EXPERIENCE FALL IN MISSISSAUGA
A cultural canvas waiting to be explored
Just a quick drive from the U.S. border, Mississauga, Ontario offers the best of a big Canadian city, without the downtown chaos.
This fall, skip the long-haul flights and discover an easy-to-reach destination bursting with culture, sports, shopping, and natural beauty. Whether you’re craving a weekend of fast-paced action or want to slow down with scenic views and great food, Mississauga has something for every traveler.
Explore the Outdoors Without Leaving the City
Mississauga is where the outdoors and the city meet, and fall is the perfect time to experience it. As the leaves turn, the city’s natural beauty puts on a show that’s best seen up close.
Start your fall escape with a walk through Rattray Marsh Conservation Area, a lakeside sanctuary full of boardwalks, wildlife, and vibrant fall foliage. Just minutes from the city’s best restaurants and hotels, it’s a quiet spot that feels worlds away. From mid-October to November, time your visit right and you might witness the Salmon Run, when thousands of Chinook salmon swim upstream through the Credit River. It’s a rare natural event that you can see without leaving the city.
For something to get the heart pumping, head to the Culham Trail, one of Mississauga’s most scenic and popular routes. Stretching along the Credit River, this mixed-use path offers incredible views of the fall colours and is perfect for biking, jogging, or a casual stroll with coffee in hand.
Looking to explore even more? Take a tour along Mississauga’s Waterfront Trail or cruise through the charming historic neighbourhood of Port Credit on two wheels. Scattered throughout the city, you can rent Lime e-bikes or e-scooters using the app — pick them up where you are and drop them off wherever your day takes you.
Shopping
Pack light and leave room in the trunk. Mississauga is one of Canada’s top shopping destinations, and fall is the perfect time to explore it.
Start at Square One Shopping Centre, the largest shopping mall in Ontario with more than 330 stores. From Simons, Holt Renfrew, and Hudson’s Bay to Zara, Uniqlo, and dozens of premium brands that are hard to find in most U.S. cities, Square One delivers big-name retail in a clean, modern, and easy-to-navigate setting. Whether you’re updating your wardrobe, redecorating for the season, or getting a head start on holiday gifts, you’ll find it here.
For something more local, visit the Central Lions Farmers Market at Celebration Square, open Wednesday mornings through October 15. Shop fresh fall produce, baked goods, maple snacks, and handmade treats, all from Ontario-based vendors. It’s a great way to get a taste of the local community while picking up a few things you won’t find back home.
Afterward, head to Port Credit or Streetsville, two of Mississauga’s most walkable and character-filled neighbourhoods. Browse independent shops and boutiques, pop into a local café, or just enjoy the crisp fall air along the waterfront.
Feel the Culture on Every Corner
Fall in Mississauga isn’t just about the colours; it’s about the culture. The city comes alive with festivals, live performances, and global flavours that transform a weekend trip into something unforgettable. From markets and celebrations to major concerts, there’s something lively happening every week.
Philippine Festival Mississauga – September 12–14, 2025
This three-day event brings Filipino culture to the heart of Celebration Square. It opens with an upbeat DJ night, followed by a weekend of live music, dance performances, traditional games, and film screenings. Authentic Filipino food vendors line the square with everything from street snacks to sweet desserts. It’s an energetic, family-friendly celebration that highlights the warmth and creativity of the community.
AfroCan – Roots & Rhythms Fest – September 19–20, 2025
AfroCan is a high-energy showcase of African and Caribbean culture. The festival features more than 30 food vendors, performances by international and local musicians, interactive games, and a vibrant artisan market. A classic sound clash brings an extra boost of energy to the weekend. AfroCan is bold, rhythmic, and full of flavour.
The ARTS of the Middle East Festival – September 26–27, 2025
Mississauga’s newest cultural event offers an immersive dive into the art, music, and food of the Middle East. Large-scale art installations and cultural exhibits share space with live performances, a traditional bazaar, and a kids’ area packed with family activities. The food corner serves up classic dishes from across the region, offering a true taste of Middle Eastern hospitality and tradition.
Live at the Living Arts Centre
Mississauga’s cultural calendar runs all year long, including a fall lineup of headlining shows at the Living Arts Centre. Catch ABBA Revisited on October 10, Tom Morello on October 19, and drag superstar Shea Couleé, featuring Lemon and The Virgo Queen, on November 14. The venue’s mix of music, stories, and live entertainment offers a great way to spend an evening after exploring the city by day.
With so many ways to connect through food, music, and art, your fall getaway can feel a lot bigger than a weekend.
Fun For All Ages
There’s so much to do in Mississauga! Once you’ve got your fill of festival fun, you can keep the good times rolling (and enter into a little friendly competition) at one of the city’s unique experiences.
BRKFREE is a thrilling new social entertainment experience, with 35+ high-tech rooms offering a fast-paced mix of physical, mental, and skill-based challenges. Spanning 25,000 square feet, the space is packed with fun and surprises. Assemble your team of 2-4 players and prepare for an electrifying experience you’ll never forget!
Following the release of A Minecraft Movie, nostalgic parents and avid players can enter the world of the popular video game at the brand new Minecraft Experience: Villager Rescue. Until September 14th, longtime Minecrafters, new players, and families of all ages can journey into the Overworld and become real-life heroes on a thrilling quest. During this action-packed adventure and scavenger hunt, adventurers will enter the experience, journey through seven Minecraft realms, and help rescue the village under siege from a zombie attack.
Ready to burn some energy? HUB Climbing features massive bouldering walls and ninja-style activities designed for both kids and adults. These aren’t your average gyms. They’re high-energy playgrounds built for all skill levels.
For indoor speed and competition, K1 Speed delivers high-performance electric kart racing in a clean, modern space. No fumes, just fast laps and fun times. Catch the excitement of live sports with Raptors 905, the official NBA G League affiliate of the Toronto Raptors. Their season tips off in November at the Paramount Fine Foods Centre, and tickets are affordable, close to the action, and great for families. It’s the perfect way to see future NBA stars in an electric game-day atmosphere.
For a mix of learning and discovery, check out MiMuseum in Port Credit, Mississauga’s new children’s museum. Interactive exhibits and hands-on play stations keep younger visitors engaged while exploring science, art, and local history in a fun and approachable way.
Once you’ve completed all your side quests, you can refuel at Square One in city centre, with over 100 dining options available.
Family-Friendly Accommodations
Mississauga has tons of family-friendly hotels with a range of amenities and price points to make your stay pleasant and comfortable during your visit to the city, all within a short drive to top attractions.
Below is a list to help you start planning your trip to our lovely city today!
- Sandman Signature Mississauga Hotel – offering a heated indoor pool to unwind after a day of adventure
- Hilton Mississauga Meadowvale Hotel – kids and parents can enjoy not one, but TWO pools (one indoor, one outdoor), including a Big Blue waterslide
- Sheraton Gateway Hotel – boasting a ton of newly renovated suites, including the Family Premium, Kids Zone, and Plane Spotting suites
- Hilton Garden Inn Toronto Airport West/Mississauga – with an indoor pool, Garden Grill, and rooms that can be adjoining, perfect for families
- Four Points by Sheraton Mississauga Meadowvale – situated close to Paramount Fine Foods Centre and Square One and has an indoor saltwater pool, a whirlpool, and an on-site restaurant, Taza Grill & Bar.
- The Glenerin Inn & Spa – a beautiful boutique property that offers access to a spa, perfect for some rest and relaxation on your getaway