Weekend Getaways Near Major Cities in London, Ontario, Canada
1. Stratford, Ontario
Explore the 'City of Festivals' known for its annual Shakespeare Festival and charming Victorian architecture.
- Cultural Immersion: Offers a rich arts scene with theatre, music, and visual arts.
- Relaxing Atmosphere: Quaint downtown area perfect for strolling and shopping.
- Historic Buildings: Features well-preserved Victorian-era architecture.
2. Grand Bend, Ontario
Enjoy the sandy beaches and vibrant town atmosphere of this picturesque Lake Huron resort.
- Beach Getaway: Offers miles of sandy beach for sunbathing and swimming.
- Nightlife: Features lively restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues.
- Artist Colony: Home to many artists and art galleries.
3. Port Stanley, Ontario
Discover the charming waterfront village with a historic pier, beach, and lighthouse.
- Historic Pier: Features the iconic Port Stanley Harbour Pier.
- Pleasant Beach: Offers a relaxing beach atmosphere with clear waters.
- Lighthouse Tours: Features guided tours of the historic Port Stanley Lighthouse.
4. Bayfield, Ontario
Visit this quaint village with its picturesque harbour, art galleries, and scenic trails.
- Artistic Village: Home to numerous artists and art studios.
- Scenic Trails: Offers hiking and biking trails with breathtaking lake views.
- Harbour Walk: Features a scenic boardwalk along the harbour.
5. St. Marys, Ontario
Step back in time and explore this historic town with its preserved Victorian architecture.
- Historic Preservation: Boasts well-preserved Victorian buildings.
- Golfing: Offers several golf courses for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Canadian Railway Museum: Features exhibits and artifacts from Canada's railway history.
6. Goderich, Ontario
Experience the 'Prettiest Town in Canada' with its beautiful lakefront and limestone architecture.
- Lake Huron Shoreline: Offers stunning views of Lake Huron.
- Limestone Architecture: Features unique limestone buildings.
- Historic Town Hall: Includes the world's largest intact crystal chandelier.
7. Woodstock, Ontario
Discover this vibrant city with its charming downtown, arts scene, and annual festival.
- Arts Scene: Features numerous art galleries and studios.
- Foodie Destination: Offers a diverse culinary scene with many independent restaurants.
- Annual Festival: Hosts the famous Woodstock International Talent Show competition.
8. Ingersoll, Ontario
Step back in time and explore this historic town with its preserved Victorian architecture.
- Historic Preservation: Boasts well-preserved Victorian buildings.
- Scenic Trails: Offers hiking and biking trails through picturesque countryside.
- Annual Festival: Hosts the famous Ingersoll County Fair.
9. Elgin County Rail Trail
Explore this scenic rail trail on foot or bike, passing through charming towns and farmland.
- Scenic Landscapes: Offers breathtaking views of the countryside.
- Active Recreation: Ideal for walking, cycling, and cross-country skiing.
- Historic Landmarks: Passes by several historic buildings and landmarks.
10. Thames River Heritage Park
Discover the rich history of London, Ontario, as you explore this scenic park and its historic buildings.
- Historic Buildings: Includes several well-preserved heritage buildings.
- Scenic Landscapes: Offers beautiful views of the Thames River.
- Educational Exhibits: Features educational exhibits about the area's history.
11. London's Wortley Village
Experience the charm of this historic neighbourhood with its independent shops, restaurants, and gardens.
- Independent Shops: Offers a unique shopping experience.
- Culinary Delights: Features numerous independent restaurants and cafes.
- Historic Architecture: Boasts well-preserved Victorian buildings.
12. Bushplane Museum
Learn about Canada's aviation history at this museum showcasing historic aircraft and exhibits.
- Aviation History: Features a vast collection of historical aircraft.
- Educational Exhibits: Offers interactive exhibits about aviation history.
- Guided Tours: Includes guided tours of the aircraft collection.
13. Eldon House
Step back in time and explore this historic mansion with its beautiful gardens and art collections.
- Historic Preservation: Boasts well-preserved Victorian architecture.
- Art Collections: Features an extensive collection of art and antiques.
- Guided Tours: Includes guided tours of the mansion and gardens.
14. Fanshawe Pioneer Village
Experience life in early Ontario as you explore this living history museum.
- Living History: Features costumed interpreters demonstrating daily life.
- Historic Buildings: Includes over 30 historic buildings from the 19th century.
- Educational Exhibits: Offers educational exhibits about life in early Ontario.
15. Rock Glen Conservation Area
Discover this picturesque conservation area with its scenic rock formations and hiking trails.
- Scenic Landscapes: Offers breathtaking views of the rock formations.
- Hiking Trails: Ideal for hiking and nature photography.
- Historic Mill: Features a restored grist mill from the late 19th century.