Things To Do
in Stratford

Stratford, Canada is a charming city located in southwestern Ontario, known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant arts scene. It is famously home to the Stratford Festival, which features world-class theater performances, particularly in Shakespearean works. The picturesque downtown area is lined with historic buildings, boutique shops, and eateries that reflect the local community's creativity.

With its scenic parks and proximity to the Avon River, Stratford offers a delightful blend of artistic and natural attractions.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Arts
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Stratford Festival Theatre for a guided tour to learn about the history and architecture behind this iconic venue.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local café followed by a stroll through the Stratford Perth Museum, where you can explore exhibits on local history and culture.

evening
:

Catch a live performance at the Festival Theatre, followed by dinner at one of Stratford’s renowned restaurants.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Local Flavors
morning
:

Begin with breakfast at a local bakery, then take a leisurely walk along the Avon River to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

afternoon
:

Visit the Shakespearean Gardens, then head to the Stratford Farmers' Market for fresh local produce and artisan goods.

evening
:

Wrap up your visit with dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant, followed by an evening stroll through the vibrant downtown.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a restaurant$15-30
Coffee$3-5
🚍Public transport ticket$2.50
🏨Hotel room per night$100-200
🛒Grocery costs (per week)$50-100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural scene with world-class performances.
  • Scenic natural beauty and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly and welcoming community.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Cold winters may deter some visitors.
  • Some attractions may have seasonal hours.

Places to Visit in Stratford

Visit one of these nice places.

Avon River

A picturesque setting for photography, especially during sunset with reflections on the water.

Stratford Festival Theatre

Capture the stunning architecture of this iconic theatre, especially during performances.

Shakespearean Gardens

Beautifully landscaped gardens that provide a serene backdrop for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Stratford

Stratford is a culinary delight, offering a wide array of dining options that celebrate local flavors and ingredients.

Stratford Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pork Tenderloin

A local favorite often served with seasonal vegetables and a rich sauce.

Must-Try!

Maple Syrup Pancakes

Fluffy pancakes topped with locally sourced maple syrup, perfect for breakfast.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Stratford Farmers’ Market

Held weekly, this market features fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal products.

Climate Guide

Weather

Stratford experiences a humid continental climate, with warm summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures average around 25°C (77°F), while winter can drop to -10°C (14°F). Spring and fall are transitional seasons, often featuring mild temperatures and occasional rainfall.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Canadians are known for their politeness; saying 'please' and 'thank you' is important.

Queuing

Respecting lines and waiting your turn is expected in public spaces.

Local Events

Participating in local festivals and events is appreciated and a great way to engage with the community.

Safety Guide

Safety

Stratford is generally a safe city, but it's advisable to take common safety precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping valuables secure. Local emergency services are reliable, and understanding the layout of the city can help you navigate safely.

Tipping in Stratford

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It's customary to tip around 15-20% in restaurants, while bartenders typically receive $1-2 per drink.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit and debit cards, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make this a lovely time to visit, especially for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm weather is perfect for festivals and outdoor dining, but be prepared for occasional rain.

Fall

Enjoy stunning fall foliage and cooler temperatures, making it ideal for scenic walks.

Winter

Cold and snowy, winter can be picturesque, but dress warmly as many outdoor events are limited.

Nightlife Guide

Stratford at Night

Stratford boasts a vibrant nightlife with a mix of cozy pubs, live music venues, and theaters. After an evening show, you can enjoy a drink at one of the local bars or catch a live band performing at a downtown venue. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, making it easy to socialize and enjoy the local culture.

Hiking in Stratford

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Stratford Conservation Area

A beautiful area with trails for hiking and birdwatching, perfect for nature lovers.

Avon Trail

A scenic trail that follows the river, ideal for longer hikes and enjoying the outdoors.

Airports

How to reach Stratford by plane.

London International Airport

Located about 45 minutes away from Stratford, this airport offers domestic and limited international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Stratford is highly walkable, with a compact downtown area that allows visitors to explore shops, restaurants, and parks on foot. The city features wide sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly crossings, making it easy to navigate without a car.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Arts Enthusiasts

Stratford attracts a diverse group of people passionate about the arts, especially theater.

Families

Many families reside in Stratford, drawn by the city’s community-focused atmosphere and educational opportunities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Hockey

Ice hockey is a favorite pastime in Stratford, with local teams and community leagues fostering enthusiasm.

Soccer

Soccer has a growing presence in the area, with community leagues and youth programs attracting many participants.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Stratford is generally light, especially outside of peak hours. Public transportation is available, but many residents and visitors prefer to walk or bike to get around.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Stratford.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, catering to various dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Stratford is adequate, with local hospitals and clinics providing essential services. For non-emergency care, walk-in clinics are available, and residents typically have health insurance coverage through public health programs.

Discover Canada

Read more in our Canada 2025 Travel Guide.

Canada Travel Guide