Unusual & Offbeat Destinations in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada
1. Ripley's Aquarium of Canada
A unique underwater experience showcasing marine life from around the world. Notable for its moving glass bottom boat ride and interactive shark dives.
- Interactive Experience: Visitors can touch stingrays and other marine creatures in the Discovery Centre.
- Underwater Exploration: The Dangerous Lagoon exhibit features sharks, rays, and sea turtles.
- Educational Opportunities: Offers programs for schools to learn about marine life conservation.
2. Mississauga Celebration Square
A vibrant community hub with a large digital screen, outdoor amphitheatre, and ice rink. Known for hosting festivals and events throughout the year.
- Community Gathering Space: The square provides a central meeting place for residents to enjoy events and activities.
- Outdoor Entertainment: The digital screen displays movies, sports events, and concerts for all to see.
- Year-round Activities: Ice rink transforms into an outdoor skate trail during the winter months.
3. Benares Historic House and Museum
A historic home dating back to the late 1800s, showcasing life during that era. The museum also hosts temporary art exhibits.
- Historical Insights: Provides a glimpse into Mississauga's past and its evolution over time.
- Temporary Art Exhibits: Offers opportunities to explore contemporary art from local artists.
- Historic Preservation: Serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving historical buildings and artifacts.
4. Hershey Centre
A multi-purpose sports complex with ice rinks, a field house, and a fitness centre. Known for hosting hockey tournaments and concerts.
- Sports Venue: Provides facilities for various sports such as hockey, soccer, and volleyball.
- Concert Location: Hosts popular musicians and events throughout the year.
- Fitness Facilities: Offers a fitness centre for members to work out and participate in fitness classes.
5. Carrisbrooke Farm
A working farm offering educational programs about farming and animals. Notable for its petting zoo and pumpkin patch during fall.
- Educational Experience: Offers programs to learn about farming, animal care, and sustainable practices.
- Petting Zoo: Allows visitors to interact with various farm animals.
- Seasonal Activities: Hosts events like pumpkin picking and corn mazes during the fall season.
6. Jack Darling Memorial Park
A large waterfront park with a sandy beach, picnic areas, and a boardwalk. Offers beautiful views of Lake Ontario.
- Waterfront Access: Provides direct access to the lake for swimming, fishing, and other water activities.
- Natural Beauty: Offers scenic views of Lake Ontario and the Mississauga skyline.
- Recreational Opportunities: Features sports fields, picnic areas, and a playground for outdoor activities.
7. Port Credit Memorial Park
A waterfront park with a historic lighthouse, marina, and walking trails. Known for its charming shops and restaurants in the surrounding area.
- Historic Landmark: Features a restored lighthouse dating back to the early 1900s.
- Waterfront Activities: Offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming.
- Shopping and Dining: Surrounded by unique boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants in the Port Credit neighbourhood.
8. The Iceland Sports Complex
An indoor sports facility featuring ice rinks, a fieldhouse, and a laser tag arena. Known for its birthday party packages and recreational leagues.
- Sports Activities: Offers various sports including hockey, soccer, and basketball.
- Entertainment Options: Includes a laser tag arena for fun and exciting team-based play.
- Event Hosting: Hosts birthday parties, corporate events, and tournaments throughout the year.
9. Mississauga Art Gallery
A contemporary art gallery showcasing works from local artists. Known for its rotating exhibits and educational programs.
- Local Art Showcase: Features artwork by Mississauga-based artists.
- Educational Programs: Offers workshops and classes for adults and children interested in art.
- Rotating Exhibits: Showcases new exhibitions every few months, featuring different themes and artists.
10. Bell Canada Arena
A multi-purpose sports and entertainment venue hosting concerts, sports events, and family shows.
- Entertainment Venue: Hosts a variety of performances including music concerts, ice shows, and family-friendly events.
- Sports Events: Features professional sports games like basketball and lacrosse.
- Flexible Layout: Can be adjusted to accommodate various events, seating up to 10,000 people.
11. Mississauga Valley Park
A sprawling park with trails, a historic mill, and picnic areas. Offers opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and photography.
- Nature Trails: Features numerous walking and hiking trails through various landscapes.
- Historic Mill: Includes the 1850s era Miller's House and the restored gristmill.
- Wildlife Observation: Provides chances to spot local birds, squirrels, and other wildlife throughout the park.
12. The Living Arts Centre
A cultural hub offering theatre performances, art exhibits, and music concerts. Known for its educational programs and community events.
- Cultural Experiences: Showcases a variety of arts and cultural events from local and international artists.
- Educational Programs: Offers classes, workshops, and camps for those interested in the arts.
- Community Engagement: Hosts events that bring together artists, performers, and the community.
13. The Art Gallery of Mississauga (AGM)
A contemporary art gallery featuring works from local, regional, national, and international artists. Known for its educational programs and community outreach initiatives.
- Art Showcase: Displays artwork by established and emerging artists.
- Educational Programs: Offers workshops, classes, and artist talks for visitors of all ages.
- Community Engagement: Collaborates with local schools, artists, and organizations to create art-related programs and initiatives.
14. Mississauga Central Library
A modern library offering books, computers, and spaces for study, relaxation, and community events. Known for its unique architectural design and innovative programs.
- Knowledge Resource: Provides access to a wide variety of books, magazines, newspapers, and digital resources.
- Community Spaces: Offers spaces for community events, meetings, and workshops.
- Architectural Design: Features a unique, contemporary design that blends art and functionality.
15. The Meadowvale Theatre
An independent cinema showing a mix of new releases, indie films, and classic movies. Known for its comfortable seating, affordable prices, and special event screenings.
- Movie Selection: Screens a diverse mix of new releases, indie films, and classic movies.
- Affordable Prices: Offers competitive ticket prices compared to larger cinema chains.
- Special Event Screenings: Hosts special event screenings, such as film festivals and Q&A sessions with directors.