Free Things to Do in London, Ontario
Some of the best days in London don't cost a thing. You don't need a packed itinerary or a full wallet — just a few good spots and an afternoon. Here's a local's list of free (and nearly-free) things to do around the city, whether you're new here, on a budget, or just looking for a slow, good day.
1. Sit by the Thames River in Gibbons Park
Gibbons Park is a London favourite, but the real move is to slow down by the river. Find a spot beside the Thames, sit, and just listen to the water — it's a genuine reset, and it costs nothing. A local tip: enter from Richmond Street, where there's car parking, and head to the spot near the lot where you can sit and take in the river. Best on a quiet morning before the park fills up.
2. Play the musical instruments in Gibbons Park
Here's a small surprise most people don't know about: Gibbons Park has outdoor musical instruments you can actually play, near the bridge in the park. It's a fun, free thing to stumble onto — good with kids, or just for a moment of not taking yourself too seriously. Worth seeking out next time you're walking through.
3. Walk around 100 Kellogg Lane
100 Kellogg Lane is a great spot for an easy wander. Stroll the area, take it in, and if you want a small treat, grab a vanilla ice cream cone or cup from the Shaw's ice cream spot near the entrance of the Hard Rock Hotel, then walk around with it. The walking is free; the ice cream is a few dollars well spent. A nice, low-key outing.
4. Walk Victoria Park, downtown
Victoria Park is one of the easiest free outings in the city — parking is close by, and you can simply sit, walk, and watch downtown London go by. It's the kind of central green space that's good any time you've got an hour and want to be outside without a plan. Reliable, pleasant, free.
5. Fanshawe Pioneer Village — 1424 Clarke Road
Fanshawe Pioneer Village is an open-air museum where you can wander, explore, get near the water, and have a picnic — a genuinely different way to spend a day. Heads up: this one isn't free. There's a modest admission fee with discounts for seniors, students, and kids, and it's seasonal, so it's only open certain days and months. Check their official website for current prices and hours before heading out — that way there are no surprises.
6. Walk through Covent Garden Market, downtown
Covent Garden Market, downtown opposite Fanshawe College, is free to wander and a different kind of experience — stalls, food, the buzz of people. You don't have to buy anything to enjoy it; browsing the market is its own little outing. Good for a slow downtown afternoon.
7. Spend time at the downtown Public Library
The London Public Library's downtown branch is one of the most underrated free spaces in the city. It's a genuinely good place to sit, read something new, and pass time without spending a cent. Perfect on a cold or rainy day when you still want to be out of the house.
8. Drive through Western University campus
Driving through Western's campus is a surprisingly good free experience — especially when students are around and the place feels alive. There's something motivating about it; the campus has real energy. A nice, easy drive when you want a change of scenery.
9. Take a scenic drive — car showrooms and Masonville
If you like to drive, London has a few enjoyable routes that cost only fuel. The car showrooms along Dundas Street near the airport make for a fun cruise, as does the drive past the Mercedes showroom on Southdale Road East. And Masonville Mall on Richmond Street is a solid spot to head to — lively, especially in the evening, and good for a walk around.
Want more free London ideas? There's plenty more where this came from. Sign up for the free Local Guide and we'll send you the best of London, Ontario every week.
A quick note: everything here is just my own honest opinion based on my own experiences. Prices, menus, and hours change, and your visit might be different from mine — so treat this as a friendly tip from a local, not a guarantee.