Steeped in rich heritage and small-town charm, Stratford invites visitors to step back in time through its beautifully preserved architecture, monuments, and cultural landmarks.
Whether you’re exploring local museums or wandering century-old streets, these self-guided tours offer a flexible and immersive way to experience the town’s unique story.
From the iconic Stratford Perth Museum to historic sites in and around the region, history lovers will find no shortage of meaningful places to visit. If you’re searching for memorable and educational things to do in the area, this guide highlights the must-see historical attractions that make the region truly unforgettable.
Discover Local History and Self-Guided Tours
If you’re interested in taking a look at artifacts and learning about Stratford’s unique history, be sure to visit these important destinations:
- Stratford Perth Museum
- Stratford-Perth Archives
- Stratford Cenotaph
From an emotional visit to the town’s beautiful Cenotaph, where you can pay homage to the brave men and women who fought for freedom in the first and second World Wars, through to experiencing vibrant Culture Days at the museum, these stops are must-sees during any history buff’s Southwestern Ontario getaway.
To ensure you don’t miss a fact (or a step!), access audio walk-throughs of Stratford’s landmarks and heritage.
Key Historical Sites in Perth County
The Stratford Perth Heritage Foundation has proudly cared for and perpetuated Stratford’s colourful history since 1964. One of the historical sites this foundation is most proud of is the Fryfogel Tavern & Arboretum, in the heart of Perth County. This 19th-century stagecoach stop was a resting place for incoming settlers. Now, our community is attempting to restore its gorgeous skeleton to the building’s former glory. Together, history-lovers and local supporters have contributed to creating a truly special ode to our shared heritage that visitors to the area should certainly see.
Explore Historic Churches and Religious Architecture
Stratford’s historic churches are more than places of worship — they are architectural landmarks that tell stories of the town’s growth and community spirit. Notable sites include St. James Anglican Church, established in the mid-1800s, with its stunning Gothic Revival architecture and beautifully preserved stained-glass windows. These churches offer visitors a peaceful retreat and a glimpse into the spiritual life and craftsmanship of early Stratford settlers, enriching your self-guided historical tour with quiet moments of reflection.
Self-Guided Historical Walking Tours for Visitors in Stratford
Even if you’re not looking for an official guided tour but still want to indulge in the beauty of historical architecture, Stratford is the place to spend your weekend getaway. With your Rheo Thompson chocolates in hand, alongside a Balzac’s coffee, simply start walking from your elegant accommodations at The Parlour Inn and head toward and through the centre of town to remark some truly extraordinary heritage buildings. For a richer experience, try the city’s self-guided audio tours here to explore the town’s history at your own pace.
Shakespeare Heritage and the Stratford Festival Experience
From the famous gardens to the Festival, this town is world-renowned for the eloquent homage it pays to one of the greatest playwrights of all time – William Shakespeare himself. Start your day with a refined cup of coffee and then walk towards the Avon River where you can unwind amongst the Bard’s perfectly manicured gardens and see the area’s infamous swans.
Plan your getaway during the Stratford Festival to take in unparalleled theatrical performances that boast modern talent alongside reverenced plotlines within a setting that has a history as rich as the costumes and performances you’ll fall for.
Explore Stratford Festival Archives and Historical Collections
The Stratford Festival isn’t just about world-class performances, it also preserves a rich archive of theatrical history. The Stratford Festival Archives house costumes, scripts, set designs, photographs, and memorabilia dating back to the festival’s founding in 1953. Visitors interested in theatre history or behind-the-scenes stories can delve into these collections by appointment, discovering how the city became a global hub for Shakespearean and contemporary drama. This archival treasure adds another fascinating layer to Stratford’s cultural heritage.
Heritage Buildings and Revitalized Public Spaces
During your self-guided walking tour of Stratford, be sure to stop at the following hot-spots and stop to see essential aspects of this classic town have been preserved, adapted and updated to serve as public spaces we can all enjoy.
Stratford City Hall
Stratford City Hall is a beautiful heritage site where you can stop to snap photos and learn a bit about the cultural hub of the city.
Stratford Market Square
The Market Square is an open community space that continues to bustle with local artisans and play host to special events and Culture Days that bring community members – and well-loved visitors—together to celebrate great food, music and the unique heartbeat only a place like Stratford has.
The Pumphouse
The Pumphouse, which is known today as Gallery Stratford, offers unique stops on a historical tour of the area. While the original pumphouse and reservoir buildings are no longer, the area is now home to the Stratford Art Society’s gallery, so it’s a great place to stop for the history buff and aesthetic aficionado alike.
Visit Stratford for the Perfect Mix of Modern Amenities and Rich History
While we all love a blast from the past and the opportunity to walk leisurely amidst simpler times, we’ve grown accustomed to the luxury and ease we associate with modern living. Stay at The Parlour Inn in Stratford, Ontario and you’ll never have to worry about settling for anything less than the unassuming luxury of our accommodations and the award-winning dining and service experiences we’re committed to providing.
Book your Stratford getaway today and start planning exactly how you want to experience our history, while also enjoying the present we’ve carefully crafted to appease the desires of every visitor.