Let me get this out of the way: London, Ontario doesn’t always get the credit it deserves. We’re not Toronto. We’re not Ottawa. We don’t have the skyline or the Parliament Buildings or the CN Tower. But you know what we do have?

A forest running through the middle of the city.
An indie music scene that punches way above its weight.
And enough food spots, coffee shops, and hidden trails to keep things interesting seven days a week.

So if you’ve ever breezed past London on the 401 thinking it was just another dot on the map — let me give you a local’s tour. Because London isn’t just my hometown — it’s a vibe all its own.

The Forest City Lives Up to the Name

They don’t call it The Forest City for nothing. London’s full of green spaces, tree-lined trails, and parks where you can actually breathe. My go-to? Springbank Park, hands down. It’s huge — over 300 acres of winding paths along the Thames River, with families picnicking, cyclists cruising, and dogs living their absolute best lives.

There’s something really peaceful about this park. You can walk for hours under tall maples and pines, stop to feed the ducks, and maybe even catch a yoga class on the grass in the warmer months. It’s five minutes from downtown, but it feels like you’ve stepped into a different world.

If you’re feeling more adventurous, head to Hickory Woods or Westminster Ponds, where boardwalks and backwoods trails make you feel like you’ve discovered a secret.

And yes, we do have a Thames River, just like our UK namesake. We just trade Big Ben for… beavers.

Downtown London: Music, Murals & Morning Coffee

Downtown London has been growing into itself over the past few years. What used to be mostly student bars and old storefronts is now a blend of art, energy, and unexpected edge.

If you’re here in the morning, grab a coffee at Locomotive Espresso or Black Walnut Bakery Café — both serve up strong espresso and flaky pastries that are worth the line. Then take a walk along Richmond Row, where you’ll find vintage shops, record stores, independent bookstores, and enough boutiques to accidentally blow your budget.

The city has this creative undercurrent running through it — especially in the Old East Village. That’s where you’ll find murals on brick walls, live music pouring out of cafés, and artists working out of shared studios. If you’re lucky, there’s a pop-up market or street festival happening — and if not, grab a pint at Anderson Craft Ales and enjoy the atmosphere anyway.

Eat Like a Local: London’s Underrated Food Scene

Let’s talk food. Because wow, this city delivers.

The Early Bird is a brunch institution — half tattoo shop, half retro diner, all flavor. The bacon-wrapped French toast is legendary, and the vibe is pure rock n’ roll. If you’re going on a weekend, go early. The line gets real.

For something a little more upscale, try David’s Bistro — it’s cozy, French-inspired, and full of regulars who treat it like a second home. Or head to Abruzzi for locally-sourced Italian that tastes like a hug in pasta form.

Craving something casual? Los Lobos serves wild tacos and tequila with a side of punk rock. Roll Roll is my personal go-to for fresh sushi, and Zen’Za Pizzeria does crazy-good wood-fired pies with organic toppings and crusts that could win awards.

In short: you won’t go hungry in London. You might just eat better than you expected.

Culture & Community: Something’s Always Happening

This city might not be huge, but it’s got heart — and it knows how to show it.

Catch a play at The Grand Theatre, one of the oldest professional stages in Canada. Swing by Museum London to see contemporary Canadian art in a sleek riverside building. Or check out a concert at London Music Hall, where big-name acts and local legends all share the same stage.

In the summer, Sunfest brings global music and food to Victoria Park, and Home County Festival turns the whole city into a folk concert under the trees. Londoners know how to show up for live music — and you’ll feel that energy from the first guitar strum.

And don’t even get me started on Western University. The student presence adds so much life, creativity, and caffeine consumption to this city. Whether it’s frosh week parades or late-night bubble tea runs, the student influence keeps London forever young.

Final Thoughts: London, You Sneaky Charmer

So here’s the deal. London, Ontario might not scream “bucket list” at first glance. But once you slow down, step into a local café, get lost in the trees, or hear a band playing down a side street, something clicks.

It’s a city that doesn’t need to impress you — because it just does. Quietly. Steadily. And with more personality than you expected.

So next time you’re driving through Southwestern Ontario, do yourself a favor: pull off the highway. Stay a while. You just might find your new favorite spot — hidden in plain sight.