Sudbury Travel Guide

Plan the perfect trip to Sudbury with this comprehensive travel guide. From outdoor adventures to culturally-rich museums and delicious local cuisine, experience the best Sudbury has to offer.


Introduction to Sudbury

Sudbury, located in Near North Northern Ontario, is a must-visit destination in Ontario, Canada. Known for its abundance of natural attractions and culturally-rich history, Sudbury offers an incredible range of activities and experiences that cater to all types of travelers.

List of Places to Visit in Sudbury

Whether you’re a history buff or an outdoor enthusiast, Sudbury has something for everyone. To help plan your itinerary, we’ve put together a list of must-visit attractions in Sudbury:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Science North: A popular science museum with a variety of interactive exhibits and a planetarium.

  • Sudbury Heritage Discovery Centre: A museum showcasing the history of Sudbury and its surrounding communities.

  • The Art Gallery of Sudbury: A cultural hub with a collection of over 7000 works of art.

Natural Attractions of Sudbury: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lake Laurentian Conservation Area: A scenic park with over 2000 acres of forest, wetlands, and hiking trails.

  • Kivi Park: A multi-use park offering activities such as hiking, biking, and fishing, and home to the Sudbury Disc Golf Association course.

  • Bell Park: A waterfront park with sandy beaches, picnic areas and lakeshore pathways.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sudbury

Sudbury is home to many scenic and challenging hiking and biking trails. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

  • The Laurentian Conservation Area: Offers over 40 kilometers of well-maintained trails for hiking, mountain biking, and cross-country skiing in the winter.

  • Lake Ramsey Walkway: A 2.5 kilometer scenic trail that winds along Lake Ramsey.

  • The “Blue-Doig” Trail: A 12.5 kilometer route through Bell Park, located near the north end of Sudbury.

Best Things to Do in Sudbury: Activities and Tours

Sudbury offers a variety of activities and tours to suit everyone’s interests. Here are some of the top things to do in Sudbury:

  • Take a city tour: Explore the rich cultural heritage of Sudbury with a city tour that includes stops at museums, landmarks, and local attractions.

  • Mining tours: Experience firsthand what life is like in one of the world’s most historic mining areas.

  • Northern Lights Viewing: Sudbury is an excellent place to view the northern lights. Take a tour with an expert guide to maximize your chances of seeing the lights.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sudbury

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Sudbury, consider this itinerary:

  • Day 1: Arrive and explore the city

  • Day 2: Visit Science North and take a city tour

  • Day 3: Take a mining tour and check out Sudbury’s art scene

  • Day 4: Hike the Laurentian Conservation Area

  • Day 5: Visit the Sudbury Heritage Discovery Centre

  • Day 6: Go on a northern lights viewing tour

  • Day 7: Enjoy a day at Bell Park

Food and Drink Scene of Sudbury

Sudbury has a fantastic food and drink scene that showcases the region’s local ingredients and unique cultural heritage. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sudbury-style peameal bacon on a bun: A classic Sudbury dish consisting of a savory slab of peameal bacon on a fresh bun.

  • Poutine: A French-Canadian dish made with fries, cheese curds, and gravy.

  • Tourtière: A meat pie filled with pork or beef and served with a variety of condiments.

Local Beverages

  • Northern Ontario Craft Beer: Sudbury has several craft breweries, and beer fans will be impressed by the variety of options.

  • Wildberry Wine: Made from locally-grown berries, this wine is a unique taste of Sudbury.

Where to Stay in Sudbury: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Sudbury offers plenty of options for visitors looking for comfortable accommodation. Here are some recommended places to stay:

  • Radisson Hotel Sudbury: A stylish, modern hotel with plenty of amenities and excellent service.

  • The Parkside Centre: A friendly, welcoming guesthouse located in the city’s downtown core.

  • HI Sudbury: A budget-friendly hostel located near the city’s main attractions.

What to Buy in Sudbury: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for authentic Sudbury souvenirs, here are some things to consider bringing home:

  • Local artisan crafts such as pottery, jewelry, and clothing.

  • Local food and drink such as wildberry wine, maple syrup, and locally-roasted coffee.

  • Souvenirs from Science North or other local museums and attractions.

Local Culture and Customs of Sudbury

Sudbury is a melting pot of cultures and traditions, and visitors can experience a mix of Northern Ontario history and modern Canadian life. Here are some things to keep in mind when visiting Sudbury:

  • Sudbury has a strong mining heritage, and many local customs and festivals are rooted in this history.

  • Canadians are generally friendly and welcoming, and it is customary to greet strangers with a smile and a polite hello.

  • Sudbury has a unique blend of French Canadian, Indigenous, and Anglophone cultures, and visitors should respect and appreciate this diversity.

Best Time to Visit Sudbury

Sudbury is a beautiful destination throughout the year, with each season offering unique activities and attractions. Here’s a breakdown of the best time to visit Sudbury:

  • Summer (June-August): The busiest time of year in Sudbury, with plenty of outdoor activities and festivals.

  • Fall (September-November): A beautiful time to visit, when the fall colors are at their peak, and the weather is cool and crisp.

  • Winter (December-February): Ideal for winter sports enthusiasts who enjoy snowshoeing, skiing, and snowmobiling.

  • Spring (March-May): A great time to visit Sudbury for nature lovers who enjoy hiking and biking in the fresh spring air.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sudbury

To ensure an enjoyable and respectful visit to Sudbury, here are some of the do’s and don’ts:

Do:

  • Explore the natural beauty of Sudbury, including the lakes and hiking trails.

  • Engage with locals and discover the unique cultural heritage of the region.

  • Try local food and drink and sample the wine and beer from Sudbury breweries.

Don’t:

  • Litter or disrespect the natural environment.

  • Be loud or disrespectful in public places.

  • Assume that all Canadians share the same customs and beliefs.

Safety and Health

Sudbury is a beautiful and safe destination, and it is always important to exercise caution and common sense when traveling. Here are some tips to stay safe and healthy while visiting Sudbury:

Safety in Sudbury

  • Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid petty crime like pickpocketing.

  • Stay on designated hiking trails and outdoor activities for safety.

  • Check for any emergency alerts or weather warnings before embarking on outdoor activities.

Health in Sudbury

  • The medical facilities in Sudbury are of high quality and modern standards.

  • Medical insurance coverage is recommended for visitors.

  • Sudbury has strict anti-smoking laws, and smoking is prohibited in public areas.

Getting to Sudbury: Transportation Options and Logistics

Sudbury is well-connected by air, land, and sea, and it is easily accessible from nearby cities and towns. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Sudbury

  • Greater Sudbury Airport: Conveniently located just a few kilometers from downtown Sudbury with domestic and international connections.

Bus Stations Near Sudbury

  • Sudbury Transit: The city’s public transportation system.

  • Greyhound and Ontario Northland Coach Lines: Both offer intercity services.

Other Options

  • Car Rental Services: Available at the Greater Sudbury Airport or within the city.

How to Get Around in Sudbury

Sudbury has an efficient and well-connected public transportation system with options like buses and taxis available. Visitors can also explore Sudbury’s many attractions by car, bike, or foot.

Where to Go Next from Sudbury: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Sudbury is a great base for exploring the surrounding region of Northern Ontario. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Manitoulin Island: A beautiful island located on Lake Huron, featuring Indigenous culture, unique geological formations, and natural beauty.

  • French River: The historic river known for its role in early Canadian history and its breathtaking scenery.

  • Killarney Provincial Park: One of the best parks in Ontario for hiking and canoeing, offering stunning views and beautiful wilderness landscapes.

Conclusion

Sudbury is a vibrant and diverse destination that offers something for everyone. From natural beauty to cultural heritage, outdoor adventures to fantastic local cuisine, Sudbury is a must-visit destination for any traveler wanting to experience the very best of Northern Ontario. Plan your trip to Sudbury today and start experiencing its magic for yourself.

Sudbury downtown Sudbury downtown Bell Park Bell Park The Big Nickel at Science North The Big Nickel at Science North Science North Science North