Explore Oakville like a local this Tourism Week 2023

TIAC’s Tourism Week in Canada is an exciting time when tourism partners from across the country unite to bring attention to the vital role the industry plays in both the economy and society. This year, Tourism Week is from April 24th to April 30th. 

To celebrate, we are hosting an Oakville tourism trivia contest with a chance to win $100 Visit Oakville gift card every day throughout the week. Follow us on Instagram and check back daily for a new trivia question and chance to win.

Want to celebrate Tourism Week by experience Oakville like a local? Check out the list below of some of the activities and places locals tell us they adore and get exploring!

Experience the Best of Oakville’s Culture

Explore Oakville Galleries

If you, like many Oakvillians, love art and are looking for art-related activities, look no further than Oakville Galleries! This venue offers a diverse selection of accessible and engaging art exhibits, with two locations to explore: Centennial Square and Gairloch Gardens. The current rotating exhibits, on display until May 13th, 2023, include Helen Cammock at Centennial Square and Wolf Tones at Gairloch Gardens. Plus, Oakville Galleries offers various programs and events for visitors of all ages. See the Oakville Galleries website for information on upcoming events and programs.

Learn about Oakville’s Past at Oakville Museum

Looking to connect with local culture and learn about Oakville’s history? Check out the Oakville Museum. With its engaging exhibits and fascinating insights into the town’s early days, this local favourite is a unique opportunity to explore the rich heritage of the community. From the Underground Railroad exhibit to the seasonal activities for children and adults, the museum provides a captivating window into the past and a chance to discover the unique stories that make Oakville a special place. See a complete list of current exhibits here. 

Stop by Oakville Library

For more than 125 years, Oakville Public Library (OPL) has been a vital resource for the community, connecting people to the information and inspiration they need to thrive. 

With a mission to enrich lives and build healthy communities, OPL brings together people, ideas, and knowledge to foster a love of learning and discovery. With seven convenient locations throughout Oakville, OPL offers a wide range of resources, from books and media to programs and events for visitors of all ages. 

So when you are in town, stop by the Oakville Public Library and indulge yourself in a great read. Check out opl.ca/Locations to find the OPL branch nearest you!

Unwind and Immerse Yourself in Stunning Water Views

Locals love to have fun and relax by the water. The sound of waves, the cool breeze off the lake, and the calming effect of nature bring a sense of peace and tranquillity. To help guide you to the perfect spot by the lake, here is a list of local favourites to picnic, enjoy time with loved ones, and take in the lake views.

• Dingle Park and Lakeside Park in Downtown Oakville are perfect for a picnic or a stroll by the waterfront.
• Gairloch Gardens (1308 Lakeshore Rd E) boasts stunning floral displays, sculptures, and walking paths for a peaceful and picturesque escape.
• Coronation Park (1426 Lakeshore Rd W) offers a range of activities, from swimming and beach volleyball to playgrounds and picnicking.
• Bronte Harbour is a bustling hub for boaters and anglers and an excellent spot for lakeside dining and people-watching.
• South Shell Park (3376 Lakeshore Rd W) is a newly renovated hidden gem for nature lovers, with a beach, a playground and stunning lake views.
• For a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, don’t miss the Edgemere Promenade (520 Esplanade). 

Hit Oakville’s Trails for an Unforgettable Adventure

Hiking, biking or cross-country skiing are some of Oakvillian’s favourite activities. The Sixteen Mile Creek Loop trail near Lions Valley Park and Bronte Creek Park Trails are popular spots to immerse yourself in nature. 

The Sixteen Mile Creek Loop winds its way through a beautiful forested area, offering hikers a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and connect with nature. This well-maintained trail suits hikers and bikers of different skill levels. 

Bronte Creek Provincial Park features a wide variety of trails (map) for all levels of hikers, from easy walks to more challenging routes through forests and along the creek. The park features leash-free trails for your furry friends to enjoy. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a stroll in the great outdoors, come to Oakville and explore the trails that locals love.

Savor Oakville’s Best Eateries Handpicked by Insiders

Over the last few years, Visit Oakville has run the Talk of the Town Awards, where the residents and visitors vote and share their favourite spots around town. Find the full selection of winners here or choose from local favourites below.

• Levantine Mediterranean Restaurant – Best Shawarma
• Buca di Bacco – Best Wine Menu
• Sugar Suite Cakes – Best Bakery
• Bronte Fish & Chips – Best Fish N’ Chips
• Mye 2 – Best Sushi
• Zara’s by the Lake – Best Mediterranean
• Verace Italian Restaurant – Best Seafood 

We hope these suggestions inspire you to explore Oakville like a local this April. You will quickly find there’s more to discover in this charming, lakeside town that will take longer than just one day. Consider a few nights at one of Oakville’s cozy hotels for an extended getaway and enjoy more of what Oakville has to offer.

Happy Tourism Week!

Are you a business looking to celebrate Tourism week? Follow the TIAC’s suggestions below:

Light it Up

Whether you are a destination, landmark, attraction, venue, hotel or other tourism business, TIAC is challenging all operators to light up in TIAC green (colour hex code #8BC53F) as part of its #GreenMeansGo social media campaign during Tourism Week to raise awareness of the industry’s economic, social, and cultural importance. Remember to snap a few pics and share them on social media using the official Tourism Week hashtags of #TourismWeekCanada2023 and #GreenMeansGo. Don’t forget to tag TIAC (Tourism Industry Association of Canada on Facebook and LinkedIn, and @tiac_aitc on Twitter and Instagram)!

Get Social

Download the social media shareables and share these messages of support for the industry with your followers during Tourism Week. Be sure to use the official Tourism Week hashtag of #TourismWeekCanada2023. And remember to tag TIAC (Tourism Industry Association of Canada on Facebook and LinkedIn, and @tiac_aitc on Twitter and Instagram).

Share the Message

Please share a video on social media to speak about your company, its economic and cultural importance in your community and to let your followers know that you and your business support Tourism Week. Don’t forget to hashtag it #TourismWeekCanada2023 and tag in TIAC (Tourism Industry Association of Canada on Facebook and LinkedIn, and @tiac_aitc on Twitter and Instagram).

Spread the Word

We’re stronger when we’re united! Whether speaking to clients, the media, or the government during Tourism Week 2023 (and beyond!), use the suggested key messages in our toolkit to ensure consistent messaging throughout the campaign.

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