Looking for the perfect weekend getaway from Toronto?
Stratford is the solution and this guide on 20 best things to do in Stratford, Ontario is here to help you plan your trip!
If you live in Ontario chances are you’ve definitely heard of Stratford.
In fact, there’s a good chance you probably took a field trip to Stratford in school or visited Stratford’s Shakespeare festival at some point over the years.
You might have caught Stratford in a Hallmark Christmas movie or two.
And even if not, you’re probably somewhat familiar with one of Stratford’s most known home grown talents, Justin Bieber.
But you might be surprised to find out that Stratford is so much more than just theatre and J Biebs.
In fact, this charming little city has so many incredible things to see and do.
And the fact that it’s only a 1.5 hour drive from Toronto makes it the perfect place for a weekend getaway.
So pack your bags, load up the car, and get ready for a weekend away in one of Ontario’s arguably most charming little cities.
Hopefully this guide on the best things to do in Stratford will help you plan your perfect weekend away!
If you’re headed to Stratford soon you might also want to check out this post:
And if you’re looking for more Ontario guides check out these posts:
- 38 Best Things to do in Kingston Ontario
- 29 Instagrammable Places in Toronto – Outdoor Photo Spots
- 16 Instagrammable Pink Places in Toronto
- 30 Best Picnic Spots in Toronto
- 13 Best Beaches in Toronto you Need to Visit this Summer
- 8 Magical Christmas Towns in Ontario
- The Prince Edward County Church – The Most Unique Vacation Rental in PEC
And be sure to follow me on Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest. I share a lot of travel content on those that never make it to the blog!
Before we get started on the list of the best things to do in Stratford, let’s cover a few important points like where to stay and how to get around Stratford!
Where to Stay in Stratford, Ontario
Before you get to planning what to do when visiting Stratford, you’re definitely going to need to figure out where you’re going to stay during your visit.
Stratford has so many great options for accommodations and I’ve included my favourites here.
Best hotels in Stratford
Here are some of the best hotels in Stratford.
These came highly recommended!
The Bruce Hotel
Address: 89 Parkview Dr
There’s one hotel that stands out above the rest in Stratford, Ontario, and that’s the Bruce Hotel.
This stunning 5 star hotel brings unparalleled service and luxury to the heart of Stratford.
Expect incredible service, exceptional amenities, and a cut above the rest at this incredible luxury boutique hotel.
Oh – they happen to also have an incredible pool too so make sure you bring your bathing suit.
Find the latest rates and availability for the Bruce Hotel here!
Mercer Hall Inn
Address: 108 Ontario St
Located in the heart of downtown Stratford and conveniently located above the Mercer Restaurant (which you’ll see later on in this post!) Mercer Hall Inn is the perfect place to stay for those looking for a relaxed and fairly inexpensive weekend away.
This 4 star hotel could not be in a better location, and is just 5 minutes from city hall.
Here you can expect beautiful and modern, spacious rooms, friendly staff, and a great restaurant just a hop skip and a jump away!
Find the latest rates and availability for Mercer Hall Hotel here!
Best Airbnbs in Stratford
The Bradshaw Lofts
Address: 245 Downie St
If Airbnb’s are more your thing you will definitely love The Bradshaw Lofts!
I stayed in their Post-Industrial Art-Deco Loft which was absolutely gorgeous.
Located just steps away from the downtown core, this beautiful loft provides you with comfort and privacy in a spacious space with a full kitchen and the most comfortable beds.
We absolutely loved our stay here and found it both comfortable and convenient.
No need to worry about parking when staying at this loft, as a parking pass is provided on arrival.
Make sure to bring your own blow dryer though as this is not provided and was the only unexpected downside to our stay.
Getting around Stratford, Ontario
Because Stratford itself isn’t too large you don’t need a car in order to get around to most of the sights and attractions.
Stratford itself is very walkable.
Some of the best things to do in Stratford involve just taking it slow, walking around, and seeing the sights.
You’ll quickly see why this little town is a dream for those who want a slower pace and relaxing weekend away.
Now, onto the list of what to do in Stratford Ontario!
Best Things to do in Stratford, Ontario
1. Go for a stroll through the Shakespearean Gardens
Address: 5 Huron St
One of my absolute favourite things to do in Stratford is visiting the Shakespearean Gardens.
These gardens will make you feel like you walked straight into your own fairytale.
Fun fact: When the garden was first planted it only included plants and flowers that were mentioned in Shakespeare’s plays.
To this day many of the plants in the garden are still “Shakespearean” however the garden has definitely evolved and includes all sorts of various plants and flowers now.
2. Take a paddle boat ride along the Avon River
Address: 30 York Street
Looking for a fun and super affordable activity to do in Stratford that’s friendly for the whole family?
Take a paddle boat ride along the Avon River!
Paddle boat rentals at Avon Boat Rentals cost only $25 an hour and are the perfect activity to do on a sunny day.
Not feeling up to a paddle boat ride?
They also offer rentals for canoes, kayaks, and bikes!
This was definitely one of my favourite things to do in Stratford, and it was especially perfect on a sunny afternoon.
3. Enjoy an incredible dinner and drinks at The Common
Address: 80 Wellington St
If you think a small town like Stratford Ontario can’t have an incredible culinary scene, I am here to blow you away.
Every single restaurant we dined at in Stratford had unbelievable food and incredibly talented chefs and bartenders.
You can check out my full Stratford dining guide here!
You’ll definitely want to enjoy an incredible dinner and drinks at The Common while you are here.
Their cuisine is an eclectic mix of comfort food from all over the world, and every dish will have you drooling and yearning for more.
By the way – if there’s one cocktail you try here it has to be the Piquante Margarita.
As long as you love spicy as much as I do you’ll fall in love with this spicy margarita!
4. Take a Night Stroll to See the Lights on Stratford
Address: Tom Patterson Island
Although most of the activities on this list are things to do in Stratford during the day, this one is perfect for those who want something to do after dinner and like to be out at night.
Completely free to visit, the Lights on Stratford exhibit will dazzle you with the prettiest light displays along the Avon River.
Looking to elevate your Lights on Stratford experience?
Grab yourself a bottle of wine and enjoy a picnic under the lights at Tom Patterson island.
It will truly take your breath away!
5. Indulge in the best of Stratford’s sweets through the self guided Chocolate Trail
Who doesn’t love indulging in delicious chocolate treats?
Stratford just happens to be home to some of the best chocolatiers and there’s only one way to truly experience the best of the best in Stratford’s chocolatey goodness… Through The Chocolate Trail!
The Chocolate Trail is a self-guided tour that will take you to some of Stratford’s best destinations for all things sweets.
Your Chocolate Trail purchase costs just $30 and gives you 6 coupons to redeem at the 6 stops of your choice.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss out on stopping at Rheo Thompson Candies.
They’re the most famous chocolatiers in Stratford and the chocolates there are just divine!
6. Get a taste of Stratford through the Bacon and Ale trail
If chocolate treats aren’t your thing (or if you just want to experience even more of Stratford’s delectable food offerings) you have to try out The Bacon and Ale Trail!
The Bacon and Ale Trail is a self guided tour that introduces you to Stratford’s pork and brewing history.
Each stop along the way (and there are 15 to choose from) features a bacon and/or ale offering that will leave your mouth watering.
Each Trail purchase costs $30 + HST and gives you 5 coupons to redeem at 5 stops of your choice.
To be honest I am not even a big bacon or beer person but I loved every single stop and both the food and beers offered were so good!
7. Learn about Stratford’s history at the Stratford Perth Museum
Address: 4275 Huron St
Love finding out about the history behind the places you are visiting?
Then the Stratford Perth Museum is for you!
At the Stratford Perth Museum you’ll get to travel back in time and learn about almost 200 years of history that has made Stratford the town that it is today.
Beyond learning about Stratford’s unique history the museum has many featured exhibits that change throughout the year.
Right now they are featuring an exhibit about the life and death of Anne Frank and it will definitely move you!
8. Check out the Justin Bieber Steps to Stardom exhibit
Address: 4275 Huron St
The Justin Bieber Steps to Stardom exhibit at the Stratford Perth Museum is an absolute must if you’re curious to find out more about Stratford’s most famous celebrity homegrown talent.
I wasn’t expecting much when I walked in but I actually found this exhibit super interesting and it gave me a whole new level of respect for Justin Bieber.
It was also really great to find out just how much the Stratford community was involved throughout Justin Bieber’s upbringing and earlier career.
It truly was a fascinating exhibit!
9. Have lunch at the York Street Kitchen (the sandwiches are a must try!)
Address: 151 Albert St
If you’re a sandwich lover you absolutely need to have lunch at the York Street Kitchen while you’re in Stratford.
They serve some of the best sandwiches I have ever had in my life, and the sides are pretty darn good too!
By the way, if you’re looking for more great lunch spots in Stratford I have a whole guide to the best restaurants in Stratford and it has some great lunch recommendations!
I opted for the Gobble-Wich which is a smoked turkey sandwich with cranberry mayo, cheddar, cucumbers, tomato, and lettuce on a sourdough bun.
I had it with the sweet potato fries and an incredible curry mayo dip.
My friend had the Wellesley which was a black forest ham sandwich with apple butter, mayo, lettuce, green pepper, and cucumber on ciabatta.
We both loved our sandwiches at York Street Kitchen and said we would go back in a heartbeat! It was the perfect place to go for lunch in Stratford.
10. Take in a theatre show at Stratford Festival
You can’t visit Stratford without taking in at least one theatre show.
And you better believe the Stratford Festival has a big line up of shows for you to pick from!
Have a peek at the Stratford Festival website before your weekend visit and make sure to book yourself in for a theatre production, musical, or concert!
11. Dine in a beautiful old Church at Revival House
Address: 70 Brunswick St
Revival House is definitely going to be your most memorable dining experience while in Stratford, I can guarantee that!
Revival House is an incredible restaurant that’s in a beautiful old church and it truly is a sight to see.
If you’re lucky enough to visit during the warmer months, make sure to ask to sit on the patio.
It’s absolutely gorgeous there!
Make sure to take a peek inside though before you leave.
The interior of the church will leave you in awe. It’s amazing what they’ve done with the place.
Don’t forget to check out my guide to the best restaurants in Stratford for even more great Stratford restaurants!
12. Enjoy pastries and coffee at The Livery Yard
Address: 104 Downie St
Who doesn’t love starting their mornings with a quality cup of java and some amazing pastries?
The Livery Yard in Stratford is a beautiful little cafe that makes amazing coffee and pastries.
It’s the perfect place to stop for a quick bite before heading out to explore!
13. Go for a stroll along the Avon River
If the weather is working in your favour during your time in Stratford you should definitely spend the afternoon going for a stroll along the Avon River!
Expect to see all sorts of ducks and even a swan or two during your stroll.
If you’re lucky there might also be some live music going on as the town of Stratford often has live music on barges floating along the river.
14. Admire some art at the Gallery Stratford
Address: 104 Downie St
Although I didn’t get the chance to check it out this time, the Gallery Stratford is high on my list for my next trip there.
Gallery Stratford is a public art gallery that was founded in 1967.
Here you can expect to see exhibitions of local, national and international visual artists.
15. Drink your way through the incredible beer list at Mercer
Address: 108 Ontario St
Although I mentioned the Mercer Hall Inn at the beginning of this post, the Mercer Restaurant and Beer Hall needed it’s own point!
At the Mercer Restaurant and Beer Hall you can expect delicious food and an incredible beer list featuring all sorts of local favourites.
Mercer is actually one of the stops along the Bacon and Ale Trail too. You can see what we got during our stop along the trail above!
If you love fruity beers you have to try the Fairweather Fairy Floss.
It was an incredible delicious fruity and sour beer that quickly became my new favourite!
16. Grab take-out tacos at el Cactus and enjoy them in the park
Address: 2 Ontario St
There’s nothing quite like authentic Mexican food, and el Cactus Taco Shop in downtown Stratford serves just that!
This vibrant little restaurant serves up some of the most delicious Mexican food I’ve ever had, and I would go back in a heart beat.
Grab yourself some take-out at el Cactus and head out to enjoy your Mexican meal at a picnic table in the park.
You’ll quickly see why I loved this spot so much!
17. Go for a stroll and admire some of the many historical buildings
Stratford is full of incredible historical buildings and architecture.
I loved just strolling around and admiring the beautiful buildings and homes.
My favourite is definitely City Hall, isn’t it gorgeous?
18. Enjoy an incredible dinner and drinks at Braaibar
Address: 34 Brunswick St
By now you’ve probably come to realize that Stratford has a pretty amazing culinary scene.
And I’ve got a whole guide to the best restaurants in Stratford.
One of my favourite parts of visiting Stratford is getting to try some of the many amazing restaurants and bars there.
Another great spot you need to check out during your visit is Braaibar.
Every cocktail and dish we had was so unbelievably good. You definitely won’t regret coming here!
19. Head out on one of Stratford’s unique self-guided tours
Beyond the Chocolate Trail and the Bacon and Ale Trail, the town of Stratford has a bunch of other really neat self-guided tours you can go on.
The thing I love the most about these is that you can take them at your own pace.
Whether you’re looking to find out what some of Stratford’s top instagrammable spots are, want to learn more about the city’s history, or even want to learn more about Justin Bieber… there is a self guided audio tour for you.
Click here for the list of the many self-guided tours you can go on!
20. Have a healthy breakfast at Edison’s Cafe
Address: 46 Ontario St
Before you leave Stratford there’s one last place you need to try, and that’s Edison’s Cafe!
Edison’s is a beautiful little family owned cafe in Stratford that serves healthy food, delicious coffee, and some light treats.
Many of the food offerings here are vegan and all are made in house.
I had the avocado toast and it was hands down one of the best avocado toasts I’ve ever had.
I highly recommend it!
By the way – don’t forget to check out my guide to the best restaurants in Stratford!
It has plenty more great Stratford cafes and restaurants to check out.
Final Thoughts
As you can see, although Stratford is a small town there is a lot to do here!
Not only does Stratford have an incredible culinary scene, but it also is an adorable town with so many instagrammable places to visit.
I hope you enjoyed this guide on the best things to do in Stratford, and I hope it inspired you to add Stratford to your list if you’ve never been!
If you’re headed to Stratford soon you might also want to check out this post:
And if you’re looking for more Ontario guides check out these posts:
- 38 Best Things to do in Kingston Ontario
- 29 Instagrammable Places in Toronto – Outdoor Photo Spots
- 16 Instagrammable Pink Places in Toronto
- 30 Best Picnic Spots in Toronto
- 13 Best Beaches in Toronto you Need to Visit this Summer
- 8 Magical Christmas Towns in Ontario
- The Prince Edward County Church – The Most Unique Vacation Rental in PEC
Have you ever visited Stratford?
Be sure to keep up with me on Instagram, Pinterest, TikTok and Facebook if you aren’t already!
Feel free to subscribe to my weekly newsletter to get my blog posts, updates, and special offers delivered right to your inbox 🙂