London City Guide

Known affectionately as the Forest City, London offers a perfect blend of big-city amenities and small-town charm. The heart of the city revolves around the Thames River, where miles of scenic pathways invite cyclists and walkers to explore lush green spaces. For a taste of local life, a visit to the historic Covent Garden Market is essential, offering fresh regional produce and artisanal goods right in the downtown core.

Culture seekers will find plenty to adore at Museum London, which showcases a significant collection of regional art and historical artifacts overlooking the river. Nearby, Victoria Park serves as the city's premier gathering spot, hosting vibrant festivals in the summer and transforming into a winter wonderland during the colder months. Those traveling with family shouldn't miss Storybook Gardens, an imaginative outdoor park that has been a local staple for generations.

Evening entertainment shines at the historic Grand Theatre, one of the oldest and most beautiful performing arts venues in the country. Whether wandering through the distinct neighborhoods or catching a live performance, this Southwestern Ontario hub provides a welcoming atmosphere for every type of traveler.

While the Forest City is known for its grand parks, the true pulse of London, Ontario, beats in its distinct neighborhoods and community hubs. Start a weekend morning in Wortley Village, an enclave that feels like a small town within the city. It is a place where independent bookstores and local cafes thrive, offering a relaxed pace away from the downtown core.

For an authentic slice of local life, head to the Western Fair Farmers’ and Artisans’ Market. While the ground floor is filled with fresh produce, the second floor is a treasure trove of local crafts, vintage finds, and diverse food stalls that residents return to weekly. It is the city's premier gathering spot for local creators.

Nature enthusiasts should seek out the Sifton Bog. This hidden ecological gem features a boardwalk that leads to a floating acid peat bog, providing a tranquil and unexpected landscape right in the middle of a residential area. It offers a unique glimpse into a rare ecosystem usually found much further north.

Getting around London is straightforward, with the London Transit Commission (LTC) serving as the backbone of public transportation. The bus network covers the majority of the city, including major hubs like Western University and Fanshawe College. A single adult cash fare is $3.50 CAD, while pre-loaded smart cards offer a discounted rate of $2.50 per ride. For those exploring the downtown core or the scenic Thames Valley Parkway, walking is a pleasant and efficient way to navigate the central neighborhoods.

Ridesharing platforms like Uber and Lyft are widely available and provide a reliable alternative to public transit, alongside traditional taxi services like Checker Limousine. These options are particularly useful for cross-town trips or late-night travel when bus frequency decreases. A typical ride across the downtown area generally costs between $12 and $18 CAD, offering a quick way to reach your destination without the hassle of searching for parking.

For those arriving by air, London International Airport (YXU) is located about 20 minutes from the city center. A taxi or rideshare from the airport to downtown usually ranges from $35 to $45 CAD. Traveling between the downtown VIA Rail station and Western University typically costs about $15 CAD by rideshare, or the standard $3.50 bus fare for those opting for public transit.

London offers a retail experience for every budget, from the high-end international brands at CF Masonville Place to the eclectic boutiques found along Richmond Row. This historic shopping district provides a unique atmosphere for those searching for one-of-a-kind fashion and luxury items. For high-volume shopping and national retailers, White Oaks Mall serves as a convenient hub on the south end of the city.

Value-seekers and lovers of local flavor should visit the Gibraltar Weekend Market or the iconic Covent Garden Market downtown. The latter is famous for its selection of Southwestern Ontario produce, artisanal cheeses, and locally crafted Canadian gifts. Whether hunting for high fashion or handmade treasures, the Forest City provides a welcoming and diverse shopping environment.

In London, Ontario, tipping is a standard way to show appreciation for quality service across the city's vibrant hospitality scene. When dining out, it is customary to leave a gratuity of 15% to 20% on the pre-tax total, depending on the level of service provided. For casual encounters like ordering a coffee or a drink at a local pub, rounding up to the nearest dollar or leaving a small amount of change is common practice. When using taxis or rideshare services, a tip of 10% to 15% is generally expected.

All transactions in the Forest City are processed in Canadian Dollars (CAD). For those visiting from the United States, the exchange rate fluctuates but generally sits around 1 USD to 1.35 CAD. Most local businesses use electronic payment terminals that offer convenient, pre-set tipping options, making it easy to ensure service staff are fairly compensated during your stay.

The ideal time to visit London, Ontario, is during the summer months from June to August. This period showcases the "Forest City" at its most vibrant, with lush parklands and a packed calendar of outdoor events like Sunfest and the Western Fair. While this peak season brings the highest volume of visitors and slightly elevated accommodation rates, the warm, sunny weather provides the perfect environment for exploring the Thames Valley Parkway or enjoying local patios.

For travelers seeking a balance of lower prices and fewer crowds, the shoulder seasons of late spring and early autumn are excellent alternatives. September and October offer crisp air and stunning fall foliage, though the influx of university students creates a lively atmosphere downtown. Winter is the most budget-friendly time to visit, and while temperatures frequently drop below freezing, the season offers quiet charm for those interested in indoor cultural attractions or hitting the slopes at Boler Mountain.