The Ontario government this week announced it will provide tax credits of up to $400 for families to explore the province next year. Here’s a mini-guide to things to see and do in Stratford, Ontario.
Stratford is, of course, best-known as the home of the Stratford Festival; one of the pre-eminent theatre offerings in the world. Fans come from all over the world for Shakespeare performances and modern plays alike, featuring some of the top actors and actresses on the planet. But there’s a lot more than live theatre in this town, which is less than two hours west of Toronto.
A meal at Red Rabbit restaurant in Stratford, Ontario. JIM BYERS PHOTO
Stratford is home to several terrific restaurants, including Red Rabbit, Bijou and Mercer Hall. It’s also where you’ll find a great craft beer spot called Black Swan, and a fine distillery named Junction 56. Revel is a hip coffee bar that dishes out fine pastries and good, strong coffee in an atmosphere that feels like Toronto’s West Queen West.
I’ve often said you can’t be a great town without a great bookstore, and Stratford has one of those in Fanfare Books.
One of the top places to stay in the city is The Bruce, which features luxurious touches and beautiful rooms. Another option is Bentley’s Bar Inn downtown, which has spacious, well-appointed rooms that would be great for a family.
My e-book, Ontario Escapes: 19 Great Places to Visit Right Now, has a chapter devoted to Stratford. You can find it on Apple Books for just $4.99.
