Are you struggling between your love for city vibes and getting into nature? Turns out, you don't have to choose.
The City of Greater Sudbury is a standout spot in Northern Ontario, steadily growing as more people discover its charm. With over 330 lakes, an incredible art scene, and food and cocktails to rival the most trendy restaurants, it's where urban life meets natural beauty.
If you're looking to explore Ontario, it's time to head north. Here are nine hidden (and not-so-hidden) gems that just might have you browsing real estate sites and checking out job options. As you dive into what makes Sudbury unique, you'll see why so many people are making the move there.
Kivi Park
Kayaks on the lake at Kivi Park.
Courtesy of City of Greater Sudbury
Address: 4472 Long Lake Rd, Sudbury, ON
Why You Need To Go: Kivi Park is a true celebration of the beauty of Northern Ontario. Located in the south end of Sudbury, it's your go-to spot for outdoor fun all year round.
With over 480 acres to explore, you can hike, bike, kayak, paddleboard, swim and fish. In winter, you can hit the trails for Nordic skiing or ice skate down Nina's Way skate path, lit up at night as you wind through birch trees. The full list of activities and attractions available at the park can be found on its website.
Additional nature hotspots to explore in Sudbury include the city's Rainbow Routes, an ever-evolving network of trails perfect for recreation and commutes. Plus, you can easily reach six provincial parks (Grundy Lake Provincial Park, Chutes Provincial Park, Killarney Provincial Park, Fairbank Provincial Park, Halfway Lake Provincial Park, and Windy Lake Provincial Park) within a one-hour or less drive, with stunning views along the route.
Accessibility: Kivi Park is dedicated to making their trails and attractions accessible to all, with varying levels of accessibility and difficulty dependent on the activity. You can contact them online or by phone for guidance on your unique situation.
Josie's Secret Patio
Address: 222 Alder St., Greater Sudbury, ON
Why You Need To Go: Good things in life come to those who wait or, in the case of Josie's Secret Patio, those who seek them out. With directions that include "in the back, look for the crooked fence," this unique restaurant provides an unexpected oasis in the middle of the city — complete with a golfing simulator.
This family-run patio features a full food and bar menu, so you'll feel like you're enjoying first-class service in your own backyard. Highlights include delicious smash burgers, tacos, pizza, and many vegan options.
It's a quirky restaurant you'd expect to see in major tourist destinations like Toronto or New York but without the hefty price tag. Instead, it's a local favourite that the neighbourhood is happy to share with you.
Don's Pizza
Address: 707 Lorne St. and 208 Loachs Rd., Greater Sudbury, ON
Why You Need To Go: At Don's Pizza, you can dine in or take out to find what over 60 years of Sudbury tradition tastes like. With two locations to choose from, Sudbury's first-ever pizzeria continues to build upon their legacy while still using the original recipe that made Don's a household name.
With nostalgic red-and-white plaid tablecloths, this local favourite is a cozy and welcoming spot perfect for hanging out with friends, family, or anyone craving comfort foods. Don's Pizza offers an extensive menu beyond its famous pizzas, with many pastas, salads, sandwiches and more to sink your teeth into.
Accessibility: The Lorne Street location has front steps with no ramp access, while the Loachs Road location is step-free.
Crosscut Distillery
Address: 1347 Kelly Lake Rd., Sudbury, ON
Why You Need To Go: Crosscut Distillery, Sudbury's exclusive spot for handcrafted spirits, offers a unique experience for beverage enthusiasts.
You can enjoy their custom vodka, gin, aquavit, whisky and liqueurs through tasting flights or craft cocktails. As a bonus, once you find your taste buds' perfect match, you can visit their shop online or in-store for the take-home version.
Their focus on community is unparalleled, bringing the neighbourhood together for live music every Friday, hosting free and ticketed events, and even organizing a run club. Their offerings perfectly mix big-city vibes with hometown congeniality because, as they say, "around here, we do things differently."
Sudbury is also home to two excellent breweries, if beer's more your speed. 46 North serves flights of locally crafted brews alongside a snack menu featuring premium hot dogs and more; and Stack Brewing has the perfect thing to keep you satisfied with their ever-updating menu of award-winning pints.
Accessibility: The Crosscut Distillery patio is located at parking level, with various seating types.
Bell Park, Ramsey Lake, Science North and Dynamic Earth
The Science North building during a sunset. Right: A tourist at Dynamic Earth's Big Nickel statue.
@geologistkindalife | Instagram, @valbelzil | Instagram
Addresses: Bell Park - Paris St.; Ramsey Lake - near downtown; Science North - 100 Ramsey Lake Rd.; and Dynamic Earth - 122 Big Nickel Rd, Greater Sudbury, ON.
Why You Need To Go: Explore the not-so-hidden best of Sudbury with a visit to Bell Park, Ramsey Lake, and the renowned Science North and Dynamic Earth. They each offer unique experiences and beautiful sights and showcase the diversity of the city's entertainment options.
Bell Park sits on Ramsey Lake's western shore with a 2-kilometre boardwalk and a popular beach from which you can enjoy swimming, kayaking and more. The park is also a vibrant venue for cultural events and festivals year-round.
Nearby, you'll find Science North and Dynamic Earth, both offering exceptional indoor education and entertainment. Science North boasts an IMAX theatre, digital planetarium, butterfly gallery and more. Before wrapping up your day, check out Sudbury's iconic Big Nickel — the largest coin in the world — located at Dynamic Earth.
Accessibility: The park and lake are mostly wheelchair accessible. Science North and Dynamic Earth both feature accessible parking and building access. Their accessibility plans are here.
Tuco's Tacos, Beards, Flurples and Cosmic Dave's
An ice-cream cone from Flurple's. Right: A customer browses records at Cosmic Dave's.
@padawanryan | Instagram, @witchyagogo | Instagram
Addresses: 582-595 Kathleen St., Greater Sudbury, ON
Why You Need To Go: Welcome to your slice of plant-based heaven. If you're wandering down Kathleen Street, you're in for a treat. Four of Sudbury's most distinctive local shops line this road, making hopping from one to the next easy.
You can start at Tuco's Tacos, where vibrant vegan Mexican dishes and refreshing cocktails meet a lively atmosphere and patio seating. Then, walk over to Beards, where they serve up delicious vegan baked goods like cookies, scones, and giant donuts.
For a sweet, dairy-free finish, stop by Flurple's for their oat-based and fruit-based soft serves, with toppings crafted by Beards. And finally, make sure to see Cosmic Dave's, a vinyl lover's paradise with new and vintage records and turntables.
Together, these spots offer a delightful mix of plant-based delights and music, making for a must-visit stretch of creative and colourful businesses.
Nickel City Cheese
An ice cream sundae from Cerealously Creamy in front of the Nickel City Cheese sign. Right: Five varieties of Nickel City Cheese curds.
@cerealously_creamy | Instagram, @nickelcitycheesesudbury | Instagram
Address: 3888 Regional Rd. 15, Chelmsford, ON
Why You Need To Go: If you like cheese, Nickel City Cheese is a dream destination. Founded in 2018, this family-run cheese factory is renowned for its nearly 20 unique flavours of cheese curds, including dill, maple bacon, Montreal and BBQ.
The best time to visit is during the warmer months, especially summer, when their ice cream shop, CEREALlously Creamy, is in full swing.
You can also try their famous cheese curds right on the spot at their poutinerie, followed by homemade mini donuts, funnel cake, and more. Essentially, Nickel City Cheese is a paradise for your taste buds.
Accessibility: The shop is at parking level, with step-free access to the entrance.
YES Theatre
Addresses: Sudbury Theatre Centre - 170 Shaughnessy St.; The Refettorio - 131 Durham St., Greater Sudbury, ON
Why You Need To Go: Experience the magic of live theatre at YES Theatre, Northern Ontario's premiere destination for all things Broadway, concerts, and more — all in the heart of downtown Sudbury.
This beloved community space provides world-class entertainment, showcasing local and global talent through original productions and celebrated favourites like Chicago, Peter Pan, and Jersey Boys.
You can enjoy classic vibes at the Sudbury Theatre Centre or a truly unique experience at their second location, The Refettorio. Discover Sudbury describes it as "a new outdoor venue that looks and feels like the perfect mix of the coolest patio you've ever experienced and a beautiful theatre space."
No matter the venue or show you choose, you'll understand that YES Theatre isn't just about watching shows — it's about appreciating art while connecting with the community.
Accessibility: Sudbury Theatre Centre and The Refettorio are both wheelchair accessible with designated seating.
Peppi Panini
Address: 93 Durham St., Greater Sudbury, ON
Why You Need To Go: Fans of Shoresy will recognize this must-visit spot that serves up authentic Italian food with a modern twist. Since opening its doors in 2014, the family-run Peppi Panini has become a Sudbury staple, blending traditional flavours with innovative dishes.
Alongside classic pasta and pizza, you'll find delicious items like the Chin-Dripper (three words: garlic butter sauce) and Jay's BBQ Chicken Pizza. From fast lunches, dining in the lounge, or hosting private events, Peppi's provides a warm atmosphere that prides itself on making you feel welcome and taken care of.
With glowing reviews from locals and newcomers alike, Peppi Panini stands out as a top destination for Italian cuisine in Sudbury. Whether you're a local or just passing through, this restaurant is worth a visit for its outstanding food and genuine hospitality.
Accessibility: Step-free access to the patio.
From vibrant local spots to scenic outdoor escapes, Sudbury offers a unique blend of experiences that cater to every taste. Whether you're here for the delicious food, artistic flair or natural beauty, the city's charm will surely captivate you.
When you're in Sudbury, you're never far from a top-tier cultural experience, a delicious bite to eat or the tranquillity of the great outdoors. If you're looking to put down roots and don't want to choose between vibrant city living and being on nature's doorstep, you'll find your next big adventure in Sudbury.
To learn more about the City of Greater Sudbury, visit their website or follow them on Instagram, Facebook and X.