What to Do in London, Ontario: A Guide to Top Attractions and Activities

London, Ontario, known as “The Forest City,” is rich in outdoor spaces, historical sites, and cultural experiences. Located along the Thames River, London combines natural beauty with vibrant arts and entertainment options, making it a diverse destination for visitors. Here’s a comprehensive guide to what you can do in London, covering everything from outdoor adventures to historical landmarks and local culinary experiences.

1. Explore Victoria Park

Victoria Park is London’s central green space and a year-round hub of activity. Spanning 18 acres, it offers beautiful landscapes and hosts various festivals and events, especially during summer.

Highlights in Victoria Park:

• Festivals: Enjoy events like Sunfest, Home County Music & Art Festival, and Ribfest.
• Ice Skating: During the winter, the park’s pond transforms into a public skating rink.
• Peaceful Walks: The park’s paths are ideal for leisurely walks, with benches and shaded areas for relaxation.

2. Visit the Museum London

Located on the banks of the Thames River, Museum London is home to a vast collection of Canadian art and historical artifacts. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in local and national heritage.

What to See at Museum London:

• Canadian Art Collection: View works from renowned Canadian artists, including the Group of Seven.
• Historical Exhibits: Explore exhibits that highlight the social and industrial history of London and the surrounding areas.
• Interactive Displays: Some exhibits offer interactive experiences, making it engaging for families and children.

3. Walk Through the Covent Garden Market

Established in 1845, the Covent Garden Market is a lively, historic market where you can find local produce, artisanal goods, and unique foods. The market is a popular spot for both locals and visitors and offers year-round indoor and outdoor experiences.

Market Highlights:

• Local Produce and Artisans: Sample fresh fruits, vegetables, and specialty foods from local vendors.
• Craft Shops: Browse stalls selling handmade jewelry, crafts, and home decor items.
• Events: Seasonal events like Christmas markets and summer food festivals add to the charm.

4. Explore Springbank Park and Storybook Gardens

Springbank Park is one of the largest and most scenic parks in London, located along the Thames River. The park’s 300 acres offer activities for people of all ages.

Things to Do in Springbank Park:

• Trails: The park has over 30 kilometers of walking and biking trails, offering scenic views of the river.
• Picnic Areas: Enjoy a meal outdoors at one of the many picnic spots with beautiful views.
• Storybook Gardens: This family-friendly attraction within Springbank Park is a fairytale-themed amusement park featuring rides, play areas, and animal exhibits.

5. Take in the Sights at Eldon House

Eldon House is London’s oldest residence, dating back to 1834, and is a beautifully preserved example of 19th-century architecture. Now a museum, Eldon House provides a glimpse into early Canadian life and the history of the Harris family, who were prominent figures in London.

What to See at Eldon House:

• Victorian Gardens: Wander through lush, manicured gardens filled with heritage plants and flowers.
• Historical Artifacts: The interior is filled with original furniture, photographs, and artifacts that reveal the daily lives of the Harris family.
• Seasonal Events: Eldon House hosts tea parties, historical reenactments, and seasonal celebrations throughout the year.

6. Discover the Thames Valley Parkway

The Thames Valley Parkway (TVP) is London’s extensive multi-use trail system that stretches for over 40 kilometers, connecting parks, neighborhoods, and scenic spots along the Thames River.

Activities on the Thames Valley Parkway:

• Cycling and Jogging: With well-maintained paths, TVP is perfect for cycling, running, and walking.
• River Views: Enjoy beautiful river views and stop at scenic lookouts along the way.
• Wildlife Watching: Spot local wildlife like birds, rabbits, and even deer in some areas.

7. Enjoy the London Children’s Museum

Ideal for families, the London Children’s Museum offers interactive exhibits that engage children’s curiosity and creativity. The museum covers topics from space and dinosaurs to archaeology and art.

Museum Highlights:

• Dinosaur Exhibit: Explore the age of dinosaurs with life-sized replicas and interactive displays.
• Imaginative Play Spaces: Kids can engage in role-playing in themed areas like a pirate ship and outer space.
• Hands-On Learning: Exhibits encourage children to learn through touch, play, and exploration.

8. Take a Tour of Labatt Brewery

Labatt Brewery, one of Canada’s oldest breweries, was founded in London in 1847. The brewery offers tours that provide insight into the history of Labatt and the brewing process.

Labatt Brewery Tour Highlights:

• Brewery Tour: Learn about the beer-making process and Labatt’s history.
• Beer Tastings: Sample a variety of Labatt’s signature brews.
• Shop for Souvenirs: Purchase Labatt merchandise, including glasses and other memorabilia.

9. Visit Fanshawe Pioneer Village

Step back in time at Fanshawe Pioneer Village, an open-air museum that recreates life in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Located on the shores of Fanshawe Lake, the village features restored buildings, costumed interpreters, and historical artifacts.

Things to See at Fanshawe Pioneer Village:

• Historical Buildings: Explore buildings from the 1800s, including a general store, blacksmith shop, and schoolhouse.
• Hands-On Activities: Participate in activities like candle making, weaving, and blacksmithing.
• Seasonal Events: The village hosts seasonal events like Victorian Christmas and summer festivals.

10. Relax at Boler Mountain

Boler Mountain offers year-round outdoor activities, from skiing and snowboarding in winter to mountain biking, zip-lining, and hiking in summer. Located just a short drive from downtown London, it’s a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Boler Mountain Activities:

• Winter Sports: Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and tubing on Boler Mountain’s slopes.
• Mountain Biking: Ride the well-maintained mountain biking trails, suitable for all levels.
• Treetop Adventure Park: Challenge yourself on a zip-lining and ropes course through the trees.

11. Sample Local Flavors on a Food Tour

London’s food scene has flourished in recent years, with a growing number of restaurants, breweries, and cafes offering diverse flavors. Food tours allow visitors to taste local favorites and learn about the city’s culinary history.

Popular Food Experiences:

• Farm-to-Table Restaurants: Dine at establishments like The Church Key Bistro-Pub and Abruzzi, which use locally sourced ingredients.
• Craft Breweries: Visit Anderson Craft Ales and Forked River Brewing Company for craft beer tastings.
• International Cuisine: Sample flavors from around the world, including Mexican, Thai, Italian, and Middle Eastern restaurants.

12. Catch a Show at the Grand Theatre

The Grand Theatre is one of London’s oldest performing arts venues and a cornerstone of its cultural scene. It hosts a wide variety of performances, from classic plays and musicals to contemporary dramas and local productions.

What to Expect at the Grand Theatre:

• Seasonal Shows: The theatre’s annual season includes a mix of classics, Canadian plays, and new productions.
• Youth Programs: The Grand Theatre offers workshops, camps, and performances aimed at nurturing young talent.
• Special Events: Attend talkbacks, workshops, and behind-the-scenes tours to get a deeper look into the production process.

Conclusion

London, Ontario, is a dynamic city with a wealth of attractions for all types of travelers. From exploring nature at Springbank Park and hiking along the Thames Valley Parkway to learning about history at Eldon House and Fanshawe Pioneer Village, London offers a blend of urban charm and outdoor beauty. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or planning an extended stay, London has something for everyone to enjoy.