from Sudbury to Vancouver!

Sadly, the mining industry took a horrible tole on the environment. Sudbury was a proverbial waste land, and looked like the surface of Mars. In 1978, the ‘Regreening’ of Sudbury began. In 45 years, the community has changed the health and natural landscape of the city. During this time over 10 million trees have been planted, and over 3,400 hectares of land were limed and grassed.

Now, this green city is a beacon of hope for the world. Knowing that with community, perseverance, and dedication, the detrimental effects of unsustainable practices can be reversed.

Fun Fact: Known as the City of Lakes, Sudbury has 330 lakes, which is more than any other city in Canada.

Best Things to do in Sudbury

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Visit Science North

On the top of the list of Sudbury attractions is Science North! Noted as the most popular tourist attraction in Northern Ontario, Science North is a must visit for all, not just families with kids!

Sudbury’s Science North sits along the shores of Ramsey Lake, at the southern end of Bell Park. The building has an iconic shape, it’s made up of two snowflakes.

Covering four floors, the museum is full of interesting interactive exhibits. In addition, it’s home to an IMAX theatre, planetarium, walk-through butterfly gallery, and more.

Visitors should set aside a few hours to properly explore Science North. Start your visit with a show in their IMAX theatre. I highly recommend taking in the new Jane Goodall film called Reasons of Hope. The film highlights uplifting stories from around the world where people have come together to make a difference on the environment. It features the incredible work that the community of Sudbury has achieved with their re-greening project. It’s the perfect way to start your visit to the city, as I promise you that you will have a whole new appreciation for the city.

Another fun exhibit is their Dinosaur Discoveries. With a mix of animatronics and fossil replica skeletons, kids and adults alike will feel like they’ve stepped into the world of Jurassic Park!

As you wind your way up the floors, you’ll see hanging in the centre is an over 65-foot skeleton of a fin whale that was found in Quebec.

There’s so much more to do and see at Science North! One floor is devoted to animals that call northern Ontario home like turtles, snakes, a beaver, and more. The museum’s Tech Lab is a great way to get hands on learning concerning space exploration, biology, and computers.

Explore Sudbury Murals

For street art enthusiasts like myself, one of the top things to do in Sudbury is explore the city’s murals! Sudbury is one of the best cities in Ontario for street art. Thanks to the city’s Up Here Festival, which celebrates 10 years in 2023, there are over 50 public art pieces across downtown Sudbury and around the city.

The Up Here Festival takes place downtown every August. It brings artists from around the world along with locals to the city. Together they create awesome murals as well as put on an array of musical performances.

Visitors can take a self-guided mural tour or join one of the new guided tours here. The guided tour takes you across downtown to many of the top murals. You’ll learn about the artists as well as the stories behind the incredible pieces.

A few of my favourite murals are:

Canada’s Largest Mural, which covers the old hospital, by RISK from the United States

Alex Trebek Mural, on Sudbury Secondary School, by Kevin Ledo from Montreal

Good Wolf, on the back of the Grand Theatre, by my favourite artists BirdO

Mosse & Bear, on the entrance wall of the YMCA, by Born in the North from Toronto and curated by Anong Migwans Beam

Dig Deep at Dynamic Earth

The sister site to Science North is Dynamic Earth and is another must-do in Sudbury! The site is famous for being home to one of the top roadside attractions in Ontario, the Big Nickel! Originally built in 1951 as a giant replica of the Canadian nickel as a symbol for Sudbury, known as Nickel City!

Dynamic Earth is another center that focuses on earth sciences. Like Science North, it is home to a number of interactive exhibits to challenge all ages. Upon walking through you’ll encounter a Mineral Wall showcasing rocks and minerals from around the world.

In the MacLeod Rock Gallery visitors are encouraged to get in the driver seat. This incredible exhibit allows you to participate in a variety of mine training operations. There’s a number of simulators like digging and flying a drone. Plus, you can try your hand at gold panning for real gold flakes!

It’s also home to an outdoor Science Park, which is the only one of its kind in Ontario. The park has more fun interactive science-based exhibits.

The biggest draw of Dynamic Earth is their guided underground tour. Don a hard hat and descend seven stories underground and discover what working in the mine is really like. Underground you’ll learn about over 100 years of mining industry. With more interactive mining experiences, you’ll have a blasting good time!

Fun Fact: The Dynamic Earth tunnels are home to the deepest post box in Canada!

Browse the Art Gallery of Sudbury

Art lovers and history buffs will enjoy a visit to the Art Gallery of Sudbury. The gallery is set within the 1907 mansion that was built for the lumber tycoon William Joseph Bell. Located close to downtown and Bell Park, it’s said to be one of Ontario’s haunted buildings.

Now the grand estate houses the Sudbury Art Gallery. The gallery has over 2000 pieces and showcases 20th century art created by local and international artists. Some notable names you’ll see on the walls include Group of Seven members AY Jackson and Franklin Carmichael as well as Norval Morrisseau.

In addition to the exhibits, the Art Gallery of Sudbury runs an assortment of events that include lectures and art classes. I had the opportunity to participate in their Plein Air Excursions at Onaping Falls workshop. Out at the majestic Onaping Falls the workshop teaches you about various methods of painting. Then you get to take your canvas down to the waterfall and paint in the open air.

I highly recommend this activity for those looking for unique things to do in Sudbury! You don’t need to be an artist; you just need to be willing to try and enjoy the experience.

Relax at Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes

One of Sudbury’s hidden gems is the Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes. Sitting atop a scenic hillside close to downtown, a visit to the Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes will make you feel like you’ve found ancient Greece in Ontario!

Covering just over 5 acres, the site celebrates various world religions. Construction began in 1907 when a gentleman who lived in the area wanted to build a grotto in honor of Mary in hopes it would help in the healing of his ailing wife. Over the years much more was added, including wining pathways, gardens, a large fountain and a Greek colonnade.

Now, over 100 years later, the area offers a quiet spot to reflect in the city. Visitors will find a pathway that leads to a view of Lake Ramsey. Plus, from the parking lot you’ll get a sweeping view of downtown Sudbury.

Explore Downtown Sudbury

With over 400 businesses, there are countless things to do in downtown Sudbury! As a hub of the city, you’ll find many restaurants, coffee shops, theatres, and boutique shops. Plus, at its center is Memorial Park.

I recommend entering downtown via the Bridge of Nations. While currently under construction, it’s an ideal route that is lined with over 80 different flags. The bridge represents the true diverse population of Sudbury.

Wandering downtown you’ll discover many of the incredible murals that breathe life into the city. Along with checking out the downtown murals, you can pop into a number of the great shops. My favourite is Good Luck General Store, with its wealth of lush green plants. You’ll also find other gems inside to aid in health, mind body and soul. Items include health and beauty products, books, clothing, and more!

Another downtown shop that’s been a staple for 75 years is Reg Wilkinson. Family run since day one, the store sells an array of footwear as well as men’s and women’s clothing.

Along with a long list of cafes and restaurants, downtown Sudbury is home to two fabulous chocolate shops. Raven Rising is an incredible Indigenous business that uses traditional and local ingredients to produce fine chocolates. The other is Huckleberries Chocolatiers. Inside you’ll find a variety of handmade Belgian chocolates, many with fun prints on them. My favourite is their hazelnut truffle. In addition, there are other tasty sweets and ice cream.

If you’re looking for a high tea experience then pop into Tea & Bloom. This lovely café is home to over 70 loose leaf tea varieties and offers an afternoon tea.

Travel Tip: Visitors will find plenty of on street parking available as well as multiple parking lots. Most are around $1.30/hour and there’s free two-hour parking at the Energy Court Lot. Plus, parking is free on weekends and after 6pm unless otherwise posted.

Visit Northern Ontario Railroad Museum & Heritage Centre

Sudbury is what it is today thanks in big part to their railroad. So, to learn more about the city’s history make a visit to the Northern Ontario Railroad Museum & Heritage Centre.

The museum is located approximately 30 minutes north of downtown Sudbury. There’s much to discover including indoor museum exhibits, a sprawling park with rail cars, a heritage centre and more!

The central museum is set within a Victorian home that was built in 1916. Inside you’ll learn about the area’s history including railroad industries like lumber and mining. There’s also a gift shop and adorable tea room.

In the park out back, you’ll find a long list of interesting railroad vehicles. There is everything from a historic locomotive to a school car, as well as a slag pot car, cabooses and more.

A few steps away is another building that is home to the Heritage Centre portion of the complex. Inside you’ll find an incredible model railroad display. In addition, there are a variety of exhibits that share the history of the region and of the town. Plus, there’s a fun locomotive simulator.

Indulge in Coffee Culture

I’m always on the hunt for the best Ontario coffee shops! So, believe me when I say there are lots of fabulous ones in Sudbury.

Coffee culture is real in Sudbury! Across the city, many downtown, are a variety of coffee shops with a vibe to suit everyone. One of the best known is Salute Coffee Company, which has multiple locations across the city. Keen on creating a good cup of coffee and offering quality food made with local ingredients, it’s a great stop. Especially their location on Regent Street that’s right off the highway.

For a slice of street art and strong cup of joe on the go, I recommend Old Rock Coffee. They are located downtown but conveniently have a small parking lot. Two other awesome coffee shops downtown are Books & Beans and Kuppajo Espresso Bar. At Books & Beans you’ll find a quiet space to enjoy a coffee and light meal. Kuppajo Espresso Bar has a plant filled space that screams Instagrammable.

In the Donovan neighbourhood is Beard’s Coffee Bar and Bakery. Along with serving up Propeller Coffee, they have a variety of tasty treats that are 100% vegan. I highly recommend grabbing one of their donuts and a cup of coffee and enjoying it on their front patio.

Things to do in Sudbury Outdoors

Visit A.Y. Jackson Lookout

One of the best places to visit in Sudbury is A.Y. Jackson Lookout! This stunning lookout is located 30 minutes outside of downtown Sudbury, off of Highway 144.

The lookout is the perfect blend of where nature, art and geology meet! Captivated by the scenic Onaping Falls, A.Y. Jackson painted his view. Jackson was a member of the Group of Seven, painters in the early part of the 20th century who became famous for their paintings of the Canadian landscape.

In 1953 Jackson painted the falls and named it ‘Spring on the Onaping River.’ That painting later found itself in the middle of a mystery that still remains. After his death the painting was purchased for the Sudbury Secondary School and went on display there. Then one day it went missing and has still never been recovered.

There are two lookouts. One can be found along the A.Y. Jackson Lookout Trail, and is a short walk from the parking lot. Hikers can continue along the roughly 2 km loop trail.

The trail leads you down to the Onaping River and along its rocky shoreline. It then leads into the forest and along a path that is full of rocks and roots. At the crest of the falls, where it plunges 180 feet, sits a picturesque bridge that crosses the falls.

From here you can continue along the bridge and do the remaining loop or return the way you came. The full loop takes approximately 45 minutes to complete.

Travel Tip: Be sure to look at the rocks along the trail. You’ll find evidence of the meteorite in the form of shatter cones.

Fun Fact: The Onaping Falls is located on the rim of the crater from the meteor. Driving along the highway from downtown Sudbury to the lookout will take you through the Sudbury Basin, which is the ancient crater.

Stroll Bell Park

One of the top things to do in Sudbury is visit Bell Park! It’s the largest urban waterfront park in Sudbury and has a number of attractions and activities for visitors.

Bell Park is named after William J. Bell, a noteworthy resident of the city and whose former home is now the Art Galley of Sudbury. The park sits on the west side of Ramsey Lake and features a 2 km boardwalk and pathway.

The Bell Park boardwalk runs north from Science North, hugging the shoreline. Along the trail you’ll be greeted with picturesque views of the lake. There’s also a sculpture honoring the city’s mining heritage. One of my favourite highlights is the large stone plaque commemorating the lone tree that stands behind it. This is the 10 millionth tree that was planted by Jane Goodall for the regreening of Sudbury project.

Bell Park is also home to a number of beaches, gazebos, and the Grace Hartman Amphitheatre. The amphitheater and the park at large are home to a variety of festivals and events in Sudbury throughout the year.

Travel Tip: There are a number of free parking lots along Bell Park. The lot next to the old hospital, which is now Canada’s largest mural, is a great one. It offers a great view of the mural as well as over the entire lake.

Get Active at Kivi Park

Nature lovers take note of Kivi Park. Covering over 480 acres, it’s one of the best places to visit in Sudbury for those looking for outdoor recreation and adventure.

The park is made up of rich forest terrain along with the mighty Canadian Shield. It’s also home to winding waterways and lakes. Kivi Park is a four-season destination with something to suit everyone’s activity level.

With an over 55 km trail network, visitors can hike and bike a number of trails ranging from 1 to 7 km. If you’re looking for a fun and easy trail, I recommend the Orange Trail. Highlights include lookouts and a ‘Wishing Tree.’

There’s a long list of fun things to do in Kivi Park! Cycling is another popular activity at Kivi Park all year round. If you’re looking for a less strenuous sport then try your hand at their 6-hole disc golf course. The course takes you through a scenic birch forest and is fun for the whole family. Plus, new in 2023, the park has Geocaching.

The park also encompasses Crowley Lake. Located in the southern portion of the park, the lake offers a variety of water activities including kayaking, canoeing and more.

For those looking for things to do in Sudbury in the winter, Kivi Park is the perfect place to go. Switch your hikers for snowshoes and cross-country skis. Take a spin on a fat bike or enjoy Nina’s Way Skating Path. This illuminated outdoor skate trail is just over 1 km and takes you through the forest.

The best part is that there are two companies on site offering rentals. Visitors can rent fat bikes, mountain bikes, snowshoes, canoes, kayaks, and more!

Families with kids will love visiting the park. Along with all of the other activities, Kivi Park is home to an epic playground that is the first of its kind in Northern Ontario. It features a gravity rail, mega tower and more!

Fun Fact: The word Kivi means rock in Finnish. So, it’s a fitting name for the park that’s perched on the Canadian Shield.

Explore Lake Laurentian Conservation Area

Ten minutes from downtown is one of the best places to visit in Sudbury for outdoor adventure seekers. Lake Laurentian Conservation Area is a 950-hectare wilderness park with a manmade lake. It’s home to over 60 km of trails, some of which are among the best Sudbury hiking trails.

This vast green space offers the perfect escape into nature. Visitors can enjoy hiking, cycling, or paddling. In the winter there are snowshoe and cross-country skiing trails.

Plus, it’s a fantastic spot for wildlife viewing. The conservation area is home to a wealth of wildlife including black bears, deer, snakes, and more. It’s also a great park for birding! There are a variety of bird species found in the park, like loons, sandhill cranes and more. Along the Chickadee Loop trail is a bird blind too!

With a long list of incredible trails in Lake Laurentian Conservation Area it can be daunting to choose one. An interesting short trail is the Nasa Trail. It leads to an old satellite observatory, which is one of 180 worldwide. I recommend pairing that with the Point Trails. With two loop options, the trails are roughly 4 km. Along the trail you’ll find an epic lookout, various lake views, and enchanted forests.

For those looking for a longer trail, add the Lake Laurentian Loop trail to your list. This moderate trail is 10 km and takes around 4 hours. Circling the lake, trail highlights include scenic lookouts, a number of bridges, and more.

More Fun Things to do in Sudbury

Enjoy a Tasting – Sudbury is home to a couple of great places to enjoy a tasting. For spirit lovers head over to Crosscut Distillery. This Instagrammable cocktail bar makes an incredible range of spirits, from moonshine to whiskey. For brew lovers pop over to 46 North Brewing for some classic and unique flavours. Plus, they have a light snack menu that pair perfectly with a flight.

Browse the Sudbury Farmers Market – A visit to a local farmers market is a must wherever you go! There are two farmers markets in Sudbury. One is held at the Via Rail station parking lot downtown on Saturday mornings, June through mid-October. The other is Thursday afternoons in south parking lot across from Bell Park. At each you’ll find a variety of locally produced or made foods as well as handmade goods.

Go to the Theatre – Are you looking for things to do indoors in Sudbury? Consider seeing a live performance at the Sudbury Theatre. They host a number of shows throughout the year. Plus, they are opening up an outdoor, also located downtown, that’ll be a must for your summer Sudbury bucket list!

Try Porketta – If there’s a meal that stands out as a Sudbury tradition it’s porketta! This seasoned roast pork can be found to enjoy at a couple of restaurants in town as well as for purchase at a few delis like Tarini Brothers Meat Market. However, it’s famous for the Beef’n Bird Tavern’s Porketta bingo. Held over the winter, players call ‘porketta’ and win a porketta!

Attend Events & Festivals in Sudbury – Throughout the year, especially during the summer, there are a number of fun Sudbury festivals and events. Sudbury is home to the longest running outdoor music festival in Canada, the Northern Lights Festival Boréal. For over 50 years, it takes place in July in Bell Park. Others include the Sudbury Blueberry Festival and the UP Here Festival.

Where to Eat in Sudbury

Sudbury is a surprising city for foodies! There is a diverse array of restaurants in Sudbury, with something to suit everyone’s appetite and dietary needs. Visitors will find classic burger and wing joints, delis for budget friendly deals, as well as fine dining and vegan restaurants.

A staple on the Sudbury food scene for over 50 years is Deluxe Hamburgers. Known for their trademark single arch, Deluxe is home to a fabulous cheeseburger and the best fries. What takes the fries to the next level is their unique sauce that’s a must try! Plus, it’s probably the cheapest full meal around.

For those craving some Mexican style tacos should head to Tucos Taco Lounge. With a cool, hip atmosphere inside, they serve up the BEST TACOS I’ve ever had! Their menu is vegan and they are all about freshness. Guests visiting in the summer will LOVE their awesome patio with red umbrellas and beachy vibes.

Another great restaurant with an epic patio is Laughing Buddha. With a partially covered deck featuring real trees growing out of it, the patio is full of whimsy, especially at night when the twinkling lights are a glow. They have a range of menu option, including vegan and gluten-free items. But the have one of the BEST pizzas in town!

There are a number of fine dining restaurants in Sudbury and the best is Verdicchio Ristorante! This Italian restaurant has a warm and inviting vibe. The menu features Ontario grown ingredients served in creative dishes as well as an award-winning wine list.

Places to Stay in Sudbury

Holiday Inn – One of the best hotels in Sudbury is the Holiday Inn! With a long list of amenities, the hotel is also within a 10-minute drive to many top Sudbury attractions. Rooms are modern and spacious. Each feature a large flat screen TV, mini fridge, high speed internet and plush beds. Hotel amenities include an indoor pool, large parking lot, and on-site restaurant.

Northbury Hotel – If you’re looking for budget-friendly Sudbury hotels then consider Northbury Hotel. Rooms are large with comfortable beds, a large TV, and mini-fridge. The hotel also has a restaurant and offers complementary breakfast. It’s also a short walk to downtown and within a 10-minute drive from top sights.

The Hacienda Bed & Breakfast – The most unique accommodation in Sudbury is the Hacienda Bed & Breakfast! Set on 5 acres, this adobe-style Spanish home is an oasis and a 20-minute drive north of downtown. With a number of rooms available, guests start their days with a fresh breakfast. There’s also a seasonal pool and sauna, two-story atrium, and den with fireplace.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Sudbury

With so many incredible things to do in Sudbury Ontario, it makes for a thrilling destination for all! Whether you are seeking exciting family-friendly attractions, a rich foodie city, a thriving arts scene, or thrilling outdoor adventures, Sudbury is the place to visit!

Frequently Asked Questions about Sudbury

Disclaimer: I was a guest of Sudbury Tourism but all opinions and views expressed are my own.

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