When you think of Canada you probably don’t think of beaches. However, I believe it the only country in the world that borders on three oceans, and it boasts the most lakes in the world. Ontario, Canada’s second largest province is home to four of the five Great Lakes (Ontario, Erie, Huron and Superior, the other being Michigan which is entirely n the USA), which together contain 20% of the planet’s fresh water. So, it is not surprising Ontario has some great beaches.

During a recent visit to London, Ontario to see my Mom, I asked her what she wanted to do, and she suggested we go for a drive to Port Stanley, on Lake Erie just 45 minutes away. I was game! I have never been and to be honest had never heard anything about Port Stanley. Turns out it is a quirky town with a great beach and lots of fun shops, art, architecture and history.

Let’s go on a tour.

As we drove into town, I was surprised to see people milling about several passenger train cars. My Mom loves trains, so we quickly headed over to see what was happening. Turns out the Port Stanley Terminal Rail is operated totally by volunteers, who were getting ready for the start of the tourist season with a special Easter Hunt Train Ride planned for the next weekend.

FYI: “The railway tracks go from Port Stanley northward along the Kettle Creek valley with a series of woodsy views to St Thomas. Along the way we pass the other former London Port Stanley station at Union, restored and complete with flag stop. This one time electric interurban railway was very popular with travelers from London and St. Thomas in years gone by. Much history of the London & Port Stanley Railway still exists with this short stretch operated for your enjoyment. Wildflowers grow in abundance along the track and are constantly changing from week to week throughout the season. As the train reaches the upper portion of the line it passes by many homes back yards - we often find local children out to wave as the train passes by.” (from Port Stanley Terminal Rail Charters website)

Cast of Characters

As we drove around town trying to get a lay of the land, I noticed several tall (pencil-like), folk-art figures in parks and in front of shops. Of course, I had to jump out of the car and take photos – soon I had photographed a cast of characters. Finally, I went into the drug store that had one of the characters welcoming you at their front door and asked about the folk art. Turns out they are made by a local artist, and they are available for sale in the Firehall Farmers’ market so off we went.

Fire Hall Market Fun

Just a few steps away we found the quaint, old Firehall that has been renovated to create a cool market that includes a bakery, butcher and sandwich maker. It also has the quirkiest pub – The Hydrant. There are just a few seats at the bar with more seating outside including stand-up tables made of antique fire-fighting equipment – creative and clever. And yes, there is a small gallery space selling the folk-art figures.

Main Street

Along Port Stanley’s Main Street (called Main Street) you will find an eclectic collection of shops, cafes, restaurants and galleries. And there are also some quirky architecture and buildings. While it was very quiet on a nice Saturday in early April, I expect it is bustling with people in the summer.

Just off of Main Street is a building that includes the public library, an independent bookstore and the Port Stanley Festival Theatre. The 2025 line-up was intriguing - Dump Guys, Leisa Way Opry Gold, Doris and Ivy In The Home, Liars At A Funeral, The Kitchen Witches and goldfish (a world premier).

“Recovery Through The Arts” was a fun flaneur find. Saw this door just off of Main Street and decided to explore. Inside was an art gallery with 10+ different individuals using art as a means of dealing with personal issues. Here are a few samples….

The Beach

I was surprised at how big the beach is - turns out there are four beaches – Main Beach, Little Beach, Erie Rest Beach and Pumphouse Beach. Lake Erie is the shallowest of the Great Lakes which means it is also the warmest. The beaches have Blue Flag designation i.e. a Blue Flag beach signifies it has been recognized by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) for meeting high standards in water quality, environmental management, safety, and environmental education. It's an internationally recognized eco-label that indicates a high level of quality and environmental responsibility.

Everyday Tourist Tip: Since 1911, Mackies restaurant has been on the beach serving up its famous hot dogs, fries and orangeade. We gave them a try, but personally I would pass on them next time as there is nothing special about the dog, fries or drink. However, the young girl who severed me was perhaps the most pleasant young server I have ever had.

Last Word

Who knew that Port Stanley was once known as the “Coney Island of the Great Lakes?” I didn’t! It has a rich history for anyone who is a history buff.

I am thinking a perfect day in Port Stanley would include a train ride, a walk along the beach, lunch at the Firehall Market, a walk about town, early dinner at one of the restaurants and then the theatre. Heck why not make it a weekend?

Port Stanley: Ontario’s quirky beach town!