Aliu IsaJust a 30-minute drive from the lovely Toronto, Mississauga is a cool destination in its own right. Not only is it home to the country’s largest airport, Toronto Pearson International, but it also has some of the best halal restaurants we’ve ever tried!
Named after the Ojibwa word meaning “River of the North of Many Mouths,” it’s even bigger than some major U.S. cities like Boston and Washington.
My point is, Mississauga is definitely up there in terms of essential cities to visit in North America. So, if you don’t know where to start, we rounded up the best experiences one can have in’ ‘Sauga’—definitely don’t miss these or you’ll regret it!
Stroll along Streetsville
Media credit: streetsvillebia
Website: https://www.facebook.com/Streetsville/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/streetsvillebia/
Address: 280 Queen St S
Hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
Streetsville, affectionately known as “The Village in the City,” is one of Mississauga’s most charming neighborhoods. Located along the Credit River, this historic area offers cozy cafés, boutique shops, and beautifully preserved heritage buildings.
We love its many local eateries and bakeries; artisanal pastries, international cuisine, or classic comfort food—it seems there’s something for every Torontonian. The village is also home to various festivals, including the Streetsville Bread and Honey Festival.
During the holiday season, Streetsville transforms into a winter wonderland, with twinkling lights and festive markets—so pretty, you’d think you’re in a snow globe!
Pro Tip:
Visit on a weekend when the local Streetsville Farmers’ Market is open for fresh, local produce and homemade goods. It’s a great way to meet the community and sample some of the best food and crafts the area has to offer.
Shop at Square One
Media credit: shopsquareone
Website: https://shopsquareone.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shopsquareone
Address: 100 City Centre Dr
Hours:
- Mon – Sat: 10 AM – 9 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM – 7 PM
Contact: (905) 270-7771
Square One is the largest shopping center in Ontario. This shopping mecca offers an impressive range of stores, from high-end fashion brands like Nordstrom and Holt Renfrew to popular every day retailers like H&M, Zara, and Uniqlo.
Beyond shopping, you’ll find an array of dining options, from quick yummy bites to upscale gourmet restaurants.
The space also houses a Cineplex VIP Cinema, where you can catch the latest blockbusters in comfort. Plus, with events and pop-up experiences happening regularly, there’s always something new and exciting to check out.
Pro Tip:
Don’t miss Square One’s Food District for unique local eats and artisanal goods. It’s a hidden gem within the mall that foodies will love!
Explore Port Credit Lighthouse
Media credit: bexthemess
Website: https://www.visitmississauga.ca/listing/the-port-credit-lighthouse/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/port-credit-lighthouse/
Address: 1005 Brimley Rd
Hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
Contact: (905) 278-7742
The Port Credit Lighthouse is one of Mississauga’s most iconic landmarks and a must-see if you’re exploring the city’s waterfront. Located right on the banks of the Credit River, this bright red-and-white lighthouse gives off a classic, coastal vibe.
The area surrounding the lighthouse is perfect for a relaxing stroll, with walking paths that offer views of the lake and marina. After you’ve snapped a few pictures, you can explore the village’s charming shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Nearby, you can go boating, fishing, and kayaking, while parks and trails are perfect for cycling or walking along the waterfront. If you can, try visiting in the summer because the area comes alive with festivals, live music, and outdoor events!
Pro Tip:
Visit the lighthouse at sunset for the best views. Not only does it look amazing against the colorful sky, but it’s also the perfect time to enjoy a relaxing walk along the marina before grabbing dinner at one of the local waterfront restaurants!
Visit the Jack Darling Memorial Park
Media credit: ritukspics
Website: https://www.mississauga.ca/jack-darling-memorial-park/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jack-darling-memorial-park/
Address: 1180 Lakeshore Rd W
Hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
Contact: (905) 615-4100
Jack Darling Memorial Park is ideal for a day out with friends or family. It has direct access to the lake, where you can walk along the beach or just take in the gorgeous waterfront views.
I love bringing my doggo to the park’s awesome off-leash dog park; we always see dogs of all shapes and sizes having the time of their lives. Beyond that, it also offers activities including tennis courts and playgrounds.
The park’s picnic areas and benches are perfectly placed so that you can see amazing Insta-worthy lake views. You can also take advantage of the park’s trails, which connect to Rattray Marsh, a natural conservation area with wildlife.
Pro Tip:
We recommend packing a picnic and grabbing a spot by the water for a perfect lakeside lunch with unbeatable views. However, you need to arrive early on sunny weekends or holidays, as the park’s free parking fills up quickly!
Relax at the Waterfront Trail
Media credit: henry.facundo
Website: https://www.visitmississauga.ca/listing/waterfront-trail/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mississauga-waterfront-trail/recent/
Address: Mississauga
Hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
The Waterfront Trail is a must-visit for those who love the great outdoors. Once you arrive, take a deep breath of that fresh, clean (and smog-free!) air.
We’re also quite happy with the area’s beautiful, uninterrupted views of the lake and parks. You can go walking, biking, or rollerblading, and also stop for a picnic, spot wildlife, or simply soak in the calming atmosphere.
For sports junkies, long-distance cycling and early morning runs by the water are the norm here. The flat terrain and well-maintained paths make it accessible for all fitness levels, and there are plenty of spots to rest along the way.
Pro Tip:
The Rattray Marsh section of the trail not only offers stunning views of wetlands and local wildlife, but it’s also a quieter part of the trail, making it perfect for birdwatching!
View cherry blossoms in Kariya Park
Media credit: ehab_y2j
Website: https://www.mississauga.ca/sister-city/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/explore/locations/139596/kariya-park/
Address: 3620 Kariya Dr
Hours: Mon – Sun: Open 24 hours
Contact: (905) 615-4100
Viewing the cherry blossoms in Kariya Park is one of the most magical experiences you can have. This beautiful Japanese-style garden was established as a symbol of friendship between Mississauga and its sister city, Kariya, Japan.
Located just steps from the busy downtown core, it comes alive each spring when the cherry blossoms or sakura burst into full bloom (late April to early May).
The park also features traditional Japanese elements like stone lanterns, a pavilion, and a peaceful koi pond, all framed by lush greenery and beautiful walking paths.
Pro Tip:
Make sure to visit Kariya Park early in the morning to beat the crowds (around 6AM onwards) and get the best views of the cherry blossoms. It’s also the perfect time to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere before the park gets busy with visitors later in the day!
Go hiking in the Riverwood Conservancy
Media credit: yourriverwood
Website: http://www.theriverwoodconservancy.org/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourriverwood/
Address: 4300 Riverwood Park Ln
Hours: Mon – Fri: 9 AM – 4 PM
Contact: (905) 279-5878
Riverwood Conservancy is a lush green space along the Credit River that’s over 150 acres. It’s a fantastic spot to unwind, stretch your legs, and take in the natural beauty.
It’s home to numerous programs and workshops, from guided nature walks to gardening classes. While hiking, you might even spot deer, rabbits (we saw some adorable chubby ones!), and rare birds.
The MacEwan Terrace Garden is also a must-see, with its vivid flowers and stunning views of the river. The Chappell House, located within the park as well, hosts events and seasonal programs running year-round.
Pro Tip:
Don’t forget your binoculars! Riverwood Conservancy is a hotspot for birdwatching, and you can spot over 180 species of birds, especially during migration season in spring and fall.
Catch a game at Paramount Fine Foods Centre
Media credit: fernando_abdalla
Website: https://paramountfinefoodscentre.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paramount-fine-foods-centre/
Address: 55500 Rose Cherry Pl
Hours: Mon – Sun: 7 AM – 12 AM
Contact Details: (905) 502-9100
Home to the Mississauga Steelheads of the OHL and the Raptors 905, the Paramount Fine Foods Centre is the go-to spot for catching high-energy hockey and basketball games.
Beyond sports, the centre hosts a variety of events, from concerts featuring big-name artists to family-friendly shows like Disney on Ice. With a capacity of over 5,000, its state-of-the-art design and excellent acoustics make it perfect for live performances.
As a cherry on top, it’s accessible from major highways and offers ample parking. Plus, dining options are everywhere—you can grab a bite before or after the show.
Pro Tip:
Before a big game, don’t forget to check out the venue’s website for exclusive presale tickets and special promotions. You can often snag great seats before the general public—good luck!
Join the annual Mississauga Harvest Festival
Media credit: nightmarket.to
Website: https://nightmarkettoronto.com/pages/harvest-fest-2024
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nightmarket.to/
Address: Square One Shopping Centre, Lot P6
Duration: September 28 to October 13 (16 days every year)
The Mississauga Harvest Festival is a fun, family-friendly event that celebrates the best of the autumn season. Whether you’re there to pick out the perfect pumpkin or just enjoy a crisp fall day, it’s a must-visit.
It’s filled with seasonal activities such as pumpkin carving, hayrides, apple picking, craft stations, and even a corn maze. But that’s not all—kids can enjoy interactive games and face painting, while adults can enjoy live performances.
And of course, since it’s a harvest festival, don’t forget to stock up on in-season fruits (apples, berries, etc.) plus fresh veggies like squash and corn. Grab some herbs like basil and parsley while you’re at it—perfect for bringing a little local flavor back home!
Pro Tip:
Be sure to check the festival’s schedule in advance and choose special events that you’re interested in like cooking demos or live performances. You won’t want to miss them, so list them down!
Check out Mi Museum
Media credit: mimuseumca
Website: http://www.mimuseum.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mimuseumca/
Address: 4175 Confederation Pkwy
Hours:
- Mon – Thurs: 11 AM – 7 PM
- Fri – Sat: 11 AM – 8 PM
- Sunday: 10 AM – 7 PM
Contact Details: (905) 273-9721
The Mi Museum of Illusions is a fascinating destination where science, art, and magic collide. It’s the perfect spot for anyone curious about how our brains interpret the world, and it offers a truly interactive experience that’s fun for all ages.
One of the main attractions is the Ames Room, an optical illusion that distorts perception. Step into the room, and you’ll see people appear to shrink or grow depending on where they stand.
You can also see holograms that seem to leap off the walls and interactive displays that challenge your perception. It’s both fun and educational, making it the perfect spot for a memorable day out in Mississauga.
Pro Tip:
Make sure to charge your phone! Many of Mi Museum’s exhibits, like the Galaxy Room and Infinity Chest Room, are incredibly photogenic and make for great social media content.
Go indoor karting at K1 Speed
Media credit: k1speedcanada
Website: https://www.k1speed.ca/location/mississauga
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/k1speedcanada/
Address: 1330 Eglinton Ave E
Hours:
- Mon – Thurs: 12 PM – 10 PM
- Friday: 11 AM – 11 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM – 12 AM
- Sunday: 10 AM – 9 PM
Contact Details: (905) 968-1130
If you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping experience in Mississauga, then K1 Speed is the place to be! This indoor karting track is perfect for anyone with a need for speed, offering high-performance electric go-karts that are fast, fun, and eco-friendly.
The electric go-karts are faster than your average kart, capable of reaching speeds up to 45 km/h, so it feels like you’re on a real racetrack. Plus, you’ll even be able to see your lap times displayed in real time!
With safety features like helmets and track-side guidance, you can focus on the fun while staying secure on the track. Afterward or in between racing sessions, you can rehash your highlights at their café and lounge area.
Pro Tip:
Sign up for a K1 Speed membership before your visit to get discounts on races and special perks like faster karts and exclusive race events. You’ll also get access to your detailed racing stats, so you can track your progress and improve your performance!
Climb on stuff at Adventure HUB
Media credit: visitmississauga
Website: https://hubclimbing.com/mississauga/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hubclimbingrisingstars/
Address: 3636 Hawkestone Rd, Unit 1
Hours:
- Mon – Fri: 12 PM – 11 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM – 9 PM
- Sunday: 10 AM – 8 PM
Contact Details: (905) 363-1211
Adventure HUB is an indoor adventure park that offers a wide range of exciting activities for all ages, from rock climbing walls to an innovative augmented reality wall. Here, there’s no shortage of adrenaline-pumping activities.
For beginners, we recommend the Intro: Belay lesson—a fantastic first-time climbing experience that runs for about 75-90 minutes, teaching you essential skills and safety protocols. Once you complete it, you’ll gain access to more challenges.
They also have a top-rope system that allows you to be harnessed in, so you can rest when you get tired. And don’t forget to try the augmented reality wall, which combines climbing and video gaming!
Pro Tip:
Don’t forget to book your spot online in advance. Adventure HUB can get busy, especially on weekends!
Read hieroglyphics at the Egyptian Museum
Media credit: egyptian.museum.mississauga
Website: http://www.theegyptianmuseum.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/egyptian.museum.mississauga/
Address: 6341 Mississauga Rd Door B
Hours: Tue – Fri: 3 PM – 5 PM
Contact Details: (905) 581-2879
The Egyptian Museum takes you on an exciting journey through the wonders of ancient Egypt, right in the heart of the city! It has a stunning collection of artifacts, including identical replicas of King Tutankhamun’s treasures.
As you explore the Exhibition Hall, you’ll marvel at the intricately designed jewelry, sculptures, and even Coptic antiquities that showcase the evolution of Egyptian artistry. History buffs and curious minds would certainly get their minds blown!
A visit here wouldn’t be complete without catching a documentary or historical film in their movie theatre. Guided tours are also offered, led by trained Egyptologists who can speak English, French, and Arabic.
Pro Tip:
Be sure to spend some time in the gift shop before you leave! They offer a range of unique Egyptian-themed items, including fun toys for kids and decor for your home.
