Stratford, Ontario
Ontario/Stratford

Stratford

Theatre, river walks and Ontario's prettiest downtown

CanadaOntarioStratford
Province
Ontario
Best For
Theatre lovers & foodies
Best Time to Visit
Aprilโ€“October (Stratford Festival season)
Recommended Stay
2 days
Destination Guide

Catch a Stratford Festival play, stroll the Avon River and Victorian gardens, browse downtown boutiques, and dine at chef-driven restaurants.

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Things to Do

Catch a Stratford Festival play, stroll the Avon River and Victorian gardens, browse downtown boutiques, and dine at chef-driven restaurants.

Where to Stay

Heritage inns line the Avon River; downtown B&Bs put you steps from the festival theatres.

Best Time to Visit

Aprilโ€“October (Stratford Festival season)

How Many Days

2 days

Best for

Theatre lovers & foodies

Where to Stay

Where to stay in Stratford

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Stratford offers a range of lodging from budget to luxury. For the most convenient base, stay in the central area close to top attractions and dining. Families will appreciate quieter neighborhoods or resorts with pools, while couples may prefer boutique hotels in the historic or waterfront districts.

Hotels & Lodging

Where to stay in Stratford

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The Bruce Hotel

Boutique

Landmark boutique hotel in the festival district.

HeritageWalkable$$$

Mercure Stratford

Mid-range

Contemporary hotel steps from the Avon River.

Downtown$$

Festival Inn

Mid-range

Family-run hotel near the festival theatres.

Walkable$$
Things to Do

Best things to do in Stratford

Book tours

Stratford Festival

North America's largest classical repertory theatre company.

3 hours$$$

Avon River & Stratford Gardens

Swan-dotted river with paddleboats and formal riverside gardens.

2 hoursFree

Stratford Perth Museum

Local history including theatrical archives and rotating exhibits.

1โ€“2 hours$

Gallery Stratford

Contemporary Canadian art in a historic pump house.

1 hour$
Quick Answers

Stratford FAQ

Yes โ€” Stratford is worth visiting for theatre lovers & foodies. Theatre, river walks and Ontario's prettiest downtown Catch a Stratford Festival play, stroll the Avon River and Victorian gardens, browse downtown boutiques, and dine at chef-driven restaurants.

Most travelers spend 2 days in Stratford. That gives you enough time to see the main attractions, enjoy catch a stratford festival play, and explore at a comfortable pace. If you want a slower trip with day excursions to nearby areas, add an extra day or two.

Stratford is known for catch a stratford festival play, stroll the avon river and victorian gardens, browse downtown boutiques, and dine at chef-driven restaurants.. Theatre, river walks and Ontario's prettiest downtown

The best time to visit is Aprilโ€“October (Stratford Festival season). Shoulder seasons usually offer fewer crowds and better lodging rates.

Costs in Stratford vary by season and travel style. Lodging is the biggest expense โ€” book early and consider staying just outside the center. Many top attractions and outdoor activities are free or low-cost.

A car is helpful but not essential in Stratford. Downtown is walkable, but a car gives you the freedom to reach nearby attractions and scenic areas.

Yes, Stratford works well for families. Look for lodging with pools or suites, plan a mix of attractions and outdoor time, and take advantage of parks and free activities. Family-friendly areas tend to be a bit outside the busiest core.

Yes, Stratford is a lovely destination for couples. Stay in a boutique hotel or cozy inn, plan scenic walks and good dinners, and enjoy the quieter side of the destination for a romantic trip.

Don't miss: catch a stratford festival play, stroll the avon river and victorian gardens, browse downtown boutiques, and dine at chef-driven restaurants.. It's especially great if you love theatre lovers & foodies. Also leave time to wander and discover local cafรฉs, neighborhoods and views that aren't in every guidebook.

Heritage inns line the Avon River; downtown B&Bs put you steps from the festival theatres. See our full guide to the best hotels in Stratford for area-by-area recommendations.

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Written by the Canadiana Lodging Travel Team