Why Visiting Port Stanley, Ontario Is A Must-Do On Your Toronto Day Trip List
One summer’s day, we hopped into our car and decided to explore the north shore of Lake Erie. Port Stanley was our destination. But what can you experience when visiting Port Stanley, Ontario?
In a matter of minutes of arriving in Port Stanley, I was charmed by the small village on Lake Erie.
From interesting places to explore, a spot to relax on a sandy beach, and cool buildings to photograph, there’s a bit of something for everybody in this town.
My Daytrip From Toronto To Port Stanley
The first thing I noticed was it had a cool-looking port. This meant I had interesting scenery to photograph. And photograph we did!
The second thing I noticed was that it had several cool little spots for dining. We had choices.
There was also the Port Stanley beach – a nice sandy spot located south of the train station at the end of a residential area. The beach stretches for about a kilometre.
Finally, the cool-looking vintage train rides at the Port Stanley Train Terminal looked like a fun thing to do with kids.
Port Stanley History
A little back story for when you’re visiting Port Stanley!
Nestled on the north shore of Lake Erie, Port Stanley is about a three-and-a-half-hour drive away from Toronto.
While I would say it’s the perfect day-trippers destination, the area is so attractive that you may decide to stay the night.
A bit of back history: This quaint village was once a favourite camping and landing spot for explorers and travelers in the 17th through 19th centuries.
It later became a summer vacation destination for locals from nearby London (Ontario that is…).
Port Stanley is now a favourite spot for summer tourists escaping the cities of the Golden Horseshoe and Greater Toronto areas.
The 1812 settlement was originally called Kettle Creek and became known as Port Stanley in 1824 after Edward Smith-Stanley, 14th Earl of Derby.
He was the father of Frederick Stanley, donor of the first Stanley Cup. Yes – that Cup.
Things To Do In Port Stanley
Now that I’ve got your interest piqued, what are some of the things to do in Port Stanley?
The port was once used for the transport of coal and wood between Canada and the US. Now, its main business is a fishery that attracts visitors with its vibrant mural.
During the Spring through Fall, you can purchase freshly caught fish including pickerel, white fish, bass, catfish and perch.
If you take a moment to get out of your car and wander around the town, you will find local arts and crafts shops to peruse.
The Port Stanley community is positioning itself as a getaway destination for the growing number of people who want to do weekend trips.
Visiting Port Stanley: Photos, Walkabouts And Shops
During our visit, we decided to explore and take photos. We found small boats lining the shoreline and moored at the Port. For little kids liftbridge that lets small boats up the river is fascinating.
Old buildings renovated into inns and bed-and-breakfasts lure those who desire to linger a while longer.
Inn on the Harbour catches the eye as it’s right on the water. It’s also a very cozy spot to stay overnight if you plan to explore the area.
Visiting Port Stanley warrants a few hours.
It has:
- Several dining spots (check out Kettle Creek Inn for fine cuisine with locally sourced ingredients)
- Art galleries spotlighting local artists
- A 1940s rail car you can ride on
- A stretch of a beach right by the town with a huge parking lot.
So the next time you are checking out the north shoreline of Lake Erie, this little village might be just the perfect spot to stop and stretch your legs.
It certainly is one of our favourite spots in this area of Southern Ontario!
| RELATED: Top Beaches In Ontario To Explore This Summer
How To Get There
Places Near Port Stanley For More Exploration
Here are a few things to do near and around Port Stanley:
- Enjoying A Day At The Beach At Port Burwell Provincial Park
- Tips For Enjoying Long Point Provincial Park And The Beach
QUESTION: What’s your favourite place to visit in Port Stanley?
Great pics Margaret! Looks like a fun day trip!
Couldn’t get to your review of that inn, we were looking at that online and wondering if it was worth an overnight. As it is it will be a hot day on Sept 10 so since we have the day off we might drive down there. Never been to Port Stanley but I’ve known others who’ve liked it down there. Port Dover was always the Lake Erie place for us but it’s gotten way overcrowded the last many years and not the carefree experience it once was.
I think you will fall in love with Port Stanley. Can’t wait to hear your about your visit!