Overview
Stratford is internationally known for the Stratford Shakespeare Festival, which draws more than 600,000 visitors annually to North America's largest classical repertory theatre. The city offers world-class theatrical performances from April through October, combined with charming Victorian architecture, parks along the Avon River, and a compact walkable downtown filled with boutiques and restaurants.
Culture · Day Trips · Family Travel · Festivals · History
Before you go
Accommodation
High season runs approximately mid-April to mid-November with peak pricing. Stratford has many B&Bs ranging from $90 to over $250 per night. Book well in advance for festival performances.
Connectivity
Free computer and internet access available at Stratford Public Library (19 St. Andrew Street). Most accommodations and cafes offer WiFi.
Food
Downtown restaurants require reservations for pre-theatre dining. Casual options include pubs, pizzerias, and coffee shops. Fine dining at The Old Prune requires reservations and serves dinner Tuesday-Sunday spring through September.
Transport
Stratford railway station on Shakespeare Street serves VIA Rail connections to Toronto and Sarnia. FlixBus runs from Toronto and London. The Stratford Direct Bus (return $34) serves festival theatre-goers from Toronto mid-July to late October.
Weather
Summer temperatures range 18-26°C with July-August being warmest. Winter brings snow with January averaging -6°C. Festival season (April-October) offers the most comfortable weather for outdoor activities.