Sarnia, located in southwestern Ontario, Canada, is a charming city with a lot to offer visitors and residents alike. Nestled along the shores of Lake Huron and the St. Clair River, Sarnia boasts a beautiful waterfront and numerous outdoor recreational opportunities. Here are some of the best places to visit and things to do in Sarnia:
1. Centennial Park
Image Source: https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Attraction_Review-g155011-d10340458-Reviews-Centennial_Park-Sarnia_Ontario.html
This picturesque park is located right on the waterfront, providing stunning views of Lake Huron and the Blue Water Bridge. It’s an ideal spot for picnics, leisurely walks, and enjoying beautiful sunsets.
2. Canatara Park
Image Source: https://www.ontbluecoast.com/listing/canatara-park/
A must-visit for nature lovers, Canatara Park features lush green spaces, walking trails, a sandy beach, and Lake Chipican. The Howard Watson Nature Trail is perfect for biking and hiking.
3. Sarnia Bay Marina
Image Source: https://marinas.com/view/marina/pwc39m_Sarnia_Bay_Marina_Sarnia_ON_Canada
Offering a serene atmosphere, the Sarnia Bay Marina is a great place to stroll along the docks, watch boats sail by, and enjoy the tranquil waters.
4. Stones ‘N Bones Museum
Image Source: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g155011-d2408902-Reviews-Stones_N_Bones_Museum-Sarnia_Ontario.html
Ideal for families and history enthusiasts, this museum showcases an extensive collection of fossils, minerals, and artifacts, providing an educational and interactive experience.
5. Imperial Theatre
Image Source: https://www.ontbluecoast.com/listing/imperial-theatre/
For a cultural experience, head to the Imperial Theatre, an iconic landmark that hosts various performances, concerts, and events throughout the year.
6. Point Edward Casino
Image Source: https://www.gatewaycasinos.com/grand-opening-starlight-casino-point-edward/
If you’re feeling lucky, visit the Point Edward Casino located near Sarnia’s waterfront. It offers a range of gaming options and dining choices.
7. Artwalk
Image Source: https://traveltop6.com/canada/southwest-ontario/events/sarnia-artwalk
Every summer, Sarnia hosts the popular Artwalk festival, featuring artwork by local and regional artists displayed in various venues throughout the city.
8. Judith and Norman Alix Art Gallery
Image Source: https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Attraction_Review-g155011-d4242715-Reviews-Judith_Norman_Alix_Art_Gallery-Sarnia_Ontario.html
This art gallery showcases Canadian art and rotating exhibits, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts.
9. Waterfront Trail
Image Source: https://waterfronttrail.org/trip-ideas/itinerary-sarnia-and-lambton/
Perfect for cyclists, runners, and walkers, the Waterfront Trail offers scenic views of Lake Huron and the St. Clair River, stretching for miles along the shoreline.
10. Bluewater Fun Park
Image Source: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g155011-d4295114-Reviews-or10-Bluewater_Fun_Park-Sarnia_Ontario.html
This amusement park provides fun-filled activities for families, including mini-golf, go-karts, bumper boats, and an arcade.
11. Sarnia Farmers’ Market
Image Source: https://www.ontbluecoast.com/listing/sarnia-farmers-market/
For a taste of local produce and artisan goods, visit the Sarnia Farmers’ Market, open year-round.
12. Refined Fool Brewing Company
Image Source: https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Attraction_Review-g155011-d6591777-Reviews-Refined_Fool_Brewing_Company-Sarnia_Ontario.html
If you appreciate craft beer, stop by this local brewery for a selection of unique and tasty brews.
13. Oil Museum of Canada
Image Source: https://www.ontbluecoast.com/listing/oil-museum-of-canada/
Discover Sarnia’s rich petroleum heritage and its impact on the community at this informative museum.
14. Golf Courses
Image Source: https://www.golfpass.com/travel-advisor/courses/27822-sarnia-golf-and-curling-club
Sarnia boasts several golf courses, including Huron Oaks Golf Club and Greenwood Golf Club, where golf enthusiasts can enjoy a day on the links.
15. Bluewater Bridge
Image Source: https://www.trucknews.com/infrastructure/blue-water-bridge-lane-restrictions-begin-july-5/1003176455/
Take a walk or drive across the iconic Bluewater Bridge, connecting Sarnia to Port Huron, Michigan, USA. The bridge offers stunning views of the St. Clair River and is a great spot for photography.
16. Bridgeview Marina
Image Source: https://marinas.com/view/marina/lwce5x_Bridgeview_Marina_Sarnia_ON_Canada
Boating enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to Bridgeview Marina, which provides boat rentals and a chance to explore the beautiful waters of Lake Huron.
17. Suncor Agora
Image Source: https://thesarniajournal.ca/free-summer-concert-series-music-to-the-ears-of-sarnians/
This public gathering space hosts various events, concerts, and festivals throughout the year, making it an excellent place to immerse yourself in the local culture and community.
18. Lambton Mall
Image Source: https://www.europro.ca/sarnia/lambton-mall
Shopaholics can indulge in retail therapy at Lambton Mall, which houses a variety of stores, boutiques, and eateries.
19. Holistic Health & Wellness
Image Source: https://www.yellowpages.ca/bus/Ontario/Sarnia/Treat-Yourself-Wellness-Centre/6451115.html
Sarnia has a thriving wellness community, with yoga studios, holistic health centers, and spas that offer relaxation and rejuvenation opportunities.
20. Public Art Installations
As you wander around Sarnia, keep an eye out for the city’s impressive public art installations, which add color and creativity to the streets.
21. RBC Centre
Image Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Progressive_Auto_Sales_Arena
Sports enthusiasts can catch hockey games and other sporting events at the RBC Centre, a modern sports arena in Sarnia.
22. Canatara Beach & Park Animal Farm
Image Source: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g155011-d2336299-Reviews-or280-Canatara_Park-Sarnia_Ontario.html
Kids will delight in a visit to the Canatara Animal Farm, where they can see and interact with various friendly farm animals.
23. Water Sports
Image Source: https://www.ontariossouthwest.com/listing/sarnia-water-sports/1475/
The St. Clair River and Lake Huron provide excellent opportunities for water sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet-skiing.
24. Bayside Centre Splash Pad
Image Source: https://thesarniajournal.ca/city-splash-pad-reopening-saturday-more-facilities-to-follow/
During the summer months, cool off at the Bayside Centre Splash Pad, a fun water playground for children and families.
25. Waterfront Trail Music Festival
Image Source: https://waterfronttrail.org/trip-ideas/itinerary-sarnia-and-lambton/
If you visit in the summer, don’t miss the Waterfront Trail Music Festival, where you can enjoy live music performances and delicious food along the waterfront.
26. Cultural and Historic Walking Tours
Image Source: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g155011-d4242715-Reviews-Judith_Norman_Alix_Art_Gallery-Sarnia_Ontario.html
Explore Sarnia’s heritage and architecture by taking guided walking tours that showcase the city’s cultural landmarks and historic sites.
27. Winter Wonderland
Image Source: https://www.globalheroes.com/winter-travel-in-sarnia-lambton/
Embrace the winter season by ice-skating at local rinks or enjoying snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in nearby parks.
28. Local Cuisine
Image Source: https://www.restaurantji.com/on/sarnia/
Savor the local flavors by dining at Sarnia’s excellent restaurants, offering a variety of dishes, including fresh seafood from the Great Lakes.
29. Community Events
Image Source: https://thesarniajournal.ca/your-guide-to-celebrating-canada-day/
Keep an eye on Sarnia’s community calendar for various events and festivals that celebrate everything from art and music to food and heritage.
30. Bluewater Trails
Image Source: https://www.bluewatertrails.com/
Sarnia boasts a network of scenic walking and biking trails known as the Bluewater Trails. These well-maintained paths wind through parks, along the waterfront, and provide an excellent opportunity for outdoor exercise and exploration.
31. Germain Park
Image Source: https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Attraction_Review-g155011-d10340460-Reviews-Germain_Park-Sarnia_Ontario.html
This expansive park offers a range of recreational facilities, including sports fields, tennis courts, a playground, and even a disc golf course. It’s an ideal spot for a family outing or a leisurely day outdoors.
32. Ontario Power Generation Visitor Centre
Image Source: https://www.sullivan.ca/project/opg-visitors-centre/
Learn about the production of electricity and the importance of nuclear power at the OPG Visitor Centre. The interactive exhibits make it an educational experience for visitors of all ages.
33. Lambton County Heritage Museum
Image Source: https://www.lambtonmuseums.ca/en/news/lambton-county-s-museums-gallery-and-archives-reopening-soon.aspx
Located just outside Sarnia, this museum showcases the history and culture of Lambton County through exhibits and artifacts.
34. Centennial Park Splash Pad
Image Source: https://www.pelhamtoday.ca/local-news/new-centennial-park-splash-pad-a-hit-6348575
Perfect for hot summer days, the Centennial Park Splash Pad is a fun and refreshing spot for kids to cool off and play in the water.
35. Stokes Bay
Image Source: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g2645572-Stokes_Bay_Bruce_County_Ontario-Vacations.html
If you’re looking for a peaceful beach experience away from the crowds, Stokes Bay offers a serene setting and a relaxing escape.
36. Local Festivals
Image Source: https://thesarniajournal.ca/sarnias-canada-day-party-returns-live-and-in-person/
Sarnia hosts a variety of festivals throughout the year, such as the Sarnia Greek Festival, Sarnia Artwalk, and First Fridays, providing a vibrant atmosphere and showcasing the city’s cultural diversity.
37. Kayak Rentals
Image Source: https://www.kijiji.ca/v-canoe-kayak-paddle-boat/sarnia/canoe-kayak-equipment-rentals-sarnia/1430657842
Rent a kayak and explore the St. Clair River or Lake Huron, providing a unique perspective of the city’s waterfront and natural beauty.
38. Victoria Playhouse Petrolia
Image Source: https://london.ctvnews.ca/petrolia-playhouse-plans-to-reopen-in-november-1.5107502?cache=sstyoxrk
Take a short drive to Petrolia and enjoy a live performance at the historic Victoria Playhouse, showcasing local and touring productions.
Places and Things To Do