Guelph, in Southwestern Ontario, was voted as one of Canada’s best cities to live in for a reason.
From the picturesque views and sparkling rivers that complement its dynamic culture, the many historic buildings and landmarks, or the fact that it’s a great place to live — there’s no shortage of things to do in Guelph.
Whether you’re a long-time resident or new to the city, we’ve put together a quick guide covering 18 fun things to do in Guelph.
1. Tour Wellington Brewery
Just as their motto says, “Try A Welly On” at Guelph’s Wellington Brewery — one of the original craft breweries in Canada. They've produced award-winning craft beers while focusing on sustainability, quality, community, and creativity since 1985.
2. University of Guelph’s Historical Walking Tour
Get to know the city’s history with the University of Guelph’s invaluable contributions that date back over 150 years. Take the self-guided two to three-hour walking tour through history, visiting the different buildings named after its prestigious alums.
3. Visit the Arboretum
The University of Guelph’s Arboretum has 8.2 kilometres of walking nature trails among its over 400 acres of flora and fauna. Situated next to the university campus, the Arboretum connects people with nature and enhances teaching with its gardens, wetlands, plant collections, meadows, and natural woodlands.
4. Local Culinary Food and Drink Tasting Tours
Experience food- and drink-tasting tours with a twist. Taste Detours spotlights local culture and historical architecture while sharing the deep heritage of local makers, growers, and independent food places to bring you good-tasting and fresh local food and drinks.
5. Explore Downtown Guelph
Downtown Guelph has many Victorian-era buildings, limestone architecture, and boutique shops. Women entrepreneurs as managers, business owners, and champions of their industry lead the way in Woolwich Village with a collaboration of shops and experiences to discover. Some other notable landmarks include Guelph City Hall, Guelph Armoury, St. Georges Square, the Sleeman and River Run Centres.
6. Visit the Basilica of Our Lady Immaculate Church
At the heart of the historic area of Downtown Guelph, you’ll find the majestic Basilica of Our Lady Immaculate — one of the finest architectural works of Joseph Connolly. This Roman Catholic basilica was built in the Gothic Revival style between 1875 and 1883, featuring stained glass windows and decorative carving.
7. Check Out Guelph’s Farmer’s Market
The Guelph Farmer’s Market located at 2 Gordon street, is a lively venue that encourages socialization and revitalization of the downtown district. The market features between 60 to over 120 vendors offering, fresh produce, fantastic finds, like homemade bread and pies, fresh juice, Ethiopian cuisine, Taiwanese dumplings, and more.
8. Learn About the Culture at Guelph Civic Museum
The Guelph Civic Museum has over 40,000 artifacts, including furniture, photographs, toys, decorative art, and more that Guelph residents have mostly donated. They boast a children’s museum onsite with interactive displays and exhibits that teach children through play.
9. Enjoy Nature in Riverside Park
Featuring various amenities like the gorgeous floral clock and rock gardens, children’s playground, antique carousel, outdoor concert shell, miniature train, beach area, horseshoe pits, three baseball diamonds, disc golf, large and small picnic shelters, trails along the riverfront, a leash-free zone, portable washrooms, and more, Riverside Park is the best spot to host seasonable activities and fun family events.
10. Visit the Donkey Sanctuary of Canada
Get up close and personal at The Donkey Sanctuary of Canada — a refuge for abused and neglected mules and donkeys. Set amongst a tranquil backdrop, this safe haven allows guests to meet, brush, and feed the donkeys as they watch demonstrations on properly caring for them. The sanctuary is open on Sundays between May and November, and Wednesdays are an additional option between July and August.
11. Take the Kids to the Children's Art Factory
Looking for things to do in Guelph for kids? Take your little Picassos to the Children’s Art Factory. Kiddos explore the world around them using their innate curiosity to guide them through hands-on activities that challenge and inspire them. Children of all ages are welcome, and pre-booking isn't required because it’s a drop-in studio!
12. Enjoy Local Restaurants
There’s something for everyone to eat in Guelph. Enjoy ethnic cuisines like Vietnamese, Greek, Indian, Thai, Mediterranean, French, Italian, Vegan, and Vegetarian or take in some tasty pizza accompanied by live jazz music at Manhattans Pizza. There are also many casual family-dining restaurants and pubs — whatever suits your fancy, you’ll find it in Guelph.
13. Check out the Art Gallery
Over 9,000 pieces of Canadian and international artists’ work are on display at the Art Gallery of Guelph (AGG). They showcase different exhibitions throughout the year and feature a must-see sculpture park. Don’t forget to take home a memory from the onsite gift shop.
14. Attend a Festival or Event at Riverside Park Speed River Trail
Guelph festivals showcase its residents' rich culture and deep heritage, including Jazz, Film, Contemporary Dance, Hillside, Eden Mills Writers, Multicultural, Fergus Scottish and Highland Games, and many more.
15. Hit the Royal Recreation Trail
Explore 4.5 kms of birding, mountain biking, hiking, and leisurely strolling and enjoy some solitude on this year-round trail. This is typically an easy route, taking roughly 1 hr 6 minutes to complete. While furry friends are welcome, they must stay on their leashes.
16. Shop at Stone Road Mall
Be sure to include the Stone Road Mall on your list of shopping attractions. This is Guelph’s largest shopping destination at 520,000 sq. ft featuring over 150 services and retailers.
17. Visit the Hammond Museum of Radio
The Hammond Museum of Radio is a must-see attraction for radio buffs who like old-time radio history. The museum features over 1,000 operational transmitters and receivers from amateur, domestic, and military radios.
18. Go For a Swim in Guelph Lake
Guelph Lake features two sandy beaches, the Island Beach and the Main Beach. Advisory Warning: the swimming beaches are unpatrolled, so please watch children closely.
Ready to Make the Move?
If you’re thinking of relocating to Guelph , there’s something you should know — life is never dull with so many things to do here in Guelph, Ontario. That, and the move is always easier when you have a trusted realtor on your side.
Get in touch today, and let’s talk about the possibilities.
