This city is the site of the Stratford Festival, ranked among the three great English-speaking theatres in the world. The Festival began in 1953 when Shakespeare's plays were produced under a tent along the North American Stratford-upon-Avon River. Yearly festivals include the ongoing Stratford Festival from April through November. The festival showcases a number of plays and shows to showcase Canadian acting talent. There is an extensive park system throughout the city with art exhibitions and areas for walking and picnicking. Indulge in the culture along with the breathtaking scenery all four seasons of the year. The entire region is dotted with communities whose Bed and Breakfast owners welcome the prospect of showing you a good time during your stay. Here you can rub shoulders with the bard at the world famous Stratford Festival, dine at some of Ontario's finest restaurants, stroll Brickman's Botanical Gardens, browse for delightful arts and antiques or just soak up the incredible enchantment of this welcoming town.

Friendly and sophisticated, brimming with culture and charm. No visit to Stratford would be complete without browsing our unique shopping, gift stores and unique boutiques along Main Street. Shakespearean mementos and antique treasures await the Stratford Shopper. Visit the gardens along the Avon River or explore the farmers market. Unwind by the river, feed the swans, visit the ducks or take a paddle boat ride down the Avon. There are two species of swans along the Avon. The white swans are called `mute swans` and the black swans.

The Swans nest dates back to the 17th Century and is one of one earliest brick buildings in the Stratford area. With its own river frontage it is perfectly situated for an afternoon boating trip, or a leisurely stroll along the banks of the River Avon, before heading for the theatre. Culture, history and awe-inspiring panoramas, the very essence of the beautiful community of Stratford.