Things To Do
in Stratford
Stratford, Ontario is a picturesque riverside town renowned for its world-class theatre and intimate village atmosphere. Nestled along the Avon River, it offers charming streets, boutique shops, and scenic parks just a short stroll from every corner of town. The city balances culture, cuisine, and outdoor spaces in a walkable downtown that attracts art lovers and casual explorers alike.
Year-round, Stratford celebrates its arts scene with gardens, markets, and river-front paths that invite leisurely wandering and seasonal events.
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 | $12-20 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🚌Public transit single fare | $3-4 |
| 🎭Theatre ticket | $30-120 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room (per night) | $150-250 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming riverside town with a strong theatre culture
- Walkable downtown with shops, cafés, and parks
- Accessible nature trails and river views
- High-quality local cuisine and farm-to-table options
- Seasonal tourism can bring crowds during festival times
- Nightlife is quieter than in big cities
- Public transit outside downtown is limited
- Some attractions are seasonal (theatre schedules vary)
Places to Visit in Stratford
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic views of the river with bridges and ducks; best at golden hour for warm reflections on the water.
Historic theatre exteriors provide dramatic night or cloudy-day silhouettes; capture vibrant signage and pedestrian activity.
A classic vantage point for street-level and river shots, especially during festivals when colorful banners adorn the area.
Cobblestone sidewalks, boutique storefronts, and flower boxes create charming portrait shots.
Wooded paths along the Avon with occasional benches and lookout points for landscape photography.
Food in Stratford
Stratford Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Canadian dessert often featured in local bakeries; look for flaky pastry with sweet, amber filling.
Must-Try!
A common Ontario specialty found in many mid-range restaurants near the riverfront; pairs well with local wines.
A tasting of regional cheeses from nearby creameries, commonly offered at bistros and markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering local produce, baked goods, preserves, and prepared foods; great for tasting regional specialties.
Occasional street-food pop-ups and small vendors around Market Square during festivals and weekends.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Stratford residents value courtesy; pleasantries and briefly friendly conversations go a long way in shops and cafés.
People generally queue in an orderly fashion; wait your turn at markets, coffee shops, and theatres.
Silence during performances and on public transit when people are listening or watching shows is appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Stratford
Ensure a smooth experience
In Canada, a 15-20% tip is customary for good service at restaurants and cafes. Tips are usually cash or added to the bill; for non-service charges, check the receipt.
Debit and credit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Cash is still useful for markets and smaller vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Flowering gardens and milder temperatures; great for outdoor walking tours and market visits.
Festival season brings crowds, performances, and vibrant street activity; stay hydrated and book tickets in advance.
Colorful foliage and harvest events; ideal for scenic river views and photography in golden light.
Chillier temperatures; enjoy indoor theatre, cafes, and holiday events; dress in layers and be prepared for icy sidewalks.
Stratford at Night
Hiking in Stratford
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic multi-use trail along the Avon River, ideal for walking and cycling with river views.
Easy, scenic paths that connect parks and downtown attractions along the riverfront.
Rural countryside trails near Glen Morris offering woodland paths and countryside views within a short drive.
Airports
How to reach Stratford by plane.
Approximately 60-90 minutes by car from Stratford; offers domestic flights and some limited international connections.
Located about 70-90 minutes away; smaller airport with various domestic routes and some international options.
Major international hub about 2-3 hours by car or rail; broad flight options and connections.
Downtown Toronto airport reachable by short flight connections; convenient for business and regional travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Family-oriented community with schools, parks, and family-friendly cultural events.
Festival seasons draw performers, staff, and visitors adding to the town’s creative energy.
A mix of long-time residents and visiting students contribute to a balanced community.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Canada’s winter staple; local leagues, youth programs, and public skating opportunities are common in winter.
Several courses in Perth County offer scenic greens and seasonal play.
Local leagues and parks host weekend games during warmer months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Stratford.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Stratford restaurants offer vegetarian plates and clearly labeled menu options; look for farm-to-table venues that emphasize seasonal vegetables, salads, and plant-based mains.