Things To Do
in Stratford
Stratford, Ontario is a picturesque river town renowned for its world-class theatre and intimate arts scene. Set along the Avon River, it blends small-town charm with vibrant cultural programming and farm-to-table dining. Wanderable streets showcase Georgian and Tudor-inspired architecture, independent shops, and lush public gardens.
Seasonal festivals and riverside strolls give Stratford a relaxed pace that invites day trips and lingering conversations over coffee or wine.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Stratford, Ontario, and settle into your accommodation. After unpacking, take a leisurely stroll around the picturesque downtown area, enjoying the beautiful Victorian architecture and the charming local shops. Grab a coffee at a quaint café to start your Stratford adventure.
Visit the Stratford Festival Theatre to learn about the history of this renowned theatre festival. Afterward, take a walk along the Avon River, where you can admire the scenic beauty and perhaps spot some local wildlife. Stop for lunch at a restaurant that offers delicious farm-to-table fare featuring local ingredients.
Catch an opening night performance at the Stratford Festival, immersing yourself in the world-class theatre experience. After the show, enjoy a late-night dessert at a local bakery, indulging in sweet treats while discussing the performance with friends or fellow travelers. Take a leisurely walk back to your place, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the town.
Begin your day at the Stratford Perth Museum, where you will discover the rich cultural history of the area. The museum showcases an array of exhibitions that illuminate the local heritage, perfect for art and history lovers. Enjoy a light breakfast at the museum café.
Visit the Gallery Stratford, which features contemporary art from local and international artists. The gallery often hosts workshops, so check their schedule to see if you can participate in an art class. After the gallery, enjoy lunch at a quaint bistro nearby, offering delicious sandwiches and salads.
Dine at one of Stratford’s upscale restaurants, where you can savor a multi-course meal made from seasonal ingredients. Post dinner, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the night-lit streets and perhaps catch a glimpse of the beautiful gardens. Wind down with a glass of wine at a nearby pub while listening to live music.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-20 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $2-5 |
| 🏠Rent for 1 bedroom (city center) | $1,200-1,700 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (1 mile) | $5-7 |
| 🛒Basic groceries (weekly) | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- World-class theatre and vibrant arts scene
- Beautiful river setting with walkable downtown
- Seasonal tourism can make some attractions busy
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
Places to Visit in Stratford
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic stretch along the river with willow canopies and footbridges, ideal for golden-hour river shots.
Impressive architecture with stage-lit façades; great for night photography and marquee lighting.
Cobbled streets and Tudor-inspired façades provide charming architectural portraits.
A hillside vantage point offering sweeping views of the town and river valleys.
Food in Stratford
Stratford Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A flaky pastry shell with a silky custard filling, a Stratford bakery staple and a quintessential Ontario dessert.
Must-Try!
Canadian bacon on fresh bread with mustard or relish, a common lunch choice at cafés and markets.
Seasonal mains that spotlight Perth County produce and locally raised meats at many bistros.
Assorted local cheeses paired with fruit, nuts, and preserves from nearby farms.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A hub for fresh produce, baked goods, cheeses, meats, and prepared foods from regional producers.
Seasonal kiosks and food trucks offering quick bites and cafe favorites around the core.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Say please and thank you; greetings are friendly and low-key in everyday interactions.
Respect lines and allow space in busy venues; wait your turn in shops and transit queues.
Tipping is customary in service sectors; reflect quality of service in your amount.
Public spaces encourage recycling; dispose waste in designated bins.
Safety
Tipping in Stratford
Ensure a smooth experience
In Canada, leave 15-20% for dine-in service; rounding up to the nearest dollar is common in casual spots.
Credit/debit cards with tap, contactless payments, and cash are widely accepted; some markets may be cash-only for small vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Gardens begin to bloom, birds return, and outdoor cafes open; bring a light jacket for cool mornings.
Warm days and lively festivals; plan outdoor patio meals and river strolls, with frequent rain showers.
Vivid fall foliage along riverbanks and parks; ideal for photography and harvest menus.
Chilly and often snowy; theatre performances are warm and indoor adventures abound, with festive lights downtown.
Stratford at Night
Hiking in Stratford
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic river-edge paths suitable for a relaxed hike or long walk.
Riverside and park-adjacent routes ideal for daily strolls and photo breaks.
Woodland trails, wetlands, and wildlife viewing a short drive away.
Airports
How to reach Stratford by plane.
About a 30-45 minute drive to Stratford, with domestic flights and regional connections.
Greater Toronto Area gateway about 60-90 minutes away by road, with domestic flights.
Major international hub roughly 2.5–3 hours by car or rail from Stratford.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families visit Stratford for theatres, parks, and kid-friendly museums.
Art-and-culture focused residents and workers drawn to festivals and eateries.
A portion of residents enjoy the town's slower pace, outdoor spaces, and cultural activities.
Theatre-goers and arts enthusiasts are a major presence during festival seasons.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Ice hockey and related programs are popular in winter, with local communities hosting leagues and arena events.
Outdoor leagues and pickup games in parks during warmer months.
Nearby courses offer scenic layouts suitable for a range of skill levels.
Public courts and clubs provide seasonal play options.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Stratford.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most eateries offer vegetarian options; ask for meat-free mains or flexible substitutions.
Many venues accommodate gluten-free needs; check cross-contamination in bakeries and shared prep areas.