Things To Do
in St. Thomas

St. Thomas, Canada, is a charming city located in southwestern Ontario known for its rich history and vibrant community. It is often referred to as the 'Railway Capital of Canada' due to its extensive railway heritage. The city boasts beautiful parks, cultural attractions, and a welcoming atmosphere, making it a great destination for visitors. With its proximity to London and natural beauty, St.

Thomas offers a unique blend of urban and outdoor experiences.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Downtown St. Thomas
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, followed by a visit to the Elgin County Railway Museum to learn about the city's railway history.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a downtown bistro, then take a stroll through Pinafore Park, where you can explore the gardens and lakes.

evening
:

Dine at a popular local restaurant and finish the day with a walk through the historic downtown area, enjoying the local shops and evening ambiance.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin with breakfast at a local diner, then head to the St. Thomas Elevated Park for a scenic walk along the old railway line.

afternoon
:

Visit the St. Thomas Museum to explore local history, then grab a bite at a food market for some artisanal snacks.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a cozy restaurant and catch a performance at the St. Thomas Community Theatre for a taste of local arts.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🚌Public transport fare$2.50
🏨Night in a hotel$100
🥖Loaf of bread$2.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich railway heritage and cultural attractions.
  • Beautiful parks and outdoor spaces.
  • Friendly and welcoming community.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport may not cover all areas extensively.
  • Cold winters may deter some visitors.

Places to Visit in St. Thomas

Visit one of these nice places.

Pinafore Park

A picturesque park with beautiful gardens, walking trails, and a serene lake, perfect for nature photography.

St. Thomas Elevated Park

An old railway line converted into a linear park, offering stunning views of the city and great spots for urban photography.

Elgin County Railway Museum

Capture the essence of St. Thomas's railway heritage with vintage trains and historical artifacts as your backdrop.

Culinary Guide

Food in St. Thomas

St. Thomas offers a delightful culinary scene with a variety of local dishes and unique dining experiences.

St. Thomas Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Perch Fish Fry

A local favorite, this dish features fresh perch fillets, lightly battered and fried to golden perfection, often served with coleslaw and fries.

Must-Try!

Beef Pie

A hearty and savory pie filled with tender beef and vegetables, this dish is a staple in local comfort food.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

St. Thomas Farmers' Market

Held every Saturday, this market features fresh produce, homemade goods, and local delicacies from various vendors.

Climate Guide

Weather

St. Thomas experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and humid, with temperatures averaging around 25-30°C (77-86°F). Winters can be cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing, and snowfall is common. Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Canadians value politeness, so saying 'please' and 'thank you' is highly encouraged.

Queuing

Respect the queue; Canadians typically wait their turn in line without cutting ahead.

Tipping

It is expected to tip service workers, such as servers and taxi drivers, as a sign of appreciation for their service.

Safety Guide

Safety

St. Thomas is generally a safe city, but like any urban area, it is prudent to take standard precautions. Avoid poorly lit areas at night, keep valuables secure, and be aware of your surroundings. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 911.

Tipping in St. Thomas

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Culture

It is customary to tip around 15-20% in restaurants, and rounding up the bill is also appreciated in cafes and bars.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and many places also accept mobile payment options for convenience.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming flowers and lively festivals, making it a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm temperatures attract visitors to parks and lakes, perfect for picnics and water activities.

Autumn

The fall foliage is breathtaking, and the harvest season brings local markets filled with fresh produce.

Winter

Cold temperatures and occasional snowfall make it a cozy season, ideal for winter sports and holiday festivities.

Nightlife Guide

St. Thomas at Night

St. Thomas offers a laid-back nightlife scene with a variety of pubs, bars, and live music venues. The downtown area features several establishments where you can enjoy local brews and cocktails. During the summer, outdoor patios become popular spots for socializing, while local events and festivals often include evening entertainment.

Hiking in St. Thomas

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Catfish Creek Conservation Area

This conservation area features a variety of trails that wind through forests and wetlands, providing excellent hiking opportunities.

Komoka Provincial Park

Just a short drive from St. Thomas, this park offers several hiking trails with beautiful views of the Thames River and diverse wildlife.

Airports

How to reach St. Thomas by plane.

London International Airport (YXU)

Located approximately 30 minutes from St. Thomas, this airport offers domestic and limited international flights, making it a convenient option for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

St. Thomas is a walkable city, particularly in the downtown area where most attractions, shops, and restaurants are within a reasonable distance. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are available at major intersections, making it easy and safe to explore on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

St. Thomas is home to many families, contributing to a community-oriented atmosphere with parks and activities for children.

Seniors

A significant population of seniors resides in St. Thomas, leading to services and amenities tailored to their needs.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Hockey

Hockey is a beloved sport in St. Thomas, with many local teams and youth leagues contributing to the community's passion for the game.

Baseball

Baseball has a strong following, with local leagues and recreational games played throughout the summer months.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in St. Thomas is generally light, especially outside rush hours. Public transportation options include buses that connect major areas, but many residents and visitors prefer to drive or walk. Parking is available in downtown areas, making it accessible for those traveling by car.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting St. Thomas.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in St. Thomas offer delicious vegetarian dishes, ensuring options for those with dietary restrictions.

Gluten-Free Choices

Several eateries provide gluten-free options, making it accessible for those with gluten intolerance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in St. Thomas is accessible, with several clinics and a hospital providing services to residents and visitors alike. The St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital offers emergency services, and there are multiple family health clinics for non-emergency needs. Visitors should ensure they have travel insurance to cover any potential medical expenses.

Discover Canada

Read more in our Canada 2025 Travel Guide.

Canada Travel Guide