Things to do in Sudbury, Ontario

As Northern Ontario’s largest city, Sudbury is full of surprises. It’s best known for its iconic landmarks like the Big Nickel, Science North and Dynamic Earth. But after a recent visit to Sudbury this past summer, we discovered that the city offers so much more. 

With its countless lakes, access to four-season outdoor adventures, a thriving food scene, and a downtown filled with murals, Sudbury invites you to go beyond its most famous attractions. Whether you’re drawn to lakes or parks, eager to explore local trails, or curious about the city’s unique blend of urban comforts and nature, you’ll find plenty of reasons to enjoy your time here.

Here are our top recommendations for the best things to do in Sudbury, Ontario.

How to Get to Sudbury

By Plane
You can fly directly into Greater Sudbury Airport (YSB), which has connections from Toronto and a handful of other regional hubs. It’s a convenient option if you’re coming from farther away, though most visitors still arrive by car.

By Car
Driving is the most common way to reach Sudbury. From Toronto, follow Highway 400/69 north – expect the trip to take around four hours. From Ottawa, it’s about five hours along Highway 17, a scenic route that cuts across Northern Ontario’s rugged landscapes.

By Bus or Train
Ontario Northland operates bus services connecting Sudbury with Toronto, Ottawa, and other regional centres. For those who prefer the train, VIA Rail also offers routes into the city, though schedules can be limited.

Getting Around Locally
Once in Sudbury, you’ll find a city bus network, but the most practical way to explore is with a rental car. Many of the best trails, parks, and attractions, like Onaping Falls and Kivi Park, are spread out, so having your own wheels makes it easier to explore beyond the city centre. 

Best Time to Visit Sudbury

Spring

As the snow melts, Sudbury begins to wake up. By late April and May, temperatures rise, hiking trails start to open, and the lakeshores become inviting again. It’s a quieter time to visit, with fewer crowds and the chance to see nature coming back to life.

Summer

If you want the full Sudbury experience, summer is the best season to explore. Warm, sunny days are perfect for paddleboarding, hiking and other outdoor adventures.  The city also comes alive with outdoor concerts, festivals, and events, making it a great time to soak in both culture and nature.

Fall

Come September and October, Sudbury turns into a canvas of colour. The forests around Onaping Falls and the Lake Laurentian Conservation Area are some of the best spots for fall foliage. The cooler air makes for comfortable hiking, and the vibe is more relaxed compared to summer.

Winter

Sudbury is a true four-season outdoor adventure destination, and winter is no exception. Snow transforms the city into a playground for cross-country skiing, fat biking, and snowshoeing.  

Things to Do in Sudbury

Explore Bell Park Boardwalk

Located along the shores of Ramsey Lake, Bell Park is one of Sudbury’s most inviting green spaces. The boardwalk stretches for about two kilometres, from Elizabeth Street to Science North, making it an easy, family-friendly walk that’s stroller and wheelchair accessible. 

In the summer, the park also hosts outdoor concerts, and its sandy beach is a popular spot to cool off. Being right next to Science North, it’s easy to combine both attractions in a single day.

In the evenings, you can join sunset yoga sessions by Zen Fitness at the Katherine Bell Gazebo, overlooking the lake. With the golden light reflecting off the water, it’s a beautiful and grounding way to connect with the outdoors as you wind down your day.

Get Active at Kivi Park

For year-round adventure, head to Kivi Park, a 480-acre playground for outdoor enthusiasts. In summer, you can rent equipment and head out for a paddle on Crowley Lake, or explore trails perfect for hiking and mountain biking. There is also a great playground at the park, ideal for families. 

In winter, the park transforms into a hub for cross-country skiing, fat biking, and snowshoeing, making it one of Sudbury’s top spots for four-season outdoor adventures.

Admire Sudbury’s Murals

Sudbury is home to more than 50 large-scale murals, many created during the Up Here Festival back in 2013. They’ve transformed downtown into an outdoor gallery. 

One of the most recognizable works is the Alex Trebek mural, located at his former high school. You can take one of the Guided Mural Tours or set off on your own self-guided adventure using the interactive map available in the FEST app. Just download the app and follow Up Here to discover the stories behind the artists and their work.

Hike at Onaping Falls (A.Y. Jackson Lookout)

A 40-minute drive from downtown brings you to one of Sudbury’s most famous natural landmarks: Onaping Falls. The A.Y. Jackson Lookout offers sweeping views of the Onaping River, which inspired Group of Seven artist A.Y. Jackson. Interpretive signs explain the area’s unique geology, including rare shattercones created by a meteorite impact nearly two billion years ago. Several hiking trails wind through the forest, making this a great half-day trip.

Wander Lake Laurentian Conservation Area

Just minutes from downtown, the Lake Laurentian Conservation Area is another great spot for an outdoor adventure in Sudbury. The area covers more than 2,400 acres of forest, wetlands, and lakes. Well-marked trails suit every level, from short loops to longer hikes with scenic lookouts. The Point Trail platform, in particular, offers sweeping views over the water. 

Recharge at Ezentials Wellness Spa

If you’re looking for a bit of pampering, spend a few hours at Ezentials Wellness Spa. Its indoor Nordic lounge includes a cedar sauna, eucalyptus steam room, cold-mist showers, and cozy lounge chairs. The classic hot-cold-rest circuit is a perfect way to unwind after a day of hiking or exploring the city.

Beyond the Nordic circuit, Ezentials also offers a full menu of treatments, from massages and holistic facials to reflexology, reiki, and energy-balancing therapies. Their philosophy blends natural wellness with eco-luxury, creating a space that feels restorative and intentional. Before you leave, stop by their on-site shop, which features organic skincare, wellness products, and other thoughtful finds you can take home. 

Visit Science North & Dynamic Earth

No list of Sudbury’s attractions is complete without its world-renowned attractions: Science North and Dynamic Earth. 

Science North spans four floors of interactive exhibits, from live animal displays to an IMAX theatre, making it a hit with kids and adults alike. Dynamic Earth dives into the city’s mining history, offering underground tours that show what life was like for miners. 

And of, course, don’t forget to stop for a photo with the Big Nickel, the largest coin in the world and Sudbury’s most iconic landmark.

Where to Eat in Sudbury

Salute Coffee Roasters. A local favourite for specialty coffee and healthy, from-scratch bites. The café’s bright, relaxed vibe makes it a great place to start your day. Try their smoothies or breakfast sandwiches. 

Da Capo Café. Located downtown, this cozy café offers a touch of Greece in Sudbury with strong espresso and light Mediterranean-inspired plates. Try their crepes, a specialty of the cafe – they go well with a pot of freshly brewed tea for breakfast. 

Kuppajo Espresso Bar. A stylish downtown spot serving specialty lattes, smoothies, and light breakfast options. Great spot for matcha and a healthy savoury muffin to start your day. 

Peko Peko. This Asian fusion eatery celebrates flavours from Taiwan, China, and Japan, with everything from steaming hot pot to dumplings. The selection of dim sum were among our favourites.

Tuco Tacos. A funky, casual vegan eatery serving up Mexican street food with a twist. The best spot for vegetarians/vegans visiting Sudbury, but a delicious choice for anyone. Their tacos and nachos are on point. 

Kako’s Kitchen. This hidden gem in the South End specializes in authentic Japanese comfort food. The menu is small and features handmade ramen, tonkatsu, and chicken karaage, with vegan options and seasonal mochi treats available. This is the most authentic Japanese we’ve had in a while!

Laughing Buddha. One of Sudbury’s best-loved patios, this downtown hangout offers craft pizza, Buddha bowls, and a wide selection of craft beer. Healthy, colourful and vibey – what’s not to love? 

Verdicchio Ristorante. An elegant Italian restaurant recognized by Wine Spectator for its award-winning wine list. The menu highlights fresh, local ingredients with plenty of great pasta and meat options.  

Beni Rise & Shine. A cheerful breakfast spot that blends diner comfort with creative plates. Pancakes and omelettes are plentiful, but the eggs Benedict variations are the best! You can also grab a great variety of lattes and pastries from the Anna Laura Bakery inside. 

Books & Beans. Part café, part bookstore, this unique space serves good coffee and light bites while inviting you to browse the shelves. The cozy vibe makes it a great place to linger—try the matcha latte and enjoy a small menu of homemade lunch specials. 

The Kouzzina. A family-run restaurant known for its generous portions of Greek and Mediterranean classics. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, making it a popular choice with locals and visitors alike. Their pizzas are not to be missed. 

The Night Owl. Step through a phone booth to enter this hidden speakeasy, styled after the 1920s. Known for creative cocktails and intimate ambiance, this is a great spot for a nightcap to end a day in Sudbury. Open mic nights bring the community together. 

Where to Stay in Sudbury

Sudbury offers a mix of accommodations that suit every type of traveller. You’ll find familiar 2-3 star hotel chains, boutique inns, and a few locally owned options that offer something for every budget. Many of the city’s hotels are located either downtown close to restaurants, cafés, or along the main routes leading to nearby parks and trails. 

During our trip, we stayed at the Hilton Garden Inn in the Northern part of the city, known as New Sudbury. The 3-start hotel offered a convenient base just a short drive from many of Sudbury’s top attractions. The hotel offers spacious rooms with modern amenities, including comfortable beds, workspaces, and reliable Wi-Fi – ideal if you’re mixing business with leisure.  

Sustainable Travel Tips for Sudbury

Like much of Northern Ontario, Sudbury is surrounded by nature and relies on its local community for character and charm. With a few simple choices, you can make your visit more sustainable while still enjoying everything the city has to offer:

• Support local producers and shops. Shopping local keeps money in the community and reduces the footprint of imported products. Prioritize farm products over imported supermarket buys and consider supporting local shops during your visit. 
• Choose eco-conscious accommodations. When booking your stay, look for hotels or inns that have green practices – such as energy-saving systems, recycling programs, or partnerships with local suppliers.
• Dine seasonally. Many Sudbury restaurants highlight local and seasonal ingredients. Opting for these dishes helps reduce food miles and supports Northern Ontario farmers.
• Walk or bike downtown. The city’s core is compact and easily explored on foot. Biking or walking between murals and cafés is not only more eco-friendly but also gives you more time to admire Sudbury’s street art and neighbourhood vibe.
• Reduce single-use waste. Bring a reusable water bottle and coffee cup; most Sudbury cafés are happy to fill them. Packing a set of reusable utensils can also come in handy if you’re grabbing food to go.
• Respect outdoor spaces. Whether you’re hiking at Onaping Falls or exploring Lake Laurentian Conservation Area, follow Leave No Trace principles: stay on marked trails, carry out what you bring in, and avoid disturbing local wildlife.

A Note on Safety

Like many cities across Canada and around the world, Sudbury has been navigating challenges related to mental health and homelessness – issues that became more visible in the years following the pandemic. 

Downtown businesses were hit hard, with many closing permanently and fewer office workers returning to in-person jobs. This has left parts of the core feeling quieter than they once were, and the shift can be noticeable for visitors.

You may encounter individuals experiencing homelessness or mental health struggles, particularly in the downtown area. While most interactions are harmless, the presence can feel unfamiliar or uncomfortable at times. Some travellers may feel safer driving downtown rather than walking, especially on weekends when shops and restaurants are closed.

It’s important to note that the city is working actively to revitalize its downtown, bringing new energy and investment into the community. We encourage visitors to continue supporting local cafés, restaurants, and shops in the core, as every bit of patronage helps breathe new life into this part of Sudbury.

Final Thoughts

Our five days in Sudbury showed us that this Northern Ontario city has far more to offer than its most famous landmarks. Between lakeside strolls at Bell Park, adventures at Onaping Falls, creative bursts of colour in the downtown murals, and memorable meals at local restaurants, we found plenty of ways to enjoy both the outdoors and the city’s cultural side. 

Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or planning a longer stay, Sudbury is full of surprises – and we hope this guide helps you discover the best things to do in Sudbury.

Have you ever been to Sudbury? Have a favourite place or activity in mind?

Share it in the comments below!

Disclaimer: Our visit to Sudbury was sponsored by Discover Sudbury, but as always all opinions expressed in this article are our own.