Fall in Stratford, Ontario - 7 Best Things To Do in Stratford in the Fall

Looking for an Ontario fall getaway? Then you’ll want to check out fall in Stratford! In this travel guide, we’re featuring some of the best activities, things to do and restaurants in Stratford in the fall that you can safely experience.

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Fall in Stratford

When most people think of Stratford, they always think of the Shakespeare Festival during the summer. But there is so much to enjoy in Stratford in the other seasons as well, including Fall.

Autumn is such wonderful time as the weather gets cooler and the leaves start to turn. It’s not surprising why it’s a lot of people’s favourite season.

Lady with red jacket standing with fall foliage at TJ Dolan Natural Area in Stratford, Ontario

I’ve always loved visiting Stratford, having visited a lot of times especially when I was studying in the University of Waterloo. For a small city, there’s always something new and exciting to explore.

I love that it’s such a walkable city so you can really walk everywhere in the city centre. Most of the attractions found here we just walked except for the Stratford Perth Museum and TJ Dolan Natural Area.

Holding red, orange and green leaves at TJ Dolan Natural Area in Stratford, Ontario

Travelling Foodie Tip: Park at the free Municipal Parking Lot! We parked at the Cooper Parking Lot (105 St. Patrick Street).

I shared about Stratford in the Spring for food lovers and how to spend a summer day. Now, I’m sharing why you’d want to visit Stratford in the fall!

Also Read: Best Fall Attractions in Virginia

Best Things To Do During Fall in Stratford

There are so many things to do in Stratford in the fall from its impressive food scene to discovering natural beauty. Here are some of my favourites.

Enjoy hiking in nature trails to see fall foliage in Stratford

One of the most popular activities in the fall is checking out some fall foliage, and Stratford is a great place to visit for some fall colors.

Avon River fall reflections at TJ Dolan Natural Area in Stratford, Ontario

I found the best time to go is in the first two weeks of October when the colors have mostly turned but the leaves haven’t fallen.

Stratford has a 13.4 km nature trail, which starts from the T.J. Dolan Natural Area and connects to the Avon Trail, a 113 km hiking trail from St. Marys to Conestogo, linking the Thames Valley and Grand Valley Trails.

Fall foliage reflections at TJ Dolan Natural Area in Stratford, Ontario

On this trail along the Avon River, you’ll see amazing fall foliage while hitting some of the popular attractions in Stratford like Lake Victoria and the Festival Theatre.

Fall foliage reflections at Lake Victoria along Avon River in Stratford, Ontario

Learn more about the Stratford Side Trail, including a map, here.

Festival Theatre in Stratford, Ontario during Fall — Festival Theatre

Also Read: 2 Day Trip in Norfolk County, Ontario

Discover the beauty of the Shakespearean Gardens

Being known for Shakespeare, it makes sense that Stratford also has the Shakespearean Gardens, one of the best attractions in Stratford with 60 varieties of herbs, flowers and shrubs that are all mentioned in Shakespeare’s plays.

William Shakespeare bust at the Shakespearean Gardens in Stratford, Ontario

Brick Tower at the Shakespearean Gardens in Stratford, Ontario

The Shakespearean Gardens is also where you’ll find the oldest double-arch stone bridge in Ontario for some beautiful reflections and framing shots.

Ontario's oldest double-arch stone bridge at the Shakespearean Gardens in Stratford in Fall

It’s definitely one of the best places to see fall colors in Stratford without hiking, although the nature trails also passes through here.

Avon River fall foliage reflections at the Shakespearean Gardens in Stratford, Ontario

Shakespearean Gardens
Address: 5 Huron St, Stratford, Ontario N5A 2L6

Indulge in the Stratford Chocolate Trail

Love chocolate? The Savour Stratford Chocolate Trail is one of the best fall activities to explore downtown shops while indulging on decadent treats from local confectioners and bakers.

And since downtown is such a walkable city, it’s a great way to burn calories too!

Lavender Truffles at Chocolate Barr's Candies in Stratford, Ontario

This year-round self-guided tour lets you choose six stops out of the 20 in the Chocolate Trail for some chocolate-based offerings. It only costs $30+HST.

Double Mocha with plants and sign at The Livery Yard in Stratford, Ontario — At The Livery Yard, enjoy a decadent Double Mocha using Rufino Espresso and Ghirardelli chocolate

What I love about the chocolate trail is the stops and offerings change every year so it’s a very repeatable activity that’s great to do on your own, with friends or with the family!

Another thing is that a lot of goodies are ones you can bring back home.

Buzz Stop, Distinctly Tea, Small Mart, Small-Mart General Mercantile, MacLeods Scottish Shop Goodies from Stratford Chocolate Trail — On the table:
1. Buzz Stop – quarter pound bag of Bavarian Chocolate Coffee freshly roasted coffee beans
2. Distinctly Tea 50-gram bag chocolate tea. Choose from Rooibos, Yerba Mate or Black
3. Small-Mart General Mercantile – 2 chocolates/candies from the retro candy section
4. MacLeods Scottish Shop – Box of Scottish Highlands shortbread with Belgian chocolate
5. Junction 56 Distillery – 50ml mini Rheo Thompson Candies Chocolate Liqueur

The Chocolate Trail is a great way to visit two of Stratford’s local authentic chocolate shops.

At Rheo Thompson Candies, you can have your choice of 4 handmade creams, caramels, barks or specialty chocolates.

Four different chocolates at Rheo Thompson Candies in Stratford, Ontario — Chocolates (clockwise from top): Dark Coconut Crunchies, Strawberry Cream, Hazelnut Praline, Rum & Butter Cream

At Chocolate Barr’s Candies, you can choose 3 handmade truffles from over 12 flavours.

Learn more about the Stratford Chocolate Trail with all the stops and offerings here.

Lavender, Sea Salt and Whiskey Truffles at Chocolate Barr's Candies in Stratford, Ontario — Lavender, Sea Salt and Whiskey Truffles

Also Read: Oxford County Cheese Trail in Ontario

Visit the Stratford Perth Museum

A short drive from downtown is the Stratford Perth Museum, one of the best things to do in Stratford bridging history, culture and nature.

1870 Victorian buff brick home at Stratford Perth Museum in Stratford, Ontario

Inside, you’ll find permanent exhibits including “Such Stuff as Dreams” (history of the Stratford Festival), the “Railway Century” (history of rail and steam locomotive repair in Stratford and Perth County) and “You Are Here” (history of men and women that built Perth County as the agricultural hub of Ontario).

Old Railway Train at Stratford Perth Museum in Stratford, Ontario

Did you know? Justin Bieber grew up in Stratford!

It’s only fitting there’s a tribute for him. The Justin Bieber Exhibit “Steps to Stardom” opened in 2018 as part of the temporary exhibit of the Stratford Perth Museum.

Justin Bieber Exhibit at Stratford Perth Museum in Stratford, Ontario

Here you’ll learn about Justin Bieber’s life from his childhood all the way to success. You’ll even find a copy of the wedding invitation of him and Hailey Bieber.

Justin and Hailey Bieber's Wedding Invitation at Stratford Perth Museum in Stratford, Ontario — I found the rule stated at the bottom of the invitation quite interesting.

Just because it’s a museum, it doesn’t mean you’re only staying indoors.

Stratford Perth Museum has a Historical Walk, a 0.7 km trail that combines nature and history through 15 story boards on the history of Stratford, Perth County and surrounding area.

Historical Walk trail at Stratford Perth Museum in Stratford, Ontario

Stratford Perth Museum
Website / Address: 4275 Huron St, Stratford, Ontario N5A 6S6
Price: $7 Adults, $6 Students and Seniors, $5 Children
Hours: 10am-4pm seven days a week

Also Read: Best Things To Do in Timmins, Ontario

Taste the Stratford Food Scene

Every time I visit Stratford, there’s something in their food scene that surprises me. That’s why I’m always excited when I make a trip here.

One unique thing the city has done for its food scene is the Stratford Al Fresco project where you’ll find designated safe dining spaces at various spots: Market Square, Tom Patterson Island and Memorial Gardens.

Al Fresco Project at Market Square in Stratford, Ontario

With socially distanced picnic tables, hand sanitizer stations, garbage cans and recycling bins, it’s a great way to get some cozy dining in Stratford during fall. Also, alcohol is permitted when purchased from a restaurant with takeout food!

Though the Al Fresco Dining has wrapped up for the season, I hope it becomes an annual fall program.

Ducks on Avon River in Stratford, Ontario — Tom Patterson Island on the left, across the bridge

With local flavours and diverse cuisines, there’s something delicious for everyone here. I’m featuring some must-try dishes from my Fall trip from some of the best restaurants in Stratford.

AO Pasta

“Everything is better with Spaghetti!”, according to the sign at AO Pasta, one of best restaurants in Stratford serving homemade pasta. You’ll definitely want to try their spaghetti and meatball, but also be on the look out for their daily features on the chalkboard.

If you see the Butter Nut Squash Cappelleti there, order it! And save room for their tiramisu.

Cappelletti at AO Pasta in Stratford, Ontario — Daily Feature Cappelletti ($18) – butter nut squash, brown butter sauce, sage and parmesan

Tiramisu at AO Pasta in Stratford, Ontario — Tiramisu ($9) – lady finger, mascarpone

AO Pasta
Website / Address: 20 Wellington St, Stratford, Ontario N5A 2L2

Braai House

I was so excited to try this South African inspired restaurant because I’ve never had South African cuisine.

Be sure to try the specific South African dishes Braai House offers like Boerewors & Chakalaka, Dom Pedro cocktail and Malva Pudding, but you must also try the Smoked Back Ribs from the braai (South African barbecue).

Boerewors & Chakalaka at Braai House in Stratford, Ontario — Boerewors & Chakalaka ($14) – Traditional South African sausage on a bed of tomato and onion relish. Served with parmesan pap, chili oil

South African Dom Pedro at Braai House in Stratford, Ontario — Dom Pedro ($12) – a South African staple in digestive form – cocoa nib & espresso steeped bourbon, orange creme anglaise, Pierre Ferrand dry curacao, Amarula & dark chocolate ice cream

Malva Pudding at Braai House in Stratford, Ontario — Malva Pudding ($12) – A traditional South African dessert, warm apricot infused cake, apricot gel, Amarula ice cream

Braai House
Website / Address: 34 Brunswick St Second Floor, Stratford, ON N5A 3L8

The Common

With the motto of Eat Without Borders, The Common is the most diverse restaurant you can find in Stratford featuring dishes from all around the world from Thai and Indian to Italian and French.

Be sure to try the Bruleed Chicken Liver Pate, which (trust me) is unlike any other chicken liver pate you’ve had before.

Potato Croquettes and Bruleed Chicken Liver Pate at The Common in Stratford, Ontario — On the table:
– Potato Croquettes ($12) – with roasted red pepper remoulade
– Bruleed Chicken Liver Pate ($12) – with crostini

You’ll also want to try the Thai Green Curry with Ping Gai (Grilled Chicken) which is a nice cross between the two Thai and Laotian dishes.

Green Thai Curry with Ping Gai Chicken at The Common in Stratford, Ontario — Green Thai Curry with Ping Gai Chicken ($27) – local veg, crispy wontons & fragrant rice

The Common
Website / Address: 80 Wellington St, Stratford, Ontario N5A 2L2

YSK Bistro

You’ll want to try the Hoagie sandwich at one of Stratford’s best sandwich joint, YSK Bistro. This signature sandwich comes with tender 3-day cured AAA beef on a freshly baked daily bun.

Pouring beef jus on The Hoagi Sandwich at York Street Kitchen Bistro in Stratford, Ontario — The Hoagie ($12.95) – house-roasted beef, sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, melted cheese, roasted garlic mayo on a toasted hoagie bun. Served with beef jus

Save room for the gooey chewy homemade butter tart.

Butter Tart with Raisins at YSK Bistro in Stratford, Ontario — House-made Butter Tart ($3.25)

York Street Kitchen Bistro
Website / Address: 151 Albert St, Stratford, Ontario N5A 3K5

Foster’s Inn Restaurant

Breakfast at Foster’s Inn Restaurant is a favourite for many locals. You’ll want to try the breakfast poutine, their breakfast twist to this Canadian staple.

Cheese Pull Breakfast Poutine at Foster's Inn in Stratford, Ontario — Foster’s Breakfast Poutine ($14) – home fries with soft poached eggs, cheese curds, bacon lardons, house made hollandaise

You can’t go wrong with the Mexican classic, Huevos Rancheros, either as the mix of toppings give an explosion of flavour.

Huevos Rancheros at Foster's Inn in Stratford, Ontario — Huevos Rancheros ($16) – homefries, sriracha & cheese folded in a tortilla, two fried eggs, salsa, sour cream. I added beans & bacon (+$4)

Foster’s Inn Restaurant
Website / Address: 111 Downie St, Stratford, Ontario N5A 1X2

Also Read: Where To Eat in St. Thomas, Ontario

Grab a drink at local breweries and distilleries

Aside from a great food scene, Stratford also has an amazing drinks scene with local craft brewers and distilleries to check out during your fall getaway. There are four breweries and one distillery in Stratford that you can visit:

Black Swan Brewing Co
Braai House Microbrewing
Heritage Hops Brew Co
Jobsite Brewing Co

Beer Flight at Black Swan Brewing Co — Black Swan Brewing is part of the Chocolate Trail where you can get a glass of Porter.

While three of the breweries are in downtown, Jobsite Brewing Company is a good 10-15 minute walk from downtown right next to Junction 56 Distillery.

Beer Flight with Buttered Popcorn at Jobsite Brewing in Stratford, Ontario — Beer Flight with Free Popcorn at Jobsite Brewing Co

It’s great to visit these two places in one shot especially if you’re doing the Chocolate Trail because Junction 56 Distillery is a stop too.

Junction 56 Distillery Handcrafted Chocolate Liqueur Tasting in Stratford, Ontario

Also Read: Best of Windsor-Essex County, Ontario

Get your camera ready for Insta-worthy Spots in Stratford

Are you always doing it #ForTheGram? Stratford is known for picturesque Instagrammable backdrops that make it perfect for your fall photos.

We visited some of the spots below, but you can find the full list of 15 Insta-worthy spots in Stratford here.

Justin Bieber Star outside Avon Theatre in Stratford, Ontario — Justin Bieber’s bronze star in front of the Avon Theatre

Interior Bar at Braai House in Stratford, Ontario — Braai House

Framing the Stratford City Hall in Fall — Stratford City Hall

Framing the Shakespearean Gardens Mini Island under Ontario's oldest double-arch stone bridge in Stratford — Double arch stone wall under the Huron Street bridge

Raymond Cua of Travelling Foodie with Justin Bieber cut out at Stratford Perth Museum in Stratford, Ontario — Justin Bieber Exhibit

Also Read: Instagrammable Things To Do in Seattle, Washington

MAP: Fall Getaway in Stratford

Here’s a map with all the Stratford attractions and places to eat covered in this fall travel guide.

Hope this travel guide gives you an idea on why you’d want to visit Stratford, Ontario in the fall! There’s so many things to do in Stratford with the beautiful fall foliage while enjoying their delicious food scene.

Time to plan that fall getaway!

I’m always looking for new places to visit! Please let me know what you find are the best attractions and restaurants especially during Fall for my next trip.

Be sure to PIN/SAVE/BOOKMARK this Stratford fall travel guide since I will be keeping this updated with more!

Fall in Stratford, Ontario - Travel Guide on TravellingFoodie.net

Huge thanks to Destination Stratford for sponsoring this post. As usual, reviews and opinions are 100% entirely my own.

You can learn more about Destination Stratford on their website.

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