Top 15 Attractions in Mississauga, Ontario – Explore the Best

Toronto’s largest suburb, Mississauga is Canada’s sixth most populated city. It is located to the west of Toronto along the shores of Lake Ontario, covering an expanse of over 280 square kilometers.

Although Mississauga was officially designated as a city in 1974, its origins can be traced back to the 1600s when European settlers first arrived. Subsequently, it transitioned from a town to a city, and due to its historical roots, it hosts numerous significant heritage sites. The city is also home to Lester B. Pearson International Airport, which ranks as Canada’s largest and busiest aviation hub. Currently, Mississauga is experiencing rapid growth, evolving into a prominent business district, alongside a vibrant arts scene, shopping centers, recreational spaces, and charming villages.

Let us delve into the top activities to enjoy in Mississauga:

1. Explore a historic village

Port Credit is a quaint village situated along the shoreline of Lake Ontario. Established in 1720, it features a core heritage conservation district.

Commonly referred to as the ‘Village on the Lake’, Port Credit possesses a charming old-town ambiance characterized by beautiful architecture, picturesque parks, and a lakefront marina. The area also offers over 25 kilometers of walkways and trails.

Notably, the marina is an exemplary facility capable of accommodating vessels up to 45 feet in length. It is also host to events such as the Port Credit In-Water Boat Show and the Waterfront Festival.

2. Visit a mansion

Located in Port Credit, the Adamson Estate was constructed as a private residence and farmland in 1809, and is now accessible to the public.

The primary building showcases lovely Flemish architectural style, alongside an ancient barn and a pet cemetery.

A remarkable aspect of this property is its eastern white pine trees, which have graced the estate since its inception.

3. Go for a long walk

The Waterfront Trail extends from Cornwall to Niagara-on-the-Lake, traversing part of Mississauga along its path. The trail encompasses over 740 kilometers in total.

The segment of the trail in Mississauga runs along the lakefront in Port Credit, integrating both residential and commercial zones.

This trail is outstanding for walking, cycling, skateboarding, and inline skating. If time allows, one can venture east towards Toronto or west towards Oakville.

4. Wander around Streetsville

This quaint neighborhood retains its small-town charm, evident in its historic buildings and urban landscape. Streetsville boasts a close-knit community, while visitors are consistently welcomed.

The region is celebrated for its festivals, including the Bread and Honey Festival in June, a Canada Day celebration on July 1st, and the Santa Claus Parade held in December.

Exploring the streets of Streetsville presents a delightful way to spend an afternoon, with numerous boutiques, family-owned restaurants, local shops, and notable residences waiting to be discovered.

5. Have fun at an arcade

Playdium is a large entertainment complex that features an arcade among various other attractions. Nestled on 11 acres in the heart of Mississauga, this venue offers a plethora of entertainment options.

The indoor facility spans over 12,000 square meters, equipped with an extensive arcade, simulated rides, a laser maze, and several dining establishments. Outdoors, visitors can enjoy an 18-hole miniature golf course, a baseball dome, and one of the longest Go-Kart tracks in Canada.

The optimal way to experience the arcade is by obtaining a two-hour or four-hour unlimited play card, with family packages also available. Please note that tickets for outdoor activities are priced separately.

6. Defy the law of gravity

iFly is a cylindrical vertical tunnel with a diameter exceeding four meters, positioned approximately 14 meters above ground. Here, individuals can experience the sensation of flight within the tube, defying gravity.

Air flows beneath you at a speed of 175 kilometers per hour, providing the uplifting sensation akin to skydiving.

iFly is designed with safety in mind, making it an ideal experience for the entire family. Experience the thrill of free-falling from a plane without being more than two meters off the ground.

7. Look at art

Art enthusiasts should not miss the Art Gallery of Mississauga (AGM). Established in 1987, the gallery consists of four distinct exhibition spaces.

The gallery hosts year-round exhibitions and houses a permanent collection featuring art from both national and regional artists. Currently, it comprises over 500 individual works of art.

The gallery also conducts various events, including lectures, workshops, and live performances, and offers regular yoga and children’s art classes.

8. Play a round of golf

Mississauga hosts two primary golf establishments: BraeBen Golf Course and Lakeview Golf Course. BraeBen offers a 9-hole academy course alongside an 18-hole championship layout, while Lakeview is a renowned 18-hole course.

BraeBen Golf Course boasts a par 72, comprising 18 challenging holes stretching a distance of 6,415 yards through a dramatic landscape, while the 9-hole academy course caters to novices.

In operation since 1907, Lakeview Golf Course is recognized as one of Ontario’s premier courses, featuring an 18-hole championship layout that has hosted the Canada Open on two occasions.

9. Shop in one of the country’s largest malls

Square One Shopping Centre is the largest shopping mall in Ontario and the second largest across Canada. Boasting over 160,000 square meters of retail space, the mall features over 360 shops and various services.

This sprawling shopping destination is centrally located in Downtown Mississauga and serves as a hub for the city’s main bus network. Additionally, it is easily accessible via Highway.

The mall includes five anchor stores, along with 13 coffee shops, two supermarkets, and approximately 65 dining establishments, complementing its extensive array of shops and services.

10. Enjoy an elegant meal

The Waterside Inn in Port Credit boasts a sophisticated restaurant that serves exceptional cuisine on high-quality china. Enjoy your meal accompanied by glittering silver cutlery on crisp linen tablecloths and serviettes.

Each dish is skillfully prepared with only the finest ingredients, and the establishment holds numerous awards for excellence in dining. Furthermore, it features an impressive wine list.

The restaurant operates for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with its Sunday brunch being particularly distinguished.

11. Spend a day at the park

Mississauga features over 350 parks of varying sizes. These range from compact parks with trees and benches to larger green spaces equipped with recreational facilities.

A notable park in the city is Jack Darling Memorial Park, situated along the waterfront, which includes an off-leash dog park, tennis courts, and two expansive picnic areas.

Jack Darling Memorial Park also showcases a beautiful beach, ideal for swimming, paddling, windsurfing, and kayaking. For those preferring to remain on land, several walking trails are available to explore.

12. Visit a waterfall

Mississauga is home to a hidden waterfall accessible via a walking trail: Wahoosh Falls. Although not large, it offers a tranquil experience, surrounded by natural beauty.

Wahoosh Falls cascades over Mullet Creek, flowing into the Credit River, featuring two intimate waterfalls nestled within the ravine.

The ravine is conveniently located behind the University of Toronto Mississauga, accessible through various pathways, providing a pleasant stroll amidst numerous trees and plant life.

13. Have fun in an amusement park

Fantasy Fair is the largest indoor amusement park in Ontario, uniquely situated in the Woodbine Shopping Centre, not far from the airport.

With 12 full-size rides and attractions including a carousel, Ferris wheel, climbing wall, and bumper cars, there are activities for all ages. Additionally, a play area is available for younger children, as well as a simulator ride for older kids.

Visitors can easily spend an entire day enjoying the attractions, concluding with a meal at the food court or exploring the adjacent shopping mall.

14. Go fishing

Fishing in Mississauga is season-dependent, but both the Credit River and Lake Ontario are excellent fishing locales.

The Credit River is renowned for its Chinook salmon, steelhead, pink, and Atlantic salmon. Alternatively, one could visit the marina in Port Credit for a private charter on Lake Ontario, where Chinook salmon and Rainbow trout can be targeted.

Chartering a private yacht for a leisurely cruise around the lake is also a viable option, offering a splendid experience for special occasions or simply a relaxing afternoon.

15. Head to the races

While Woodbine Racetrack is technically located just outside of Mississauga in Toronto, it is worth mentioning due to its proximity. Since its inception in 1956, the racetrack has hosted both thoroughbred and standardbred horse racing.

Significant stakes thoroughbred races are conducted throughout the year at the racetrack, which is also home to the Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame.

After partaking in the races, visitors can try their luck at various gaming options such as slots or table games, including blackjack, roulette, and baccarat. The venue also features numerous dining and lounge options, allowing guests to spend an entire day and evening enjoying the facilities.