Brantford

Brantford is a city in Ontario, Canada, founded on the Grand River in Southwestern Ontario. It is surrounded by Brant County but is politically separate with a municipal government of its own that is fully independent of the county's municipal government. Wikipedia.
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Brantford Trip Planner

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Top attractions in Brantford

Brantford Twin Valley Zoo Ltd.
1. Brantford Twin Valley Zoo Ltd.
4.5
(2685)
Temporarily Closed
Zoo
Zoos & Aquariums
Small zoo featuring animals such as lions, bears & wolves, plus an area for petting goats.
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We had an amazing Thursday afternoon at the Twin valley zoo in Brantford. I honestly wasn’t expecting much when we initially decided to visit. I assumed it would be a few “local” animals in a small area and not much else. I couldn’t have been more wrong! The zoo was absolutely fantastic and we had such a blast for my daughter second birthday. The animals range from deer, pigs to TIGERS! And Grey Wolves?!? The animals have huge enclosures and appear to be really well taken care of. The sheer amount and variety of animals was incredible and I can say with complete honesty that we had more fun than we do at the Toronto zoo. The zoo is family owned and has been for decades, we learned. We had such a lovely day that we fully intent on coming back again soon. It’s just a shame it took my 30 years to find this place!
Excellent collections and easy going for kids. Kids prefer to walk and see for themselves all the animals at their enclosures. Well kept Zoo. Need 3 hrs max to cover all enclosures leisurely.
There’s a nice variety of animals to see, and it’s the perfect size for kids to walk around without getting too tired. The staff were all very friendly and happy to answer questions. You can tell they really care about the animals. A really fun and family-friendly place to spend a few hours!
This is a great little zoo we had a great time seeing all of the animals the staff are incredibly friendly and helpful. I visited with my two daughters and my granddaughter. My Granddaughter brought her barbie with her. At some point she dropped the Barbie and my daughter's and I didn't notice. However one for the lady staff members remembered it in my granddaughters hand and knew whom it belonged to so she picked it up jumped on a golf cart and began searching for us.....she found us and gave it to my granddaughter totally saving the day Thank you so much Twin Valley Zoo and staff for a very beautiful outing with my family.
The Brantford Twin Valley zoo is a great place to visit. The perfect size with a good mix of animals. Bonus for us it was customer appreciation day when we were there so the grandchildren enjoyed face painting, crafts and a bouncy castle as well. Good value.
Wonderful small zoo with amazing variety of animals. Good deal, not busy. Not much food selection, take your own. Had a great time.
We had a great family outing to the zoo! It was clean and big enough everywhere for a stroller. There was a fun kids play area and lots of animals to see! The ice cream is also delicious with lots of cool flavors. Parking was free and there was no wait when we went although it was a hot day. We had a really good time and will be back again!
Best zoo for small kids. Has play area as well. Kids can pet Deer, Goat. They have quite few variety of Huge animals Lion, Tiger, Bear. Nice collection of Birds. Lots of trees and be a picnic spot too. My kids loved it.
Bell Homestead National Historic Site
2. Bell Homestead National Historic Site
4.7
(488)
Museum
Sights & Landmarks
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Visited the homestead on Family Day 2025 and my family and I had a great time. Brian, the tour guide, was informative and very knowledgeable. He had an answer for every question we had. He also was very patient with our two year old son who didn’t grasp the hands off concept at first. We visited right after a bad winter storm and the pathways around the property were very clear and safe.
We had the pleasure of visiting Bellstead in Brantford, and it was truly one of the most enriching and memorable experiences we’ve had in Canada. Standing in the very place where Alexander Graham Bell lived and where the world’s first long-distance phone call was made felt nothing short of magical. The house is beautifully preserved, and the storytelling throughout the tour brought history to life in the most engaging way. A special note of appreciation goes to our guide — a kind and knowledgeable lady (I believe her name is Katie / she’s also featured in our pictures posted here) — who patiently answered every question and took the time to ensure everyone in the group felt involved and informed. Her passion for history truly made the tour unforgettable. For anyone interested in innovation, history, or simply a quiet, meaningful outing, Bellstead is a must-visit. Thank you for preserving this treasure and for making our visit so special.
Visited the site during 2025 Victoria Day long weekend. We were blessed as it was a beautiful day with no rain but a slight overcast, so it wasn't too hot either! Countryside is always beautiful and a treat for the eyes. It is a quaint neighborhood, and I'm always curious how people in these small towns spend their time. Whereas we living in the main city/downtown literally have everything at a short walking distance! Spring and summer are the six months where most Canadians make the most of outdoor activities.
I thought this would be a quick 10–15 minute stop at a small historic place, but I was pleasantly surprised! The visit included a fascinating 1.5 hours guided experience covering Bell’s life, the invention of the telephone, and the evolution of early communication technology. Every minute was engaging, and the stories truly brought history to life. At just $12.50 for admission, it offered excellent value — highly recommended!
We had such a great time. We did the 5 senses program with my homeschooling group. Friendly and engaged staff. We had to guess which rooms were which based on the hints of what was in the room. The story reading part was fun but too long. Definitely needed to be cut down or some how more interactive. Would love to actually have the kids try an old phone system. The Braille section was far too boring explaining the eye and how it sees differently. Kids were at the end of the tour and getting quite antsy. It's certainly interesting but again needs to be far more interactive/ hands on like a model of the eye or glasses that they can wear that shows different ways people can see. The Art station wasn't what I expected. That was the most disappointing. Painting some sort of landscape would be much more interesting just like Eliza would have. That requires much more work but would flow well with everything offered. Overall it was really good and fun to learn and discover about the Bell homestead. I highly recommend making the trip.
Drove by late night when closed. I thought, let's stop. I'm in town and may as well. It was lovely and an opportunity to dream about the past and the Canadian who invented such a revolutionary tool, serving as a launching pad to the device so many of us carry. He would be so blown away! A beautiful homestead lovingly preserved. Antique lovers will appreciate its ambience. A link to the past, history is a journey back in time. Magic!
It's been in my backyard my whole life but I finally got there with my friends. I was so happy I went. It was worth the drive from out of town to experience and learn about the technology that created the number one item in the world - the telephone. Our tour guide Addison, dressed in period costume was FANTASTIC. He didn't just read a script about Alexander Graham Bell and his family and legacy, he TOLD their STORY. He knew his stuff, and he was able to answer all the questions that were asked. It was engaging, interesting, fact-filled and I enjoyed it throughly. Would recommend booking a time for your tour if you on a schedule. We went in the morning without a booking and had to go and have breakfast, and then go back in the afternoon, but that suited my friends and I just fine. Kids area, lovely grounds. Kudos to all the staff we encountered who were pleasant to deal with.
This was an awesome experience, we loved it all. I booked us in for the one hour guided tour and Katie was an excellent guide, super informative and answered all our questions. The history was intriguing and the family stories were so inviting to learn more. We also enjoyed tea and cake in the Exchange Cafe, which was so yummy. A must visit to learn more and see the home preserved with such historic intrigue. Well done thank you for the experience. Spicy Jan, Tasty Road Trips
Glenhyrst Gardens
3. Glenhyrst Gardens
4.7
(238)
Garden
Nature & Parks
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Love this place. It’s quite magical during Xmas with the gorgeous Xmas lights. Beautiful in the summer with lovely gardens. The golden teapot on site has a lovely high tea overlooking the gorgeous gardens. Quite a special experience. The gallery is great and they do some lovely festivals and events throughout the year.
Beautiful historic grounds with an early 20th Century mansion. Well-maintained flower beds. Mature trees wih species names posted. Plenty of benches for sitting and enjoying the views.
Beautiful place. Love all the flowers and walking paths.
Must visit place to experience the Christmas lights in Brantford. Beautiful decorated😍 Every corner is lighted with Christmas theme and the view is just amazing
Great park, the lights are so beautiful. Everyone is friendly and patient with the crowds.
We parked by the trail that runs along the Grand River and we went on a beautiful bike ride with kids for mothers day, which took us near a bridge. Such a scenic place and wonderful trail.
Really pretty drive through area but very minimal parking was full even after a few laps.
Went there for Christmas event. Place was beautifully decorated with lights. Everything was glowing. Really fun place for kids. It was drive through event.. good option for kids in Covid season as can’t do much and was safe as you stay in car. It was free event so even better. It was quick drive though so if you are nearby it’s worth spending some time there.
The Sanderson Centre for the Performing Arts
4. The Sanderson Centre for the Performing Arts
4.6
(824)
Performing arts theater
Concerts & Shows
Vintage vaudeville & silent-movie theatre now showcasing plays, classical music, dance & more.
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This is a lovely mid-sized theatre with a breathtaking ceiling, comfortable seats, and great acoustics. The bottled water was super reasonably priced. The staff made the biggest impression on me, though. I had travelled from Saskatoon and went to a Jim Cuddy concert on the last day of my trip. My flight home was early the next morning at Pearson so I went directly from the concert to the airport. There is no coat check at the theatre but I contacted them in advance and they kindly told me that they would stow my luggage during the show. The staff that helped me with that were kind and gave additional travel pointers regarding Uber pick-up, etc. And of course the concert was fantastic.
This place is stunning!! Old school theatre vibes with the most beautiful finishes takes you back in the past like you’ve always dreamed it! A few beverage stands and one food area! Super clean washroom and the staff definitely take pride in there jobs! If you get a chance to wash a show or performance here take the opportunity!!
I went to the Sanderson to watch my goddaughter’s recital. It is a very nice, if a bit dated, venue. Parking was a little tricky since it is right downtown, and the lot next to the venue is not very large. I suggest you get there significantly before the event to get a spot. I got lucky that after a few laps around the block I found a spot right in front of the doors. The staff was helpful and welcoming and the stage is very nice. The seats were…adequate.
We attended the performance of The Band Last Waltz last night. It was an extraordinary performance by a group of talented, passionate musicians. An evening that the performers were clearly enjoying as much as the audience. Five stars to the assembled musicians for putting such a diverse, magical performance together. The Sanderson Center is a treasure, perhaps unsung treasure. The ambiance, seating, accessibility, and staff are all outstanding, and there’s lots of easy parking nearby. The acoustics are clean and warm. Congratulations to the staff who arrange the acts, as you have brought a great variety of serious quality performances to the stage. It’s a real treat to attend a performance at the Sanderson Center.
What a great theatre with an even greater performance. Tight bathrooms, quite crowded hallways, don't want to be there in a fire 🔥😊. But great place, affordable performance.
The Sanderson Center was amazing. We saw the Walter's Family Christmas Show. Very talented folk. It was a great show
A lovely theatre, not a bad seat in the place. We were at a big band concert, Brantford Memorial Concert Band, and they were excellent! A visual and aural pleasure.
Great venue for concerts and theater plays. No matter where your seated your close to the entertainment. The architecture and art throughout the building is beautiful. Staff are very helpful when assisting artists and the viewing public.There is a large parking lot directly across the street to accommodate patrons.
Wayne Gretzky Sports Centre
5. Wayne Gretzky Sports Centre
4.5
(1777)
Sports complex
Fun & Games
Large indoor complex with several swimming pools, hockey arenas, exercise rooms & fitness classes.
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What’s not to love? This multi sport recreational center has everything you need and more. Learn the history, take photos with the statues, great part of the community. We were there for Special Olympics and I couldn’t have picked a better location.
First game to watch Titans. Good hockey BUT... intermission, we go down for food. No tables at restaurant so snack bar it is. Same kitchen, half the price. Line up is 20 people. Half the kitchen staff goes on break? At intermission? Ordered 2 cheeseburger combos. 20 minutes. Missed entire 2nd period. But NO WHERE TO EAT?! RIDICULOUS. no chairs, no table even. Open the burger? 12 year old daughter doesn't like the"works". Threw it away. ASK PEOPLE WHAT GOES ON IT. nope, not going back
Great big gym located in a massive complex and I like that there are hardly any people mid week, mid day. Lots of machines to try to improve your health or 'beef up' and everybody seems to be so quiet and polite, nothing like the awfully loud, entitled people screaming in their languages as I used to hear in central London, in UK. Nowadays, if you want civilised people you have to move away from the massive cities. Also, they have got a great offer for 10 passes, never expiring, especially when you get regularly sick for many months, what is not to love? Saving money.
Love this place but the staff at the front desk after noons is extremely rude and unpleasant to deal with. The lady with the auburn hair allowed my 6 year old little girl to run right through the gates. (the staff open the gates). I told the lady that i'm aware that aware that the program dosn't start for another half hour but she proceeded to open the gate and my daughter went running right threw. My daughter is developmentally behind so calling her name to come back dosn't work. I did tell the lady at the front desk to not to open the gate for my daughter but the lady continued to open the gate letting her threw even though and the lady gave me trouble.The lady at the front desk got angry at me telling me that I should watch my kid, which is unexpectable being a place for children and children running around all the time unsupervised. I was right behind her the whole time I could see her. This was a very unpleasant experience and discourages me to go back with my daughter or any of my other family members due to this experience. I've seen other reviews of the staff for WGSC and I do believe that the staff should be trained better to deal with their visitors as it is their job to help rather then prejudice towards their younger visitors.
The staff is amazing. They care about providing an engaging environment and the manager clearly has made a strong effort to bring the right people into his business.
Very memorable place for me as a hockey mom whose son scored his first out of town goal.
What a great facility for sports, make me envy their resident to have good time with their family Thank you to great one to give us such a gem They have their own hall of fame! Fantastic!!
This ice arena is outstanding! I was here for a tournament in the area and most of our games were hosted here. The facility is absolutely stunning and massive. There is even a public pool in the sports complex. It’s the nicest arena I’ve ever been to and I’ve probably been to around 100. I recommend making the visit here. It’s unreal.
Brant Conservation Area
6. Brant Conservation Area
4.4
(1250)
Temporarily Closed
Campground
Nature & Parks
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It was our first time experience at camping and we enjoyed our time. The lot was big enough for our group of 35 and there was plenty of shade from the trees. We saw deer in between in the woods which the kids loved. There was a large swimming pool to cool off during the day when it was hot and they charged 2.5 dollars per person. There were small playgrounds around were kids could go play. The washrooms and shower rooms were clean and the staff kept cleaning them in between. Overall the experience was great!
Very natural and beautiful park. I liked that the campsites were pretty private and large. Unfortunately our site was mostly dirt but most I saw were grassed nicely. It was a fairly long walk to the bathroom compared to other campgrounds I've stayed at. The bathroom was cleaned regularly. The staff were friendly on check in and were knowledge when we had questions. I found the almost $40 charge for a second vehicle for 2 days excessive. The river was beautiful and my group greatly enjoyed kayaking 3 sections of it and swimming near the boat launch. I would definitely come again.
Park is largely well maintained with huge pool, picnic areas, sheds and a lot more. Adult fees are $9 pp. Enough parking spots and plenty of activities to do for kids and families. Pool area is big and there are always life guards on duty to ensure safety for everyone. Restrooms were nightmare though with poor hygiene. Strange you gave to go through restrooms to access the pool and there is no other direct access. So if you are carrying food, water and all other supplies you got to go through restrooms which was not a pleasant experience. Overall a decent place for a day picnic if you are travelling with family and kids.
Campsite we stayed at was great! Looking at the other campsites, they all were tidy and good sized lots. By tidy, I mean the ground was flat, there wasn’t a bunch of twigs around, and usually there were trees around to help divide each campsite to give a little privacy. There was also a fire pit at each site. Campsite wasn’t too far of a walk to the restrooms. The pool was fun for the kiddies, and included a splash pad area that was also a hit. Trails were nice and easy to walk. The check in area sells a bag of wood for $10.50, and ice. Not sure how much the ice was. It was $18 per car at the campsite I think. The staff at the campground work until 11pm on the weekends, and were all friendly. Overall, I’d return to go camping again, as well as recommend it to friends with kids.
Great space, clean, services all worked as expected. The lot was very large to handle our motorhome and roads were easy to navigate. Quiet place, laid out oddly, pool was quite far from our lot but clean and large. More like a wading pool style which was great for kids. They had essential goods for sale on site which was handy. Lots of return clients which is a good referral in itself.
So, Brant Conservation Area is honestly one of those spots where you can just show up and do pretty much whatever you feel like outdoors. It’s right in Brantford, not far from the Grand River, and it’s kinda perfect if you’re into a mix of relaxing and a little bit of adventure. First off, the big thing here is the water. They’ve got this huge pool that’s more like a mini waterpark with splash pads, slides, and all that fun stuff. Families love it, but even if you don’t have kids, it’s still a solid place to cool off on a hot day. Then there’s the camping. You can bring your tent, park your trailer, or even just come for the day. People light up their campfires, grill some food, and it’s got that whole summer vibe going on. The sites are pretty spacious, so you don’t feel like you’re crammed in with strangers. Fishing? Yep, you can do that too. The Grand River runs through the area, so grab your rod and try to catch something while you’re chilling on the shore. If fishing’s not your thing, you can just walk or bike along the trails, spot some wildlife, and breathe in that fresh air that makes you forget about work and city stress for a while. Oh, and if you’re into group hangouts, there are picnic areas everywhere. People bring their soccer balls, frisbees, and it just feels like one big backyard party. Basically, Brant Conservation Area is where you go when you want a day (or weekend) of pure chill, with just enough things to do so you don’t get bored. Simple, easy, and a good time every single visit.
First time going there. Did not realize after paying to get in the park you have pay again to get in the pool. $2.75 / adult so considering there isnt much else to do at that park for young kids im surprised the pool isnt included in the park fee. The pool you cant bring floaties -for Babies that they sit in, they can only wear life jackets. There was quite a few bugs that got stuck in the water (I got stung by bee so just becareful)
I visited the Brant Conservation Area and found it to be a fantastic spot for a day trip or a longer stay. The picnic areas are lovely, with plenty of space to spread out and enjoy a meal. It’s also very dog-friendly, which is a huge plus for pet owners. The campground, however, has some drawbacks. The sites are quite close together, which can make for a noisy experience if you have loud neighbors. While the staff were friendly and welcoming, the washroom facilities could definitely use more frequent cleaning. On a brighter note, the conservation area boasts one of the largest outdoor pools in Ontario. This is a massive draw, especially during the summer, and it makes the park an ideal place for a multi-day stay, particularly for families with kids. Despite the minor issues with the campground and washrooms, the overall experience was positive, thanks to the great amenities and friendly staff.
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Other notable attractions

SC Johnson Trail
Nature & Parks
Biking Trails
Brantwood Farms
Temporarily Closed
Farm
Sights & Landmarks
Canadian Military Heritage Museum
Museum
Heritage museum
This roomy museum with guided tours features artifacts relating to Canada's military history.
Elements Casino Brantford
Casino
Casinos & Gambling
Table games, hundreds of slots & a poker room draw gamblers to this chain spot with dining & shows.
15 Colborne St
Nature & Parks
Parks
Charming, century-old city park features manicured expanses, gardens & a provincial flag exhibit.
Mohawk Chapel
Historical place
Sights & Landmarks
Official Al's Shoe Factory
Shoe store
Shopping
Crossroads Antique Market
Flea market
Shopping
Woodland Cultural Centre
Cultural center
Shopping
Cultural center, open since 1972, with 3 art galleries, a history museum & library.
Glenhyrst Art Gallery of Brant
Art gallery
Shopping
Contemporary & historical exhibitions in a grand 16-acre riverside estate dating back to 1914.

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