Mississauga Ontario Canada ~ Pictures & information

Mississauga Ontario Views of Toronto skyline

Toronto skyline as seen over the waters of Lake Ontario from Jack Darling Park, on the lakeshore in Mississauga near the border with Oakville. Toronto's CN Tower is just visible in the dusk. Much of the shoreline is being redeveloped into parklands and walking trails. From Jack Darling the trail continues west through Rattray Marsh.

Mississauga to Toronto

There are several narrow, sandy beaches in Jack Darling Park, and the water quality is monitored. After heavy summer rains, no-swimming advisories are often posted. Mississauga Ontario is about 30 kms (19 miles) west of Toronto's downtown area. Wen I travel, I usually tell people that I am from Toronto. That's because the further you travel away from Ontario, 'Mississauga' is less well known city.

Credit River at Erindale Park

The Credit River bisects Mississauga from its northern border with Bramptom to Lake Ontario; the river and watershed is under the aegis of the Credit Valley Conservation Authority. The lower reaches of the river are popular with anglers. For fishing licence information, see the Ministry of Natural Resources. Erindale Park is well used for barbecues and charity walks as well as angling for salmon. See also Streetsville.

Credit River in Mississauga

A multi-lane bridge takes Burnhamthorpe Road across the Credit River, near the northern boundary of Erindale Park. Heron and deer are often seen here. Commuters are treated to seasonal color changes in the valley; here, Autumn reds are just beginning. Hidden in the trees in the top centre of the photo is the new Mississauga Garden Park, accessed from Burnhamthorpe Road at the east end of the bridge.

Old Barber House Restaurant

The Old Barber House is one of Mississauga's Heritage buildings that has found new life as a restaurant. In a city as young Mississauga, these well-preserved sites are greatly appreciated. The old Barber family home, which dates back to 1862, is located on the corner of Mississauga Road and Barbertown Road, and one of many historic buildings in the Village of Streetsville. Another historic building has a page of its own -- see Glenerin Inn and its History.

St. Peter's Anglican Church

Located at Mississauga Road and Dundas Street, just west of the Credit River and Erindale Park, St. Peter's Anglican Church is another treasured historic site. The church dates back to 1887, this stone structure replacing the white frame church built in 1827. Check the church history on its web site. The grave markers in the adjacent cemetery is a 'Who's Who' of Mississauga's founding families. Two other historic properties are now the Museums of Mississauga.

Mississauga Chinese Centre

At the Mississauga Chinese Centre, on Dundas east of Cawthra Road, this 9-Dragon Wall, exclusive to the Emperor of China, was one of just 4 in the world when it was built 20 years ago. The site has a number of original 'Made by Craftsmen from China' features. I love to shop at the stores that mimic those in China, with many of the same goods at the same prices. There are many unique home decor items -- table linens, pillow covers, knick knacks -- and silk purses and sandals. There are several good restaurants - see Mississauga restaurants page for details.

Waterfront Parks and Trails

Lake Ontario backdrops waterfront parks that line its shores in Mississauga. Paved paths swell with roller bladers, cyclists, babies in strollers and apartment dwellers looking for a day in the sun. The Waterfront Trail runs along the lakeshore through Mississauga -- see photos on my blog at Waterfront Trail. Active lifestyles are encouraged with events such as the Mississauga Marathon that takes place in May.

Lighthouse at Port Credit

Port Credit is another of the original communities that make up Mississauga. The landmark lighthouse is located on Lakeshore Road at the mouth of the Credit River (more lighthouse photos at Port Credit on the blog.)

A few steps away, you can charter a boat for a day's fishing or try your luck at catching a big one for the Great Ontario Salmon Derby that runs during July and August. There are a number of good pubs and restaurants, and several large festivals, like the Port Credit Blues and Jazz Festival in September and the Mississauga Waterfront Festival in June.

Port Credit Boating, Water Sports

Canoes, kayaks and dragon boats are a familiar sight along the lower reaches of the Credit River, thanks to the dedication of the Mississauga Canoe Club.

There are two large marinas in the area, and an annual Port Credit Boat Show, making Port Credit a busy port of call for sail boats and motor boats -- even 'cigarette boat' racers.

Credit Village Marina in Port Credit

This is the view from the harbour promenade in Port Credit, past Snug Harbour restaurant along the Credit River,.

The promenade has benches for sitting awhile and enjoying the views across to J. C. Saddington Park, Lake Ontario and the replica lighthouse in POrt Credit.

Cross the bridge to the opposite side of the lighthouse to find the Lakeshore Road underpass to the parkland area, and likely, grazing Canada geese. (Mind your step!).

Now, I live a few minutes walk from this marina and the Lakeshore. Can you see why I think that Mississauga is the best city to live in?

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