Are you looking for a slice of Europe in Ontario? Then plan a getaway to Stratford! This incredible city has all the charm of a small town but with big-city excitement. While many flock to the city for the world-renowned Stratford Festival, you’ll also find a ton of great things to do and incredible places to eat. With so much to do and see and eat you’ll want to spend a few days in Stratford. So where are the best places to stay in Stratford Ontario? Well, as someone who has frequently visited and stayed in a different Stratford hotel every time I have the low down on where you should stay!
Top 7 Places to Stay in Stratford Ontario
When planning any getaway one of the key components is a great place to stay! Whether you’re looking for the perfect romantic escape or fun girl’s weekend away, you’ll find a whole host of fabulous hotels in Stratford Ontario. There’s everything from historic inns to creative spaces as well as a wealth of luxury accommodation in Stratford.
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Edison’s Inn
Calling all history buffs! Did you know that Thomas Edison once lived in Stratford? Yes, THE famous American inventor, lived in Stratford Ontario at the tender age of 16. In 1863, Stratford was a very different place and the block where the Edison’s Inn current is was once the Albion Hotel. During this time Stratford was a big rail centre and it was at the Grand Truck Railway where Edison worked.
The Edison’s Inn over went a massive renovation in recent years to create three fun, quirky and amazing rooms. Located right downtown, the Edison Inn is one of the best places to stay in Stratford Ontario. There are three unique rooms at the Edison Inn. The first, where I stayed, is the Edison Room. It was here, over top of the Edison Café and looking out onto Ontario Street where Edison lived. The room pays homage to him with a fun mural of his inventions, an Edison lightbulb, and if you want to learn more about Edison be sure to pick up a book about him found by the bedside.
The two other rooms are the Café Room and the Music Room. The Café Room also has a few Edison details as well as a separate entrance, a sitting area and a lovely view of the Avon River. The Music Room is the largest and filled with music-inspired décor. It also has a great view of the River, a large lounge area as well as a dozen quotes by Edison scattered around the room. Just below the Edison’s Inn is the Edison Café. As one of the best cafes in Stratford, it’s a perfect place to start your day with a great cup of coffee and breakfast. The Edison Inn ticks all the right boxes, with a perfect location and incredible rooms!
Please note that there is no elevator and one parking spot per room is included and is located a few minutes from the Inn.
Address: 48 Ontario Street
The Bruce Hotel
One of the grand Stratford hotels is The Bruce Hotel! Whether you’re looking for the perfect hotel near the Festival Theatre or a dream luxury getaway in Ontario then The Bruce Hotel is what you’re after! Located on a beautiful six and a half acres and only a five-minute walk to the Festival Theatre, The Bruce is ideal for those coming to take in a show in Stratford.
The Bruce is home to 25 incredible rooms and suites as well as a private cottage. Amenities are bountiful and include an indoor pool, gym, and two different dining options. Each room is unique, spacious, offers either city or garden views, and is truly fit for royalty. And for a purely local taste of Perth County, the Restaurant at The Bruce celebrates Canadian contemporary cuisine in a stunning dining room.
You’ll find a host of activities at The Bruce too! They offer a wine tasting class or culinary experience, a chance to meet the Bee Keeper as well as one of the best high tea experiences in Ontario. This award-winning hotel will make you feel like a king or queen during your stay in Stratford.
Address: 89 Parkview Drive
Mercer Hotel
Throughout downtown Stratford you’ll find long stretches of historic building blocks. On the ground level you’ll find amazing restaurants and shops and above many are converted to accommodation. These offer a great place to stay downtown, close to all the best the city has to offer and all while staying in fabulous modern spaces. The Mercer Hotel Downtown is one of these amazing places!
The Mercer Hotel is in a prime location in Stratford. It’s only a 5-minute walk to the Avon Theatre and close to all the best shops, cafes, and places to eat in Stratford. One of which is the Mercer Kitchen & Beer Hall which’s located right below the hotel and serves up an eclectic menu using fresh food from across Canada. The Mercer Hotel is part of the BW Premier Collection, more commonly known as Best Western Premier Collection Hotels. And so, you’ll find quality rooms.
There are 14 boutique rooms at the Mercer Hotel that are sleek and modern thanks to a 2020 renovation. Some rooms have awesome city views and jetted tubs and all come with free WiFi and parking. One thing to note is there is no elevator. If you’re looking for a hotel downtown that has it all, then book your stay at the Mercer Hotel!
Address: 104 Ontario Street
Bentley’s Inn – Lofts @99
Another great restaurant meets accommodation in Stratford can be found at Bentley’s Bar Inn Restaurant. Perched above one of Stratford’s most popular restaurants, Bentley’s, you’ll find Lofts@99. The name is a play on the incredible loft-style suites and the address of 99 Ontario Street. Here you’ll find a seamless mix of modern luxury and style in the heart of downtown.
At Bentley’s Inn Lofts@99 there is10 bi-level suites as well as executive lofts. All rooms have Tempurpedic mattresses for a fabulous night’s sleep and a fireplace to cozy up to after a day of exploring. These large stylish suites also have awesome bathrooms, state-of-the-art radio sound systems, high-end sheets, and free parking. Whether you’re looking for luxurious places to stay in Stratford Ontario or an epic romantic escape then the Lofts@99 are just what you want!
Address: 99 Ontario Street
Mornington Rose Bed & Breakfast
There are so many adorable bed and breakfasts in Stratford! Many of which are located in historic homes like Mornington Rose Bed & Breakfast. Located in a lovely residential area in Stratford, it’s only a 5-minute drive or 15-minute walk to downtown. This beautiful 1905 Victorian home is owned and operated by two of the nicest people you’ll meet in Stratford, Victoria and Murray. There are three unique rooms and one suite. All are filled with interesting art and en-suite bathrooms and a couple even have private patios.
The best part about staying in a Bed and Breakfast is the breakfast! And the one at Mornington Rose is one of the best breakfasts in Stratford. Along with piping hot coffee, you’ll be treated to a multi-course breakfast made fresh using local produce, meats, and even flowers. You’ll feel like you’ve won a seat at a fine dining breakfast feast! Don’t forget to try one of Murray’s amazing scones! Beyond breakfast, you’ll also find an array of complimentary teas, coffee, and Murray’s famous chocolate chip cookies.
There are endless reasons to stay at Mornington Rose Bed & Breakfast. It’s the perfect retreat for art lovers! Both Victoria and Murray are artists and you’ll find a ton of interesting and incredible art throughout the house. You can also visit Victoria’s Fused Glass and Flameworking Studio on site where she works her magic. And after a fun-filled day exploring Stratford they have a lovely porch to cozy up with a glass of wine and chat theatre or curl up with a book.
Address: 240 Mornington Street
Best Western Plus The Arden Park Hotel
If you’re looking for great places to stay in Stratford near the Festival Theatre then the Best Western Plus The Arden Park Hotel is a great choice. Located just outside of downtown, the Best Western Plus is only a 10-minute walk to the Festival Theatre or a two-minute drive. While out of the hustle of downtown, you’re still close to the theatre and the Avon River.
The Arden Park Hotel has everything you’d want in a modern hotel. This pet-friendly park hotel has a pool, hot tub, fitness centre, free parking as well as a restaurant and lounge. Rooms range from singles with kings or queens to full suites and are spacious and contemporary. So, if you’re looking for a fantastic family-friendly hotel that’s eco-friendly and close to the theatre, be sure to book your stay at the Arden Park Hotel!
Address: 552 Ontario Street
Parlour Inn
There are so many great historic buildings in Stratford and if you’re looking for a great downtown hotel in one then consider Parlour Inn. The Parlour Inn Ascend Hotel is part of the Ascend Hotel Collection that offers unique, boutique hotels, many of which are in historic buildings. Located right downtown, the Parlour Inn is close to all of Stratford’s best restaurants and shops as well as the Avon Theatre and Market Place.
The Parlour Inn has been welcoming guests since 1871. The Inn is home to 28 guest rooms that blend a mix of old-world charm and comfort. A wander through the lobby and hallways will have you feeling like you’re stepping back in time. Noted as one of the many haunted hotels in Ontario, you might encounter one of the ghosts that call the Inn home! You’ll find all the creature comforts in each room, from premium bedding, plush robes, and free coffee and bottled water. There’s also free parking right next to the Inn!
For a place to be bringing in guests for over a century, you know they’re doing something right. Along with the rooms, which range from deluxe suites to traditional rooms, there is also a restaurant. The Parlour Inn Restaurant is award-winning and has a diverse menu that you can also enjoy with room service! So, whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or are in town to see a show, the Parlour Inn is one of the best places to stay in Stratford.
Address: 101 Wellington Street
More Hotels in Stratford Ontario
You’re options for great Stratford hotels, bed & breakfasts and inns are bountiful! Depending on where you want to stay, whether it’s right downtown or just on the outskirts, you’ll find a range of great places to stay in Stratford. There’s something to suit everyone’s style and budget!
As You Like it Motel – It doesn’t get more Shakespearean than As You Like It Motel in Stratford! As You Like it Motel is not only named after one of Shakespeare’s plays but each of the rooms is named after a different character and it’s located on Romeo Street! If you’re looking for a great place to stay in Stratford that pairs the serenity of an out of town hotel but is less than a ten-minute drive to downtown, then this is your place! The Motel has lovely and comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, complimentary continental breakfast, and all in a beautiful natural setting.
Windsor Hotel – This historic hotel in downtown Stratford was built in 1881 and has been welcoming guests ever since. The Windsor Hotel by Hoco Hotels is home to 34 newly renovated rooms that range from standard rooms to king and family suites. Even though you’re steps away from a ton of great restaurants you don’t have to go far. The Windsor Hotel is home to the Red Lion Room restaurant. The Red Lion Room is a fun blend of restaurant and lounge with live music. One thing to note is that parking is available on-site but is $10 per vehicle per night.
Daly House – Are you looking to be close to downtown but in a quiet residential neighbourhood? Then the Daly House is ideal! Set within a renovated century home, it offers four independent rooms, each with a private full bath. And an EPIC shower with multiple jets! There’s also a dining area available on the main floor with fridge, microwave, and more. Plus, it’s a short 10 minute walk into downtown.
Queen’s Inn at Stratford – Step back in time into one of Stratford’s historic hotels. This Inn has a long history. Originally known as the Queen’s Arms and established only 18 years after the settlement of Stratford it sadly succumbed to a fire. In 1905 it was rebuilt and renamed, becoming the Queen’s Inn as we know it. The Queen’s Inn is located downtown and home to comfortable rooms and a fun English-style pub. The Boar’s Head Pub has over 15 brews on tap, a tasty menu, and even live entertainment on weekends. There is an elevator and off-street parking included in your room price.
Suburban Motel – If you’re looking for a quiet place to stay that’s budget-friendly, consider booking a room at the Suburban Motel. Located just a five-minute drive from downtown, this family-run motel is in a tranquil setting amongst fields of corn and wheat. You’ll find everything you need here like a mini-fridge, coffee maker, flat-screen TV and even a balcony or deck. The grounds are also home to an outdoor pool, tennis courts, and beautiful gardens.
Quality Inn & Conference Centre – Many visitors and locals alike still call it the Festival Inn but it’s now known as the Quality Inn & Conference Centre Festival Hotel. This large hotel is located a five-minute drive east of downtown and has large spacious rooms, free WiFi, and ample free parking. There’s also a fitness centre, sauna, on-site restaurant and indoor swimming pool. If you are looking for pet-friendly accommodation in Stratford then this is your best bet!
Tips for Booking Accommodation in Stratford
There are a few things to consider when booking a hotel in Stratford. You’ll want to ask yourself a few questions before you book accommodation like where is the best area to stay and is parking available. So, here are a few tips to help you book the perfect getaway in Stratford Ontario!
Best Area to Stay – The bulk of things to do in Stratford are centrally located in the downtown core. So, whether you have a car or not you can easily walk almost everywhere within 20 to 25 minutes. If you’re looking to be close to all the best restaurants and attractions then consider booking one of the hotels in downtown Stratford.
Book Ahead – Stratford is a popular destination in Ontario, especially during the Stratford Festival season. From May through September it can be difficult to find a place to stay in Stratford. If you are planning to visit Stratford during this time, especially on a weekend, be sure to book in advance to ensure you get the place you want!
Parking – When planning a road trip in Ontario you’re going to need somewhere to park your vehicle. Most of the places to stay in Stratford Ontario offer free parking during your stay. There are a few things to note. If you are staying in one of the downtown locations in Stratford spots are limited to one spot per room. A couple of inns in Stratford do charge a parking fee, so be sure to check into this before you book and plan accordingly. The Cooper Parking Lot is free for 24 hours if you need somewhere to park. But make sure to move your car before the 24 hours has elapsed.
Stairs or Elevator – Stratford has a historic downtown with many of the old buildings not being equipped with elevators. If you have difficulty with stairs then remember to check if there is an elevator before you book. Some locations offer assistance with luggage.
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Looking for More Places to Stay in Stratford Ontario?
Beyond the list of the best places to stay in Stratford Ontario I’ve listed above, there are also a host of vacation rentals and Airbnbs. Depending on what you’re looking for there is a perfect Stratford accommodation for you!
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