Things To Do
in Sarnia

Sarnia is a picturesque city located in Southwestern Ontario, Canada, along the shores of Lake Huron and the St. Clair River. Known for its beautiful waterfront, Sarnia boasts numerous parks, recreational areas, and vibrant cultural scenes. The city is also a hub for various industries, including petrochemicals, manufacturing, and tourism.

With its friendly locals and diverse attractions, Sarnia offers a unique blend of urban amenities and natural beauty.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Waterfront
morning
:

Start your day with a stroll along the Sarnia Bay Marina, where you can enjoy the beautiful views and perhaps grab a coffee at a local café.

afternoon
:

Visit the Canatara Park, where you can explore the walking trails, relax at the beach, or visit the local petting zoo.

evening
:

Dine at a waterfront restaurant, enjoying fresh local cuisine while watching the sunset over Lake Huron.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and History
morning
:

Begin your day at the Sarnia Museum, where you can learn about the city’s history and heritage.

afternoon
:

Explore the galleries at the Judith & Norman Alix Art Gallery, showcasing local and contemporary art.

evening
:

Wrap up your visit with a show at the Imperial Theatre, a historic venue that hosts various performances.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a restaurant15-30 CAD
Coffee3-5 CAD
🍕Pizza slice3-5 CAD
🥤Soft drink2-3 CAD
🚌Public transport ticket3 CAD

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful waterfront and parks for outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural scene with art galleries and theaters.
  • Friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Limited public transport options.
  • Cold winters may not appeal to everyone.
  • Some areas may lack nightlife variety.

Places to Visit in Sarnia

Visit one of these nice places.

Sarnia Bay

The stunning waterfront area provides picturesque views of the marina and the skyline, perfect for sunset photography.

Canatara Park

With its lush greenery and beautiful trails, Canatara Park is ideal for capturing nature shots and family moments.

Imperial Theatre

This historic venue offers an elegant backdrop for architectural photography and captures the vibrant local arts scene.

Culinary Guide

Food in Sarnia

Sarnia offers a delightful culinary experience with its diverse range of local dishes and dining options.

Sarnia Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sarnia-style Perch

A local specialty, this dish features fresh perch fillets, often lightly battered and fried, served with tartar sauce.

Must-Try!

Butter Tarts

A classic Canadian dessert, Sarnia offers its own twist on these sweet pastries filled with a gooey mixture of butter, sugar, and eggs.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Sarnia Farmers' Market

Held on Saturdays, this market features local vendors offering fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts.

Climate Guide

Weather

Sarnia has a humid continental climate, with warm summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures average around 25°C (77°F), while winter can drop to about -5°C (23°F). Rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year, with winter precipitation often in the form of snow. Spring and fall can be quite mild, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Canadians value politeness and friendliness, so greetings and thank-yous are expected.

Respect for Nature

When enjoying outdoor spaces, it's important to respect nature by following 'Leave No Trace' principles.

Queuing

It’s customary to form a line and wait your turn in stores and at bus stops.

Safety Guide

Safety

Sarnia is generally considered a safe city, but visitors should take common-sense precautions. Staying aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and avoiding isolated areas is advisable. Emergency services can be reached by calling 911.

Tipping in Sarnia

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 15-20% in restaurants, and rounding up the fare is common for taxi drivers.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; however, carrying some cash for small vendors and markets is advisable.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild temperatures, making it a great time for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Summer is warm and ideal for beach activities, outdoor concerts, and enjoying the local waterfront.

Fall

Fall showcases beautiful foliage and is perfect for hiking and visiting local farms for apple picking.

Winter

Winter can be cold with snow, perfect for indoor activities, holiday events, and enjoying winter sports like ice skating.

Nightlife Guide

Sarnia at Night

Sarnia's nightlife offers a mix of pubs, breweries, and live music venues. Popular spots include The Refined Fool Brewing Company and local bars that host trivia nights and live bands. The city is also home to seasonal festivals that feature music and entertainment, creating a lively atmosphere for those looking to experience the local nightlife.

Hiking in Sarnia

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Lambton County Heritage Trail

This scenic trail stretches over 100 km, offering beautiful landscapes and opportunities for hiking, biking, and nature walks.

Point Pelee National Park

Located a short drive from Sarnia, this national park features diverse ecosystems and hiking trails with stunning views of Lake Erie.

Airports

How to reach Sarnia by plane.

Sarnia Chris Hadfield Airport

Located just 10 km from the city center, this airport offers limited regional flights and is the primary airport serving Sarnia.

Getting Around

Walkability

Sarnia is quite walkable, particularly around the downtown area and the waterfront. Many attractions, parks, and restaurants are within walking distance, making it convenient for visitors to explore on foot. Sidewalks and pedestrian paths are well-maintained, promoting a safe walking environment.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

A growing demographic in Sarnia, young professionals often engage in the local arts scene and outdoor activities.

Retirees

Many retirees are attracted to Sarnia for its quieter lifestyle, beautiful parks, and community-oriented environment.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Ice Hockey

A popular sport in Sarnia, the city has a junior ice hockey team, the Sarnia Sting, which attracts many fans.

Lacrosse

Lacrosse is another favorite sport, with local teams competing in various leagues, showcasing this Canadian tradition.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Sarnia is generally light, allowing for easy navigation by car. Public transportation is available through local buses, but services may be limited during off-peak hours. Cycling is also popular, with designated bike lanes in many areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Sarnia.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Sarnia offer a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes, ensuring that dietary preferences are accommodated.

Gluten-Free Choices

Several eateries provide gluten-free options, making it easier for those with dietary restrictions to enjoy meals.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Sarnia is accessible through various clinics and hospitals, including Bluewater Health. Emergency services are available, and residents have access to family doctors and specialists. It is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Canada

Read more in our Canada 2025 Travel Guide.

Canada Travel Guide