Attractions in London, Ontario, Canada

Canada's London, in the regional hub of southwestern Ontario, is home to more than 350,000 people. Located at the Forks of the Thames, London has grown into a respected business, medical and educational center. London's institutions include the University of Western Ontario, London Convention Centre, The Canadian Medical Hall of Fame, Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum of Ontario Archaeology. London's cultural calendar features Orchestra London, the London Fanshawe Symphonic Chorus and the Original Kids Theatre Company.

Springbank Park

Springbank Park, located in downtown London, features 300 acres of woodlands, scenic trails, and floral displays near the banks of the winding Thames River. The city's largest park, Springbank Park, offers a landscaped venue for weddings and concerts. The rolling parkland includes Storybook Gardens, a popular theme attraction with a castle entrance that leads to a Ferris wheel, miniature train and carousel. Families can enjoy the picnic grounds, storytelling and puppet shows. A mini zoo houses dozens of birds, mammals and reptiles. Springbank Park joins a network of approximately 20 miles of pathways through London.

Banting House

Banting House National Historic Site of Canada pays homage to Sir Frederick G. Banting (1891-1941), co-founder of insulin. According to the Canadian Diabetes Association, Dr. Banting's idea to extract insulin from the pancreas occurred in London in 1920. Sir Frederick G. Banting Square is home to a life-size statue of Banting and the Flame of Hope monument. In 1989, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother lit the Flame of Hope dedicated to diabetics.

Western Fair Entertainment

Western Fair offers an entertainment and event facility on the fairgrounds located downtown. Events at the grandstand include concerts, demolition derbies, and motocross. The Western Fair Sports Centre is home of the London Nationals hockey team. Horse lovers can view live and simulcast horse racing. The Agriplex facility hosts farm shows, 4-H displays, educational clinics and 400 livestock stalls. The Western Fair Farmers' and Artisans' Market sells produce, jewelry and other crafted treasures in the Confederation Building daily. The London City Music Theatre offers concerts, opera and lectures. The Panorama Pavilion showcases cultural events that honor Canada's ethnic diversity.