Bronte Creek Provincial Park is a stunning 6.4 sq km park on the western edge of Oakville. You can hike or bike along the trails, visit a historic farmhouse, fish for trout, or take a dip in the outdoor swimming pool. Bronte Creek’s is home to one of Canada’s largest outdoor swimming pools, at a whopping 1.8 acres and is open July 1st to Labour day weekend. The park is open for overnight camping, with electrical hookups and large campsites.

2. Canadian Golf Hall of Fame

The Canadian Golf Hall of Fame has inducted players, coaches, and golf course architects, who have contributed to the game. You’ll see names such as Stephen Michael Ames, Sandra Post and Jack William Nicklaus. You can also stroll an on-site museum to see historic materials and records.

3. Glen Abbey Golf Course

Glen Abbey Golf Course is one of the most famous courses in Canada. The club hosted 25 Canadian Open Championships, including the 2000 Open when Tiger Woods defeated Grant Waite. You can play a round, visit the club for a lovely Sunday brunch, or attend the golf academy to upgrade your skills.

4. Burloak Canoe club

You can head to the Burloak Canoe Club and watch a canoe regatta on the banks of Sixteen Mile Creek. Olympic-level paddlers such as Adam van Koeverden and Mark Oldershaw trained at the club. If you prefer to participate rather than watch, you can also canoe, kayak, or rent a Dragon Boat. They even have a “Canoe Kids” summer camp for kids who love to be on the water and learn about paddling sports and refine their boating skills.

5. Old Oakville

Old Oakville is the downtown area. It is a lively neighbourhood with historic homes, the Oakville Harbour, and Oakville Yacht Club. With a quaint village feel, you can visit trendy restaurants, bars, and cafes or shop at lovely local stores and upscale boutiques.

6. Erchless House

The Erchless Estate is a historic site and was home to Oakville’s town founders, the Chisholm family. The estate boasts magnificent buildings, grounds, and gardens and proudly displays a collection of costumes, textiles, and artifacts that belonged to the family. You can take a guided tour or wander the museum on your own.

7. Attend a festival

Oakville hosts several fantastic annual events. The Downtown Oakville Jazz Festival, Love of Arts Festival, and Oakville Family Ribfest are some of the most popular festivals in the area.

8. Hikes

You can hike or cycle along part of the Trans Canada Trail, which runs through the entire length of Oakville. The trail extends from Toronto to Burlington, stretching an impressive 87 km.

9. Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts

For a small town, Oakville has a great art scene, with regular events happening throughout the area. The Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts hosts a wide selection of performances and is home to the Oakville Ballet Company and Oakville Symphony Orchestra.

10. iFly Toronto

Despite the name, iFly Toronto is located on Winston Park Dr. in Oakville and is one of the country’s only two indoor recirculating skydiving simulators. You enter a vertical tube and wait for the airstream (passing at 175 km/hr) to lift you off your feet. It’s a great way to experience skydiving without jumping from a plane! Defy gravity and feel like you’re flying.

11. Plan a day of shopping

You’ll find a few major shopping centres in Oakville – Oakville Place, the largest, has over 100 shops. There are also many local shops and small businesses throughout the city, including a vibrant downtown with upscale boutiques.  

12. Enjoy the beach

On Lake Ontario’s shores, there are a few spots in Oakville where you can head to the beach. Bronte Beach Park is a beautiful area with a lovely park, picnic spots, and beach access. Or head to Shell Park, a cute little beach perfect for swimming.

13. Aerosports Trampoline Park

If you’re looking to entertain the kids (or the young at heart), Aerosports Trampoline Park is the perfect place for a fun afternoon! There’s something for everyone with a huge trampoline room, dodge ball area, ball pit, climbing wall, and an arcade.  

14. Head out to dinner

With over 200 local, independent restaurants, you have an abundance of dinner options! You’ll find everything from pub grub to fine dining, with local staples which have made Oakville home and trendy up-and-comers.

15. Gairloch Gardens

Stroll these beautiful gardens on Lakeshore Rd. With a stunning rose collection, paths, picnic areas, and a duck pond, it’s the perfect place for an afternoon by the water.

16. Head to the park

Oakville has abundant green space and beautiful parks with walking trails, lake views, beach access, splash pads and playgrounds for the kids. A few of our favourites are Coronation Park and Shell Park, both located along Lakeshore Rd.

17. Joshua Creek Heritage Art Centre

Joshua Creek Heritage Art Centre is a beautiful gallery and art centre located in a historic home dating back to 1827. They feature art exhibitions, showcase local talent, and host workshops and events, bringing art and nature together in a stunning 12-acre setting.  

18. The Lakeshore

This stretch along the shores of Lake Ontario is a beautiful drive or walk, with fabulous mansions, parks, waterfront areas, and local shops to explore.

19. Cameron’s Brewing Company

Cameron’s Brewing Company is a family-run brewing company focused on creating exceptional beer using natural ingredients. The brewery has been recognized over 250 times, winning local, national, and worldwide awards. Stop by for a drink and brewery tour (check-in for Covid protocols).

20. Lions Valley Park

A beautiful park to visit for a hike, you’ll find dense trees, well-marked lanes, and lots of shade. Sixteen Mile Creek runs through the park for beautiful views of the river and quaint bridges to cross. You can also pick a spot on one of the open grassy areas for a summer picnic.

We might be biased, but we think Oakville is one of the most beautiful places in the country! There are many interesting finds, hidden gems, and unique areas to explore. You’re sure to find something you love in this wonderful town.

Visit our community guide to learn more about Oakville.