Mississauga offers a quality of life beyond compare. This is hardly surprising, given its location near the lake and Credit River, vast amounts of green spaces, and a dining, shopping, arts and entertainment scene that rivals the neighbouring City of Toronto.

Diversity and multiculturalism are the foundation of Mississauga. You can “travel the globe” without leaving your own city, and get a taste for cuisines, music, art and entertainment from all over the world. The area is also home to several must-experience points of interest and events.

Port Credit Lighthouse

The waterfront at Port Credit is one of the most treasured landmarks in the GTA. In the summer, it’s a popular spot for cycling or strolling along the boardwalk. There are also tons of neat shops to browse and restaurants to try out. In the midst of all this picturesque beauty, the lighthouse stands out like a beacon.

Square One Shopping Centre

Square One is the largest shopping centre in all of Ontario, and the second largest in Canada, next to the West Edmonton Mall. When you’re not exploring the more than 330 stores that include well-known fashion labels and the absolute latest in technology, check out some of the restaurants. The Food District and Food Central span two levels and contain a mix of gourmet options and standard fare. Talk about a diner’s paradise!

Michelin-Recognized Eateries

Speaking of dining, did you know that Mississauga is home to three Michelin-recognized restaurants? Tamarind Modern Indian Bistro, Guru Lukshmi, and Mama Fatma have all earned high praise from some of the most distinguished food critics in the world.

Rattray Marsh

It is hard to believe this stunning, natural oasis is part of a busy city like Mississauga! Pedestrian boardwalks overlook wetlands that are home to all kinds of wildlife and lush vegetation. You can even see Lake Ontario from parts of the trail, which is considered an easy path for all levels, including children.

Leashed dogs are also welcome to explore the wonders of nature here. Since no cycling is allowed, Rattray Marsh provides a peaceful experience for less confident hikers.

The Riverwood Conservancy

Speaking of nature in Mississauga, did you know that there is a massive 150-acre park right along the Credit River? Here, you can enjoy tranquil hikes through woodlands, meadows, and wetlands, explore lush gardens, or take a guided bird walk.

Kariya Park

Living in Mississauga means you don’t have to travel far to see the sight of thousands of cherry blossoms. Just head over to Kariya Park, where approximately 90 Japanese trees burst to life each spring. You can also stop to admire beautiful gardens, a marsh, a cascade waterfall, and a sculpture of a stone tsukabai basin.

Streetsville Founders’ Bread & Honey Festival

This highly anticipated event has been going on since 1973, and is showing no signs of slowing down! Every year, your taste buds (especially your sweet tooth) will be absolutely delighted by treats like a pancake breakfast, and bread and honey, of course.

If you’re feeling ambitious afterward, you can burn it all off by participating in the Trail Race. Cuteness overload alert: The Bread & Honey Festival is also when 100 trainers from across North America bring their own dogs to show off in an event called “SuperDogs.” It really doesn’t get better or more adorable than this.

Canada Day at Celebration Square

Happy Birthday Canada! The celebration this year (and every year) includes live entertainment, games and activities, and a delectable mix of offerings from more than 25 food trucks.

A grand fireworks spectacular caps off the night perfectly. We would say it’s the most fun you’ve had all year, but since there’s always something happening in Mississauga, it’s more accurate to say it’s the most fun you’ve had all weekend. Or maybe just all day.

Southside Shuffle Blues & Jazz Festival

Music lovers, mark your calendars for late summer. That’s when the Southside Blues & Jazz Festival comes to Port Credit in Mississauga, bringing an impressive lineup of talented bands and solo performers. The event is fully licensed, plus there will be a variety of food vendors and a market where you can browse for unique, hand-crafted items.

Light Up the Square

It is just not the holidays until “Light Up the Square” turns Celebration Square into a bonanza of beautiful lights and colour. The outdoor skating rink opens for the season, and this is also the night of lighting the official Christmas tree. Let the magic begin!

As the fourth most populated city in Ontario, Mississauga is understandably home to numerous outstanding schools. Parents have their choice of public, religious, or private education.

For details about catchment areas, special education programs, or access to resources, check out the websites for the Peel District School Board and the Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board.

The population of Mississauga is one of the most diverse anywhere in Canada, with people from all ages, backgrounds, and lifestyles.

This has also led to an incredible mix of housing options, from entry-level condos and townhouses and smaller bungalows to stately family homes, impressive custom new builds, designated heritage houses, upscale penthouses, waterfront mansions, and more. Imagine anything a house could look like at any size and budget, and you will find it here in Mississauga.

Fun fact: Move over, Toronto. Mississauga’s skyline is truly exceptional! The Absolute World Towers soar between 50 and 56 storeys, and the instantly recognizable shape has earned them the nickname the “Marilyn Monroe” Towers. This architectural masterpiece is also the proud winner of the Emporis Skyscraper Award in 2012.