Whether you’re wanting to reconnect with friends or spend time together as a couple, a change of scenery can do wonders. Middlesex County, situated mid-way between Toronto and Windsor, is home to interesting activities, intriguing places to stay and really great restaurants that make it a perfect spot for exploring this particularly peaceful part of Ontario. Pick and choose from the options below to create a custom two-day itinerary filled with all the things you love.
Daytime Diversions and Discoveries
As Middlesex County is home to a diverse collection of things to do, creating a shortlist of some must-try activities in advance will help make the most of your getaway. The following categories will point you toward fun things to do based on your specific areas of interest.
History and Culture
Ska-Nah-Doht Village and Museum is an interactive museum that preserves and interprets Haudenosaunee culture. Its fascinating reconstructed village is reflective of the Native settlements that would have been found in this area close to 1,000 years ago.
Fans of Canadian history will want to spend some time at The Donnelly Museum to learn more about a unique period of Canadian history when some people chose to take the law into their own hands.
Treasure Seeking and Shopping
Green thumbs will absolutely want to make time in their trip for a visit to Heeman’s. This massive indoor-outdoor garden centre has thousands of plants, great shopping, an on-site coffee bar, a pick-your-own strawberry patch and its own cidery and meadery.
Slegers Greens is another must-see stop for those who enjoy gardening and healthy eating. This farm gate retail store sells a delicious selection of organic microgreens, lettuces and herbs. Get a sneak peek by watching this Next Stop: Taste video.
With a wonderful selection of new and salvage décor pieces, novelty gifts, jewelry, bath and body products and more, Rusted Tailgate is a beautiful place to do some browsing.
Handmaker Home Décor and Boutique is another destination shopping experience that’s brimming with locally made products, including bath and beauty items, candles, jewelry, pet products, and so much more.
Fresh Air Fun
Explore the countryside along the scenic Sydenham River on a horseback trail ride at Texas Longhorn Ranch. After getting to know a little more about your level of riding experience, the staff will select a horse and a trail option that’s just right for you.
If you’d prefer walking beside a four-legged friend instead of riding on it, an Alpaca Walk at S.A.M.Y.’s Alpaca Farm and Fibre Studio is an excellent option. The one-hour Walk and Talk experience allows time for visiting the alpacas in the pasture, hand-feeding them a snack, and a discussion with an alpaca expert before you take the lead and walk your new furry friend on a leash down a county lane.
Golfers will definitely want to book a tee time at Dorchester Golf and Country Club, where the beautiful 12-hole course is both player-friendly and fun!
Take a scenic stroll along the Thames River at Komoka Provincial Park just outside London. The Komoka White Trail is a nine-kilometre loop suitable for all skill levels with picture-perfect river views.
Plan Some Delicious Fuel Ups Along The Way
Whether starting your day with a big breakfast, loading up mid-day with a leisurely lunch or enjoying a relaxing dinner, planning out some of your meals in advance will ensure you know just where to head when post-activity hunger strikes! Here are some excellent options:
Roadside Grazing
Delicious smoked meat selections are always rolling hot off the Big Green Egg on Oma’s Patio at BJ’s Country Market. You can also enjoy fresh local produce showcased in delicious made-from-scratch dishes.
Stop by Arva Mill House Bakery for sweet treats like scones, squares, loaves and cookies made with heritage flour milled on site at North America’s oldest operating flour mill.
If you’ve picked up some local food along the way, stop by Parkhill Creek Conservation Area to enjoy a picnic and bird watching.
Pub Fare Perfection
From a breakfast with all the fixings to burgers, wings, wraps, and snacks, Caddyshack By The Tracks is all about quality food, huge portions, and fair prices.
There’s no need to hit the greens to enjoy the delicious pub favourites for lunch or dinner at The Pub at FireRock Golf Club. Request a table on the patio for a gorgeous view.
Destination Dining
Tia’s Place offers an authentic Portuguese dining experience with an ever-changing selection of seasonally inspired small plates showcasing local produce.
For authentic Italian paninis, pasta dishes and more, Fat Olive is an excellent choice.
Locally sourced produce and proteins shine in Chef Mark Graham’s outstanding menu at the Clocktower Inn Bistro. For a sneak peek, watch our Next Stop: Taste video.
Settle In Somewhere Special
In addition to more traditional hotels, motels and bed and breakfasts choices, Middlesex County has some unique places to stay that will make your escape even more memorable, including:
- The cute little on-site cottage at Laughing Goat Yoga Studio
- Beautiful rooms and suites steeped in history at The Clocktower Inn
- Glamping in a covered wagon at Texas Longhorn Ranch
- A luxurious light-filled loft at Fernwood Hills
- Farm glamping or camping at Jireh Hills Homestead
