Woodstock City Guide

Food reflects Canadian classics with some international options like Italian, Chinese, and Indian. Vegetarian and vegan choices are increasing. Late-night options are mostly fast food.

Nightlife is modest with local pubs and a few bars, lacking bigger clubs or late-night venues.

Growing coffee scene with local shops and chains; specialty roasters found more in bigger nearby cities.

Tipping is expected for service. Restaurants 15-20%, taxis 10-15%, services 15-20%.

SIM cards are sold at mobile provider stores like Bell, Rogers, Telus, Freedom Mobile, Virgin Plus, and Koodo. ID/passport needed for activation. Bell, Rogers, and Telus give best coverage.

Clean city with regular waste and recycling services; sanitation issues are rare.

Limited 24/7 services. Few late-night pharmacies and convenience stores. Food options late at night mostly fast-food drive-thrus.

Supermarkets offer moderate international variety. Main stores: Zehrs, Food Basics, Sobeys, FreshCo, plus a local farmers' market.

Most businesses accept card payments, including debit and credit. Cash is rarely needed.

ATMs from major banks like CIBC, TD, RBC, Scotiabank, and BMO are available. Non-bank ATMs may charge $1.50 to $3.00 CAD fees.

Public and Catholic elementary and high schools operate locally. No international schools; closest are in London or Toronto. Instruction is in English.

Very small digital nomad scene with few meetups or co-living spaces.

Excellent access to large parks and conservation areas with trails and shaded paths.

Good running trails in parks and conservation areas. Routes are safe and popular among locals.

Several gyms and fitness centers offer a variety of workout options.

Public tennis courts at parks and Woodstock Fitness & Racquet Club, usually first-come, first-served.

Padel courts are not commonly found in Woodstock.

Several yoga studios offer various styles with English-speaking instructors and drop-in classes.

Facilities offer Karate, Taekwondo, boxing, BJJ with English-speaking instructors.

Ski resorts like Boler Mountain and Blue Mountain are 1-2 hours away. Snow varies; rentals and varied terrain available.

Nearby lakes and rivers allow kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding, especially at Pittock Conservation Area.

No surfing available; the city is inland.

No diving sites near Woodstock; the city is inland.

Woodstock Hospital provides emergency and specialty care with English-speaking staff. Pharmacies like Shoppers Drug Mart and Rexall carry common meds. Public healthcare is available, with some private clinics.

Tap water meets provincial standards and is safe to drink.

Several playgrounds and family-friendly parks like Southside and Pittock. Kid-friendly cafés and baby supplies are easy to find. Attractions include the Woodstock Museum and splash pad.

Generally accepting with low discrimination risk; no specific LGBTQ+ venues.

Pet-friendly city with parks allowing leashed dogs and available vet and supply stores.