A Class Trip with a Story: Exploring Stratford’s River, Parks & Pedal Boats

“Many of our students don’t even know that this is something that happens on the Avon River…”

— Teacher at Local Public School

We hear this a lot—and honestly, it’s one of the reasons we love what we do. At The Boathouse Stratford, we’re not just offering a boat ride. We’re helping the next generation rediscover a piece of their hometown’s story.

Stratford’s River: A Living Classroom

Did you know the Avon River wasn’t always the tranquil paddleboat haven it is today?

In the early 1900s, Stratford’s parks and riverbanks were at risk of being swallowed by railway expansion. In response, the city formed the Parks Commission in 1913—and with it came the birth of Stratford’s iconic boathouse. The goal? To protect the land through recreation and nature, not industry.

Today, what started as a campaign to save green space has turned into one of Stratford’s most cherished landmarks. From river clean-ups and dam building to the planting of trees and creation of Victoria Lake, the community shaped this space so that families, students, and visitors could gather, paddle, and play for generations.

Stratford-Perth Archives & Streets of Stratford - Boating on the Avon

Our School Packages: Fun Meets Local Heritage

Whether you’re teaching primary grades or planning an end-of-year trip for middle schoolers, we’ve got options that combine fun, learning, and a little sweet treat too.

For Younger Grades (K– plus)

• Scenic Tour Boat Ride: $4.50 per student

• Ice Cream Cone Add-On: $2 per student

• Optional History Talk about the Avon River, parks, and the original boathouse

  
  

A gentle float down the river, complete with swan sightings and willow trees—it’s a calm, safe way to introduce students to the magic of Stratford’s river.

For Grades 5 and Up

• Pedal Boat Adventure: $8 per student

Older students love the chance to hop in a pedal boat and explore the river at their own pace. It’s physical, it’s social, and it’s a little nostalgic—even if they don’t know it yet.

Add ice cream or a short history session to complete the experience.

🎈 Class Photo? We’ve Got You.

Every class group is welcomed with a balloon arch for the perfect send-off photo. It’s our way of adding a touch of celebration to your day.

Booking is Easy

We recommend visiting Monday to Wednesday for best availability. June dates fill quickly, so reach out early to save your spot!

📩 Email: info@avonboathouse.com

🌐 Website: www.avonboathouse.com

📍Located at 30 York Street, Stratford, ON

Let’s Help Stratford’s Students Fall in Love with Their River

The Boathouse has been family-operated since 1965, and the waters of the Avon have been welcoming paddlers for over a century. By visiting us, your class becomes part of that story.

Let’s create some riverside memories—and maybe even spark the next generation of conservationists, storytellers, or park planners.