London, Ontario - Sitting Pretty Between Detroit and Toronto
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Travel Notes: Destinations: Canada: Ontario - London Travel Guide.
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Travel Guide For Visitors to London, Ontario
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London, Ontario has cultivated a reputation as one of the most liveable cities in Canada. Spend time here and you will see why locals rate their hometown high. Share on Facebook
London, Ontario
When someone mentions London, your mind probably doesn't leap to southern Ontario. Yet this vibrant Canadian city offers everything you'd want from a proper urban adventure; minus the astronomical prices and crushing crowds.
Visiting London, Ontario
Home to almost half a million residents and anchored by the prestigious University of Western Ontario, this isn't your typical sleepy Canadian town.
London, Ontario pulses with student energy, boasts a thriving arts scene, and serves up outdoor adventures that'll have you wondering why you bothered with more expensive destinations.
Getting Your Bearings - London Ontario's Prime Location
London sits smack dab in south-western Ontario, roughly two hours from Toronto and equally convenient to Windsor and the American border.
The Thames River winds through the city centre, creating natural green corridors that locals have cleverly transformed into cycling and walking paths.
The downtown core remains refreshingly walkable, whilst neighbourhoods like Old East Village and Wortley Village offer distinct personalities worth exploring.
Public transit runs efficiently, though many visitors find cycling or walking the most pleasant way to experience the city's tree-lined streets.
Essential London Ontario Attractions You Can't Miss
Eldon House - Victorian Elegance Preserved
London's oldest residence offers a glimpse into upper-class Victorian life.
The beautifully preserved rooms and manicured gardens provide insight into how the city's elite lived during London's early boom years.
Fanshawe Pioneer Village - Step Back in Time
Transport yourself to 19th-century Ontario at this living history museum.
Fanshawe Pioneer Village captivates history buffs with authentic buildings, costumed interpreters, and hands-on demonstrations that bring the past to life.
It's particularly brilliant for families, though adults will find themselves genuinely absorbed in the historical narratives.
Museum London - Art Meets History
This architectural gem (421 Ridout St N) houses an impressive collection of Canadian art alongside fascinating regional history exhibits.
The museum's contemporary Canadian collection rivals anything you'll find in larger cities, whilst regular rotating exhibitions keep things fresh for repeat visitors.
St. Peter's Cathedral Basilica - Architectural Marvel
This stunning Gothic Revival cathedral serves as both spiritual centre and architectural landmark.
Even non-religious visitors appreciate the soaring spires and intricate stonework that make this one of Ontario's most photographed churches.
Outdoor Adventures That'll Get Your Heart Pumping
Boler Mountain - Year-Round Thrills
Don't let the modest elevation fool you, Boler Mountain delivers proper outdoor excitement across all seasons.
This year-round outdoor adventure centre has been providing locals and tourists of all demographics an adventure of a lifetime for the past 75 years.
Winter brings skiing, snowboarding, and tubing, whilst summer transforms the slopes into mountain biking trails and zip-lining adventures.
Thames Valley Parkway - Cycling Paradise
This extensive trail system follows the Thames River through London and beyond, offering everything from leisurely rides to serious cycling challenges.
The paved paths connect parks, neighbourhoods, and natural areas, making it possible to explore much of the city on two wheels.
Treetop Adventure Parks - Conquer Your Fears
Several locations around London offer canopy tours and aerial obstacle courses.
These aren't gentle strolls through the trees; expect proper challenges that'll test your balance and nerve whilst rewarding you with unique perspectives on Ontario's forests.
London's Cultural Scene
Covent Garden Market - Local Flavours and Crafts
Covent Market serves as London's cultural heartbeat, where local farmers, artisans, and food vendors gather year-round.
The Saturday farmers' market buzzes with activity, whilst weekday visits offer a more relaxed atmosphere for browsing unique crafts and sampling local delicacies.
Grand Theatre - Professional Productions
This historic venue hosts everything from touring Broadway shows to local productions.
The intimate setting means there's hardly a bad seat in the house, and ticket prices remain refreshingly reasonable compared to larger centres.
London Music Scene - Rising Stars and Established Acts
London's numerous venues support both emerging Canadian talent and touring international acts.
The city's university population ensures a steady demand for live music, creating opportunities to discover new artists before they hit the big time.
Where to Stay in London, Ontario
Downtown hotels put you within walking distance of major attractions, whilst suburban options often provide better value for families.
The university area offers unique bed-and-breakfast accommodations during summer months when students are away.
Popular Hotels in London, Ontario
Where to Eat - London Ontario's Culinary Surprises
London's restaurant scene reflects both its multicultural population and agricultural surroundings.
Downtown restaurants emphasise locally sourced ingredients, whilst ethnic enclaves throughout the city offer authentic international cuisines at wallet-friendly prices.
The city's craft brewery scene has exploded in recent years, with local establishments producing award-winning beers that rival anything from Toronto or Montreal.
Many breweries offer tours and tastings, making them popular stops for visitors wanting to sample local flavours.
Family-Friendly London Ontario Activities
East Park Golf Gardens - Mini Golf Excellence
This isn't your average mini golf course.
East Park features elaborate themed holes, water features, and well-maintained grounds that make for a pleasant afternoon regardless of your putting skills.
London Children's Museum - Hands-On Learning
Interactive exhibits encourage exploration and discovery across multiple floors of engaging displays.
The museum regularly rotates special exhibitions, ensuring repeat visits offer new experiences.
Storybook Gardens - Fairy Tale Fun
This enchanting theme park brings beloved children's stories to life through gentle rides, character meet-and-greets, and beautifully landscaped gardens.
It's designed for younger children but maintains enough charm to keep parents entertained.
Indoor Entertainment When Weather Won't Play
100 Kellogg Lane - Entertainment Complex
Canada's largest indoor entertainment complex, 100 Kellogg Lane features ziplines and a trampoline park alongside exciting seasonal events at the former Kellogg cereal plant.
This converted industrial space now houses multiple entertainment options under one roof, making it perfect for rainy days or winter visits.
Escape Rooms and Gaming Centres
London boasts several high-quality escape room facilities and gaming centres that provide hours of entertainment for groups. Many feature locally themed puzzles that incorporate London's history and landmarks.
Practical London Ontario Travel Information
Getting There
London sits along major highway corridors, making driving straightforward from most Ontario locations.
VIA Rail provides regular service to Toronto and Windsor, whilst the London International Airport (YXU) offers connections to major Canadian cities.
When to Visit
Each season offers distinct advantages.
Summer brings festivals, outdoor concerts, and perfect weather for cycling the Thames Valley Parkway.
Winter transforms the city into a proper winter wonderland, with snow sports at Boler Mountain and cosy indoor venues.
Spring and autumn offer mild weather and fewer crowds, making them ideal for museum visits and neighbourhood exploration.
Why London, Ontario Deserves Your Time
London succeeds where many mid-sized cities struggle.
The city offers genuine urban sophistication without urban hassles.
You'll find quality restaurants, cultural venues, and outdoor recreation opportunities that rival much larger centres, yet parking remains affordable and traffic stays manageable.
The city's compact size means you can experience multiple neighbourhoods, visit several attractions, and still have time for spontaneous discoveries.
Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or looking for a base to explore southwestern Ontario, London offers that perfect balance of excitement and relaxation that makes for memorable travels.
London, Ontario might not have Big Ben or the Thames Embankment, but it's got something perhaps more valuable: authentic Canadian charm without the tourist traps.
Give it a chance, and you might find yourself planning a return visit before you've even left. Maybe you'll even want to live here.
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