Things To Do
in St. Thomas
St. Thomas, Canada is a friendly Ontario town perched along the Thames River, where historic charm meets rural hospitality. It blends a walkable downtown with easy access to parks, museums, and scenic riverside paths. The town's heritage architecture, small shops, and welcoming cafés invite leisurely exploration year-round. Surrounded by Elgin County's farmland and short drives to bigger cities like London, St.
Thomas serves as a relaxed hub for countryside adventures.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the bustling Charlotte Amalie, the historic capital of St. Thomas. Stroll through the cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings and explore the local shops. Don't forget to stop by the 99 Steps for a panoramic view of the city and harbor.
After lunch at a local café, visit the Blackbeard's Castle, a historic site that offers a glimpse into the pirate history of the island. Take your time exploring the museum and the surrounding gardens. As the sun begins to dip, stroll along the waterfront, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Dinner at a seaside restaurant will allow you to savor fresh seafood while listening to the waves crash. After your meal, enjoy a leisurely walk along the harbor, where you can watch the sunset painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. End your evening with a cocktail at a rooftop bar overlooking the city lights.
Kick off your day with a visit to Magens Bay Beach, one of the most stunning beaches in the world. Spend your morning sunbathing on the soft sand or swimming in the calm, crystal-clear waters. You can also rent kayaks or paddleboards for some fun on the water.
After a morning of relaxation, grab a bite at a nearby beachfront café. Post-lunch, sign up for snorkeling gear and explore the vibrant underwater life at nearby coral reefs. Keep your eyes peeled for tropical fish and sea turtles as you glide through the water.
As the sun sets, prepare for a beach bonfire experience. Toast marshmallows and share stories with friends as you enjoy the warm evening breeze. Finish the night with a stargazing session, taking in the peaceful sounds of the ocean.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-5 |
| 🏠One-bedroom apartment (city center) | $1,200-1,700/mo |
| 🚆Monthly public transit pass | $90-110 |
| 🛒Groceries for 1 week | $60-100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming small-town vibe
- Access to parks and riverfront scenery
- Friendly locals and a relaxed pace
- Affordability compared to larger urban centers
- Limited nightlife compared to big cities
- Fewer large international flight options nearby
- Smaller selection of high-end dining
- Seasonal tourism fluctuations may affect crowds
Places to Visit in St. Thomas
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic spot to capture sunset reflections on the river, with open horizons and silhouettes of trees along the shoreline.
Victorian-era storefronts and brickwork provide character-rich subject matter for architectural photography.
Bold, historic exterior architecture with dramatic lines that contrast against sky or seasonal foliage.
Bright interior angles and geometric light patterns ideal for interior photography and candid portraits.
Wide riverfront paths offering long shadows and golden-hour lighting along the Thames.
Food in St. Thomas
St. Thomas Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential Canadian dessert; flaky pastry filled with a rich, caramel-like custard. Find them at local bakeries and the St. Thomas Farmers Market.
Must-Try!
Hearty slow-roasted beef on a soft bun with savory jus; a staple at many hometown diners along Talbot Street.
Fresh salmon with a maple glaze, a nod to Ontario’s maple-rich culinary scene; typically featured on menu specials at riverside eateries.
Seasonal fruit pies made with local produce, often available at Harvest & Hearth or neighborhood bakeries.
Comfort-food casserole with beef and mashed potatoes; a comforting option at family-run diners.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant weekly market offering local produce, baked goods, honey, preserves, and ready-to-eat bites. A great place to sample seasonal flavors and chat with growers.
Seasonal food trucks and pop-up stalls along the riverfront offering quick, flavorful bites from local cooks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a smile and a polite hello; respect personal space in queues and shops.
Be considerate in residential neighborhoods and on sidewalks; keep voices at a respectful level.
Tip for service in cafes and restaurants; follow local tipping norms (15-20% before tax).
Participate in local recycling programs; dispose of waste in labeled bins where available.
Safety
Tipping in St. Thomas
Ensure a smooth experience
In Ontario, tipping is customary at restaurants (roughly 15-20% before tax) and for bar staff and taxi rides. Rounding up on small totals is also common.
Most places accept cash, debit, and major credit cards; contactless payments are widely available. Some markets or small vendors may accept e-transfers or mobile wallets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with fresh greenery; rain is common. Great for city walks and garden photography, but bring a light jacket for cool evenings.
Warm to hot days with humidity; expect outdoor events and bustling markets. Stay hydrated and seek shade during peak sun hours.
Vibrant fall foliage; comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. Perfect for scenic drives, hikes, and photo sessions.
Cold with possible snow; enjoy cozy cafés, indoor museums, and winter landscapes. Dress in layers and watch for slick sidewalks.
St. Thomas at Night
Hiking in St. Thomas
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
An easy-to-moderate riverside path with scenic views and opportunities to spot wildlife.
Rural trails through farmland and woodlands offering a peaceful day hike.
Urban park trails that connect to riverfront viewpoints and picnic spots.
Airports
How to reach St. Thomas by plane.
Closest regional airport with connections across Canada and the U.S.; typically a 25–40 minute drive from St. Thomas.
Major international hub about 2.5–3 hours by car; wide range of domestic and international connections.
Cross-border option roughly 2.5–3.5 hours by car; convenient for U.S. connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Significant families with children take advantage of parks, schools, and community events.
Quiet neighborhoods and active community groups attract retirees seeking a relaxed lifestyle.
Commuters and remote workers who appreciate proximity to larger cities and a lower cost of living.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A winter staple with local leagues and community rinks.
Seasonal games and leagues in parks and community fields.
Several public and semi-private courses nearby for year-round play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting St. Thomas.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most menus in St. Thomas accommodate vegetarian preferences with vegetable-forward mains, salads, and pasta dishes; look for farm-to-table specials and request substitutions when needed.