Located in Southern Ontario on the shores of Grand River, the city of Brantford offers many attractions and activities for both locals and tourists. Explore historic monuments, museums and outdoor fun with this list of 25 things to do in Brantford this summer.
Go Camping at Brant Park
Plan a staycation by camping at Brant Conservation Area. Enjoy fishing, hiking, canoeing in Grand River. The Park is also home to a 1.25-acre swimming pool (closed in 2021) – one of the province’s largest swimming pools.
Where: 119 Jennings Road, Brantford
Cost: Camping – varies depending on the site; Day admission – $2.65 to $6.64
Visit BrantwoodFarms
Since 1891, Brantwood Farms has grown their own produce and fruits. Aside from their market where you can purchase farm-fresh food as well as locally sourced items, you can also visit the farm to pick your own apples, pumpkins and strawberries.
Where: 251 Powerline Rd
Bike Grand River Loop
This summer, grab your bike and head down the Wilkes Dam/Grand River Loop. There are plenty of winding trails that will take you around the beautiful and scenic 15.6 km path; it’s great for dog walkers too!
Where: Oak Hill Trail, Brantford
Heart of Ontario
Go Paddling with Grand River Rafting Company
If you love aquatic adventures, you will find plenty of water-based activities at the Grand River Rafting Company. You can choose from guided paddling trips within the region as well as tubing options. Whether you prefer a serene boating experience or a wild adventure with your colleagues, there is something for all water-lovers to enjoy.
Where:119 Jennings Rd, Brantford
Cost: Rates are dependent on chosen package.
Picnic at Mohawk Park Pavilion
This popular park offers a wide range of outdoor amenities and large picnic shelters for your group. You can enjoy free yoga classes during July and August, and the kids will love the Sprinklemania splash pad. Bring your own meals or purchase items from the snack bar, which is open daily for visitors.
Where: 51 Lynnwood Dr, Brantford
Cost: Picnic shelters start at $76.50
Glenhyrst Art Gallery of Brant
Find beauty and culture upon the grounds of this 16-acre estate that dates back to 1914. You can choose from indoor exhibitions, events, and classes that will inspire creativity as you embrace your artistry this summer.
Address: 20 Ava Rd, Brantford
Visit Bell Homestead
The home of the late Alexander Graham Bell serves as a historical nod to the invention of the telephone in 1874. In addition to tours throughout this famous venue, Bell Homestead also offers educational trips, family activities, and private rentals.
Address: 94 Tutela Heights Rd, Brantford
Brantford Summer Music Festival
Celebrate music this summer with the Brantford Summer Music Festival. Taking place from July 13 to 17, the festival celebrates all genres of music and related arts.
Address: Sanderson Centre for the Performing Arts, 88 Dalhousie Street, Brantford
WTFest
It’s time to party! Get your tickets to the WTFest happening on July 2nd at Lions Park.
Address: Lions Park, Brantford
Twin Valley Nature Park
Embrace your love of animals within this well-kept and spacious zoo that serves as a natural habitat for its dwellers. The zoo is home to over 80 different animals, including lions, tigers, wolves, monkeys and other various species. Learn, love and connect with furry friends.
Address: 84 Langford Church Rd, Brantford
Cost: Admission starts at $10.50
SC Johnson Trail
The SC Johnson Trail is a 9-mile path between Paris and Brantford. Enjoy a stroll through farm fields and grasslands that reach scenic picnic areas. Pack a lunch and spend the afternoon exploring the terrain while participating in casual outdoor recreation.
Address: Parkside Drive, Brantford
Cost: Free
Mackenzie Creek Music Festival
From July 21 to July 24, 2022, catch live music and summer festivities at the Mackenzie Creek Music Festival. Country music lovers will adore the line-up of both local and regional artists, while sprawling out on the grounds, with the option of overnight camping.
Address: 72 King St N, Oakland
Cost: Tickets and campsites are available by contacting mackenziecreekmusic@gmail.com
Brantford Kinsmen Ribfest
Enjoy succulent ribs during the annual Brantford Kinsmen Ribfest. Aside from delicious, meaty offerings, this popular summer event hosts rib eating contests, live entertainment and an escape room to discover.
Address: Brantford & District Civic Centre. 79 Market St. South., Brantford
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Brantford International Villages Festival
Experience various cultural displays at the Brantford International Villages Festival. Observe various costumes and enjoy entertainment from different countries while sampling international cuisine.
Address: Various Locations, Brantford
Cost: $10
Rock the Square
It’s time to rock the night with music! Get your lawn chairs and come out to Harmony Square on July 16th to enjoy free rock music by Fifth Temple and North america’s number 1 tribute to AC/DC, Thunderstruck.
Address: Harmony Square, 89 Dalhousie Street, Brantford
A Dinner Cruise
Enjoy a relaxing dinner cruise on the scenic Grand River while having a delicious 3-course meal. The cruise lasts for 2.5 h and must be reserved in advance. Each table will have its own private section on the promenade deck directly outside of your table.
Address: 36 Brant County Road 22, Caledonia (Brant County)
Cost: $75.00 per adult
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Roller Skate in Harmony Square
Address:89 Dalhousie St, Brantford
Cost: $10.00 per pair for skate rentals
Visit Earl Haig Family Fun Park
Earl Haig Family Fun Park is full of outdoor amenities that are great for the whole family. Kids will love cooling off at the lazy river while parents play a round of mini golf. Or get a team together and throw around a baseball at the batting cages.
Address:101 Market Street South, Brantford
Cost: General admission rate $4.50 for visitors not using the amenities; Daily splash and Putt pass: $9.95 – $13.25
Brantford Farmers Market
Since 1848, the Brantford Farmer’s Market has been serving the community with offerings of farm-fresh produce, meat, dairy, cut flowers, and delicious treats. The peak season is from May to October, where you can visit between 49 and 69 different vending stalls that welcome anywhere between 1500-3500 customers every week.
Address: 79 Icomm Drive, Brantford
Cost: The cost of items will vary.
Alexandra Park Cannon
History buffs will be fascinated by this original cannon that was seized by the British, at the time of the Crimean War. It made its way to the park in 1860, making it a historical landmark and an excellent photo opportunity while strolling the grounds.
Address:265 Dalhousie St, Brantford
Cost: Free
Play outside at Anne Good Park
A visit to this recreational park and the outdoor rink will provide hours of fun in the summer months. Spend the day with the kids as they explore the playground or pack a picnic lunch and relax on the grass across the sprawling area.
Address: 50 AllensgateDr, Brantford
Cost: Free
Explore the Boer War Memorial
Those who appreciate Brantfords’ military heritage will take pride in visiting the Boer War Memorial. The memorial was constructed in 1903 as a way to commemorate the heroes that fought during the war. Located within Jubilee Terrance Park, the monument provides cultural and historical significance to locals and tourists alike.
Address: 10 Brant Ave, Brantford
Cost: Free
Brant Theatre Workshops
Check out local and independent productions or take a summer workshop at the Brant Theatre. The venue celebrates the arts and culture found within Brantford, with shows often inspired by social and historical issues.
Address: 340 Henry St unit 2, Brantford
Cost: Varies
Brantford and Area Sports Hall of Recognition
Sports enthusiasts will love exploring the Hall of Fame, including rugby, hockey, and swimming athletes. Visitors can check out the Honour Wall of Recognition, Interactive Inductee touch screen zone, Trivia Game, the Wayne Gretzky tribute area, Broadcast Booths, and more!
Address: 254 North Park Street, Brantford
Kayak the Grand River Oxbow
Enjoy an outdoor, aquatic adventure that offers gorgeous scenery and serenity only found in nature. Kayak the Grand River Oxbow by paddling around this U-shaped bend. The trip is only a short drive for those who live in Brantford, and the river’s course is approximately 15 kilometers long. It’s the perfect activity for those who want to escape the city but prefer a shorter excursion.
Arnold Anderson Stadium
Create fun summer memories and enjoy sports and recreation with a visit to the Arnold Anderson Stadium. Catch Brantford’s Red Box as they compete with other baseball teams.
Address: 35 Sherwood Drive, Brantford
Cost: $0 – $10
Brant Historical Society
Brantford is a city full of culture and historical significance, and nowhere is this most evident than within the Brantford Historical Society and Museum archives. Discover displays, events, and programming that will educate, inspire and connect.
Address: 57 Charlotte St, Brantford
Cost: Varies
HM Royal Chapel of the Mohawks
Visit the oldest surviving church in Brantford. Constructed in 1785, the chapel is now run by Six Nations of Grand River Development Corporation. It is a tourist attraction that welcomes all to visit and view its beautiful structure, scenic grounds and discover its cultural pride.
Address: 301 Mohawk St, Brantford
Cost: $7
Woodland Cultural Center
For the ultimate art and history experience, a visit to the Woodland Culture is a must. The center contains three art galleries, a museum, and a library. Explore this venue that protects the art, language, history, and culture of the Haudenosaunee people of the Eastern Woodlands through exhibits, readings, and exhibitions.
Address: 184 Mohawk St, Brantford
Cost: $0 – $10