Explore Stratford’s nearby wonders
If you’re keen on adding some iconic day trips during your stay in Stratford, we’ve got you covered. We’re rounding up amazing day trips and we’ll keep adding them below. Take your pick from one or a handful; all locations are within a sixty-minute drive from Stratford.
LISTOWEL
ST. JACOBS
CASTLE KILBRIDE
BLYTH
WILDWOOD
MILLBANK
MITCHELL
ST. MARYS
SHAKESPEARE
EXPLORE THE ONTARIO CULTURE DAYS STRATFORD CULTURE GUIDE
Listowel
Are you ready for some great surprises under 45 minutes from Stratford. Extend your stay….Extend your play! In Listowel, you’ll find an unexpected modern vibe whether you’re home décor shopping, dining or embarking on the many hiking trails.
So, let’s go shopping. Bring a natural look inside with trendy botanical themed prints, throws and cushions at Listowel Florist & Gifts. Discover your new favourite sustainable wardrobe pieces at The Clothing Loft Consignment Shop. You can also grab some quality new pieces from BK’s Brand Name Clothing while you’re downtown. Listowel really has everything: someone sporty in your life, Edee’s; work wear, Gerber’s; footwear, Knapp’s; bedding and bath, Brooklyn’s. You can grab so many gifts and essentials on this road trip.
Supercharge your new pandemic hobby at the Spinrite Yarn Factory Outlet, offering yarns with full-colour ranges and patterns to inspire. They also house Canada’s largest selection of discontinued and discounted mill end yarns, and they have finished items on display to spark your creativity. From beginner to expert, the staff will assist you in your project planning, pattern reading and yarn selection.
With restaurant options close by, you’re never far from a delicious meal. Choose a local beer or craft cocktail to pair with your locally sourced “fresh-to-order” meal. Check out hōm Restaurant, casual fine dining with a taste of home, nestled in a beautiful century home. For family dining, Veky’s International Cuisine has you covered for dine-in or take-out.
Use up some of those calories on a walk, run or bike along the town’s beautifully maintained trails and bridges in Memorial Park that stretch for kilometers. While you’re at it, you won’t want to miss the 360 degree mural wall; trust us, this is an insta-grammers paradise, so don’t forget your cameras!
Did you know Listowel was the town that inspired the Canadian TV sitcom, Letterkenny? The show follows the residents of Letterkenny, a fictional rural communication in Ontario loosely based on creator Jared Kesso’s hometown of Listowel!
You love goats, right? Of course you do. And that’s why you need to stop in at Goats on 86 on your way to or from Listowel from Stratford. Check in ahead of time to see if you can visit with their crew (seasonal pending on weather).
Head out with your crew and make this road trip yours!
St. Jacobs
Less than one hour from Stratford, you’ll find the quaint Village of St. Jacobs. Rich in history, this charming city is beautifully situated along the Conestoga River.
Many are familiar with the famous St. Jacobs Farmers Market and for good reason! Did you know the St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market is Canada’s largest year-round farmers market. Home to over 300 local vendors, you’ll find meats, cheeses, local crafters and even antiques. Browsing the food stands you’ll work up quite the appetite, so head on over to the food court to refuel. If you leave with only one thing, make sure it’s the famous apple fritters.
Aside from the market, St. Jacobs offers amazing shopping and outdoor adventure, making this the perfect day trip from Stratford! St. Jacobs is a great combination of traditional and trendy. A strong population of Mennonite families, you will often see traditional horses and buggies as you drive through town, mixing in the unique one-of-a-kind shops and retailers, featuring the latest trends including clothing, decor, gourmet foods, coffee and craft beer.
Theatre lovers will enjoy world-class performances by Drayton Entertainment at two locations: St. Jacobs Country Playhouse in the Market District, and St. Jacobs Schoolhouse Theatre in the heart of the village. Currently not showing performances due to the pandemic, try your luck at their high-level 50/50 draws and support their efforts for recovery.
A trip to St. Jacobs isn’t complete without a scenic train ride aboard the Waterloo Central Railway. The historic train, one of the last steam trains in Canada, travels from Waterloo, with stops in St. Jacobs and Elmira. Special seasonal trains, like Santa’s Magical Adventure Trains, are also planned for the coming months.
Castle Kilbride
Located in the small town of Baden, a half hour east of Stratford, this grand estate is dripping with Victorian charm, stunning art and interesting artifacts.
Castle Kilbride is an 1877 grand Victorian home that was built by James Livingston, “The Flax and Linseed Oil King of Canada.” Castle Kilbride stands as a monument to the heritage and traditions, and the commitment that the people of Wilmot Township have made to preserve their heritage.
One of the most mesmerizing features of Castle Kilbride is the Trompe l’oeil wall and ceiling murals. French for “deceive the eye,” these 3D-like murals have hidden images within and are part of the reason Castle Kilbride was named a National Historic Site. Test your skills and look deep into the flower bouquet in the grand hallway. Can you spot the serpent or the face leering back?
If its charm, history and art doesn’t entice you, then how about a good old-fashioned ghost tour? Experience the eerie side of Castle Kilbride. You can learn about the resident spirit that lurks the hallways, wander over haunted antiques and dare to enter the Widow’s Walk.
Or visit this stunning home during the holidays for Christmas at the Castle. At Castle Kilbride they like to take a whole lot of old and a little bit of new and mix it together for the perfect holiday setting. This is the best time of year to visit the 1877 home and marvel at the lavish décor adorned in festive attire.
Blyth
It doesn’t get more proudly Canadian than the small village of Blyth.
This town is home to the Blyth Festival, where plays focus on themes of rural Ontario, are full of wit and heart, and are also written by Canadians. Since 1975, the Blyth Festival Theatre has put farmers and rural Canadians centre stage, telling stories, sharing history, and celebrating their way of life. A fully professional theatre, in the heart of Ontario’s bread-basket, the Blyth Festival’s ingenuity, tenacity, and creativity has irrevocably reinvigorated the region’s very imagination. The season spans from May to the end of September. So while the 2021 season has wrapped, follow along on social for updates so you can grab tickets next season!
The main street of Blyth is lined with fun shops, like Maple and Moose that sell strictly Canadian goods. There’s also Wonky Frog, showcasing unique gift ideas from local artisans. And Wild Goose Studio – a studio space dedicated to releasing creativity. Check out the Fashion Arts & Creative Textiles Studio (FACTS), an educational and innovative hub for textile, fashion and costume designers, artists and artisans across Ontario. The program offers classes, open studios and workshops at the community and professional level.
Another must-visit stop in Blyth is at Cowbell Brewing Co. Canada’s destination craft brewery. An award winner state-of-the-art brewing facility, restaurant with both indoor and outdoors seating, retail store and entertainment spaces. Cowbell is accessible, family-friendly and located on over 120 acres south of the historic village of Blyth. You can take a tour of their facility that focuses on great beer and a green process.
Running right through town is the Guelph to Goderich Rail Trail. If you’ve rented bikes to tackle part of the G2G Trail, then Blyth is a great place to stop along the trail for a bite to eat or to browse the shops. The Blyth Bike Shop, in the back alley of 441 Queen Street, rents bikes to use on the trail and has repair services too!
Before you head back from your road trip to Blyth, stop in at Blyth Farm Cheese. Their artisan, or farmstead cheeses, are made in small batches, by hand, with a focus on tradition, featuring sheep and goat cheese (the sheep’s milk is from their own farm of sheep).
Wildwood Conservation Area
If you’re looking for a full day adventure close to Stratford, look no further than Wildwood Conservation Area. Located between Stratford and St. Marys you will find a sprawling park that will keep you busy all day. Wildwood Conservation Area covers over 3,000 acres and is home to 30 kilometers of trails. Try your hand at geocaching with GPS units available for free at the gatehouse.
Wildwood’s four hiking & biking trails range in length from 1.2 km to the 25 km Lake Trail. All trails are multi-purpose and can be used by both hikers and cyclists. The trails range from flat to rugged terrain with areas of steep hills, exposed roots and rocks. Plan ahead and know your abilities as well as the areas through which you are hiking or biking.
Consider purchasing a $16 day pass, giving you access to the various walking/biking trails, fishing and bring-your-own boat, or sit back and enjoy the playground and picnic areas.
Wildwood is the ultimate outdoor playground just waiting to be explored. From hiking, camping, boating, picnicking, mountain biking, birding and so much more! Bring your camera to capture the stunning fall foliage as you explore along the trails. Don’t forget to explore Wildwood in the warmer months when you can take advantage of their canoe, kayak and SUP rentals as well as their beautiful beach!
Millbank
Located in Perth East, just over 20 minutes from Stratford you’ll discover Millbank! This diverse area is rooted in Amish and Mennonite history, and filled with food, furniture and outdoor exploration. Check their online community board for any upcoming events.
Known for its authentic Mennonite cooking, Anna Mae’s Bakery & Restaurant has people coming back again and again for their homemade pies (over 18+ varieties of pies everyday!) and insanely delicious broasted chicken. You may recognize Anna Mae’s when they were featured on You Gotta Eat Here!. You won’t leave without a clean plate and full belly.
Another staple is the Millbank Cheese Factory , serving up artisan cheeses for over 100 years. While you’re here, stop in at Bauman Apiaries for pure local honey, homemade summer sausage, and hand dipped beeswax candles and cosmetics. Don’t forget to bring a cooler with you so you can stock up at the Zehr’s Country Market. This family-run business has been feeding locals and visitors for over 30 years. Also fill that cooler at Tanjo Family Farm who offers free-range, drug/hormone-free, non-GMO sausage, ribs, bacon, roasts, chops, burgers, steaks, ground beef and chicken by advance order.
Furniture is front and center in Millbank with high quality, locally made solid wood furniture. Explore the stunning showroom at Millbank Family Furniture. If decor is what you’re after, Quilts Galore has one of the largest selections of quilts, wall hangings and crib quilts in Canada!
Millbank is also the end of the Kissing Bridge Trailway, a rural trail linking a handful of small towns. The highlight of the trail is the West Montrose Covered Bridge; painted red and stretching over a river filled with waterfowl, it’s one of the oldest wooden-covered bridges in Canada.
You can grab the G2G Trail in Millbank for hiking, walking, running and road biking. The Millbank to Monkton stretch is a 20.4 kilometer point-to-point trail running near the municipality of North Perth and is good for all skill levels.
While you’re out this way, check out the neighbouring towns and villages that have artisan products like Kathy’s Dry Goods & Custom Kovers in Poole, and E&E’s Cloth & Creations outside of Newton and Conestogo Bird Feed outside of Newton.
Mitchell
Located only 20 minutes west of Stratford, you will discover the quaint town of Mitchell. It’s the perfect quick trip this fall when you’re visiting Stratford. On your drive, relish the beauty of fall with the gorgeous changing colours.
Take a stroll and grab a bite to eat at The Sugar Maple Restaurant, a cozy spot full of character and run by a pair that are committed to good food.
Head on down to the Thames River for a walk along the West Perth Thames Trail and over the dam. The nature trail is for pleasure walkers, joggers, hikers & bird-watchers. Accessible for baby strollers, motorized scooters and wheelchairs. The trail is a photographer’s paradise, from the Mill Pond through to the woodlands and the West Perth Wetlands.
Stop by the West Perth animal park, located in the Lions Park on the corner of Blenheim and Blanshard Streets. Animals such as fallow deer, a llama, donkeys, goats and a variety of birds (ducks, geese, peacocks, pheasants, chickens and turkeys). Open year-round, visitors bring treats of corn and carrots. This park has a playground, covered pavilions, picnic area, an outdoor municipal pool and splashpad.
Important note: Please do not feed the animals anything other than corn, carrots and similar items. They do not like to eat other human food or house plants.
If you’re looking to spend more time outdoors, the West Perth Wetlands are home to ten kilometers of hiking trails, three large ponds, and 200 rare species of birds that live and migrate through the wetlands every year.
Here are some more places to explore while visiting Mitchell:
- Stroll along main street and browse through one-of-a-kind shops like Jillian’s; this beautiful home decor store will surely inspire you to bring a few new items into your home.
- Not just for flowers, Floral Treasures, also on main street, also offers gifts for any age or occasion, including stuffed animals, balloon bouquets, candy & chocolate, silk arrangements, baby items, home décor and scented candles.
- Find yourself needing something for your pet on your journey? B&B Pet Supplies in Mitchell’s grandest building, the Hick’s House, will help you out.
More options to fuel your exploring:
- Stop for a delicious local beer at Black Donnelly’s Brewing Company, just 9 minutes south of Mitchell
- Looking for an all-day breakfast to fuel your visit? 101 Bar and Fire Grill Restaurant has you covered with so many omelettes and more. Your fave apps, burgers, sammies and wraps are also on the menu.
St. Marys
Nicknamed the Stone Town for its incredible limestone buildings, St. Marys is great for the day tripper who loves history and picture-perfect small towns. Only a 20-minute drive from Stratford, St. Marys is home to museums – like the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame – and fun shops with one-of-a-kind items.
When it comes to nature, St. Marys won’t disappoint you. The Riverview Walkway trail runs through town and along the Thames River, making for a peaceful stroll. You’ll find family-fun every summer at the St. Marys Quarry; Canada’s largest outdoor freshwater swimming pool! Another great trail is the Grand Trunk Trail, which follows the old Grand Trunk Railway line with panoramic views over town. St. Marys is the start of the Avon Trail from St. Marys to Conestogo, connecting the Thames Valley and Grand River Trails. With 13 kilometers of scenic views, the Loop Trail is St. Marys longest interior biking trail! The St. Marys Loop Trail runs past many historic sites and natural areas. Nearby is Wildwood Conservation Area with hiking and cycling trails.
Between hikes and museum visits, pop into one of the many fun and eclectic coffee shops, or stop for a bite to eat at one of the many cultural restaurants around the town.
We’ve listed just a sample of what you can expect from your visit to St. Marys!
Shopping!
- Betty’s Bookshelf
- Bungalow
- Carpe Vinum Wine & Gifts
- Eclectic Treasure Something Old Something New
- The Flower Shop and More
- Hyggeligt Fabrics
- O’Grady’s Clothing
- Lauren Whitney Lifestyles
- Little Falls Crafters Market
- Lyric Flowers
- MacPherson Art & Crafts
- McCully’s Hill Farm Market
- Roancroft
- Stone Home Creatives
- Sun Rayz
- Troyer’s Spices
- The Wine Lab
- Zenfire Pottery and Mercantile
Delicious eats!
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- Barista’s
- Broken Rail Brewing
- The Chocolate Factory
- The Flour Mill
- Gilly’s Pubhouse
- Green Haven Bakery and Market
- Hearn’s Ice Cream
- Joe’s Diner
- Naina’s Indian Kitchen Bar & Grill
- Social Thirty-One (located at St. Marys Golf Course)
- Snapping Turtle Coffee Roasters
- Stonetown Artisan Cheese
- Sunset Diner
- Tuttco
- The Westover Inn
Shakespeare, Ontario!
Want to be transported a half a world away to a little village in England?
You’ll save on airfare and jet lag as Shakespeare is only a five-minute drive east of Stratford. Shakespeare may be a small hamlet, but it makes up for it with quaint shops.
Known as the Antiques Capital of Ontario, there are treasures ranging from statement furniture pieces with a story to tell, to shabby chic projects just waiting to happen, to industrial antiques all from the tightly clustered antique shops. Land & Ross features 10,000 sq ft in 3 locations and specialize in 19th century furniture and accessories. Be sure to pop into The British Touch to browse their assortment of tasty and wacky treats.
If you’re looking for an Instagram-worthy spot, pop into Harry Ten Shilling Tearoom. Enjoy a spot of tea and a tower of irresistible desserts. Or, head over to Shakespeare Brewing Company to enjoy their Shakespearean-inspired beers, like The Grumpy Goat and The Heavy Horse.
Before you head back to Stratford for the night, stop at Shakespeare Conservation Area. Take a wander along its trails and soak in the colours and smells of nature. You’ll swoon over this off-the-radar gem of a park.
More great spots to explore in Shakespeare include:
- Take time for self-care at Orchard Wellness Center.
- Explore the colourful full service quilt shop The Quilt Place.
- Filled with local pork, fresh baked goods, preserves and more The Best Little Pork Shoppe is a one-stop shop.
- Visit Perth County’s oldest European structure, Fryfogel Tavern built by Swiss immigrant Sebastian Fryfogel in 1844, this tavern is a beautiful piece of historic Perth County.
- Looking for a place to stay? We know just the place: Shakespeare Inn.
We highly recommend stopping into the brand-new Wild Hog Country Market on your way!