Nestled in Stratford, Ontario is one of Canada’s best hotels. We’ve travelled the world and have stayed at countless award-winning properties, so we carefully assess every stay—and believe us when we say this: The Bruce Hotel will undoubtedly impress you.

A charming boutique hotel, The Bruce was named after the owner Jen Birmingham’s late father. Steps from the world renowned Festival Theatre and serene Avon River, The Bruce pairs polished modernity with vintage charm. With 21 charming rooms, four suites and a beautiful cottage, each space is unique and fully accessible, offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

The property has been open for over a decade and is the most recent Canadian hotel to be awarded the prestigious Five-Diamond Hotel Designation (only 4 hotels in the country have that title!).

During our recent family stay at The Bruce, we were profoundly impressed by the level of service, the amenities on-site and the exceptional attention tailored specifically to families traveling with children. 

From the moment we stepped into our room, it was clear that this wasn’t just any luxury hotel—it was a place that truly understood what families needed. The space was large and spacious. Our room was fully stocked with everything imaginable for little ones. A playpen, crib, extra blankets, a selection of toys and even a child-sized bathtub with bath toys. The details went further: a stepping stool, a breastfeeding pillow and, to our surprise, even plug covers to ensure the room was baby-proof. It was clear that The Bruce doesn’t just welcome children— they anticipate what they need before you even ask.

Later that day, we took advantage of a separate play area at the hotel that was also designed for families, and was filled with board games, chess, books and various entertainment activities. It became our go-to for winding down in the evenings, making for some excellent quality time. During the day, the pool was our favourite destination.

The service throughout our stay was nothing short of impeccable. Before arrival, the hotel sent an online form where we could share details about our travel party, and every request was not only accommodated but exceeded. 

Meanwhile, my absolute favourite discovery was the 24-hour “cookie hotline.” Yes, you read that right: a dedicated button on the room phone, labeled “Cookie!” that allowed us to have freshly baked cookies delivered to our room, at any hour. Naturally, we decided to start each day with hot chocolate and cookies for the kids before heading down for breakfast—a ritual they may never stop talking about. As if that wasn’t charming enough, upon checkout, we were given chocolates shaped like diamonds, a thoughtful nod to the hotel’s Diamond Property status.

Dining at The Restaurant at The Bruce was equally unforgettable. The talented team of chefs was dedicated to showcasing the finest ingredients from Perth County sourced from trusted farmers, artisans and local suppliers. Meanwhile, the elegant atmosphere was enhanced by a pianist who, upon noticing children in the room, seamlessly transitioned into Disney classics from Moana and Frozen, bringing an unexpected but entirely welcome sense of wonder to the evening. The food was superb—our daughter loved her sliders with enthusiasm, and my beef tenderloin was exquisite. Paired with beautifully crafted cocktails and flawless service, it was a dining experience that felt both refined and warmly welcoming.

Every aspect of our stay at The Bruce Hotel was a testament to their dedication to providing an experience that is as luxurious as it is family-friendly. The level of thoughtfulness and detail they put into making families feel comfortable was unparalleled. For parents looking for a place where both they and their children can make beautiful memories, The Bruce Hotel is in a league of its own.

Photos by Hannah Yakobi and courtesy of The Bruce Hotel.