As road trip experts with a soft spot for storybook small towns, Stratford, Ontario is exactly the kind of place we love to send travellers.
Below is our list of the top 10 things to do in Stratford - aside from seeing a show which is definitely a MUST if you're in town during the Stratford Festival's season. While world-class theatre is a part of the town's DNA, Stratford has much more to offer beyond the stage.
Stratford is also a featured stop on The Small Town Charm Trail and Hops, Hikes, & History mystery road trips!
What is a one day surprise road trip?
At Guess Where Trips, we plan one day surprise road trips that get you out of the house and exploring new things! This small town is just one of many that we recommend on our trips.
The Top 10 Things to Do in Stratford, Ontario
The map below marks each stop we recommend during your visit!
💡 Travel Tip 💡
There are several places to park around Stratford for a nominal cost (get those coins out!), including the Erie St. Parking Lot or street parking along Stratford's main streets. Or, find free parking along Lakeside Dr. (near Tom Patterson Island) or in the Cooper Lot (105 St Patrick St.), and then walk into town. You can park anywhere in town because walking from spot to spot takes no more than 15 minutes!
1. Start Your Day at One of Stratford's Many Cute Cafes
There's nothing like starting your day with a warm or iced beverage and a sweet treat. We especially love grabbing our morning goodies to-go and enjoying them al fresco!
For those who love delicious lattes. We highly recommend the blue match and flaky croissants!
Address: 37 Market Pl, Stratford, ON
Hours: 8:00AM-3:00PM, Daily
For those who love eclectic vibes.
Address: 245 Downie St, Stratford, ON
Hours: Monday-Wednesday: 8:30AM-4:00PM; Thursday-Saturday: 8:30AM-9PM; Sunday: 10:00AM-2:00PM
For those who love yummy baked goods.
Address: 131 Albert St, Stratford, ON
Hours: Friday-Saturday: 8:00AM-1:00PM; Sunday: 8:30AM-12:30PM
For those who love cozy vibes.
Address: 104 Downie St, Stratford, ON
Hours: Monday-Saturday: 8:00AM-4:00PM
For those who love fresh bread.
Address: 388 Downie St, Stratford, ON
Hours: Wednesday-Thursday: 10:00AM-6:00PM; Friday: 10:00AM-7:00PM; Saturday: 8:00AM-2:00PM
2. Visit a Whimsical Fairytale Garden
Address: 5 Huron St, Stratford, ON
The Shakespearean Gardens is one of the most charming spots in town! Especially when the flowers are in bloom (spring/summer) you'll feel like you're walking through a fairytale.
When you first arrive at the garden, you’ll notice the towering 65-foot chimney which is all that remains of the Dufton Woolen Mill. The rest of it burned down in 1919, but the chimney remains as a popular landmark. More than a decade after the mill fire, R. Thomas Orr, Stratford businessman and architect, introduced the idea of using the site for a garden honouring Shakespeare. At first, the idea was to only include plants with ties to Shakespeare and his plays (look for fine stands of herbs such as fennel, rue, tarragon, and rosemary), but over time the garden grew to include everything from formal beds of hosta to ferns, begonias, grasses, and amaranth.
Pause at the gazebo, or walk over the little stone bridge that connects to a picturesque island in the middle of the river. This is a perfect spot for a picnic or to take a moment and enjoy the nature all around you!
3. Take a Stroll Along the Avon River to Tom Patterson Island
Address: 79 Lakeside Dr, Stratford, ON N5A
Wander along the Avon River and you're sure to see lots of local wildlife. Stratford’s swans have been local celebrities since the first pair was donated in 1918 by a Grand Trunk Railway employee - a man named J.C. Garden. Over the years the swans quickly became a popular attraction, and they soon became synonymous with the city. In fact, the local Chamber of Commerce even adopted a slogan: "Stratford: The Swan City." Every year in mid-April, a parade is held to release them back into the river (it's a pretty big deal, and worth going to visit just to be part of the "Royal" welcome!). The swans are housed in a winter enclosure during the cold months.
Tom Patterson Island: Named after journalist Tom Patterson, founder of the Stratford Shakespearean Festival (now just the Stratford Festival), this hidden gem is an adorable little island on the Avon, with a lovely bridge right off Lakeside Dr. adorned with several picnic tables and string lights.- Another fabulous spot to take a pause, enjoy the scenery, or have a picnic! Plus, it's an easy 15 minute walk from downtown to the island and you'll get to walk right along the beautiful Avon River to get there!
💡 Travel Tip 💡
Getting to Tom Patterson Island is an easy walk from town (around 15 minutes), or there’s plenty of parking along Lakeside Dr.
4. Experience Stratford from the Water
Address: 30 York St Lower Level, Stratford, ON
During the warmer months (typically Victoria Day to Thanksgiving) we recommend heading over to The Boathouse where you can rent canoes, kayaks, and pedal boats to explore the city from the river. They also offer scenic River Tours that bring Stratford’s history, wildlife, and charm to life. Or, visit the riverfront patio for BBQ, ice cream, drinks and more!
The Boathouse itself has been part of Stratford since it's construction in 1913, when it was originally constructed by the parks board on the south side of the Avon River near the dam. Its creation not only provided recreational opportunities but also served as a strategic measure to deter the Canadian Pacific Railway from running tracks along the river’s north shore. Over the decades, the Boathouse has adapted and evolved, reflecting Stratford’s transformation from an industrial hub to a recreational and cultural destination. The business is still family-run by owners who have been part of this business for over 60 years!
Explore Stratford & More Charming Small Towns
5. Browse Our Favourite Shops & Boutiques
Visit Stratford's Market Square or wander along York St. and Ontario St. to find tons of fantastic local shops - from clothing and accessories to gift items, artisan wares, home decor, and so much more!
This artisan market shop features more than 80 independent makers from Stratford and elsewhere throughout Southwestern Ontario.
Address: 27 Ontario St, Stratford, ON
Hours: Hours change seasonally; please Google to confirm.
If you’re into one-of-a-kind, small-batch or limited-edition crafts, and/or designs and fashion made by Canadian creators, this is your spot.
Address: 53 Market Place, Stratford, ON
Hours: Hours change seasonally; please Google to confirm.
This shop feels like you’ve walked right onto the set of an HGTV show. Everything is beautifully curated and picture-perfect.
Address: 94 Ontario St, Stratford, ON
Hours: Hours change seasonally; please Google to confirm.
This independent bookstore has been around since 1967 and is brimming with character and offers a wide-range of books. Don't forget to take a photo outside of its adorable storefront!
Address: 92 Ontario St, Stratford, ON
Hours: Sunday-Monday: 11:00AM-4:00PM; Tuesday-Saturday: 10:30AM-5:00PM
The Milky Whey Fine Cheese Shop
This cheese shop will help you take your charcuterie board to the next level with amazing selections of cheese, crackers, chutneys, and more.
Address: 118 Ontario St, Stratford, ON
Hours: Tuesday-Wednesday: 11:00AM-3:00PM; Thursday-Saturday: 10:00AM-5:00PM
This unique shop is filled with retro vibes and lots of giftable goodies to browse!
Address: 119 Ontario St, Stratford, ON
Hours: Wednesday-Friday: 11:00AM-5:00PM; Saturday: 10:00AM-6:00PM; Sunday: 11:00AM-5:00PM
6. Discover Stratford's "Chocolate Trail"
Offered year-round, this self-guided tour introduces you to Stratford's world-famous confectioners and bakers (of which there are many!). All of Stratford's culinary trails can be purchased in-person at Destination Stratford (47 Downie Street) or Bradshaws (129 Ontario Street).
For $39.55 per person, you get 6 vouchers that can be redeemed at any of the participating locations, and walking between all of the spots certainly ensures you get your steps in.
Not sure where to go? We recommend Rheo Thompson Candies, Rocky MTN Chocolates, and MacLeod's Scottish Shop, to name a few.
7. No Sweet Tooth? Try Stratford's "Bacon & Ale Trail" Instead
Offered year-round, this self-guided tour introduces you to Stratford's pork and brewing history. From bites and brews to pints and pulled pork, you'll love every part of this tour! For $39.55 per person, you get 5 vouchers that can be redeemed at any of the participating locations.
Too hard to choose? Our faves include Black Swan Brewing Co., Jobsite Brewing Co., & End of Times Bar & Beer Shop.
8. Taste Our Favourite Restaurants in Stratford
Stratford takes its culinary pursuits seriously, and the food scene here is quite impressive! Restaurants are small and often fill up, so making dinner reservations in advance is probably a good idea. Here are some of our favourite spots to eat & drink in town:
The best of preserving Stratford's heritage while serving up new favourites. Revival House is housed in an historic church that is as photo-worthy as the food itself! The grandeur of the inside is unmatched. Check their website as they sometimes close for private events.
Address: 70 Brunswick St, Stratford, ON
Hours: Thursday, Sunday: 11:30AM-8:00PM; Friday-Saturday: 11:30AM-8:00PM
Enjoy a bistronomy-inspired menu that combines seasonality with locally-sourced ingredients.
Address: 30 Ontario St, Stratford, ON
Hours: Wednesday-Thursday: 11:30-1:30PM & 5:00PM-10:00PM; Friday-Saturday: 11:30AM-1:30PM & 5:00PM-11:00PM; Sunday: 11:30AM-5:00PM
Serving up a combination of classics everyone loves mixed with a few Asian-inspired dishes. Mercer Kitchen Beer Hall offers Stratford’s largest craft beer selection. We recommend the Godzilla Platter for sharing!
Address: 108 Ontario St, Stratford, ON
Hours: Monday-Wednesday: 8:00AM-10:00PM; Thursday-Friday: 8:00AM-12:00AM; Saturday: 9:00AM-12:00AM; Sunday: 10:00AM-10:00PM
This French Cafe, located in the heart of stratford, offers the BEST brunch!
Address: 70 Ontario St Upper Level, Stratford, ON
Hours: Wednesday-Thursday: 11:30AM-2:30PM & 5:00PM-8:00PM; Friday: 11:30am - 2:30pm & 5:00pm - 8:30pm; Saturday: 10:00am - 3:00 pm & 5:00pm - 8:30pm; Sunday: 10:00am - 3:00 pm & 5:00pm - 8:00pm
This restaurant and wine bar offers a peaceful atmosphere with an innovative bistro menu.
Address: 72 Wellington St, Stratford, ON
Hours: Tuesday: 5pm-10pm; Wednesday-Friday 12pm-3pm & 5pm-10pm; Saturday 12pm-10pm
Open spring to fall, this funky food truck is a great choice for an outdoor hang, delicious eats, and local brews. A few cocktails options too!
Address: 156 Waterloo St S, Stratford, ON
Hours: Check website for hours once open in the spring.
You will love Elizabeth's tasty cocktails and elevated menu of bistro dishes!
Address: 59 Ontario St, Stratford, ON
Hours: Tuesday-Saturday: 5pm–10pm
Most people don't know about Stratford's hidden speakeasy, The Lost Key. Located downstairs behind the Relic Lobby Bar with a hidden entrance off York St., look for a glowing red light to guide your way to The Lost Key's entrance.
Open Fridays & Saturdays, after ringing the doorbell, you'll be greeted by someone asking you why you're there. "I lost my keys" is the response that will get you in, down a long, narrow hallway in the basement of a commercial block that was built in 1868 and was home to Canadian Tire 80 years ago.
Behind the second door is a dimly lit space with no more than 30 guests. They’re sitting on vintage chairs and chesterfields, sharing conversation and sipping beer, wine and cocktails at small, round tables.
9. Take Insta-Worthy Photos of These Stratford Monuments
Whether you're a history buff or a music fan, there is a lot to see here in Stratford:
- Where Justin Bieber got his start: Snap a photo of Justin Bieber's star on the "Stratford Walk of Fame" located outside of the Avon Theatre (corner of Downie & George St.)
- Perth County Courthouse: Admire the beautiful gothic architecture of this historic building from 1885 that still functions as a courthouse.
- Visit the Stratford Perth Museum: to get a glimpse inside an 1870s Victorian mansion plus 5 acres of wooded trails.
10. Explore More Charming Small Towns Near Stratford
Shakespeare, ON
Just 15 minutes east of Stratford is the cute small town of Shakespeare. Founded in 1832 by David Bell, Shakespeare was originally called Bell’s Corner but was changed around 20 years later when Alexander Mitchell suggested naming the village after his favourite playwright. Some of our favourite shops in town are: The British Touch (for a taste of England), The Best Little Pork Shoppe (for gourmet meats & treats), Shakespeare Pies (for scratch-made sweet & savoury pies), Shakespeare Breiwng CO. (for another pint), and of course the antique shops like Glen Manor Galleries and Land & Ross Antiques. You'll pass by the Wild Hog Country Market between Stratford & Shakespeare which is also well worth a quick pit stop for everything from fresh produce and baked goods, to toys, home decor, preserves, provisions & more!
St. Marys, ON
Alternatively, drive 25 minutes southwest of Stratford to visit the cute small town of St. Marys! n 1839, the Canada Company sent someone to survey Blanshard Township in the Huron Tract in order to secure a site for a town on the Thames River. Later, this site became known as St. Marys. The town earned the nickname “Stone Town” because of the abundance of beautiful limestone that was mined and used to build houses and other buildings that date back to the 19th century. Here's a quick list of some of our favourite places to visit while you're here: Snapping Turtle Coffee Roasters (for a hot drink), The Chocolate Factory (for sweets), Broken Rail Brewing (for a pint), walking along the Grand Trunk Trail, taking a dip at the St. Marys Quarry, and visiting the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame! Of course, you can't miss McCully's Hill Farm Market which is on the way in and well worth a pit stop!
Staying Overnight in Stratford?
Doing the The Small Town Charm Trail or Hops, Hikes, and History and want to stay overnight in Stratford? Every Guess Where Trip includes several recommendations for places to stay in the area of your fourth stop!
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