You’ve made a great decision on choosing to visit Mississauga, because not only is Mississauga is one of the best cities in Canada to live but there are many things to do even if you’re just visiting for the day. From hiking trails, shopping and even hidden gems I’m sure you’ll have an experience you’ll never forget.
Today we’re going to explore things to do, you might even be surprised at the list!
Overview of Mississauga, Ontario
Mississauga is a suburb that lies on the western shores of Lake Ontario and just a short distance away from Toronto, ON. It’s easy to get around Mississauga by using public transit or driving your car because it has some great highways going through it like The Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW). Whether you live in Mississauga or visiting for the day, there are many attractions in Mississauga!
Here are the best things to do when you visit!
Jack Darling Memorial Park
Address: Lakeshore Rd W, 1180 Lakeshore Rd W, Mississauga, ON L5H 1A1
Jack Darling Memorial Park is one of the best parks in the city, voted as a Travelers Choice for 2020 by TripAdvisor it’s the perfect place to spend the day. Whether you’re looking to plan a day with the kids or place to take your date, there are many activities to do in Jack Darling Memorial Park.
Jack Darling Memorial Park features 5 large parking lots (free parking), lots of running and cycling trails, a beach and waterfront, off leash dog park, tennis court, large field, and picnic areas.
Driving Directions
If you are coming from the east, the park is accessible from Lake Shore Road West and the entrance is on the south side.
If you are coming from the west you will pass Clarkson Village. As you drive out of Clarkson the road will go slightly downhill and the park is pretty much at the lowest point of the road on your right.
There are two entrances off of Lakeshore Road. The second one as the first one doesn’t give you access to the park.
Activities
Despite any lack of markings on the fields there are plenty of open areas to play. Whether your sport is soccer, badminton, or volleyball, there’s plenty of room to setup and have fun!
- 5 Parking lots (all free)
- Tennis court (The tennis court is operated by Shoreline Tennis Club. You need to be a member to play there)
- Bike Trails
- Hiking
- Off leash dog park
- Beach
- Picnic area
Port Credit
Address:105 Lakeshore Rd W, Mississauga, ON L5H 1E8
Port credit is GTA’s hidden gem by the lake. It’s a scenic town boasting leafy parks, trails for cycling, striking views and even fishing at Credit River. Whether you’re looking for a place to relax, play or dine, Port Credit has it all.
Walking down Port Credit’s main street, you’ll notice its vibe is full of activities and vibrant entertainment, featuring cafes, bars, restaurants and an emerging arts scene.
The pier overlooking the Credit River is one of the most popular hang outs on Port Credit. Park benches line the pier and make a comfortable break on your bike ride, or a place to relax and enjoy the views after dinner.
The Credit River is a river in southern Ontario, which flows from headwaters above the Niagara Escarpment near Orangeville and Caledon East to empty into Lake Ontario at Port Credit, Mississauga.
There is a lighthouse overlooking Port Credit’s harbour. Built in 1991 to replace the original lighthouse destroyed by fire in 1936, it is a working lighthouse visible from 15 miles out on Lake Ontario. The deck offers a great view of the Credit River, as well as the beautiful harbour and the village of Port Credit. The Lighthouse is home to many organizations that are dedicated to preserving its history while also making sure it continues to be accessible for visitors year-round. With such beauty all around you can see why this building has become one of Mississauga’s most photographed landmarks!
Art gallery of Mississauga
Address: 300 City Centre Dr, Mississauga, ON L5B 3C1
Art gallery of Mississauga is the only public art gallery in Mississauga and has been welcoming visitors for more than 30 years. The Gallery features a variety of exhibitions with a focus on Canadian art. They have five galleries that offer a variety of experiences for all visitors.
Many Different Exhibitions
Art gallery of Mississauga is a great place for people who are looking for something new and want to expand their horizons. Even if you’ve visited the Art gallery of Mississauga they always have new up and coming exhibitions all the time!
Rattray Marsh Conservation Area
Address: 1180 Lakeshore Rd W, Mississauga, ON L5H 3L1
***This park does not require a reservation, access is granted on a first come, first served basis.***
The Rattray Marsh is a green space with an attractive natural setting that can be found in Mississauga. One of the only remaining lakeside marshes in between Toronto and Burlington, this environmentally sensitive wetland offers a different experience for nature lovers.
Though The Rattray Marsh’s bird life constantly shifts with the seasons, you can expect to see the wood warbler, eastern kingbirds, tree swallows, grey catbirds, and spotted sandpipers.
Wildlife within the marsh includes rabbits, beaver, deer and occasionally foxes. Other creatures include the vocal spring peeper, American toad, turtles, snakes and more.
Riverwood Conservancy
Address: 4300 Riverwood Park Ln, Mississauga, ON L5C 2S7
Visiting Riverwood Conservancy is an opportunity to explore one of Mississauga’s natural gems. It’s a great place for a peaceful walk with beautiful gardens view, a picnic lunch or find a quiet place to read. With some amazing amenities such as free parking, scenic trails, historic buildings, and well-kept gardens, no wonder it’s one of Mississauga’s most popular spots.
Riverwood Conservancy offers trails throughout the park and offer visitors with a multitude of options as they explore this 150 acre property. There are many well-marked trails perfect for all ages.
Amenities at Riverwood Conservancy
- Picnic tables and benches for families or groups
- An accessible fishing pier
- Self-guided interpretive trails that lead you from the lake shore through forests of maple and oak trees
And if you visit during the summer month you’ll get to see beautiful flowers such as peonies and azaleas.
Square One Shopping Centre
Address: 100 City Centre Dr, Mississauga, ON L5B 2C9
Square One Shopping Centre is the second largest shopping mall in Ontario and one of the best malls in Mississauga. Square One Shopping Centre includes 330 stores which include large collection of fashion labels, entertainment and dining experiences. This mall has everything you need for your day-to-day needs or that special someone on your list. Spend the day shopping and catch a movie at night or play some games at the Rec Room.
The Bottom Line
Mississauga is an amazing city to live in and one of the best cities in Canada. A suburb that lies on the western shores of Lake Ontario about a short distance away from Toronto ON. Mississauga may not be as big as Toronto but it’s a growing city with many new condiminums and still has its own wonderful attractions. Which includes beautiful parks, and hidden gems and one of the largest shopping calls in Ontario. Mississauga offers something for everyone with a lot of culture and a lot to do.
So next time you’re looking for things to do, think of visiting Mississauga, Ontario!