With walking and biking trails, nature parks, museums, live theatre, galleries – and skiing, London, Ontario is a great place to live. It’s even been named a UNESCO City of Music. So, you know there’s going to be lots to do and see, no matter your hobbies and leisure activities.
Experience London’s Beautiful Parks and Outdoor Recreation
London isn’t called the Forest City for nothing! You’ll love biking the 42km trail along the Thames River and exploring the acres of nature trails and woodland in and around the city. London also has numerous public parks with ample green space, perfect for a leisurely stroll or an afternoon picnic on a breezy summer day.
Stroll Through Springbank Park
Springbank Park is a popular spot in all seasons with people who live in London, and those who are visiting. Approximately 300 acres just outside the heart of the city are filled with paths and trails winding along the Thames River. Great for walking, running, biking, rollerblading and birdwatching, these shady paths are crowned with a canopy of established old trees keeping it cool in the summer’s heat.
Three seasons of the year, Springbank Park is a popular picnic and gathering spot for families and couples. In the winter, a 250-metre skating trail is created with refrigeration for optimal skating conditions keeping you active all year around
Experience Family Fun at Storybook Gardens
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Right in the middle of Springbank Park, Storybook Gardens has been family entertainment for over 60 years. A family-centred park run by the City of London, it’s themed around storybooks, nursery rhymes and fairy tales.
In the summer, mascots and characters from popular stories roam the park. Kids enjoy the large play structures, an interactive splash pad, amusement rides and entertainment that includes puppet shows, storytellers, music and more.
Enjoy Outdoor Fun at Boler Mountain
Image courtesy of Boler Mountain
Skiing, snowboarding and snow tubing are all enjoyed on the slopes of Boler Mountain. Cross-country skiers take advantage of the trails. In the summer, the trails are popular with mountain bikers testing their skills.
A treetop adventure zone with ziplines, rope courses and more keep the action happening when it’s off ski season.
Hike Through London’s Conservation Areas
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Without ever leaving the city of London, you can have nature at your feet. Whether you enjoy casual walking or strenuous hiking, nature areas and trails throughout the city offer the best of every season. The Thames Valley Parkway alone offers over 40 kilometres of paved multi-use pathways.
Learn About the City’s History at London’s Museums
If you’re a history buff, or just want to know more about your city, London has museums for a variety of tastes.
Fanshawe Pioneer Village
Fanshawe Pioneer Village offers a stroll back in time through four pioneer communities that reflect life in this area up to the 1920s. With hands-on activities and reenactors who can demonstrate and answer your questions, you can get up close to the lives of those who settled in and around London. For those who can’t visit in person, the Virtual Village provides an excellent alternative, allowing you to watch videos and view photos, ensuring you can still experience the rich history and culture from anywhere.
Museum London
Museum London, at the fork of the Thames River, has wonderful views both inside and out. Part history museum, part art gallery, Museum London is a must-see whether you’re moving here, visiting or have been a long-time resident. With artifacts, unique art and displays showcasing the lives of local people – from First Nations history to the present day – over 11,000 years of life in the London area can be seen.
Jet Aircraft Museum
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One of Canada’s first cavalry regiments was stationed in London and their history is captured at the 1st Hussars Museum. If you look more to the skies, the Jet Aircraft Museum at the London International Airport may be the military history you’re looking for.
The Royal Canadian Regiment Museum
The Royal Canadian Regiment Museum offers a glimpse into Canada’s military history right here in London. Located on the grounds of Wolseley Barracks, this museum showcases artifacts, uniforms, and memorabilia from the Royal Canadian Regiment. Visitors can explore exhibits on the regiment’s role in a variety of conflicts and peacekeeping missions, providing an educational and engaging experience for history buffs and curious minds alike.
Enjoy London’s Best Experiences
There’s something for everyone in London, Ontario. The population of over 500,000 is diverse and enjoys big city amenities with small town charm. No matter where your interests lie, London can keep you engaged and entertained.
See a Show at the Grand Theatre
Image courtesy of the Grand Theatre
For entertainment, experience the exciting live theatre playing at the Grand Theatre. Located right in downtown London, ON, this historic spot is a key part of the city’s arts scene. With its beautiful building and cozy feel, the Grand Theatre offers everything from classic plays to modern shows and local performances. Whether you’re a theatre lover or just looking for a fun night out, the Grand Theatre is a great place to enjoy some live entertainment. Be sure to look at their schedule and catch a show while you’re in town!
Support Local Sports
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Supporting local sports is a great way to explore London, ON. Cheer on the London Majors, a top-notch baseball team that brings plenty of action to the field. If basketball is more your style, don’t miss the London Lightning. For hockey fans, the London Knights are a must-see. Catching a game from any of these teams is a fantastic way to support local talent and experience the lively sports scene in London.
Try Local Restaurants
Downtown London is home to many of the city’s best attractions, including local restaurants, cafés, craft breweries, and pubs. If you’re looking to try some great local dining, make sure to check out the Talbot Centre. This area features a variety of delicious options, from trendy bistros to cozy eateries like Wich is Wich, Treats Talbot Centre, Grill 23 Authentic Mexican, Beach Boy Burger, and more.
Don’t forget to explore the surrounding spots as well, where you’ll find charming cafés for a relaxed coffee break and local breweries offering unique craft beers. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty meal or just a light snack, downtown London’s food scene has something for everyone.
Make Some Memories at East Park
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Make some memories at East Park, a fantastic spot for family fun and outdoor adventure in London, ON. This park offers something for everyone, whether you’re looking to hit the water slides at the splash pad, enjoy a round of mini-golf, or take a scenic stroll around the beautiful parklands. The park also features an outdoor pool, playgrounds for the kids, and sports courts for games.
Attend Summer Festivals
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Throughout July and August, Victoria Park (located in the downtown core) is host to several cultural festivals that feature incredible cuisine from around the world, handmade goods, live music, and even the occasional carnival ride. Don’t miss Sunfest, a vibrant festival celebrating global cultures with a fantastic lineup of music, dance, and international food. Another highlight is Ribfest, where you can indulge in mouthwatering BBQ ribs and enjoy lively entertainment. These summer festivals are perfect for soaking up the local atmosphere, discovering new flavours, and having a blast with friends and family.
Explore London’s Live Music Scene
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Did you know that London was named a UNESCO City of Music? This remarkable achievement highlights London’s rich musical heritage and vibrant contemporary scene. One of the best places to experience this is at the London Music Hall, a premier venue that hosts an eclectic mix of live performances. From rock and metal concerts to electronic dance events, the London Music Hall brings both local talent and internationally renowned artists to the stage. Its state-of-the-art sound system and expansive space make it a go-to spot for music lovers looking to experience the energy of live shows.
Make Your Move to London, ON
With residential buildings with unbeatable views of the city, our team at Summit Properties can help you find some great apartment options that meet your lifestyle and budget needs. Our experienced team can help you with knowledge and advice about every step of the process including making the most of your space. Contact us today for more information or to schedule a showing!