Stratford's Park System

Stratford's Main Park System contains approximately 115 acres of formal parklands and nearly 60 acres of natural area. The formal parkland is bounded immediately to the south by major access routes and a vibrant downtown area and to the north by exquisite residential properties. Two of the city's three theatres; the Shakespearean Theatre and Tom Patterson Theatre are located within the formal park system with the Avon Theatre located in the downtown area. The park system itself is virtually bisected by Lake Victoria and the Avon River system. The combination of land and water lends itself to a wide variety of activities.

These Include:

Hundreds of benches and picnic tables scattered through the system for dining or just plain relaxing

Nearly 16 kilometres of trails accommodating walking, jogging and cycling activities

Lake Victoria stretching for nearly 2 kilometres affords one the opportunity to canoe, paddle boat or take a guided tour on the "Juliet." Or, if you prefer grab a lawn chair come on down to the shores of Lake Victoria and on many summer evenings enjoy the sounds of live jazz on the H.M.S. Razz Ma Jazz as it traverses up and down the lake

Don't forget to visit with our famous Swans. We have over 30 birds both Black Australian and the more widely known White Mute. Many of these birds are on Lake Victoria for the summer season and we are usually lucky enough to have one or two mated pairs hatch young every summer for your added enjoyment

A variety of sports activities can be enjoyed whether passively or actively including baseball, soccer, lawn bowling or tennis

Art in the Park is a regular feature along Lake Victoria during the summer months and affords one the opportunity to leisurely walk and browse among a variety of artists as they ply their wares

Upper Queen's Park overlooking Lake Victoria is approximately 6 acres in size and has many amenities including playground equipment, washrooms, bandshell and both informal picnic areas; or a formal picnic area which for a small fee can be reserved for family reunions, corporate picnics, gatherings, etc. Groups of 25 up to 200 can be accommodated. A covered pavilion is also available in case of inclement weather.

The parks two band shells provide a backdrop for many concerts given free throughout the summer months by a variety of musicians and musical tastes.

For those interested in horticulture there are literally dozens of annual, perennial and shrub beds to peruse throughout the formal park system. As well, 3 major formal areas: Shakespearean Gardens and Cenotaph/Memorial Gardens at the westerly end of the system, and Confederation Park/Gallery at the easterly end afford a quiet reflective atmosphere where one can certainly relax and enjoy.

If its information you require, the Tourist Information Centre located at the westerly end of the Lake Victoria near Thomas Orr Dam can certainly answer most if not all your inquiries. The Centre is open daily from May to November.

Gallery Stratford at the easterly limits of the main park system, just off Romeo Street and next to Confederation Park is just a short 5 minutes from the Festival Theatre and Upper Queens Park. Many interesting exhibits and programs are available throughout the year. Well worth a visit!