Discover Mississauga: A City of Vibrant Attractions
Mississauga has transformed from a simple suburb into a bustling city with its own unique flair, thanks to its diverse population and smart urban design. Its skyline boasts remarkable structures like the Absolute World Towers and City Hall. Whether you're a shopaholic visiting Square One Mall, a nature enthusiast exploring Rattray Marsh, or a cyclist on the Waterfront Trail, Mississauga offers a rich variety of experiences.
Many of Mississauga's main tourist attractions are conveniently clustered, making it easy to enjoy multiple hotspots in one trip. Here's a guide to the best things to do in Mississauga.
1. Visit Port Credit
Port Credit, nestled on Lake Ontario's shores, is a lively hub with waterfront trails, parks, unique shops, and eateries. Enjoy a meal at Snug Harbour, a local favorite for over 25 years, offering fresh seafood and stunning patio views.
2. Shop at Square One Mall
Square One Mall, a shopping mecca for nearly half a century, is one of Canada's largest malls. It features over 330 stores, including exclusive retailers and a modern Food District.
3. Enjoy Beaches and Picnics at Jack Darling Memorial Park
Jack Darling Memorial Park offers a beach, tennis courts, splash pad, playgrounds, and picnic sites. It's a family favorite, complete with a dog run and a toboggan hill for winter fun.
4. Celebration Square
Celebration Square, adjacent to City Hall, is a vibrant outdoor venue hosting performances, food trucks, and the Lion's Farmers' Market. It's a central spot for community events and easy parking.
5. Downtown Streetsville
Streetsville, with its small-town charm, offers over 300 shops, restaurants, and services. Visit during the Summer Market on Saturdays for local artisanal products.
6. Rattray Marsh
Rattray Marsh is a wildlife haven with boardwalks and viewing platforms. Visit in spring for the chorus of frogs or enjoy the unique pebble beach.
7. Kariya Park
Kariya Park, a tranquil Japanese garden, offers winding paths, water features, and cherry blossoms in spring. It's a serene escape in the city center.
8. Walk or Bike along the Waterfront Trail
The Waterfront Trail is part of a larger network that connects parks and residential areas along Lake Ontario, perfect for sightseeing and lake access.
9. Erindale Park
Erindale Park features trails, picnic sites, and the Credit River, a popular spot for fishing and observing the salmon run in the fall.
10. Art Gallery of Mississauga
The Art Gallery of Mississauga showcases a mix of permanent and rotating exhibits, offering cultural enrichment with free admission.
11. Lakefront Promenade Park
Lakefront Promenade Park is a beachgoer's paradise with volleyball courts, picnic areas, and a playground, boasting views of the Toronto skyline.
12. Bradley Museum
The Bradley Museum Complex offers a glimpse into early settler life with restored buildings and historical artifacts, near Rattray Marsh.
13. Benares Historic House
Benares Historic House is a preserved 1853 residence in Clarkson, showcasing the Harris family's history and changing exhibits.
14. Adamson Estate
The Adamson Estate is a 13.2-acre waterfront park with a historic home and tranquil trails, part of the Waterfront Trail network.
15. Fo Guang Shan Temple
The Fo Guang Shan Temple offers a peaceful sanctuary with a prayer hall and a renowned restaurant, open to visitors of all faiths.