Are We There Yet?

London is about 200 km (125 miles) west of Toronto, Ontario and the same distance east of Detroit, Michigan. The city lies adjacent to Ontario's main provincial highway 401 with a number of exits into town. If you're heading toward city centre you'll go north on the Wellington Street exit (which is also where you'll find many of the common chain hotels.) We do have a small airport here, called London International, with flights arriving from various points within Canada, Detroit, Dominican Republic, Cuba and other locales. If needed, car rentals are available at the airport. If you prefer train travel, VIA Rail stops at our new station, completely rebuilt just a few years ago.

http://www.londonairport.on.ca/

Upon moving to London I was a little nervous about driving around the city but I have never been lost here. The main streets and many side streets are in a grid pattern, going north/south or east/west, so if you have a decent sense of direction, you'll be fine. City speed limits are generally 50 km/h (30 mph) unless otherwise posted.

I'm Sleepy!

Just about any chain hotel you can think of has a location here so finding something in your price range shouldn't be difficult. However, if you want your accommodations a little more upscale I recommend Delta London Armouries. Located in the downtown area, the building is gorgeous since part of the hotel dates back to 1905 when it was built as the armoury for London. Now with modern additions including a 20-floor tower, indoor pool, internet access, a fitness centre and restaurant, there are over 200 rooms. I have never stayed here but I know people who have and they were very happy. The Sunday brunch is very popular.

http://www4.deltahotels.com/hotels/hotels.php?hotelId=12

I'm Hungry!

As with most cities, there is the usual plethora of fast food "restaurants" including McDonalds, Wendy's, KFC, Subway, Pizza Hut, Dominos, ad infinitum, yadda, yadda, blah, blah, bleurg. If you really have to grab something fast, I recommend Harvey's. The burgers are flame-broiled and they're actually pretty good. A few years back when I attended Weight Watchers, we were allowed a Harvey's burger once a week! The onion rings are great too, although those are definitely not allowed on a diet. Now to my proper recommendations (other than a backyard BBQ at my place.)

Michael's on the Thames

This is my favourite restaurant for upscale fine dining; definitely dress up if going for dinner. Michael's is located close to the downtown area and right next to the Thames River. If going during daylight hours, I always try to get a table next to the river since it's so much more peaceful. Everything on the menu is excellent but make sure you order the Caesar salad which they prepare fresh, table side. I have never had a bad meal here, the service is exemplary and most nights there is live piano music. You will often encounter the owner wandering around and if you're celebrating a special occasion, he may even sing. (It's not as hokey as it sounds.) I would recommend you make reservations, especially if you're planning on a Friday or Saturday evening meal. Prices are higher than average but it is well worth it.

http://www.michaelsonthethames.com/

Garlics

Located in the downtown core, Garlics is unique since almost everything on their menu has garlic in the ingredients, including dessert! I've eaten here a couple of times and loved it, but then, I'm a garlic lover. Reservations are recommended and I'd dress up a bit if going. The restaurant is very handy to the theatre, food is excellent and service is top-notch. Be adventurous and try the garlic ice-cream for dessert, but be warned and don't make the mistake I did. The ice-cream comes with what looks like a piece of chocolate on the top, I popped it whole into my mouth and it was actually an entire garlic clove dipped in chocolate! That was an experience I won't soon forget.

http://www.garlics.on.ca/welcome.htm

Copperfields

My newest favourite restaurant, located in the Wortley Village area of town, this is French bistro style, casual fine dining. (Wortley Village is one of the oldest areas of London, notable for it's lovely residential architecture, quaint specialty shops and small town feel.) Copperfields does not have an extensive menu but what they do is outstanding. Food is prepared using the freshest of ingredients, many of which are locally produced when possible. The last time I was there, I had pear and parsley soup for my appetizer; it sounded so unusual I just had to try it! Their beef tenderloin can be cut with a butter knife and the bread you'll get is baked on the premises. Also available is brick-oven pizza, baked right in front of you in their open-face oven. I'd feel comfortable wearing jeans here for lunch but not dinner (although I have seen people who do so.) Reservations are a must since the establishment is quite small, the last time I was here they were turning people away.

http://www.copperfields.ca/

Great West Beef/The Keg

I've lumped these two restaurants together because they're both steak houses, although their menus are extensive enough if you prefer chicken, seafood or something vegetarian. The Keg has better food whereas Great West Beef has hot and cold buffets. In fact, I would not order a steak at Great West Beef since, over the past few months, their beef quality has dropped dramatically for some reason. What is notable about these two restaurants are their locations. London is a railroad town, having both of Canada's national railways running through the city (and sometimes causing traffic delays.) Great West is in what's left of the former Grand Trunk Western roundhouse built in the late 1800's, you can still see the shape from the outside. Inside it is decorated with railroad art and memorabilia (not all is authentic however.) The Keg (they have a couple of locations, I'm speaking of the downtown one here,) is in the former Canadian Pacific station and was lovingly restored a few years ago. Since I used to work for the CPR, I know many people who actually worked in the station when it was operating and it's fun to hear the old stories. Since The Keg is right next to the CPR main line, while you're dining you'll probably see (and feel) freight trains rumbling by.

http://www.greatweststeak.ca/
http://www.kegsteakhouse.com/

Tony's

Ahhhhhh, I love Italian food and when I'm on the hunt for some, Tony's is the spot. Practically a London institution, the restaurant has been around since 1961, is very popular and now has four locations (we always eat at the Dundas Street one.) The atmosphere is casual, I usually wear jeans and have seen many people in shorts during the summer. The decor is a tad dingy and the service isn't great but the food more than makes up for those drawbacks. I almost always order the panzerotti, it's the best on the planet and if I get a small, I know I'll be taking home half of it.

http://www.tonyspizza.ca/

Under the Volcano

Mexican! Best margaritas ever and they'll serve them by the pitcher. This is a small establishment but we've always managed to get a table. The spice level of the food will be according to your wishes and everything is excellent. Make sure you try the cheese soup!

http://www.underthevolcano.ca/index.html

I'm Bored!!!

There are many attractions to see around London, some open year round and others seasonal.

London International Airshow

For three days close to the end of each June (2005 dates are June 24-26,) London is host to a huge airshow. If you like planes, this is an experience you will love. I used to attend this show every year to see the Canadian Forces Snowbirds, the Skyhawks (a parachute demonstration team) plus many other aerial and static displays. While 2005 pricing has not yet been announced, 2004 tickets were $20 for adults, $15 for seniors 65+ and children 6-15, with children under 6 admitted free. If purchased in advance, you saved $5 per ticket. Since I live fairly close to the airport, it's always fun to watch the planes leave on Monday morning after the show. Some of them are loud enough to rattle the whole house!

http://www.londonairshow.com/

Museum London

Dedicated to preserving London's past and present through art, Museum London is a lovely stop with both permanent and temporary exhibitions featuring historical and contemporary pieces. Just a short walk away is Eldon House, London's oldest residence, which you can tour. Opening hours for both locations are rather limited but they're very inexpensive.

http://www.londonmuseum.on.ca/

Festivals

I could go on and on with this topic since London is widely known for it's festivals, many of which I attend every year. My favourites are the Bluesfest (where you'll hear fantastic music,) The Hot Air Balloon Fest (you'll be very close when many balloons take flight,) Rib Fest (an international contest where you can eat the entries,) Sunfest (an international music event,) Rock the Park (2005 acts will include ZZ Top, REO Speedwagon, George Thorogood and more,) and Western Fair (a fall fair with lots of rides and agricultural exhibits.) Many events are free to attend and most are held in the downtown areas of Victoria Park and Harris Park. You'll hear great music, see interesting and unique vendors and eat international style food. Festivals (many of which celebrate London's multicultural heritage) are held year round with most occurring during the summer months.

http://www.london.ca/Recreation/Arts_Culture/festivals.htm
http://www.londontourism.ca/Attractions.asp?Page=3

Fanshawe Pioneer Village

Located in Fanshawe Park, adjacent to the lake, this is a recreation of a 19th century village with many buildings and exhibits. Interpreters are on-site to explain what you'll see and with the very inexpensive admission prices, it's a fun and educational family activity.

http://www.fanshawepioneervillage.ca/

Children's Museum/Storybook Gardens

Two locations geared toward the children (or your inner child.) Established in 1975, the London Children's Museum was Canada's first of it's kind. The exhibits are hands-on and fun for all ages including dinosaurs, space travel and the Arctic. Storybook Gardens has live animals, fun attractions and activities themed around stories including the Enchanted Forest, Old MacDonald's Farm and Pirates Island. Both of these child oriented places are inexpensive and will keep all generations entertained.

http://www.londonchildrensmuseum.ca/
http://www.storybook.london.ca/

London Museum of Archaeology

Dedicated to the history of the Native Peoples of Southwestern Ontario, this site features a reconstructed village dating back to the 15th century (excavation is still on-going,) artifacts and exhibits spanning thousands of years. A fascinating look at this area before Europeans arrived.

http://www.uwo.ca/museum/index.html

The Grand Theatre

I love the theatre and while we can't really compete with Broadway, I've seen a number of excellent shows at The Grand. Dating back to 1901 when it was known as Grand Opera House, The Grand is Canada's oldest continually-performing theatre. Many stars have graced our stage including Sarah Bernhardt, W.C. Fields, Sir John Gielgud, Charles Laughton, London's own Hume Cronyn and his wife, Jessica Tandy. Although not a large theatre, The Grand is beautiful inside, having been restored a number of times throughout it's history and even has it's own resident ghost. A typical season at The Grand includes plays, musicals, concerts, performances designed for children and special events. There is sure to be something for everyone each year.

http://www.grandtheatre.com/index.html

Additional Information

London is entirely non-smoking within public buildings, this includes all restaurants and bars although many have outdoor patios in the summer. We have a decent transit system so getting around without a car is not usually a problem if you don't want to use taxis, however, buses do not run 24 hours. Shopping is plentiful with a number of malls (Masonville being my favourite,) specialty shops and boutiques. Downtown nightlife is hopping, especially during the university year, and you must be at least 19 years of age to purchase alcoholic beverages. The weather is hot (and sometimes humid) in the summer and cold in the winter with average temperatures ranging between 20° C (69° F) and -6° C (21° F) although I've regularly seen it both hotter and colder. The close proximity of the Great Lakes does affect our weather, increasing humidity and snowfall. With so many trees in the city, both spring and fall are beautiful seasons to be here also. London has a strong industrial base and is also home to the University of Western Ontario. Sales tax on most things is 15% which includes an 8% provincial tax and 7% G.S.T. (federal) although a portion of this may be refundable to non-Canadian visitors. (For more information see: http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/E/pub/tg/rc4031/README.html ) All prices quoted are in Canadian funds and subject to change. Almost every place I've recommended is handicapped accessible, please check websites for details. As for safety, we have a crime rate that is lower than the national average. While there are certainly some more suspect parts of town, I would not be afraid to walk through the downtown area alone after dark.

There is so much to see and do in and around London, I have only highlighted a few of my favourite things. Honourable mentions should go to Labatts Breweries (which was founded in London and has tours available,) The John Labatt Centre, home of our Ontario Hockey League team The London Knights and place of many concerts each year, (I saw REM there in 2004, scheduled acts for 2005 include B.B. King, Sting, Mötley Crüe and Green Day,) Western Fair Harness Racetrack and Slots, Banting House National Historic Site ("the birthplace of insulin") and The Canadian Medical Hall of Fame. Within driving distance is both Lake Erie and Lake Huron (Erie is closer but Huron is nicer,) Stratford (home of the world famous Stratford Festival,) the Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame, Delaware Speedway, Elgin County Railway Museum and much, much more. There is something here for absolutely everyone, so I hope you'll include London in your next trip to Ontario.

http://www.londontourism.ca/index.asp
London Tourism slideshow: http://www.londontourism.ca/SlideShow.asp
Virtual tours: http://www.londontourism.ca/LondonVirtualTours.asp
London Photo Gallery: http://www.londonphotogallery.net/gallery/index.php

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This has been another entry for CaptainD's Challenge Yourself 2005 write-off. Thank you Dave for helping me push my limitations just a little further!

Thanks also go to the adorable and incredibly efficient Chris, for adding London to the database in record time. I had wanted to write this review for some time but was overwhelmed at the magnitude of it; reading Patricia's excellent review of Montgomery, Alabama helped me to see it could be done. Thank you Patricia for your inspiration and encouragement!

Recommended:
Yes

Best Suited For: Families
Best Time to Travel Here: Jun - Aug