Today, Stratford is well known for its theatre performances, art scene, and picturesque waterfront, but it’s also a city with a rich history. Set along the Avon River, Stratford was originally settled in the 19th century and quickly grew into an important manufacturing and railway centre. The Stratford Festival wasn’t launched until 1953, which transformed this beautiful city in Ontario into one of the best-known destinations in Canada for arts and culture. It also happens to be my hometown, so I know there are plenty of unique things to do in Stratford besides the usual tourist attractions.
While walking along the Avon River, shopping on Ontario Street, and admiring the Victorian architecture are all highlights of a trip to Stratford, there’s much more to the city that a lot of visitors miss out on. From unusual local landmarks to lesser-known corners of the downtown area and independent businesses tucked away from the main streets, it’s very easy to spend 48 hours in Stratford and still feel like you haven’t seen everything. These 15 hidden gems and unique things to do in Stratford will help you experience a different side of the city.
Unique things to do in Stratford, Ontario
1. Join a Stratford walking tour
If you’re interested in learning about Stratford’s past, one of the best ways to do this is by joining the History and Heritage Walking Tour with Stratford Walking Tours. The tour is led by a local guide and historian who shares a lot of great information and points out details on buildings that you can easily walk by. Even though I’m from Stratford, I learned a lot!
The tour starts at City Hall and passes through landmarks such as the courthouse, historic jail (still in operation), and takes you down Ontario Street. Along the way, you’ll learn how Stratford developed into a major railway centre and an internationally known theatre destination. The History and Heritage Walking Tour takes approximately 60 minutes, and it’s an easy walking route with minimal slopes and a few steps along the river. Lauri has a selection of other interesting tours, so there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
2. Stratford Sunday Market
Spending a weekend in Stratford? Don’t miss out on the Stratford Sunday Market, held behind the City Hall in Market Square. The stalls vary throughout the season, but you can expect a mixture of food producers, independent artisans, baked goods, and locally produced products that make great gifts. Typically, the Stratford Sunday Market takes place from May to October, and it’s recommended to arrive earlier in the morning so you can have the best selection available at each stall.
There are even fresh food stalls here, so you can take your purchases to a nearby picnic area in town or along the river and enjoy your food in a picturesque spot – if the weather is nice. It’s definitely one of the best things to do in Stratford in the summertime.
3. Relax by the Avon River on tulip seats
Taking a walk by the Avon River is a must-do in Stratford. The newest addition to the riverfront is sections of colourful tulip-shaped seats that originated from a Dutch design. They form part of Destination Stratford’s Al Fresco dining program, which aims to make it easier for people to get takeout or a drink and enjoy them in designated outdoor areas. What’s unique about these seats is that they resemble closed tulips, and you pull down one of the petals to sit on. The seats can also swivel, and they’re arranged in small clusters so they can be enjoyed by small groups.
The tulip seats seemed to appear overnight, but they’re quickly becoming a talking point along the riverfront.
4. Admire the local street art scene
Stratford’s artistic side stretches far beyond the Stratford Festival. One of the most unique things to do in Stratford is to find street art. There’s a lot of public art around the downtown area, including permanent installations, painted alleyways, and large murals. Even the smaller pieces of street art are worth admiring, and you can often find ones depicting the history and culture of the city.
Beyond street art, independent shops and galleries offer another great way to connect with local artists. Matilda Gallery & Art Bar and Agora Gallery are two notable galleries to add to your itinerary. Visiting Stratford Gallery on Romeo Street is considered one of the top free things to do in Stratford and well worth stopping at if you’re an art enthusiast. Even some of the cafes in Stratford have smaller art pieces on display that you can purchase.
5. Walk through the Shakespearean Gardens
Located behind the Perth County Courthouse is the iconic Shakespearean Gardens. The gardens are considered one of the prettiest spots in Stratford, and they’re especially nice to walk through during the spring or summer. They officially opened in 1936, and if you look closely, you’ll find plants and flowers mentioned in Shakespeare’s plays. The Shakespearean Gardens were opened many years before the Stratford Festival began, so they’re a key part of the city’s connection with its English namesake.
Entry to the gardens is free throughout the year, so if you’re visiting Stratford on a budget, this should definitely be on your list.
6. Shop for locally made goods
There are a lot of shops in Stratford to enjoy, and the great thing is that many of them are locally owned and operated. A new favourite of mine is Our Stōr(y), which is the perfect place to find unusual gifts and souvenirs. Instead of being a standard souvenir shop, Our Stōr(y) tells the stories of Stratford and nearby counties through regional art and locally made goods. The owner is constantly changing his inventory, so there’s always something new to see. If you see something you like, don’t wait too long to buy it, as many of the products are one-offs and get snapped up quickly.
Another good option is Got It Made on Ontario Street, where you can find a mixture of vintage and locally made products. With so many interesting shops to choose from, it’s time to consider this activity as one of the most unique things to do in Stratford at any time of the year.
7. Stratford Perth Museum
Any history enthusiast will want to add the Stratford Perth Museum to their plans. It’s located west of the city centre and features a collection that dates back to the early 20th century. The museum has changed locations over the years, but its current home includes a Victorian-era house from 1870 as well as modern exhibition spaces. The exhibitions are focused on the people, events, and industries that helped shape the city of Stratford and Perth County into what we see today.
The museum is fantastic, but one of Stratford’s hidden gems is actually located behind it. The Tom Orr Memorial Perth County Historical Walk consists of a selection of storyboards that tell the area’s history, beginning with the Ice Age and ending with Stratford’s later development. It’s an interesting trail to walk along, and the wider property actually consists of 1.5 kilometres of trails, which is ideal if you’re looking for a quiet place to walk outside of the downtown core. Don’t forget to add it to your list of unique things to do in Stratford!
8. Take a break in one of Stratford’s cafes
Whether you’re spending a weekend in Stratford or planning a day trip, you’ll quickly realize the city has a welcoming cafe culture. There are several independent cafes serving specialty coffee alongside fresh baked goods and light breakfast or lunch dishes. One of my new favourite cafes in Stratford is Ashborne Cafe & Bakery on Ontario Street, which has amazing lattes, iced matcha lattes, and chocolate banana bread. Revel is a long-standing favourite among locals, and they focus on locally sourced ingredients and a strong community spirit.
A new addition to the coffee scene is Hartman’s Coffee & Tea, across the road from the courthouse. It’s an intimate cafe and retail space, with large windows where you can people-watch while you enjoy your drink. They have a small art gallery in the back too that features local artists. Every cafe in town has a different atmosphere, so it’s worth trying more than one during your trip to Stratford.
9. Go chocolate shop hopping
No trip to Stratford would be complete without buying some chocolate. The iconic place to get chocolate is Rheo Thompson Candies, which has been producing handmade chocolates since 1969. They’re best known for Mint Smoothies, but there are lots of other products to try here as well. Another great option, which is growing in popularity, is Chocolate Barr’s, where you can find more than 160 varieties of handmade chocolates and candies. Both chocolate shops in Stratford are perfect for buying souvenirs or gifts.
If you have some spare time and don’t mind a short drive, The Chocolate Factory in St Marys is worth visiting, too. The prices here are slightly lower than in Stratford, and the quality is just as good. Wherever you choose to go, chocolate shopping is one of the best things to do in Stratford, and it gives you an excuse to indulge a little.
10. Explore York Street
Ontario Street gets the most attention, but let’s not forget York Street. It’s one of the prettiest streets in Stratford and is ideal for a leisurely wander before or after walking along the river. This historic street is now lined with an incredible selection of independent businesses, including an ice cream parlour and shops selling everything from tea to baked goods and antiques.
It’s a much quieter street in downtown Stratford to walk down than Ontario Street or Downie Street, which is why it’s one of my favourite locations. You can also grab a drink or something to eat from one of the businesses here and enjoy a riverside walk or picnic if the weather is cooperating.
11. Savour & Sip Trail
One of the most unique things to do in Stratford is the Savour & Sip Trail, organized by Destination Stratford. It’s a self-guided food experience run on a seasonal basis that’s designed to help visitors find locally produced food and drinks. Once you purchase a trail pass, you’ll receive vouchers that can be redeemed at participating businesses. Instead of following a select route, you can choose the stops, which allows you to build a picnic around the flavours you prefer.
Most of the businesses are located in Stratford, but there are a couple in nearby towns, too, such as Shakespeare and St Marys. Once we completed the trail, we took our food down to the river and enjoyed a picnic on one of the park benches. Destination Stratford also has year-round trails to enjoy, such as the Bacon & Ale Trail and the Chocolate Trail, which are popular with visitors as well as locals looking for unique things to do in Stratford.
12. Enjoy locally roasted coffee
The cafe scene in Stratford is exceptional for such a small city, but did you know you can buy coffee roasted in Stratford, too? To Bean or Not to Bean Coffee Roasting Company is located on the southern edge of the city. It’s a small roastery working with organic and fair-trade beans, and they have a wide selection of coffee beans to buy. Since they’re located outside of the town centre, I’d recommend driving out to the shop to see what they have available. Many locals come here for a freshly made coffee, too, which is another option if you don’t want to buy beans.
13. See where Thomas Edison lived
Did you know Thomas Edison has ties to Stratford? Many years before he became famous as an inventor, he spent a brief period working as a telegraph operator for the Grand Trunk Railway in 1863 at the age of just 16. Although he didn’t stay in town long, this connection provides a fun link between the city’s railway history and one of the most well-known names of the industrial age.
As you walk down Ontario Street, towards the courthouse, you’ll find a blue plaque at number 46 which marks the building where Edison is believed to have rented an upstairs room. Today, the building is a boutique hotel called Edison’s Inn, which is a great place to stay in Stratford if you want to be in the heart of the downtown area.
14. Go on a boat ride on the Avon River
One of the most popular things to do in Stratford is a boat ride on the Avon River. Seeing Stratford from the water gives you a different perspective of the city, and there are different ways to do it. The Boathouse is located next to the parking lot on York Street, and from here you can either join a scenic cruise or rent your own boat to take out on the water. I’d recommend a pedal boat unless you know how to use a canoe or kayak, as they’re easier to maneuver. Boating has been part of Stratford’s history for over a century, so it’s a fairly unique activity to do here.
15. Find traces of Stratford’s history
There are many heritage buildings to admire throughout Stratford, but as you walk around the city, be on the lookout for plaques attached to houses and other structures. There are hundreds of plaques around the city identifying older properties and providing details about the first residents of the building or other interesting facts. You may also come across photographs and small installations that explain how public spaces and streets once looked. If you take a walking tour of Stratford, your guide will be able to point some of these spots out to you.
These details are easily overlooked by visitors, but they can turn a leisurely downtown walk into a fun historical tour of the city. It’s one of the most underrated things to do in Stratford, so the next time you’re in town, don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled.
Places to eat in Stratford, Ontario
Taylor’s Delicatessen
If sandwiches are your thing, you won’t want to miss eating at Taylor’s Delicatessen on Downie Street. This locally run deli has only been open a couple of years, but it’s quickly become a favourite among locals. It’s a great spot for casual dining in Stratford, with a counter-service format that makes it easy to order a lunch to take away or to enjoy at the deli. Some of their sandwiches are so popular that they sell out shortly after opening, so if you want a beef dip, get there early!
All of the sandwiches are incredible, with high-quality products and fresh ciabatta or focaccia baked daily. The Calabrian chicken sandwich is definitely my favourite, and I’d highly recommend trying it if you don’t mind a bit of a spicy kick. The Tony is also very popular and loaded with delicious mortadella and mustard. These sandwiches are quite filling, but if you can squeeze in a little extra food, make sure you try the handmade potato pierogi. They even have desserts, such as handmade tiramisu! Taylor’s Delicatessen is definitely a must-try food spot in downtown Stratford.
The Prune
For the perfect fine-dining experience in Stratford, book a table at The Prune. This is one of the most influential restaurants in the city, and it’s known across the country (and internationally) for its ties to the Stratford Chefs School, where generations of culinary students have trained for decades. The Prune has changed names over the years, but it now operates seasonally from the Chefs School’s downtown dining space on Ontario Street. Make sure you book in advance, because it’s a high-demand restaurant in Stratford.
The Prune specializes in contemporary Canadian cuisine, using local ingredients and suppliers. A small, carefully selected team works closely with the head chefs to create beautifully presented and well-thought-out plates. The menu changes regularly, so there’s always something new and exciting to try. We visited for dinner and ordered their 3-course prix fixe menu, which is fantastic value for money and a nice way to try a variety of dishes. The Prune offers a plant-based menu as well, which you can mix with the regular menu if you wish.
If you really want to treat yourself, there’s a 6-course tasting menu available in the evening, and you can add a wine pairing to your meal, which is curated by their sommelier. Dining at The Prune is one of the best things to do in Stratford during the high season, and it’s easy to see why people travel from across the country to dine here.
The Ashborne Cafe
The cafe scene in Stratford is constantly changing, and every time I come back, there’s a new coffee shop that’s opened. The Ashborne Cafe is a great addition to downtown Stratford. The menu focuses on paleo-inspired baking, whole foods, and specialty coffee, and they’re very accommodating for different dietary needs. If you visit before 2 pm, you can enjoy one of their brunch dishes, such as Turkish Eggs or avocado on toast. Even if you don’t want anything to eat, The Ashborne Cafe has a creative drinks menu that makes it stand out from conventional cafes.
Angela’s Gelato & Fine Refreshments
Located directly across from the Avon Theatre is Angela’s Gelato & Fine Refreshments – a locally-run gelateria that features only a small number of gelato flavours daily. They rotate through plenty of varieties throughout the season though, so every day you’ll find something a little different to try. The gelato is handmade locally in small batches, and there are always a couple of vegan and dairy-free options available. Make sure you grab some old-fashioned freshly squeezed lemonade to take with you, too.
The gelato flavours can sell out very fast, especially when there’s a performance at the theatre, so I’d recommend arriving early in the afternoon if you can.
The Starlight
The Starlight is a unique, intimate restaurant, cocktail bar, and live-music venue that opened in 2023 and quickly attracted national attention. It was named a finalist in Air Canada’s Best New Restaurants program in 2024, and it’s still as popular as ever. Once you step inside The Starlight, you’ll find a chilled atmosphere that feels very much like a gathering place for locals.
Most diners are more than happy to move to the bar and enjoy another drink after their meal has finished, and the addition of live music on certain evenings adds to the experience. On Saturday evenings, you’ll find performances by local musicians, and Sundays are reserved for jazz sessions.
What’s great about the menu at The Starlight is that most of it is designed for sharing, with a selection of small plates and starters to enjoy. There are, of course, main dishes such as their popular cheeseburger, rigatoni all vodka, and Buffalo half-chicken. Don’t skip out on dessert either, as they’re just as good as the other dishes. We had an incredible dining experience at The Starlight, from the food to the welcoming staff and fun atmosphere. It’s right up there on my list of the best places to eat in Stratford.
Foster’s Inn
Foster’s Inn is traditionally known as a go-to steakhouse in downtown Stratford. The inn occupies a Victorian commercial building constructed in 1906, just a few feet from the Avon Theatre. There are nine rooms within the boutique hotel as well, so it’s in a prime location if you want to stay overnight in Stratford. However, it’s the breakfast I want to highlight.
The breakfast dishes here are all made using local ingredients, and the portions are very generous. I’d recommend trying the huevos rancheros if you’re feeling particularly hungry, and the full English breakfast is also a great choice. Whatever you order for breakfast at Foster’s Inn is sure to impress you, and dining within a heritage building adds to the uniqueness.
Pazzo
One restaurant in Stratford I always make time to dine at is Pazzo. It’s located in a historic cellar under Café Bouffon, and has been family-operated since 1998. Pazzo is actually one of the longest-running restaurants in town, so you know it’s good. They’re very well known among locals for their thin-crust pizza made in-house, and on Fridays you can build your own for a fraction of the regular price.
If you’re not in the mood for pizza, there are several delicious pasta options as well as tasty vegetarian risotto. Pazzo remains one of the best places to eat in Stratford, and it’s open year-round too, so both locals and seasonal visitors can enjoy it.
Where to stay in Stratford, Ontario
While Stratford is considered a day trip for many people, it may be worth staying a little longer to fully enjoy all the unique things to do in Stratford and the surrounding area. If you want to stay in the downtown area, Edison’s Inn is a very strong choice, and there are a few other self-catering apartments with modern amenities in a central location, too. For something on the luxurious side of things, The Bruce Hotel is Stratford’s only 5-star hotel, located a short walk from the Festival Theatre.
Is Stratford, Ontario worth visiting?
Whether you come for the arts, the historic architecture, or the growing cafe and restaurant scene, Stratford is definitely worth adding to your travel plans. As someone who grew up in Stratford, I know that there’s a lot more to the city if you venture beyond the usual tourist trail and main attractions. There are many unique things to do in Stratford, from exploring independent shops to looking for hints of the city’s past and going on a guided tour with a local guide. Spending at least a full day in Stratford will give you enough time to explore all the downtown area has to offer, but I’d suggest spending at least 48 hours in Stratford, so you have enough time to see some hidden gems, too.
If you have any questions about things to do in Stratford, where to eat in Stratford, or where to base yourself, please feel free to reach out. You can get in touch via email or through the contact form on my website. Don’t forget to follow my travels on Instagram and TikTok as well, where you’ll find more travel tips and ideas about where to plan your next trip.
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