Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Burlington, Ontario to Stratford, Ontario

If you're looking for a perfect road trip with plenty of stops to satisfy your wanderlust cravings, look no further than a road trip from Burlington, Ontario, to Stratford, Ontario. The scenic drive takes you through the Niagara Escarpment and offers stunning views of Lake Ontario, and the route is lined with delightful small towns and unexpected wonders. The route from Burlington, Ontario, to Stratford, Ontario, is roughly 150 km and takes around 2 hours by car. But with the five unexpected stops along the way, you're guaranteed to have an unforgettable journey.

Halfway Point: Cambridge, ON

Before diving into the five unexpected stops along the way, we must mention the halfway point: Cambridge, ON. Cambridge is a beautiful town surrounded by greenery, rivers, and an explosion of color in the fall. This charming small town is a perfect place to take a break and enjoy the magnificent architecture. The city's historic downtown boasts a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and local shops.

1. Guelph, ON

The first stop along the way is Guelph, ON, home to the beautiful University of Guelph Arboretum. The Arboretum is 165 acres of land with paths taking you through cultivated gardens and wildflower meadows. Here, you can take a nature walk or a bicycle ride or enjoy the fauna and flora with guided tours. The Arboretum is an excellent stop to relax and replenish your soul, surrounded by nature's beauty. After exploring the arboretum, take a short walk to the downtown core, composed of quaint shops, restaurants, cafes featuring mouth-watering delicacies. The Boat House Tea Room, located by the river, offers delicious scones with Devonshire cream while offering a beautiful view of the river.

2. Elora, ON

The charming town of Elora is situated on the banks of the Grand River. Elora is one of the most picturesque towns you will ever see, with unique architecture, picturesque streets, and some of the best views you will ever find. A perfect spot to stretch your legs and enjoy a picnic by the river. Be sure to capture the beautiful moment with a photo! Elora is also great for art lovers, with its art galleries and studios scattered throughout the town. Those who have a sweet tooth make sure to visit Sticky Pudding, a dessert restaurant with the most unique pudding flavors you can imagine!

3. West Montrose, ON

West Montrose is home to one of the Last remaining covered bridges in Ontario, elegantly spanning over the Grand River for over 100 years. Known as the "Kissing Bridge", there is a sweet tale behind the name. In the past, young couples would stop on the bridge to steal a kiss under the cover, and the name stuck! The bridge and the surrounding countryside offer stunning photographs with the sunset and sunrise. A perfect place for a romantic stop with your significant other.

4. St. Jacobs, ON

St. Jacobs nestled in the heart of Mennonite country is a picturesque village with a vibrant history and unique culture. St. Jacobs is home to fascinating shops and galleries showcasing local artists' works while also featuring high-quality handmade furniture and quilts prepared by the local men and women. You will find it hard to leave the place without taking a beautiful souvenir or a unique item home! After some shopping, indulge in a hearty meal of Homestyle Mennonite cooking at Jake's Grill. Jake's Grill will serve you some of the most delicious meals you'll have on the trip.

5. Shakespeare, ON

Shakespeare is a small, charming town featuring a beautiful view of the countryside. It's home to a wide range of theaters and cultural events involving Shakespearean works. The place celebrates the works of William Shakespeare, even hosting events named "Shakespeare in the Garden" and "Shakespeare in the Valley." Here, Rundles, a famous restaurant featuring modern Canadian cuisine, can’t be missed. Rundles is known for the mouth-watering dishes prepared using the freshest and locally sourced ingredients.

So, are you convinced yet? Take a trip from the picturesque Burlington to Stratford and discover the joys of small-town Ontario. Along the way, stop and enjoy the sights, sounds, and flavors of each destination, and create meaningful memories that will last a lifetime. All that's left now is to plan the trip and hit the road!