Woodstock Travel Guide

Your comprehensive guide to Woodstock, Ontario, including a list of places to visit, hiking and biking routes, the best things to do, food and drink recommendations, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Woodstock

Welcome to Woodstock, a charming city located in Western Ontario, Canada. Surrounded by natural beauty, Woodstock boasts a rich history, diverse culture, and plenty of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re a history buff, adventure seeker, or foodie, Woodstock has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Woodstock

Here’s a list of must-visit attractions in Woodstock:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Woodstock Art Gallery: Explore the gallery’s collection of Canadian art and exhibitions showcasing local artists.
  • Fanshawe Pioneer Village: Step back in time and experience life in the 19th century at this living history museum.
  • Southside Park: This beautiful park has a rich history, encompassing a swimming pool, tennis courts, and baseball diamonds.
  • Woodstock Museum National Historic Site: Learn about Woodstock’s heritage and the Canadian soldiers who fought in World War I.

Natural Attractions of Woodstock: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Pittock Conservation Area: Take in beautiful views of the lake, enjoy a picnic, or hike the trails.
  • Cedar Creek Conservation Area: This scenic area is perfect for hiking, bird watching, and picnicking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Woodstock

Woodstock has several hiking and biking trails for outdoor enthusiasts:

  • The Thames Valley Trail is a 104-kilometre trail that passes through Woodstock and offers scenic views of the Thames River.
  • Pines Trail: This trail winds through mature pine forests, offering beautiful scenery and opportunities to spot wildlife.
  • Fanshawe Lake Trail: This scenic trail offers a peaceful lakeside hike, with plenty of spots to stop and take in the view.

Best Things to Do in Woodstock: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best things to do in Woodstock:

  • Take a walking tour of the city’s historic downtown, featuring beautiful architecture and unique shops.
  • Attend a performance at the Woodstock Opera House, a beautifully restored historic venue featuring live music, theatre, and comedy shows.
  • Visit a local winery and enjoy a tasting of the region’s best wines.
  • Take a hot air balloon ride for a bird’s-eye view of Woodstock and the surrounding countryside.

Week-Long Itinerary for Woodstock

Planning a week-long trip to Woodstock? Here’s a sample itinerary:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore historic downtown and local shops
Day 2 Visit Woodstock Art Gallery and local museums
Day 3 Hike the Thames Valley Trail
Day 4 Take a hot air balloon ride
Day 5 Enjoy a wine tasting at a local winery
Day 6-7 Relax at a local spa or explore surrounding areas

Food and Drink Scene of Woodstock

No trip to Woodstock is complete without trying the local cuisine. Here’s what you need to know:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Poutine: A Canadian classic, try the poutine at a local restaurant for a delicious meal of fries, gravy, and cheese curds.
  • Apple Fritters: This local treat is made with locally grown apples and deep-fried to perfection.

Local Beverages

  • Craft Beer: Try a locally brewed craft beer at one of Woodstock’s breweries.
  • Wine: Woodstock is home to several vineyards and wineries that produce some of the best wines in the region.

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

Whether you’re looking for a luxurious hotel or a cozy bed and breakfast, Woodstock has plenty of options to fit your needs:

  • Château la Motte: This beautiful bed and breakfast is located in a historic 19th-century mansion and features luxurious amenities.
  • Holiday Inn Express & Suites Woodstock South: If you’re looking for a more traditional hotel experience, this choice might be a good fit. Located conveniently near major highways.
  • Visitors Inn: This charming guest house offers cozy accommodations and a quiet, peaceful location.

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

Looking for the perfect souvenir or gift to bring back home? Consider these local products:

  • Pottery: Woodstock is home to several talented potters who create beautiful and unique pieces.
  • Maple Syrup: Ontario is famous for its maple syrup, and Woodstock has several local producers who sell their syrup.
  • Handmade Crafts: Visit one of Woodstock’s many local markets to find handmade crafts and other unique items.

Local Culture and Customs of Woodstock

Woodstock is a friendly and welcoming city, with a rich culture and unique customs. Some things to keep in mind:

  • When in public, it’s important to be polite and respectful to others.
  • Woodstock has a rich history, and locals are proud of their heritage. Take the time to learn about the history of the area and appreciate its significance.
  • As with most small towns, credit cards are not accepted at all places.

Best Time to Visit Woodstock

The best time to visit Woodstock is during the summer months, when the weather is mild and outdoor activities are plentiful. You can also visit during the fall to see the beautiful foliage as the leaves change color. And, many locals would say that October is the best month to visit Woodstock.

Do’s and Don’ts of Woodstock

Here are some tips to keep in mind during your visit:

Do:

  • Be respectful of local customs, including the habit of saying hello to strangers when you pass them on the street.
  • Be open to trying new foods and experiencing local culture.
  • Make use of public transportation to get around the city.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage local attractions.
  • Don’t be disrespectful to locals, especially when discussing local history or culture.
  • Don’t forget to bring appropriate clothing for the weather, as it can range from warm and sunny to cool and rainy depending on the season.

Safety and Health

Keeping safe and healthy while travelling is important. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

Safety in Woodstock

  • Woodstock is a safe city, with low rates of crime.
  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially if you’re travelling alone late at night.

Health in Woodstock

  • Make sure to bring essentials like sunscreen and bug spray if you plan on spending time outdoors.
  • Access to health care facilities is easy in both public and private facilities located in the city.

Getting to Woodstock: Transportation Options and Logistics

Here are some transportation options to consider when travelling to Woodstock:

Airports Near Woodstock

  • London International Airport (YXU): approximately 35 miles away from Woodstock.
  • Pearson International, Airport Toronto, Canada (YYZ): approximately 90 miles away from Woodstock.

Bus Stations Near Woodstock

  • Greyhound Bus Line runs through the city for easy, accessible transportation.

Other Options

  • If you are driving to Woodstock, you can take advantage of free parking available at most accommodations and attractions.

How to Get Around in Woodstock

There are several transportation options to help you get around Woodstock, including:

  • Public transportation: Woodstock Transit runs buses throughout the city.
  • Taxis: There are several taxi companies operating within Woodstock.
  • Car rentals: There are several car rental services in Woodstock.

Where to Go Next from Woodstock: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Looking to extend your travels? Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Niagara Falls: One of the most famous natural wonders in the world is just an hour and a half away from Woodstock.
  • Stratford: Famous for its theatre productions and historic downtown, Stratford is a must-visit destination for culture lovers.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, local cuisine, or cultural experiences, Woodstock has something for everyone. Plan your next trip to this charming city and discover all that it has to offer.

Woodstock City Hall Woodstock City Hall Market Building Market Building Oxford County Court House Oxford County Court House Old Perry Street Fire Hall Old Perry Street Fire Hall