Skyline view of Wellington Rd. in downtown London, Ontario Canada
  • A male smiling and enjoying an ice cream cone from The Ice Cream Bowl located in London, Ontario

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    Summer Road Tripping in London, Ontario

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    • Author Everett Hanmer
    • Date July 1, 2024
    • Categories
      Events, Family Fun, Food & Drink, Parks & Nature, Sports & Recreation, Things To Do
  • Ready for an unforgettable summer adventure? Look no further than London, Ontario.

    Whether you're travelling with family, friends or embarking on a solo journey, London has something to offer everyone. From outdoor activities to cultural festivals, incredible patios and world-class music events, get ready to experience the best of London on your summer road trip!



    SOAK UP THE SUN: OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

    A mother, her child and friend relaxing by the wave pool at East Park located in London, Ontario
    East Park • London, Ontario


    East Park

    Summer is the perfect season to explore and enjoy the outdoor thrills of the Forest City! Brace yourself for an adrenaline-fueled adventure at East Park as you slide into the exhilarating waterpark, perfect your swing on their scenic golf course and embrace the high-speed excitement of go-karting. June 1, 2024, marks the introduction of seven new thrilling attractions and some revamped favourites like the high-speed Bullet 2.0!

     

    a group of people fishing at the Thames River off the The Thames Valley Parkway located in London, Ontario
    The Thames River • London, Ontario


    The Thames Valley Parkway

    The Thames Valley Parkway is another place for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers to explore! Stretching over 43 kms along the scenic parklands of the Thames River, this multi-use recreational trail is the perfect setting to explore on two wheels, two feet, roller blades, scooters and more! With picturesque river crossings and connections to over 150 kms of additional pathways, there’s endless options to discover all corners of London's natural beauty.

     

    An aerial view of Labatt Memorial Park on a bright summer day located in London, Ontario
    Labatt Memorial Park • London, Ontario


    Labatt Memorial Park

    For sports enthusiasts and history buffs, tours of Labatt Park - the world’s oldest baseball grounds - is a sure home run! Their guided tours take you on a fascinating journey through time. You’ll explore the park, hear captivating stories about legendary players and view artifacts spanning the park's remarkable history. After you’ve learned about baseball of the past, experience the present at a London Majors game! Join in as they face off against both new challengers and familiar foes. This season promises home runs, hot dogs and new sports memories under the London sky.

     

    A golf course located in London, Ontario
    FireRock Golf Club • London, Ontario


    Golfing in London, Ontario

    No summer sports talk would be complete without mentioning the beautiful greens of the Forest City. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned pro, the London, Ontario golf directory has a course that’s perfect to work on your swing and challenge your putting strokes while you soak up the summer sun.

     

    The shore of Grand Bend's beach with people swimming in the water while the sun is setting
    Grand Bend, Ontario


    Head to the Beach

    Speaking of sun, if you’re in the mood for a beach day, you are in luck! London is situated a short drive from two amazing beach towns. Port Stanley and Grand Bend are both fantastic options for those looking to sink their feet in the sand while staying in London.

     

    A group of kids and their parents riding in a bee themed tractor at Clovermead Adventure Farm
    Clovermead Adventure Farm


    Clovermead Adventure Farm

    Just a short 20-minute drive outside of London, Clovermead Adventure Farm is a great place for some outdoor fun. Family activities like wagon rides, splash pads, petting zoos, straw jumps, zip lines, pedal go-karts and more make for a refreshing day away from the city.

     

    A family having fun at one of the character displays outdoors at Storybook Gardens located in London, Ontario
    Storybook Gardens • London, Ontario


    Storybook Gardens

    If you're looking for some thematic fun, Storybook Gardens is where imagination, excitement and wonder come to life. The fairytale inspired theme park has rides, swings, a 100-year-old express train and story time characters that will leave kids inspired as they explore the magic around every corner. 



    BEAT THE HEAT: INDOOR ADVENTURES

    An inside aerial view of the The Factory at 100 Kellogg Lane located in London, Ontario
    The Factory at 100 Kellogg Lane • London, Ontario


    100 Kellogg Lane

    If you need to escape the summer heat or turn a rainy day into a whirlwind of fun, don’t miss 100 Kellogg Lane, where excitement awaits under one roof! Immerse yourself in the ultimate adventure with a list of exhilarating activities, including the world's largest indoor ropes course, a trampoline park, ziplines, arcade games, multi-sport simulators and mind-bending virtual reality rooms. Not to mention the delicious local flavours found at the on-site brewery, distillery, Beer Kitchen and restaurants! Prepare to create memories that will keep you buzzing long after your visit!

     

    Two people walking through an art exhibit in Museum London located in London, Ontario
    Museum London • London, Ontario


    Museums in London, Ontario

    The cultural exhibits of art and history in London can also make for an inspiring afternoon. Whether you're interested in art, history, medicine, the military, indigenous culture and early settler life, or if you’re looking to get up close and personal with a jet aircraft, London has an amazing variety of museums waiting for you to explore! 


     

    Sounds of summer: Music festivals

     

    City of Music

    London is Canada’s UNESCO City of Music. One of the contributing factors to this prestigious designation is a diverse selection of music festivals that will bring your summer road trip to the next level. 
     

    A large crowd of people gathered outdoors in Victoria Park located in London, Ontario enjoying live music from the Sunfest Festival
    Sunfest • London, Ontario


    Music can be found all around London, but there are two festivals that are especially iconic. Sunfest is a four-day cultural extravaganza featuring renowned artists from around the globe as they come together to celebrate a rich diversity of music and arts. Rock the Park is an annual event that showcases world-class musicians in the heart of the city, right along the Thames River. 

    These two are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to live music in London! Every week there are electric shows at London's indoor venues and lively performances at an ever expanding list of cultural festivals. Make sure to stay up to date with Tourism London's music event page and experience all the beautiful sounds in the summer air.

     



    REFUEL & REFRESH

    London has a vibrant patio scene, offering a variety of hidden gems and popular outdoor spaces where you can savour delicious food and refreshing drinks. Whether you're looking for a cozy hideaway, a trendy rooftop perch, or a lively streetside spot, London's patios have something for every taste. Enjoy the warm summer air and unwind with your favourite beverage, making the most of the city's inviting patio culture.
     

    Three females enjoying a beverage outdoors at Barney's Patio located in London, Ontario
    Barney's Patio • London, Ontario

     


    Covent Garden Market

    First established in 1845, Covent Garden Market is a historic landmark located in downtown London. This vibrant market is open seven days a week, offering a plethora of food options, services and a weekly local farmers' market. The summer season is full of exciting musical and cultural festivities that bring in rich flavours from around the world. Upcoming highlights include the Colombian Gastronomy Festival, Island Fest and JJ's Jerk Fest, just to name a few!
     

    A small group of people ordering some food from a vendor in Covent Garden Market located in London, Ontario
    Covent Garden Market • London, Ontario

     

    London’s Libations Scene

    What could be better than a refreshing summer drink? A locally brewed summer drink of course! London’s libations scene is uniquely diverse with breweries and distilleries that make the drink in your hand extra special. The local scene of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic locally crafted drinks is sure to elevate your afternoon outing into a special experience you’ll brag to your friends about. 

     

    A male at a table with a sample beer flight board at Anderson Craft Ales located in London, Ontario
    Anderson Craft Ales • London, Ontario


    Ice Cream!

    If someone in your car is screaming for ice cream, don’t fret! Be sure to stop at one of the many great ice cream spots in the city! Indulge in decadent flavours at Haven's Creamery, experience rolled ice cream at Roli Poli, savour homemade treats at The Ice Cream Bowl and enjoy the retro vibes at Merla Mae Ice Cream. Cool off and treat yourself to a scoop…or two!
     

    Two males smiling and enjoying an ice cream cone each from The Ice Cream Bowl located in London, Ontario
    The Ice Cream Bowl • London, Ontario


    Summer is in full swing in the Forest City! There’s no better time to gather your loved ones and embark on an unforgettable summer adventure in London, Ontario. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for a summer of endless possibilities and memorable adventures!

     


     

    Summer Gallery

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