WATERLOO REGION 2018/19 OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE
ROLL OUT THE
BARRELS Waterloo Region gets set to celebrate its 50th Oktoberfest
OntariO signature experiences IN WATERLOO REGION
Once in a lifetime experiences on every traveller's bucket list
#EXPLOREWR
EXPLOREWATERLOOREGION.COM
SIGNATURE EXPERIENCES PAGE 16
ROLL OUT THE BARRELS
CALENDAR OF EVENTS PAGE 12
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WILLKOMMEN! Waterloo Region, with its three cities and four townships, has a compelling history, and at the same time, is in a perpetual state of looking forward to the future. Indie coffee bars, vintage clothing shops, and eclectic art galleries are bringing new life to vacant spaces in the urban cores, and thousands of technology companies are calling Waterloo Region home. Waterloo Region may be most well-known for its annual Oktoberfest celebration. From October 5 to 13, 2018 immerse yourself in the spirit of Gemütlichkeit, and get swept up in the celebration that is Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest. Join the party this year as the festival celebrates its 50th anniversary—come and see why it’s called Canada’s Greatest Bavarian Festival.
ExploreWaterlooRegion.com
Countless other vibrant festivals spring up across the Region throughout the year. Elmira is home to the world’s largest one-day maple syrup festival every spring. In August, the sweet sounds of Blues take over downtown when the TD Kitchener Blues Festival takes the stage. Take a look at the festivals and events calendar on pages 12-15 for a listing of events happening all year long.
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This is just scratching the surface. Waterloo Region is known the world over as a welcoming and benevolent place where a “barn raising” spirit warmly embraces visitors as new-found friends. It’s time to experience it for yourself; start by visiting ExploreWaterlooRegion.com, and Waterloo Region will look forward to seeing you soon.
Explore Waterloo Region ExploreWaterlooRegion.com
VISITOR MAPS EXPLORE THE CITIES
5&6 20
CAMBRIDGE 21-22 KITCHENER 23-24 WATERLOO 25-26
EXPLORE THE TOWNSHIPS 27 NORTH DUMFRIES 28 WELLESLEY 29 WILMOT 30 WOOLWICH 31
STAY SEE & DO FOOD & DRINK PLAN YOUR TRIP
34-38 40-54 56-62 64-65
Acknowledgement of traditional territory Explore Waterloo Region acknowledges that we are on the traditional territory of the Neutral, Anishnawbe and Haudenosaunee peoples. Waterloo Region is situated on the Haldimand Tract, the land promised to the Six Nations that includes six miles on each side of the Grand River.
Cover Photo: KW-Oktoberfest Thanksgiving Day parade. Photo credit: John Van Tran Photography. The Official Explore Waterloo Region Travel Guide is published by the Waterloo Regional Tourism Marketing Corporation (WRTMC). Information published in this guide is current at the time of printing (March 2018). Visitors are encouraged to confirm important details with individual vendors.
RE O O L R E T IN WA
GION
ION Light Rail Transit This year, Waterloo Region will welcome a new transportation choice with the launch of its ION Light Rail Transit (LRT) route that will wind through 19 km between Waterloo and Kitchener, with future plans to extend to Cambridge.
WELCOME TO WATERLOO REGION
W E N S ’ WHAT
GETTING AROUND
EVENTS INSTAGRAM WORTHY SPOTS Cambridge 3D Illuminated Sign in Cambridge Civic Square
Lumen A Celebration of Light and Technology
On September 29, 2018, Uptown Waterloo will host Lumen, a light-based new media, media art, and projection-based festival. Visitors will be able to explore the city through a new lens where Waterloo will be illuminated through art and technology.
True North Conference
The Prime Ministers Path at Castle Kilbride in Baden
Communitech, a public-private innovation hub in Waterloo Region, is launching the first True North conference from May 29-31, 2018 at Lot42 Global Flex Campus, a new performance and event venue in Kitchener. True North is focused on finding ways to establish tech as a force for good and will bring together influencers, policy makers, hackers, and hustlers.
FlyGTA Toronto-Waterloo Route You can now catch a flight between Toronto City and Waterloo Region with non-stop weekday service year-round with FlyGTA airlines. The flight is only 18 minutes!
FUN STUFF SHOW US WHAT YOU FIND WHEN YOU EXPLORE WATERLOO REGION!
Coming in Fall 2018: Kingpin Bowlounge at Cambridge Centre Mall
#EXPLOREWR @explorewaterlooregion @explorewaterlooregion @ExploreWR
Check explorewaterlooregion.com for more events, all year long!
The spotlight shines on the unsung but mighty food scene of Waterloo Region in a new web series “Nick & Taylor Make a Food Show”
ExploreWaterlooRegion.com
New Virtual Reality Experiences in Waterloo Region: Mirage VR, CTRL V and Golf Play
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Milverton
401
Toronto
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Brampton
Mississauga
Guelph 401 6
Stratford
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Oakville 407
Lake Ontario
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Burlington 8
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Hamilton
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Woodstock
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London
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QEW
St. Catharines
Brantford 24
Montreal
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Ottawa
Kingston
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Toronto
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Sarnia
Detroit
Michig Ontario an
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Hamilton
Windsor
London
DA CANA U.S.A.
Niagara Falls
Buffalo APPROXIMATE DISTANCE
Toronto 100 KM / 62 Miles Niagara Falls/Buffalo 160 KM / 100 Miles Windsor/Detroit 290 KM / 180 Miles Maps are provided for informational purposes only.
WATERLOO REGION For more information on ground transportation, air transportation services, and visitor information centre locations, see PLAN YOUR TRIP on page 64.
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Elmira ELMIRA
West Montrose
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TOWNSHIP OF
WOOLWICH
TOWNSHIP OF
WELLESLEY
St. Jacobs
Conestogo
ST. JACOBS
St Clements
Heidelberg
CITY OF
WATERLOO
Wellesley
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Breslau
UPTOWN WATERLOO
Page 29 Page 30
TOWNSHIP OF
BELMONT
WILMOT
Baden New Hamburg
DOWNTOWN KITCHENER
CITY OF
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Mannheim
CITY OF
HESPELER
CAMBRIDGE
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KITCHENER
Page 21 Page 28
PRESTON 401
New Dundee
GALT 8
TOWNSHIP OF
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NORTH DUMFRIES Ayr
VIA/GO Station (Rail) Grand River Transit Terminals GRT Terminals College/University Visitors’ Centres Trails Business Improvement Areas
Visit ExploreWaterlooRegion.com to plan your trip.
ExploreWaterlooRegion.com
Region of Waterloo International Airport
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ExploreWaterlooRegion.com
ROLL OUT THE
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BY JAMIE ROSS
“It is Beer, Bands and Bavarian Bravado as Waterloo Region gets set to celebrate its 50th Oktoberfest from October 5 to 13, 2018!”
It started modestly. To celebrate Canada’s Centennial in 1967, Kitchener’s Concordia Club decided to reach back to its roots and hold an Oktoberfest.
The Kitchener Chamber of Commerce’s Visitors and Convention Bureau had, at the time, been seeking an event to attract tourists to the community. Identifying the opportunity to share and celebrate the region’s unique German-Canadian heritage, a handful of dedicated volunteers launched the first official Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest on October 14, 1969.
Photo credit: Chris Alexander
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the event, an Oktoberfest that has grown from a weekend affair in one festhalle to a nine-day, internationally known party that attracts 700,000 participants, and involves upwards of 13 festhalles and more than 40 family and cultural events. In fact, it is the world’s largest Oktoberfest celebration outside of Munich, Germany and raises $1.5 million each year in support of more than 70 not-for-profit organizations. Owen Lackenbauer was a founding member of the first Oktoberfest event and remains proud of the festival’s longevity, which he believes is a result of the region’s collaborative spirit, with the entire community enthusiastically backing the event from the beginning. “Festival halls and events are located throughout the region,” says Lackenbauer. “Most bands and entertainers are provided by our German heritage community, and local businesses
and municipalities have offered amazing support to the endeavour. I believe its long-term success is also due to the festival’s unique Bavarian flavour in providing inexpensive fun and entertainment for young and old alike.” Beer, bands and Bavarian dancers will fill the festhalles, (German community centres or ‘FeastHalls’), and while drink and revelry are a big part of the event, there’s plenty to do for families too. One of the most popular draws, the five-kilometre long Thanksgiving Day parade, winds its way through the streets of Kitchener and Waterloo with more than 100 floats and bands and some 150,000 spectators lining the route. There’s also the Willkommen Platz, a pop-up Bavarian Village in downtown Kitchener, open daily with entertainment on the children's stage, as well as activities, souvenirs, food and a beer garden. Festival Executive Director Alfred Lowrick points out that Oktoberfest is really an “end of summer celebration,” with people coming from across Ontario and the rest of Canada, from the United States, and as far away as Europe and South America to join the fun. “The festive spirit of Oktoberfest is incredibly contagious,” says Minto Schneider, CEO of Explore Waterloo Region. “It’s hard not to enjoy yourself when you’re surrounded by oompah music, amazing food and a great crowd of people.” Are you a first timer to the event? No worries, we will let you in on some secrets.
ExploreWaterlooRegion.com
The event attracted some 2,500 guests, mainly club members, friends and out-of-town German club representatives, but it was successful enough to encourage them to repeat the event in 1968, this time attracting 4,000 participants.
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How to Oktoberfest Like a Local! DO: DRESS THE PART Tradition is taken seriously. Leather shorts and flouncy dresses are where it’s at, helping you to blend in better, feel less like a tourist, and make the whole Oktoberfest experience a lot more fun. The staple of a woman’s outfit is a tight fitting Bavarian Dirndl dress, consisting of a bodice, blouse, skirt, and apron. Speaking of the apron, where the bow is tied is code, so listen carefully here: tied on the right means the lady is attached and to the left cries single. A typical man’s outfit at Oktoberfest will have a button-up shirt, leather Lederhosen with suspenders, a wool or felt Alpine hat and sturdy footwear which are part dress shoe, part work boot. If you really want to impress the left-tied bows, add a nice jacket or vest to accent your outfit. If you think that wearing some tight leather shorts or a form-fitting flouncy dress will make you look quite silly – well, for many, yes it certainly will. But wear them anyway – it will make the event more fun, and, let’s face it, you will blend right in!
ExploreWaterlooRegion.com
Get your authentic Oktoberfest attire at the official retail store located at 17 Benton St. in Downtown Kitchener.
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DO: TALK THE TALK The festival’s unique Bavarian flavour has been tantamount to the Oktoberfest’s long running success. Here are a few words that will help you sound like a local. Most importantly, ‘Ein Bier, bitte!’ (‘A beer, please!’). Drink the beer from a Bierkrug, a beer mug or stein, which should be held with one hand. Prost is German for ‘cheers.’ Make eye contact while toasting,
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and don't hit the other stein too hard lest you lose some precious liquid. A common phrase at the celebrations is Gemütlichkeit, German for congeniality, or warm friendliness. Beer helps with the Gemütlichkeit. Before attending, stand in front of the mirror and practice chanting Zicke-Zacke-Zicke-Zacke! Hoi-HoiHoi! Loosely translated it means “down the hatch.” During the evening when you find you can no longer enunciate the words properly – it is time to go home.
DO: ENJOY THE FOOD! Bavarian food has two purposes. One, it protects your stomach from undo beer consumption. Two, because it protects your stomach, it also protects your reputation from undo beer consumption. Tasty favourites include; Schweinstaxe (Pork Knuckles), Hendl (Roasted Chicken), Brezel (pretzel) and an entire variety of Wursts (Sausages).
DO: SING THE SONGS Oktoberfest bonding is about sing-alongs. Oompah bands play all sorts of music, but whenever they strike up “Ein Prosit,” stand up, hoist your mug, sing along,
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clink glasses and chug – and don’t worry, the beer will help the lyrics roll off your tongue even if you don’t know a lick of German.
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1. Waterloo Mayor’s Oktoberfest Luncheon at Waterloo Public Square in UpTown Waterloo. 2. Onkel Hans at the UpTown Waterloo Great Oktoberfest Barrel Race. 3. Famous for their delicious menu featuring German favourites like schnitzel, cabbage rolls and strudel, the Schwaben Club is a traditional Oktoberfest experience you won’t forget! 4. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau tapped the keg at the Opening Ceremonies for the 48th KWOktoberfest in 2016. 5. The raising of the Maypole marks the beginning of KW-Oktoberfest at Opening Ceremonies every year. 6. Grab a partner, kick up your heels and dance the night away. Polka, the chicken dance, or make something up: anything goes at Oktoberfest! 7. Dirndls are a common sight across Waterloo Region for the duration of the festival. 8. Fresh soft pretzels are everywhere during the festival. You’re sure to find one at any festhalle or the Willkommen Platz in Downtown Kitchener.
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THE DON’TS Beer stein hats or Viking helmets are bad, even dangerous. It is best if you don’t wear one.
7 Courtesy of KW-Oktoberfest, Silvia Pond Photography
Also don’t forget to plan ahead for a safe ride home!
Get your Festhalle tickets early before they sell out! Visit Oktoberfest.ca to purchase.
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ExploreWaterlooRegion.com
Don’t be a Bierleiche, which is a special Oktoberfest word meaning “beer corpse.” It is a long night, so pace yourself by drinking slowly and eating plenty. As much as we all love beer, finding that delicate balance will keep you going.
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Top 7 Oktoberfest Highlights 1. Roll out that barrel! Tapping of the ceremonial keg highlights the opening ceremonies, signaling the beginning of Oktoberfest. The ceremony is followed by a concert series in the downtown core. 2. One of the most popular draws is the largest “Thanksgiving Day Parade� in Canada, with some 150,000 on-street spectators and television viewership of nearly two million people. 3. Onkel Hans and Tante Frieda are the festival mascots. Hans was introduced in 1974, a rotund man in Bavarian dress with a thick moustache, lederhosen, and a traditional felt hat with tassel. Frieda is a similarly stout woman wearing a dirndl.
2 3 4 Courtesy of KW-Oktoberfest, Silvia Pond Photography
4. Another icon of the festival is Miss Oktoberfest, first chosen in 1969. This position is now selected by a closed committee of judges; placing importance on community involvement and personal character.
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5. Runners in the Oktoberfest 5K Fun Run chase a chicken down the Thanksgiving Day Parade Route. 6. The festival is made possible with the enthusiastic help of 500 year-round volunteers and 1,300 community and service club volunteers. 7. Festhalles are where most activities and festivities can be found, such as oompah bands, Bavarian dancers and cuisine.
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For more information on this year’s 50th Oktoberfest and on the special events, activities and souvenirs being planned in celebration, visit oktoberfest.ca and explorewaterlooregion.com
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Courtesy of KW-Oktoberfest, Silvia Pond Photography
ExploreWaterlooRegion.com
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CALENDAR OF
FESTIVALS & EVENTS Kitchener Blues Festival
K-W SPRING PSYCHIC FAIR & EXPO | MAY 18-21 Bingemans Conference Centre PsychicFairsAndExpos.com
SUMMER LIGHTS FESTIVAL | JUNE 9
Downtown Kitchener summerlightsfestival.com One night where art, tech, music, food, and community collide.
K-W's biggest psychic event is awesome. Gifted psychic readers, mediums, healers, free lectures and more.
CAMBRIDGE TOUR DE GRAND | JUNE 10
CANADIAN CHAMPIONSHIPS IN ARTISTIC GYMNASTICS | MAY 22-27
Enjoy the beauty of Cambridge and the Grand River with bicycle routes for all ages and abilities.
2018 Men’s and Women’s Artistic Gymnastics Championships.
CAMBRIDGE CELEBRATION OF THE ARTS | JUNE 15
QUILT & FIBRE ART FESTIVAL | MAY 22-26 St. Jacobs Village & Waterloo Region stjacobs.com
Presenting a variety of juried works in the visual, performing and literary genres.
A dazzling array of events celebrating the art of quilting and textiles.
PRESTON TOWNE CENTRE SUMMER SPRAY PAD JUNE 15-AUGUST 31
Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex, Waterloo gymcan.org
NEW HAMBURG MENNONITE RELIEF SALE MAY 25-26 275 Jacob St., New Hamburg nhmrs.com
Auction of quilts and tractors. Music and kids' activities too.
TRUE NORTH | MAY 29-31 LOT42 Global Flex Campus truenorthwaterloo.com
JUNE
Duncan McIntosh Arena cambridgetourdegrand.com
Cambridge City Hall cambridge.ca/cmca
Central Park, Preston discoverpreston.ca
Cool off in the FREE summer spray pad in Central Park, right in your neighbourhood.
CRUISE INTO BELMONT VILLAGE JUNE 21, JULY 26, AUGUST 23
Belmont Village thebelmontvillage.ca Dozens of classic and muscle cars fill the village in this evening of family fun and entertainment. 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.
PRESTON TOWNE MARKET | JUNE 7-OCTOBER 4
AYR CHARITY BBQ | JUNE 23
The country comes to the city in uptown Preston. Take a leisurely stroll through the stalls. Thursdays, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
BBQ event that raises funds for a different charity each year.
KW CLASSIC PROVINCIAL CHAMPIONSHIPS | JUNE 3 Hawkesville cyclewaterloo.ca
CANADA DAY | JULY 1
Central Park, Preston discoverpreston.ca
Victoria Park, Ayr ayrcharitybbq.com
JULY
WATERLOO: UWaterloo Canada Day Celebrations Columbia Lake Fields uwaterloo.ca/canada-day
AYR-PARIS BAND CONCERTS | JUNE 6, JULY 4, AUGUST 8, SEPTEMBER 5
KITCHENER: Canada Day in DTK Kitchener City Hall kitchenerevents.ca
HESPELER VILLAGE MARKET | JUNE 8-OCTOBER 5
CAMBRIDGE: Cambridge Canada Day Riverside Park cambrigecanadaday.ca
Watson Pond, Ayr ayrparisband.com
11 Tannery St. E., Cambridge hespelervillagemarket.com This vibrant market offers local produce, meats, live entertainment and plenty of unique crafts from local artisans! Fridays 3 p.m.-7 p.m.
THE ST. JACOBS AMAZING WEEKEND JUNE (DATE TBD) St. Jacobs Village stjacobs.com
Embark on a journey with a team across St. Jacobs in search of clues.
HESPELER VILLAGE MUSIC FESTIVAL | JULY 7 Forbes Park
Featuring entertainers and bands. All day arts & crafts vendors, food vendors and refreshment tent!
CRUISING ON KING | JULY 13
Downtown Kitchener kitchenerevents.ca One of North America’s largest classic car shows/parades.
EVER AFTER MUSIC FESTIVAL | JUNE 8-10
KULTRÚN WORLD MUSIC FESTIVAL | JULY 13-15 GALA JULY 13, FREE EVENTS JULY 14 & 15
Music fantasy festival experience with sounds, stunning visuals, and high-class performances for an unforgettable weekend.
A free family-friendly celebration of diversity with global music, performance art, art market and beer garden cantina.
Bingemans everafterfest.com
Victoria Park kultrunwmf.com
ExploreWaterlooRegion.com
MAY
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FESTIVALS & EVENTS
CAMBRIDGE SCOTTISH FESTIVAL | JULY 20-21
Churchill Park & City Hall cambridgescottishfestival.ca Waterloo Region's only Scottish Festival. Experience traditional games, food, music, exhibitors and speakers.
Baden badencornfest.ca
Victoria Park KitchenerRibAndBeerFest.com A premiere event in Waterloo Region, enjoy flavourful barbecued ribs, chicken and craft beer with live entertainment.
UpTown Waterloo uptownwaterloojazz.ca
This free annual three-day music festival features worldrenowned and local artists spanning all genres of jazz.
Outdoor event held every summer to promote and support local food producers, and celebrate the Township’s agricultural roots.
WORLD JUNIOR ULTIMATE CHAMPIONSHIPS AUGUST 18-25 RIM Park, Waterloo wjuc2018.com
KIDSPARK | AUGUST 19
Downtown Kitchener kitchenerevents.ca
Kitchener cyclewaterloo.ca
SUN LIFE FINANCIAL WATERLOO BUSKER CARNIVAL | AUGUST 23-26
ROCK AND RUMBLE | JULY 28
Enjoy with the whole family as international performers take over UpTown Waterloo.
Must-attend summer event for motorcycle and music enthusiasts.
AVIATION FUN DAY | AUGUST 25
KITCHENER TWILIGHT GRAND PRIX | JULY 27
UpTown Waterloo waterloobuskers.com
Downtown Kitchener kitchenerevents.ca
FIELDSTONE CRITERIUM OF CAMBRIDGE | JULY 28 Cambridge cyclewaterloo.ca
AUGUST
Downtown Galt galtonthegrand.ca
As Cambridge’s premier annual street festival, Galt on the Grand presents the best in live entertainment.
MILL RACE FESTIVAL OF TRADITIONAL FOLK MUSIC AUGUST 3-5 Downtown Galt millracefolksociety.com
Celebrated outdoors and patterned after European festivals: folk music, dance, arts and crafts, and food.
TD KITCHENER BLUES FESTIVAL | AUGUST 9-12 Downtown Kitchener kitchenerbluesfestival.com
Experience one of Canada’s largest blues festivals. Features top-flight international, local blues and roots artists.
Aviation Fun Day Mill Race Festival of Traditional Folk Music
Region of Waterloo International Airport waterlooairport.ca Explore the airport on foot and learn how the aviation industry works, meet pilots, get up close to equipment, vintage aircraft and classic cars.
K-W END-OF-SUMMER PSYCHIC FAIR & EXPO AUGUST 31-SEPTEMBER 3
GALT GRANDFEST | AUGUST (DATE TBD)
ExploreWaterlooRegion.com ExploreWaterlooRegion.com
Peter Hallman Ball Park, Kitchener iscfastpitch.com
BADEN CORN FESTIVAL | AUGUST 11
DOWNTOWN KITCHENER RIBFEST & CRAFT BEER SHOW | JULY 20-22
SUN LIFE FINANCIAL UPTOWN WATERLOO JAZZ FESTIVAL | JULY 20-22
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INTERNATIONAL SOFTBALL CONGRESS MENS FASTBALL WORLD TOURNAMENT AUGUST 10-19
Bingemans Conference Centre PsychicFairsAndExpos.com Gifted psychic readers, mediums, clairvoyants, awesome vendors, exciting free lectures. It's all here.
Sun Life Financial UpTown Waterloo Jazz Festival
TASTE LOCAL! TASTE FRESH! | SEPTEMBER 9 Steckle Heritage Farm foodlink.ca Foodlink’s culinary showcase and fundraiser will bring together local food producers and the Region’s top chefs.
NEW HAMBURG FALL FAIR | SEPTEMBER 13-16 275 Jacob St., New Hamburg newhamburgfallfair.ca
THE ROYAL MEDIEVAL FAIRE | SEPTEMBER 15 Waterloo Park West royalmedievalfaire.org
An interactive day consisting of vendors, hands-on displays, food, games, music, magic, swordplay, costumes and decorations.
BESTIVAL | SEPTEMBER 15 Belmont Village thebelmontvillage.ca Open street, free music & arts festival for the whole family featuring dozens of bands. 10 a.m.-10 p.m.
HESPELER HARVEST FESTIVAL | SEPTEMBER 22 Downtown Hespeler Village hvna.ca/harvest-festival
Live entertainment for the whole family! Bouncy castles, crafts, pumpkin decorating, BBQ lunch and so much more! 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
LUMEN | SEPTEMBER 29
UpTown Waterloo waterloo.ca/arts&culture Lumen is a light based new media, media art, and projection based festival. Explore the city through a new lens – illuminating Waterloo through art and technology. 6 p.m.-11 p.m.
WELLESLEY APPLE BUTTER & CHEESE FESTIVAL SEPTEMBER 29 Wellesley wellesleyabcfestival.ca
Pancake breakfast, cider mill tours, farmers’ market, antique vehicles, live music, kid’s activities and more.
OCTOBER
KITCHENER-WATERLOO OKTOBERFEST THANKSGIVING DAY PARADE | OCTOBER 8 Kitchener & Waterloo oktoberfest.ca
NOVEMBER
ST. JACOBS SPARKLES | NOVEMBER 8-11 St. Jacobs Village stjacobs.com
Experience the spirit of the holiday season among thousands of twinkling lights in the Village.
FESTIVALS & EVENTS
SEPTEMBER
GIFT OF LIGHTS | MID-NOVEMBER-JANUARY 2019 Bingemans bingemans.com
Family-friendly drive-thru holiday light display with an awe-inspiring light tunnel and over 30 static and animated displays!
CHRISTMAS AT THE CASTLE NOVEMBER 20-JANUARY 6, 2019 Castle Kilbride castlekilbride.ca
See the Castle decorated in Victorian Christmas splendour. The mansion sparkles with themed trees and festive décor and a 'must-see' miniature Dickens Village. More events all year long.
MUSIC AND LIGHTS | NOVEMBER 23
Downtown Hespeler Village christmasincambridge.ca Launching the Christmas in Cambridge Festival of Events, the evening includes plays and concerts followed by a tree lighting ceremony! 6 p.m.-8 p.m.
AYR SANTA CLAUS PARADE | NOVEMBER 24 Downtown Ayr northdumfries.ca
CHRISTMAS IN THE VILLAGE | NOVEMBER 24 Belmont Village thebelmontvillage.ca
Horse-drawn carriage rides, letters to Santa and many more family-oriented games and activities. 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
KITCHENER-WATERLOO OKTOBERFEST OCTOBER 5-13 Waterloo Region oktoberfest.ca
Canada’s Greatest Bavarian Festival. Celebrating 50 years of German heritage, food and festivities.
St. Jacobs Sparkles
Wellesley Apple Butter and Cheese Festival
Kultrun World Music Festival
ExploreWaterlooRegion.com
Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest
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FESTIVALS & EVENTS
Christkindl Market
Elmira Maple Syrup Festival
Cruise into Belmont Village
Open Streets UpTown Waterloo
DECEMBER
HESPELER SANTA CLAUS PARADE | DECEMBER 1
Downtown Hespeler Village hespelersantaclausparade.ca Come visit Santa and celebrate the best of the holiday season in Hespeler Village! Parade starts at 12 p.m.
WONDERS OF WINTER | DECEMBER 1-31 Waterloo Park wondersofwinter.ca
PRESTON TOWNE CENTRE SKATING RINK DECEMBER 2-MARCH 14 Central Park, Cambridge discoverpreston.ca
Bring your skates to Central Park and take advantage of the FREE all-weather skating rink.
CAMBRIDGE CHRISTMAS MARKET | DECEMBER 6-9 Cambridge City Hall christmasincambridge.ca
Quality vendors will fill City Hall to create a one-stop shopping destination for unique gifts and a great shopping atmosphere.
CHRISTKINDL MARKET | DECEMBER 6-9 Kitchener City Hall christkindl.ca
Experience the joy of our award-winning festival of German Christmas! Food, huts & entertainment for all the family outdoors in huts & inside.
CELEBRATE THE MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS DECEMBER (DATE TBD) ExploreWaterlooRegion.com ExploreWaterlooRegion.com
Downtown Galt galtonthegrand.ca
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Visit Downtown Galt for unique shops, a range of dining and entertainment choices, and a vibrant arts and cultural scene.
Winterloo
FEBRUARY 2019
WINTERLOO | FEBRUARY 22-24
UpTown Waterloo waterloo.ca/winterloo Annual winter festival featuring family-friendly activities, including an ice carving competition, dog sled rides, chili cook-off and more.
APRIL 2019
ELMIRA MAPLE SYRUP FESTIVAL | APRIL 6 Downtown Elmira elmiramaplesyrup.com
The 55th family-friendly celebration of Elmira’s history as a maple syrup producing community.
YEAR-ROUND
FINAL FRIDAYS | LAST FRIDAY OF EVERY MONTH UpTown Waterloo waterloo.ca/arts&culture
Explore the exciting arts, culture and cuisine offerings in the city’s uptown core.
OPEN STREETS | 3RD SUNDAY JUNE-SEPTEMBER UpTown Waterloo waterloo.ca/arts&culture
Check out Open Streets for a day of play activities! Leave your work at home and have fun in UpTown Waterloo.
JANUARY 2019
K-W WINTER PSYCHIC FAIR & EXPO | JANUARY 4-6
Bingemans Conference Centre PsychicFairsAndExpos.com What will the New Year hold for you? Find out at K-W's biggest psychic event.
2019 ONTARIO MEN’S & WOMEN’S PROVINCIAL CURLING CHAMPIONSHIPS JANUARY 27-FEBRUARY 3 Woolwich Memorial Centre Woolwich.ca
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON FESTIVALS AND EVENTS, VISIT EXPLOREWATERLOOREGION.COM Some event dates may change or be cancelled after the publication of this guide, please check explorewaterlooregion.com/events for current listings.
Photo credit: Kyle Rodriguez.
OntariO signature
experiences I N WAT E R LO O R E G I O N
Memories. Beyond traditional travel pictures and souvenirs, it’s the memories of incredible experiences that leave a lasting impression on any traveller. Destination Ontario created the Ontario Signature Experiences program to feature exactly these types of memory making adventures; those once in a lifetime experiences that are on every traveller’s bucket list. Curated by Destination Ontario, these unique adventures lead travellers to a variety of destinations for the opportunity to be part of worldclass experiences.
Waterloo Region is home to two attractions which have received the Ontario Signature Experiences designation – “Wake Up The Wild” at African Lion Safari®, and “A Path Less Travelled” with Grand Experiences. Both allow travellers to immerse themselves in unique adventures, while creating their own unforgettable memories. Get ready to experience Waterloo Region in a new way, with our Ontario Signature Experiences!
ExploreWaterlooRegion.com
BY SUSAN COOK-SCHEERER
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Hand-feed Canada’s largest herd of giraffes.
Witness a pride of lions at their most active time of day.
AFRICAN LION SAFARI ®
wake up the wild
ExploreWaterlooRegion.com
Each year thousands of visitors enter the gates at African Lion Safari®, Canada’s Original Safari Adventure™, to see, hear, touch and learn about the more than 100 different species of animals that roam throughout their reserves. And now, visitors can interact with the animals in a completely new way with the “Wake Up the Wild” adventure.
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“Wake Up The Wild originated from an overwhelming demand from guests to have an experience that allowed them to get even closer to the animals,” says Trish Gerth, Assistant General Manager at African Lion Safari®. “Wake Up The Wild guests get unrivalled access to the animals, short of a trip to Africa. This experience is not available anywhere else in Canada!” This unique safari adventure takes place before the gates at African Lion Safari® open for the day. Participants head out on an early morning, behind-the-scenes tour to see the animals as
Get a behind-the-scenes tour of the park.
they begin their day. One of the highlights of the tour is the behind-the-scenes look at the safari’s two prides of lions. The lions are most active early in the morning, and participants can watch as the lions walk and run through the reserve, and devour their breakfast. Wake Up The Wild participants travel in an open air truck, which allows them to come within a metre of zebras, ostriches and endangered rhinos. There’s even the opportunity to hand feed the herd of giraffes at the park – the largest giraffe herd in Canada. Each Wake Up the Wild tour is accompanied by an experienced Game Warden, who further enhances the experience by providing information on the animals, the conservation programmes at the park, and by answering any questions guests may have. “This exclusive experience speaks to the heart of African Lion Safari®’s conservation message that
Go off-road in an open-air truck.
Cycle through the West Montrose Covered Bridge.
Photo credit: Kyle Rodriguez.
GRAND EXPERIENCES
African Lion Safari® is home to over 100 species of animals.
we all need to do more to help conserve the world’s wildlife and wild places,” Gerth says. “Creating an opportunity to engage visitors with the animals in our care has allowed visitors to gain a greater appreciation of these majestic creatures, understand challenges their counterparts face in the wild, and to learn more about the park’s conservation efforts.” Following the tour, Wake Up The Wild participants are welcome to spend the rest of their day exploring African Lion Safari®.
While many places offer cycling tours, Grand Experiences provides the opportunity to go back to a simpler time with its unique 2 day adventure through Waterloo Region’s Mennonite country. A cycling and canoe tour, “The Path Less Travelled” is a relaxing trip that takes participants by Mennonite farms, through forests, river valleys, wood lots and villages, all while providing insight into a simpler life. The adventure begins as participants cycle through scenic countryside along horse and buggy lanes and back roads. The tour offers the rare opportunity to experience Old Order Mennonite life, as the trip takes participants onto a working Mennonite farm.
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the path less travelled cycling experience
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While there, participants spend time with the Mennonite family, and even enjoy a delicious homemade lunch. Touring Mennonite country by bicycle and interacting with the culture personally, instead of viewing it from a car window, allows participants to get an authentic feel for this lifestyle. “It’s called ‘The Path Less Travelled’ because very few people feel called to live this simply,” says Jamie Kent, owner of Grand Experiences. “Very few people could make the resolution to shun modern conveniences and luxuries to live off the land using only what they need instead of what they want.”
Photo credit: Kyle Rodriguez.
The Path Less Travelled tour also includes a halfday paddle in a canoe or kayak on the Grand River, a Canadian Heritage River. Experienced guides provide participants with information on area history, all while enjoying the region’s beauty from the water. Participants also stay in a local boutique hotel, and take an early morning behind-the-scenes tour of the historic St. Jacobs Farmers' Market. Kent says everyone from the participants to the adventure guides at Grand Experiences look forward to these trips, because they come back feeling relaxed and refreshed. “You lose your stress on this trip,” he says, “and perhaps gain a little Old Order wisdom in the process.”
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Photo credit: Kyle Rodriguez.
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Photo credit: Kyle Rodriguez.
THE
CITIES Hespeler Village, Cambridge
Waterloo Region is home to three diverse, growing cities that despite close geographic proximity, have their own unique identities and histories. The original towns and villages began to sprout up in the early 1800s, and over time, have transitioned from industrial centres to now being collectively recognized as a global technology cluster thanks to thousands of technology companies and start-ups calling these cities home. There is a palpable sense of collaboration between Kitchener, Waterloo and Cambridge that supersedes their physical borders, and the result is a welcoming community where locals often live in one city, and work or play in another. It’s possible to travel between cities without even knowing you’ve crossed from one to another. Likewise, visitors can stay in one city and take advantage of the endless things to do in the neighbouring cities.
Downtown Cambridge, also known as Galt
Victoria Park, Kitchener
The Tannery, Kitchener UpTown Waterloo
Waterloo Public Square
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Connected together by the Grand River, nature trails, and one common transit system, the linkages between Kitchener, Waterloo and Cambridge make it easy to explore all three in one visit!
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CITY OF CAMBRIDGE
Cambridge Mill, Galt
Hamilton Family Theatre Cambridge
EXPLORE
CAMBRIDGE Mill Race Park
Nestled at the convergence of the Grand and Speed Rivers, Cambridge is made up of four historic neighbourhoods; Galt, Hespeler, Preston and Blair. The city has evolved over time into a modern, thriving community while also preserving an undeniable small-town charm. The city core is characterized by beautiful limestone and heritage architecture that is reminiscent of quaint European towns of another time. The old-world vibe also holds true at the Cambridge Farmers’ Market, which is one of the oldest markets in Canada.
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Brimming with unique and unexpected experiences, it’s easy to fill a day with things to do in Cambridge. Have a traditional afternoon tea at Langdon Hall Country House Hotel & Spa, cycle scenic trails along the rivers, or explore the ruins of an old textile mill in Mill Race Park.
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Visitors can find a wee taste of “Scotland on the Grand” at the annual Cambridge Scottish Festival, which takes place every July in Churchill Park. Or, they can take in traditional forms of folk music on outdoor stages throughout Galt at the Mill Race Festival of Traditional Folk Music during the Civic Holiday weekend in August. Cambridge has the amenities, attractions and hotels of a large city, yet there is also a calm, quieting pace that warmly welcomes visitors.
Langdon Hall Country House Hotel & Spa
CITY OF CAMBRIDGE African Lion Safari
Downtown Cambridge, Galt
Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory
Jacob’s Landing, Hespeler
Hespeler Library
Region of Waterloo International Airport
CITY OF
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GRT Sportsworld Transit Hub
HESPELER
WATERLOO
PRESTON Conestoga College 401
WOOLWICH
WELLESLEY
Cambridge Visitor Information Services
WILMOT
Blair
KITCHENER
CAMBRIDGE
NORTH DUMFRIES
GALT Ainslie Street Transit Terminal 8
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CAMBRIDGE
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CITY OF KITCHENER
EXPLORE
KITCHENER The most populous city in Waterloo Region, Kitchener is a vibrant community that packs a punch when it comes to the number of things to see and do. Once an industrial centre, the city is now widely recognized as a technology hub as it’s become home to globally-recognized innovation incubators and hundreds of start-ups.
Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest
A long history of German heritage endures in the city, stemming back to the 1800s when high levels of German speaking immigrants settled in the area. At one time, German was the dominant language spoken in town and, for a brief period, Kitchener was once named Berlin. Kitchener carries this heritage on with the Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest and the annual Christkindl Market, a festival reminiscent of traditional German Christmas markets. Trendy restaurants and a burgeoning youthful population are making their mark in Downtown Kitchener (or “DTK” as the locals call it), which is experiencing an exciting rejuvenation as a walkable community with an unmistakably creative-urban vibe. Downtown Kitchener is also a go-to destination for visitors and locals alike throughout the summer months when King Street comes alive with festivals and events.
Kidspark, Victoria Park Cruise into Belmont Village
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Stroll through Victoria Park, take in a Kitchener Rangers hockey game, or be inspired at the Kitchener Waterloo Art Gallery. Kitchener has something for everyone.
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TD Kitchener Blues Festival
Huron Natural Area
CITY OF KITCHENER
McLennan Park
Waterloo Region Museum Bingemans Kingpin Bowlounge
Kitchener Market
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BELMONT
Region of Waterloo International Airport DOWNTOWN KITCHENER Kitchener Welcome Centre: City & Visitor Information
Charles St. Transit Terminal
WOOLWICH
WELLESLEY
WATERLOO
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GRT Sportsworld Transit Hub WILMOT
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CITY OF
KITCHENER
Conestoga College 401
KITCHENER
CAMBRIDGE
NORTH DUMFRIES
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VIA/GO Rail Station
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CITY OF WATERLOO
Canadian Clay & Glass Gallery
Max’s Sports World
EXPLORE
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WATERLOO
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Campfire Event, Waterloo Public Square
The geographic heart of Waterloo Region, the City of Waterloo is home to an impressive roster of festivals, museums, restaurants, and shops, all within easy reach of one another in this compact and easily navigable community.
most of which are operated by proud local business owners. Patios are full throughout the summer months, and foodie-approved dining is endless in UpTown. Waterloo Public Square, which serves as a gathering place and event space for festivals and events throughout the year, is the centerpiece of UpTown.
Consistently named as one of Canada’s “smartest cities,” and home to some of the brightest minds in the country, Waterloo is a unique city where the locals play as hard as they work.
Soak up the stellar artistic lineup of the Sun Life Financial UpTown Waterloo Jazz Festival over three days in July, or delight in the carnival-like atmosphere including a midway, food trucks, and unique (sometimes daring) performers at the Sun Life Financial Waterloo Busker Festival in August.
Contrasts of old and new are ubiquitous in Waterloo, where award-winning, contemporary architecture seamlessly blends in amongst historical buildings that reflect the early days of the town’s settlement. In UpTown Waterloo, the core of the city, there are over 400 restaurants, boutiques, and amenities,
Waterloo is a dynamic city that inspires its inhabitants and visitors alike with its mix of tranquil parks and trails and exciting urban life.
CITY OF WATERLOO
National Indigenous Peoples Day, Waterloo Public Square
University of Waterloo
Abraham Erb Grist Mill, Waterloo Park
Open Streets, UpTown Waterloo
City of Waterloo Museum
UpTown Waterloo
WATERLOO
Wilfrid Laurier University
University of Waterloo Visitor & Heritage Information Centre
UPTOWN WATERLOO VIA Rail Station
Charles St. Transit Terminal
WATERLOO
WILMOT
KITCHENER
CAMBRIDGE
NORTH DUMFRIES
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CITY OF
WOOLWICH
WELLESLEY
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THE
TOWNSHIPS
The four scenic townships of Waterloo Region—which are within only a short drive of the urban centres of Cambridge, Kitchener and Waterloo— are steeped in tradition, history, and a true sense of rural charm. Home to the largest Old Order Mennonite population in Canada, these peaceful rural landscapes, dotted with distinctly Ontario towns and working farms, are a pastoral antidote for urbanites who need an escape from the daily grind. It's easy to spend a leisurely day driving from township to township, wandering off the beaten path, stopping along the way at farm gate stands, quaint shops, and inviting local restaurants. Fresh seasonal produce is abundant in the townships, along with homemade sausage, apple butter (a local favourite), local cheeses, and humble baked goods that are reminiscent of the traditions of German and Scottish settlers from centuries ago. The townships are also a treasure trove of Mennonite furniture and quilts, as well as antiques, and other one-of-a-kind handcrafted goods.
Wellesley
Woolwich
The gracious locals who call North Dumfries, Wellesley, Wilmot, and Woolwich home greet visitors with a neighbourly warmth that makes them want to never leave, or, at the very least, come back again very soon.
Woolwich
North Dumfries
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Wellesley
Wilmot
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NORTH DUMFRIES
Downtown Ayr
The picturesque Township of North Dumfries is a thriving area of working farms, historic villages and small businesses.
TOWNSHIP OF NORTH DUMFRIES
EXPLORE
Located in the heart of Southwestern Ontario, the township wraps around the City of Cambridge and has easy access to Highway 401. The Township of North Dumfries was settled in the late 18th century. William Dickson of Dumfries, Scotland, enlisted the help of Absalom Shade to find land where they could develop a new town. They chose an area at the junction of the Grand River and Mill Creek, and called it Dumfries after Dickson’s home town. In 1820, John Telfer was sent to Scotland by Dickson to enlist people to buy land and to come live in Canada, which resulted in a large Scottish population settling into the township. To learn more about the history of North Dumfries, take one of the heritage walking tours (available on northdumfries.ca), which include many of the township’s 20 designated historical landmarks.
Centennial Park, Ayr
Watson Pond, Ayr
Clyde
Ainslie Street Transit Terminal
Roseville
Reidsville
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TOWNSHIP OF
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NORTH DUMFRIES Ayr
Branchton
WOOLWICH
WELLESLEY
WATERLOO
WILMOT
KITCHENER
CAMBRIDGE
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With the rolling hills of the countryside and its scenic waterways, North Dumfries is a go-to destination for recreation and relaxation. Whether cycling, walking, paddling or driving, enjoy the township’s beautiful natural landscapes. North Dumfries is home to rare Charitable Research Reserve – a 900-acre nature reserve that is home to an incredible array of flora and fauna, some of which have regional, provincial, national, and even Region of Waterloo International Airport global significance. The trail systems at rare GRT Sportsworld can be accessed 8 Transit Hub for free, and are open to the public much of the year. 401
NORTH DUMFRIES
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TOWNSHIP OF WELLESLEY
EXPLORE
WELLESLEY
Wellesley countryside
The Township of Wellesley is a rural escape located within a 20-minute drive of the cities of Kitchener and Waterloo. Made up of the communities of Bamberg, Crosshill, Hawkesville, Heidelberg, Kingwood, Linwood, St. Clements, Wallenstein and Wellesley, the township features many small businesses mixed together within a thriving farming community. Settled in the early 1800’s, Wellesley Township was once part of a large Clergy Reserve known as “The Queen’s Bush.” Mennonite descendants of families originally from Pennsylvania began arriving in the township around 1850, after being displaced by development in Kitchener, Waterloo, and the surrounding townships. Today, horse and buggies can still be seen travelling along back roads and highways throughout the township, as Wellesley remains home to a large Mennonite population.
Wellesley playground
A major annual event in the township is the Wellesley Apple Butter and Cheese Festival, which draws thousands of attendees on the last Saturday in September each year. A highlight of the event is the opportunity to sample a wide variety of delicious local foods, including the famous Wellesley brand apple butter. Visitors will also enjoy the unique businesses that can be found while driving along the scenic rural roads throughout the township, including roadside produce and floral stands, and farm gate businesses featuring homemade summer sausage, maple syrup, shoo-fly pies, quilts and handcrafted furniture. Wallenstein
Linwood
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Wellesley Apple Butter & Cheese Festival
TOWNSHIP OF
Hawkesville
WELLESLEY
Crosshill
Heidelberg St Clements Bamberg
Wellesley
WOOLWICH
WELLESLEY
WATERLOO
WILMOT
KITCHENER
CAMBRIDGE
NORTH DUMFRIES
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WILMOT Home to Ontario’s first Amish settlement, the Township of Wilmot is a patchwork of communities sharing a proud history.
New Hamburg Mennonite Relief Sale
TOWNSHIP OF WILMOT
EXPLORE
Prime Ministers Path
Located along the banks of the Nith River, it is made up of rolling farmland, quaint villages and growing towns that include New Hamburg, Baden, St. Agatha and New Dundee.
Castle Kilbride
Puddicombe House
The Township of Wilmot provides the best of rural and urban living, and is a popular destination to live, work and play. It is home to The Prime Ministers Path, which when complete will feature twenty-two life sized, bronze sculptures of Canada’s Prime Ministers. Also located in Wilmot is Castle Kilbride, a National Historic Site built in 1877 by flax industrialist James Livingston. A tour through this magnificent Castle is a step back into the lavish Victorian Era. Wilmot Township also plays host to several notable events which attract tens of thousands of visitors to the area. The New Hamburg Mennonite Relief Sale is held on the last Friday and Saturday of May each year, and features food, activities, and the annual Quilt Auction of hundreds of handmade quilts. Moparfest attracts more than 20,000 car enthusiasts and 2,000 cars annually during the third weekend of August, and includes vendors, food tents, a beer garden, cruise nights, and much more. Both events are a reflection of the spirit of community that is an important part of the heart of Wilmot Township.
Baden Corn Fest
TOWNSHIP OF
WILMOT
Luxemburg
Petersburg Baden
7/8
Mannheim
Wilmot Centre New Hamburg
WOOLWICH
WELLESLEY
Haysville
New Dundee
WATERLOO
WILMOT
KITCHENER
CAMBRIDGE
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Phillipsburg
St Agatha
NORTH DUMFRIES
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TOWNSHIP OF WOOLWICH
West Montrose Covered Bridge
St. Jacobs Village
EXPLORE
WOOLWICH Take a step back in time as you tour through the heart of Old Order Mennonite Country in the Township of Woolwich. Take in the beautiful scenery as you cycle along one of its many trails, or drive down quiet country roads that run past Woolwich’s lush rural surroundings and industrious Mennonite farms. The township's three largest settlements are Elmira, home to the annual Elmira Maple Syrup Festival; St. Jacobs, where the head office of the national Home Hardware chain is situated; and Breslau, where the Region of Waterloo International Airport is located.
St. Jacobs and Aberfoyle Model Railway Elmira Maple Syrup Festival
Experience the Village of St. Jacobs with its boutique shops, innovative businesses, array of restaurants, and a microbrewery. Watch as a horse and buggy drives by – and then discover more about Mennonite history and tradition at a multimedia presentation of The Mennonite Story. In West Montrose, visit Ontario’s only remaining covered bridge, known locally as “The Kissing Bridge.” For authentic food experiences, visit farm gate stands that can be found throughout the township, or spend a day at Canada’s largest yearround farmers’ market, the St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market. Woolwich is also home to exciting theatre, with both the St. Jacobs Country Playhouse and the St. Jacobs Schoolhouse Theatre located within the township. Woolwich’s reputation as a favourite cycling location is growing, and it is the proud host of the Steaming Nostril Cycling Race – a challenging cross-country race held each spring in St. Jacobs.
Floradale
TOWNSHIP OF
WOOLWICH
Elmira
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ELMIRA
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West Montrose
St. Jacobs Visitors Information Centre - The Mennonite Story ST. JACOBS
St Jacobs Heidelberg
Winterbourne Conestogo
Maryhill
Bloomingdale 7 85
Breslau Region of Waterloo International Airport
VIA Rail Station Charles Street Transit Terminal
WOOLWICH
WELLESLEY
WATERLOO
WILMOT
KITCHENER
CAMBRIDGE
NORTH DUMFRIES
Ready to explore Waterloo Region? Here's some inspiration.
LISTINGS
Use the Stay, See & Do, Food & Drink and Plan Your Trip listings on the following pages to map out your trip to Waterloo Region.
STAY
FOOD & DRINK
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HOTELS & INNS
BREWERIES & DISTILLERIES
BED & BREAKFASTS CAMPUS ACCOMMODATIONS
RESTAURANTS CATERING & EVENTS
SEE & DO 40
@Octavianc @Schmidinkarin
ATTRACTIONS & ENTERTAINMENT
PLAN YOUR TRIP 64
FARMERS' MARKETS
VISITOR CENTRES
GOLF
TOUR SERVICES & OPERATORS
LIVE THEATRE & PERFORMANCE MUSEUMS, GALLERIES & POINTS OF INTEREST OUTDOOR & RECREATION
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GROUND TRANSPORTATION AIR TRANSPORTATION
PARKS SHOPPING
@herzogthefrogandme @tejaseaton
SPAS SPORTS
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@Ryanjhickey88
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Follow @explorewaterlooregion on Instagram and use #ExploreWR for a chance to be featured.
For more ideas,visit explorewaterlooregion.com
STAY
HOTELS & INNS BEST WESTERN KITCHENER WATERLOO 2899 King St. E., Kitchener 519.894.3500 | 1.866.373.4910 bestwesternkitchenerwaterloo.com Hotel offers complimentary amenities: hot breakfast, parking, wireless internet, shuttle services to and from Region of Waterloo International Airport, dinners every Mon., Tues. and Wed. evening, fridge and microwave in guest rooms.
Hot breakfast buffet included with all guestrooms 155 Guestrooms and Suites Largest Conference Centre Hotel in the Region Indoor saltwater pool, hot tub, sauna 24 Hour fitness centre Complimentary WIFI
BEST WESTERN PLUS CAMBRIDGE 730 Hespeler Rd., Cambridge 519.623.4600 | 1.800.WESTERN | bwcambridge.com
Complimentary parking and local shuttle service including to the Region of Waterloo International Airport Aeroplan Rewards
Amazing staff welcomes you to the Best Western Plus Cambridge Hotel where you will find many comforts for an inviting place to stay. Enjoy breakfast, indoor pool and whirlpool.
519.804.1130 1.866.875.6410 475 King St N, Waterloo, Ontario, N2J 2Z5
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www.theinnofwaterloo.com info@theinnofwaterloo.com
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STAY
BEST WESTERN PLUS WATERLOO
COMFORT INN CAMBRIDGE
547 King St. N., Waterloo 519.884.0100 | bestwestern.com/PlusWaterloo
220 Holiday Inn Dr., Cambridge 519.658.1100 | 1.800.228.5150 cambridgecomfortinn.com
Conveniently located across from Conestoga Mall and minutes to the famous St. Jacobs Farmers' Market. Complimentary hot breakfast, indoor pool and spa. Spacious rooms and suites with kitchenette. Boardrooms for 10 - 30 people.
100% non-smoking, complimentary hot breakfast, highspeed wireless access, and free local calling. Conveniently located at Hwy. 401 and 24. Close to sports arenas, shopping and business centres.
COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT WATERLOO ST. JACOBS 50 Benjamin Rd. E., Waterloo 519.884.9495 | 1.800.972.5371 | courtyardwaterloo.com Walking distance to St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market, Outlet Mall, Waterloo Central Railway and next door to St. Jacobs Playhouse Theatre. Ask about packages.
BOARDWALK HOMES EXECUTIVE GUEST HOUSES & SUITES University Ave. & Fischer-Hallman Rd., Kitchener-Waterloo 519.997.2722 | 1.888.573.3310 | boardwalkhomes.ca More than hotels and B&B’s. Modern with full kitchens. Rent by the room or private condo suites, or rent the whole house (2-8 bedrooms). For 1 to 30+ people, short and long term stays.
CAMBRIDGE HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTRE 700 Hespeler Rd., Cambridge 519.622.1505 | 1.866.622.1505 | cambridgehotel.ca A selection of spacious accommodations, on-site restaurant and lounge, and 10,000 sq ft of catered meeting space. The staff will be sure to make you feel right at home.
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CROWNE PLAZA KITCHENER-WATERLOO 105 King St. E., Kitchener 519.744.414 | 1.800.483.7812 | kitchener-hotel.com Located in the Market District of Downtown Kitchener, it’s the largest upscale full service hotel with over 15,000 sq ft of functional meeting space. Entire hotel completed a multi-million dollar renovation in 2014.
STAY
DELTA WATERLOO 110 Erb St. W., Waterloo 519.514.0404 | Marriott.com/YKFDW The contemporary and uniquely designed Delta Waterloo boasts 194 guest-rooms and suites, along with technologically advanced meeting and conference facilities (6,500 sq ft). Conveniently located in the heart of UpTown Waterloo.
HILTON GARDEN INN KITCHENERCAMBRIDGE 746 Old Hespeler Rd., Cambridge 519.620.8936 | hiltongardeninn3.hilton.com Enjoy a restful stay at the warm and welcoming Hilton Garden Inn Kitchener/Cambridge, located in the Cambridge Business District. Find a wide range of exciting attractions near the hotel, which is conveniently located right off Hwy. 401.
FOUR POINTS BY SHERATON CAMBRIDGEKITCHENER 210 Preston Pkwy., Cambridge 519.653.2690 | 1.888.655.2690 fourpointscambridgekitchener.com All the comforts you crave! Indoor pool, oversized gym, in-house restaurant open for breakfast and dinner with a perfectly cozy bar! Enjoy free parking, bottled water and ultra-fast Wi-Fi.
@HomewoodsuitesWaterlooStJacobs
HEIDELBERG RESTAURANT, TAVERN & MOTEL 3006 Lobsinger Line, Heidelberg 519.699.4413 | oldhh.com
Homewood Suites by Hilton Waterloo St Jacobs 45 Benjamin Rd. Waterloo ON, N2V 2G8 T: 519-514-0088 | E: yhmsj_ds@hilton.com
ExploreWaterlooRegion.com
16-unit budget motel located right next to the Heidelberg Restaurant, five minutes from St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market. Rooms feature 2 double beds, colour TV, cable, air conditioning and private bath.
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STAY
HOLIDAY INN KITCHENER CAMBRIDGE
HOMEWOOD SUITES BY HILTON WATERLOO-ST. JACOBS
30 Fairway Rd. S., Kitchener 519.893.1211 | holidayinn.com/kitcheneron @holidayinnkitchener When coming to the region for business, pleasure, meetings/conferences or tournaments, this hotel handles your needs. 184 guestrooms and 13,000 sq ft of banquet and meeting space.
HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS & SUITES WATERLOO-ST. JACOBS
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www.explorewaterlooregion.ca 37
45 Benjamin Rd., St. Jacobs 519.514.0088 | homewoodsuites.com @HomewoodSuitesWaterlooStJacobs Great for business or pleasure! Enjoy studio, 1-bedroom, and 2-bedroom suites. Complimentary hot breakfast daily and light dinners Mon.-Thurs. Walking distance from St. Jacobs Farmers' Market and Outlet Mall.
THE INN OF WATERLOO
14 Benjamin Rd., Waterloo 519.772.9800 | 1.800.HOLIDAY (465.4329) hiexpress.com/waterloosj
475 King St. N., Waterloo 519.804.1130 | 866.875.6410 | theinnofwaterloo.com @theinnofwaterloo
2016 IHG Quality Excellence Award winning hotel located across from St. Jacobs Farmers' Market. Indoor saltwater pool and complimentary hot breakfast, Tues. evening manager socials, and free shuttle service to local corporate offices available.
The Inn of Waterloo is a re-launch of an iconic hotel. 155 guest rooms, conference space, and centrally located to major businesses, events and attractions. Daily free breakfast, indoor pool, fitness centre, free Wi-Fi, courtyard and lounge.
HOMEWOOD SUITES BY HILTON CAMBRIDGE-WATERLOO
PUDDICOMBE HOUSE
800 Jamieson Pkwy., Cambridge 519.651.2888 | cambridgewaterloo.homewoodsuites.com @homewoodsuitesYYZ The comforts and convenience of home with spacious suites complete with full kitchens. Rates include a complimentary daily hot buffet breakfast and evening social (Mon. - Thurs.).
145 Peel St., New Hamburg 519.622.2111 | 1.855.699.2111 | puddicombehouse.com Puddicombe House is a boutique inn. This Italianate house features 12 ft. ceilings, impressive architecture and rich décor. The Inn has 8 overnight rooms, all with upscale furnishings. Restaurant and conference/wedding venue located on site. 15 mins from K-W and Stratford.
STAY
RADISSON HOTEL KITCHENER WATERLOO 2960 King St. E., Kitchener 519.894.9500 | 1.800.333.3333 radisson.com/kitchenerca Award-winning hotel. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, parking, indoor heated pool and fitness centre. Dine on-site: the Lobby Café, Charcoal Steakhouse, dels Enoteca Pizzeria, or Martini’s. Pet-friendly. Centrally located; close to Hwys. 8 and 401.
SUNBRIDGE HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTRE CAMBRIDGE 200 Holiday Inn Dr., Cambridge 519.658.4601 | sunbridgehotelcambridge.com This full-service hotel is located in Cambridge at Hwys. 401 and 24. Ideal for the business or leisure traveller to use the restaurant, pools, plus free Wi-Fi and parking.
THE WALPER HOTEL 20 Queen St. S., Kitchener 519.745.4321 | 1.800.265.8749 | walper.com @thewalperhotel
LES DIPLOMATES B&B
100 Blythwood Rd., Waterloo, ON N2L 4A2 1 888.645.9457 | lesdiplomates.com
QUEENS LANDING GUEST HOUSE
187 Queen St. N., Kitchener, ON N2H 2H8 519.576.9297 | queenslandingguesthouse.com
CAMPUS ACCOMMODATIONS RESIDENCE & CONFERENCE CENTRE KITCHENER-WATERLOO 99 Conestoga College Blvd., Kitchener 519.895.2272 | stayrcc.com @stayrcc Residence & Conference Centre – Kitchener-Waterloo provides summer accommodations ideal for any occasion. They specialize in hosting conferences, wedding groups, religious retreats, long-term guests, or anyone looking for an affordable overnight experience.
Immerse yourself in a carefully designed collision of historic character and contemporary style at The Walper Hotel. Enjoy the perfect balance of glamour and comfort in this downtown boutique hotel.
U PLUS RESIDENCE 321 Spruce St., Waterloo 519.893.9655 | upluscondo.com U Plus is your home away from home. Let this be your new community, rich in diversity and cultural spirit. It offers a refreshing and rejuvenating lifestyle.
UNIVERSITY OF WATERLOO SUMMER ACCOMMODATIONS Ron Eydt Village, 200 University Ave. W., Waterloo 519.884.5400 | 1.800.565.5410 uwaterloo.ca/summer-accommodations
BED & BREAKFASTS FREDERICK STREET INN
230 Frederick St., Kitchener, ON N2H 2M8 1 866.231.5324 | frederickstreetinn.ca
ExploreWaterlooRegion.com
Affordable on-campus accommodations just minutes from UpTown Waterloo, Downtown Kitchener and the St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market. Exceptional food service with unique facilities for sports teams and conference groups alike. Open annually from May to August.
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AFRICAN LION SAFARI
SEE & DO
ATTRACTIONS & ENTERTAINMENT
BOSTON PIZZA KINGPIN BOWLOUNGE
1386 Cooper Rd., Hamilton 519.623.2620 | 1.800.461.9453 | lionsafari.com
425 Bingemans Centre Dr., Kitchener 519.745.8888 | kingpinbowlounge.ca @KingpinBowlounge
Go “On Safari!™” get closer than you ever imagined to over 1,000 exotic birds and animals. See majestic lions, graceful giraffes, rhinos and many more animals from around the world. Open seasonally from May 5 to Sept. 30, 2018.
Boston Pizza Kingpin Bowlounge is Waterloo Region’s biggest bowling venue and Canada’s largest Boston Pizza combined. The state-of-the-art facilities offer modern cozy couches and the area’s largest patio. Private section available for group events.
CAMBRIDGE BUTTERFLY CONSERVATORY 2500 Kossuth Rd., Cambridge 519.653.1234 | cambridgebutterfly.com Discover 1000’s of free-flying butterflies in a lush tropical garden, featuring over 150 species of tropical plants, waterfalls, streams and exotic birds. Discover an observation honeybee hive, an incredible insect and butterfly collection, café and gift store. Open year-round.
425 Bingemans Centre Dr., Kitchener 519.744.1555 | bingemans.com @BingemansBigSplash Make a splash at Big Splash, Waterloo Region’s largest outdoor water park! The 11 slides, heated pool and splash pad offer fun and entertainment for kids of all ages. Open daily from Jun. 29 to Sept. 3, 2018.
BINGEMANS FUNWORX INDOOR PLAYGROUND 425 Bingemans Centre Dr., Kitchener 519.744.1555 | funworx.ca | @BingemansFunworX Year-round entertainment for the whole family! The threelevel indoor Play Structure, Rocks n’ Ropes course and Waterloo Region’s only Playdium Arcade, make FunworX the perfect place for a fun day, birthdays and group events.
CTRL V Canada’s First Virtual Reality Arcade 170 Columbia St. W., Suite #5, Waterloo ctrlv.ca | @CtrlVCanada Experience virtual reality, the newest frontier of entertainment and gaming! Ctrl V’s custom VR stations feature the HTC Vive, offering a variety of games and experiences that are suitable for all ages. Great for parties and corporate events. 2nd location in Cambridge.
ELMIRA WAGON RIDES (Seasonal) 2 Arthur St. S., Elmira 519.669.8225 | kitchenkuttings.com |
@1949ride
Enjoy an authentic wagon ride from the Howard Avenue train stop to Downtown Elmira (and return) on market days. Sponsored by Elmira BIA, Kitchen Kuttings and Waterloo Central Railway. Seasonal - starting in early May.
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BINGEMANS BIG SPLASH
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SEE & DO
ESCAPEWORX
GOLFPLAY
425 Bingemans Centre Dr., Kitchener 519.744.1555 | escapeworX.ca | @EscapeworX
4500 King St. E. Unit 6, Kitchener 519.650.4242 | golfplay.ca | @golfplaykw
Experience the totally immersive fantasy worlds of Bingemans' three thrilling Escape Rooms! Test your skills in Emergency Exit, Shafted and The Sorcerer’s Study!
Golfplay combines the world's best indoor golf simulator technology with an upscale environment and excellent food & drink, making it the perfect venue for hosting parties & groups of up to 60 people.
FLAG RAIDERS PAINTBALL INDOOR PARK 483 Conestogo Rd., Waterloo 519.653.3322 | flagraiders.com @flag_raiders_paintball Unforgettable paintball experiences! The indoor park is home to regular, low impact and speedball games, axe throwing, and a Nerf field. Great for birthdays, celebrations, corporate events. Check out the retail shop too.
GRAND RIVER RACEWAY 7445 Wellington County Rd. 21, Elora 519.846.5455 | grandriverraceway.com @GrandRR A dynamic horse racing, gaming and entertainment destination in nearby Elora! Racing most Mon./Wed/Fri. nights at 6:30 p.m. June - Sept.. Parking and admission are always free.
FLAG RAIDERS PAINTBALL OUTDOOR PARK 425 Bingemans Centre Dr., Kitchener 519.653.3322 | flagraiders.com | @FlagRaiders Unforgettable paintball experiences! Located near Hwy. 401, the outdoor park features over 60 acres of specially designed varied terrain giving players unique scenarios and challenging games. Great for birthdays, celebrations, corporate team building, and more.
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GREAT LAKES HELICOPTER
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12-4881 Fountain St. N., Breslau 519.648.3732 | 1.877.648.3732 | greatlakeshelicopter.ca Come fly! Sight-seeing flights all year round! The sightseeing tours are a great way to experience Waterloo Region.
SEE & DO
MAX’S SPORTS WORLD
MIRAGE VR
800 King St. N., Waterloo 519.746.4653 | maxssportsworld.ca
283 Duke St. W., Suite #211, Kitchener 519-721-5399 | miragevr.ca | @entermirage
Indoor/outdoor driving range, putting areas, 36 holes of mini golf. Batting cages, hardball, slo-pitch, softball, bubble soccer, archery war, axe throwing. Birthday parties and corporate events. Let the fun begin!
Canada’s First Hyper Reality Experience Centre. Players are trapped in virtual worlds and need to use teamwork, intellect and dexterity to survive. Get ready for the most unique VR adventure!
Your adventure starts at lionsafari.com
May 5 - September 30, 2018
Go Behind the Scenes for Unrivalled Access LIMITED SPACE. BOOK NOW! wakeupthewild.com
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OPEN DAILY
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SEE & DO
SPLATZONE 261 Hespeler Rd., Cambridge 519.579.7585 | splatzone.ca @SplatzonePBAC Come play indoor or outdoor low impact paintball, Nerf battles, combat archery tag, and more year round! Best place for team events, sports teams, corporate events, or just drop in.
TOYOTA MOTOR MANUFACTURING CANADA INC. PLANT TOUR 1055 Fountain St. N., Cambridge 519.653.1111 | tmmc.ca/en/plants/plant-tours Nothing is more fascinating than seeing how things are made! This 75-minute guided tour takes you into the heart of the Toyota Plant. See how team members and robots build the cars.
WATERLOO CENTRAL RAILWAY 1.888.899.2757 | waterloocentralrailway.com @WaterlooCentralRailway Experience Waterloo Central Railway today! Join us on board for day trains, themed trains, dinner trains and steam trains. You can even charter the train for your next event! Open year-round.
ST. JACOBS & ABERFOYLE MODEL RAILWAY 1440 King St. N., #3, St. Jacobs 519.664.3737 | stjacobsmodelrailway.com See one of North America’s best O-scale layouts! Over 3,000 sq ft depicting Southern Ontario during the 1950’s. See hand-built models and the one-of-a-kind night scene.
THE ULTIMATE ESCAPE 105 Lexington Rd., Unit 1, Kitchener 519.885.9595 | theultimateescape.ca
ExploreWaterlooRegion.com
Kitchener-Waterloo’s newest escape room challenge, and featuring the region’s only virtual reality escape room. Perfect for family adventures, school trips, a night out with friends, or team building experiences.
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FARMERS’ MARKETS CAMBRIDGE FARMERS’ MARKET 40 Dickson Street, Cambridge 519.740.4681 ext. 4252 | cambridge.ca/market Something for everyone! Explore a wide variety of meats, cheese, chutneys, pies, and seasonal vegetables. Sat. year-round open 7:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.; Wed. seasonal outdoor market Jun. 6 – Oct. 3 open 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Capture the moment with that “insta-worthy”shot? Share it with us! ExploreWR explorewaterlooregion explorewaterlooregion Use #ExploreWR for a chance to be featured.
SEE & DO
ST. JACOBS FARMERS’ MARKET & FLEA MARKET 878 Weber St. N., Waterloo 519.747.1830 | stjacobs.com Canada’s largest year-round farmers’ market and flea market. 100s of vendors offering local foods, and crafts. Operates Thursday and Saturday all year-round, 7:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.; Tuesday Summer Market, Jun. 12 – Aug. 28, 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
ROCKWAY GOLF COURSE 625 Rockway Dr., Kitchener 519.741.2949 | kitchenergolf.ca A traditional favourite in the heart of Kitchener, this gorgeous, mature tree-lined course offers a challenge to golf enthusiasts of all skill levels. Open seasonally from Apr. to Oct. (weather dependent).
LIVE THEATRE & PERFORMANCE CENTRE IN THE SQUARE 101 Queen St. N., Kitchener 519.578.1570 | 1.800.265.8977 | centreinthesquare.com @centreinthesquare The Region’s largest and busiest performing arts centre, playing a leading role in showcasing the best local and international performing arts.
GOLF DOON VALLEY GOLF COURSE 500 Doon Valley Dr., Kitchener 519.741.2939 | kitchenergolf.ca Natural course running along the Grand River and just minutes from Hwy. 401. Amenities include an 18-hole, 9-hole and “pitch and putt” course and a driving range.
MAX'S SPORTS WORLD 800 King St. N., Waterloo 519.746.4653 | maxssportsworld.ca Indoor/outdoor driving range, putting areas, 36 holes of mini golf. Batting cages, hardball, slo-pitch, softball, bubble soccer, archery war, axe throwing. Birthday parties and corporate events. Let the fun begin!
PUSLINCH LAKE GOLF CLUB
ELMIRA THEATRE COMPANY 76 Howard Ave., Elmira 519.669.3230 | 1.800.265.8977 | elmiratheatre.com @ ElmiraTheatreCo Presenting three quality theatre productions per year in their multi purpose and intimate venue. Elmira Theatre Company celebrating their 38th season. Not to be missed!
Conveniently located just off Hwy. 401 and Townline Road. 18 hole, par 70 facility that will challenge all levels. Tree-lined fairways and small, yet undulating greens.
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6527 Ellis Rd., Cambridge 519.489.6767 | puslinchlakegolf.ca
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GRAND RIVER RACEWAY Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre
HAMILTON FAMILY THEATRE CAMBRIDGE (formerly Dunfield Theatre Cambridge)
7445 Wellington County Rd. 21, Elora 519. 846.5455 grandriverraceway.com/murder-mystery-dinner-theatre @GrandRR
46 Grand Ave. S., Cambridge 519.621.8000 | 1.855.372.9866 draytonentertainment.com | @drayton.entertainment
Our award-winning Musical Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre at Grand River Raceway is a unique whodunit night-out with your family and friends, set to original renditions of your favourite tunes.
101 Queen Street N, Kitchener 519. 579. 5860 // KWAG.CA GALLERY HOURS Tue to Wed & Fri: 9:30 am–5 pm Thu: 9:30 am–9 pm Sat: 10 am–5 pm Sun: 1–5 pm Closed Mondays
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Visit kwag.ca for extended hours
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Free Admissions Sponsor
IMAGE: Visitors take in Joseph Tisiga’s The Treachery of Images at KWAG in 2017. PHOTO: ©2017 Scott Lee.
506 seats with a main floor and balcony. 2018 Season: Hairspray, The Birds and the Bees, Cruisin’ Classics, Jonas & Barry in the Home, Man of La Mancha, Holiday Inn.
SEE & DO
KITCHENER-WATERLOO SYMPHONY CONRAD CENTRE FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS 36 King St. W., Kitchener 519.745.4711 | 1.888.745.4717 | kwsymphony.ca @kw_symphony The Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony is a professional orchestra with a 70-year legacy that brings together artistry and innovation in shaping the expression and experience of the community’s vitality through live orchestral music. Season runs from Sept. to May.
ST. JACOBS COUNTRY PLAYHOUSE
40 Benjamin Rd. E., Waterloo 519.747.7788 | 1.855.372.9866 draytonentertainment.com | @drayton.entertainment 398 seats with a main floor and balcony. 2018 Season: The Drowsy Chaperone, West Side Story, The Rainmaker, The Little Mermaid, Out of Order, Ghost: The Musical, Jack and the Beanstalk: The Panto.
2500 Kossuth Rd. Cambridge ON 519.653.1234 | www.cambridgebutterfly.com
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Discover thousands of butterflies in a lush, tropical garden!
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SEE & DO
ST. JACOBS SCHOOLHOUSE THEATRE
CITY OF WATERLOO MUSEUM
11 Albert St. W., St. Jacobs 519.747.7788 | 1.855.372.9866 draytonentertainment.com | @drayton.entertainment
550 King St. N., Waterloo (Inside Conestoga Mall) 519.885.8828 | waterloo.ca/Museum
Located in the St. Jacobs Village. Intimate venue with only 100 seats. 2018 Season: Shear Madness.
Alternating exhibits throughout the year between artifacts from the permanent collection and hosting travelling exhibitions.
FASHION HISTORY MUSEUM 74 Queen St. E., Cambridge 519.654.0009 | fashionhistorymuseum.com @fashionhistorymuseum Feature Exhibition for 2018: ‘101 Tales of Fashion’ featuring treasures from the permanent collections spanning four centuries. Follow us on Facebook for weekly updates plus sharing items not on display. Open 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m., Wed. to Sun.
MUSEUMS, GALLERIES & POINTS OF INTEREST
FIRE HALL MUSEUM & EDUCATION CENTRE
CAMBRIDGE CENTRE FOR THE ARTS
Explore the Fire Hall Museum and Education Centre and learn about the history of fire service in Cambridge and surrounding areas. Browse the Fire Hall Museum gift shop, vintage toy trains, fire trucks and so much more. The museum is open Saturdays from 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
60 Dickson St., Cambridge 519.740.4681 | cambridgecentreforthearts.ca A municipally operated community arts centre with a mandate to provide quality arts programming through classes, workshops, an art gallery, special events and an artist-in-residence program.
CANADIAN CLAY & GLASS GALLERY 25 Caroline St. N., Waterloo 519-746-1882 | theclayandglass.ca @theclayandglass Experience exhibitions of ceramic and glass art. Explore your creativity with hands-on programs. Visit the Gallery Shop for unique works by artists from across Canada.
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CASTLE KILBRIDE NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE
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60 Snyder’s Rd. W., Baden 519.634.8444 | 1.800.469.5576 | castlekilbride.ca Explore the 1877 mansion of James Livingston, Canada’s “Flax Mill King”. See exotic furnishings and rare trompe l’oeil (“fools the eye”) murals. A tour through this museum is a journey into the lavish Victorian era! Open from Mar. to Dec.
56 Dickson St., Cambridge 519.621.1144 | firehallmuseum.ca
MCDOUGALL COTTAGE HISTORIC SITE 89 Grand Ave. S., Cambridge 519.624.8250 | mcdougallcottage.ca A charming stone cottage featuring heritage gardens that showcase Scottish culture. Unique trompe l’oeil friezes, monthly Ceilidhs, Tartan Teas, ‘Kids in Kilts’ craft afternoons and more. Open from the first Thurs. in Mar. to mid-Dec.
WATERLOO PIONEERS MEMORIAL TOWER
SEE & DO
PRIME MINISTERS PATH
300 Lookout Ln., Kitchener 519.571.5684
60 Snyder's Rd. W., Baden 519.634.8444. | wilmot.ca Stroll through Canada's history since Confederation. Four life-sized, bronze sculptures of Prime Ministers, created by Canadian artists with another 18 planned to be installed.
THE MENNONITE STORY 1406 King St. N., St. Jacobs 519.664.3518 | 1.800.265.3353 | stjacobs.com Interpretive Centre that creatively and respectfully shares the history and culture of both the Mennonites and the Old Order Mennonites, while fostering conversation and reflection from a faith perspective.
ST. JACOBS EXHIBITS & GALLERIES IN THE MILL
Commemorates the arrival of the Pennsylvania-German pioneers to Waterloo Region. Open to the public by reservation; surrounding grounds open year-round.
WATERLOO REGION MUSEUM AND DOON HERITAGE VILLAGE 10 Huron Rd., Kitchener 519.748.1914 | waterlooregionmuseum.ca The largest community museum in Ontario. Main gallery tells the story of Waterloo Region. Showcases rotating local and travelling exhibits from around the world. Admission includes entrance to Doon Heritage Village, a 60-acre living history village.
1441 King St. N., St. Jacobs 519.664.1133 | 1.800.265.3353 | stjacobs.com Venture into this historic flour mill and discover stories of St. Jacobs, Ontario's Maple Syrup Museum and an H-O scale model rail exhibit of the surrounding area. Explore the silo maze and find fantastic one-of-a-kind artisan creations, and great coffee too.
THEMUSEUM @THEMUSEUM
1232 Rivers Edge Dr., West Montrose 519.669.1647 | woolwich.ca
Featuring five floors of interactive and diverse exhibitions, experiences, and programs for people of all ages. THEMUSEUM in Downtown Kitchener is your community’s unmuseum.
Also known as the Kissing Bridge, the West Montrose Covered Bridge is Ontario’s last remaining covered bridge.
SCHNEIDER HAUS NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE
528 Wellington St. N., Kitchener 519-571-5684 | parkscanada.gc.ca/woodside @WoodsideNHS
466 Queen Street S., Kitchener 519.742.7752 | schneiderhaus.ca A National Historic Site and the farmhouse of one of the area’s first settlers. Costumed staff, special events and summer daily themes. Changing exhibitions in the galleries. Open Feb. 18 to Dec. 24.
WOODSIDE NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE
Explore Canada’s history at the boyhood home of Prime Minister Mackenzie King. This lovingly preserved home, filled with heirlooms and period reproductions, is a portal to the Victorian era.
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10 King St. W., Kitchener 519.749.9738 | THEMUSEUM.ca |
WEST MONTROSE COVERED BRIDGE
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OUTDOOR & RECREATION AIRBORNE TRAMPOLINE KW
LYNDON FISHING POND
115 Saltsman Dr., Unit 11, Cambridge 519.653.7713 | airbornetrampoline.ca
1745 Huron Road, Petersburg 519.696.3474 | 519.696.3076 | lyndonfishingpond.com @lyndonfishingpond
Trampoline bungee parties with Cosmic/Spiderman options. Recreational, competitive, freestyle, and special needs classes. Summer/March Break/PA Day Camps. Public cosmic jumping. All on large, super bouncy, Olympic trampolines and with certified coaches.
CANOEING THE GRAND 3734 King St. E., Kitchener 519.896.0290 | 1.877.896.0290 | canoeingthegrand.com Canoeing the Grand provides canoe, kayak and tubing rental trips for families and groups up to 200 persons, including shuttle service from Elora to Cambridge and all points in between. Open seasonally from Apr. to Nov.
CONESTOGO RIVER HORSEBACK ADVENTURES 535 Northfield Dr. E., Waterloo 519.888.6503 | horsebackadventures.ca Conestogo River Horseback Adventures is truly an adventure for the whole family. From trail rides to summer day camps to corporate parties, Conestogo River is your best choice for a laid-back day on the range.
Catch a feisty rainbow trout in a picture perfect setting. No fishing license is required.
WATERLOO PUBLIC SQUARE 75 King St. S., Waterloo 519.747.6125 | waterloo.ca This is a place for friends and neighbours to gather in the heart of vibrant UpTown Waterloo. The City of Waterloo and organizations ensure the square is hopping with activity: concerts, festivals, markets and so much more.
ST. JACOBS HORSE DRAWN TOURS INC. 878 Weber St. N., Woolwich 519.500.5168 | stjacobshorsedrawntours.com People of all ages can enjoy a wide variety of country tours including Mennonite farm tours, maple sugar bush tours and winter sleigh rides.
PARKS HURON NATURAL AREA 801 Trillium Dr., Kitchener 519.741.2345 | kitchener.ca An awe-inspiring 107-hectare destination for nature lovers, families, trail walkers and photographers. Surround yourself in nature without leaving the city. Check out the natural playground.
GRAND EXPERIENCES
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115 Grand River St. N., Paris 519.442.3654 | 1.888.258.0441 | grandexperiences.com
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Amazing adventures in awesome places along Waterloo Region’s rivers and trails. Known for canoe and kayak trips and an Ontario Signature Experience bicycle tour of St. Jacobs Country.
LAUREL CREEK CONSERVATION AREA Grand River Conservation Authority 625 Westmount Rd. N., RR 3, Waterloo 519.884.6620 | grandriver.ca grandriverconservation Laurel Creek is a quiet place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. Swimming, windsurfing, hiking, camping and bird watching are popular activities. The conservation area offers a beach and three picnic shelters.
SEE & DO
Get access to 11 Grand River parks, enjoy exclusive rewards & more.
Nature. Next door...
camping | fishing | canoeing | hiking | picnicking | skiing | swimming | tubing | boating | cycling
www.grandriver.ca/parks ExploreWaterlooRegion.com
SHADE’S MILLS
450 Avenue Rd., Cambridge shadesmillspark@grandriver.ca
LAUREL CREEK
625 Westmount Rd. N., Waterloo laurelcreekpark@grandriver.ca
PINEHURST LAKE
468 Pinehurst Rd., Ayr pinehurstlakepark@grandriver.ca
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SEE & DO
PINEHURST LAKE CONSERVATION AREA Grand River Conservation Authority 468 Pinehurst Rd., RR 3, Ayr 519.442.4721 | grandriver.ca grandriverconservation Pinehurst Lake has a sandy beach and is surrounded by natural Carolinian forest. From May to October it offers camping, swimming, fishing, boating, picnicking and hiking; in the winter, snowshoeing, ice fishing and crosscountry skiing.
rare CHARITABLE RESEARCH RESERVE 1679 Blair Rd., Cambridge 519.650.9336 | raresites.org 900-acre nature reserve with 8 km of trails open to the public. Programs and public events throughout the year.
RIVERSIDE PARK
I will take time to indulge
49 King St. W., Cambridge 519.740.4681 | cambridge.ca Located just south of Hwy. 401, with access off King St. and Speedvale Rd. in Cambridge. The park offers a range of sports venues from premier softball and baseball to football and soccer.
SHADE’S MILLS CONSERVATION AREA Grand River Conservation Authority 450 Avenue Rd., Cambridge 519.621.3697 | grandriver.ca grandriverconservation Activities include swimming, sport fishing and canoeing. There are 12 km of hiking trails and fishing in the reservoir. Enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and ice fishing during the winter.
VICTORIA PARK 80 Schneider Ave., Kitchener 519.741.2345 | Kitchener.ca
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Downtown Kitchener's premier destination for recreation, from skating to leisurely walks and events like Kidspark and Ribfest. Amenities include a playground, splashpad, open fields and its signature lake.
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WATERLOO PARK
Vacations are the best time to indulge and explore! Be sure to visit the 120 shops, services, cinemas, and restaurants at Cambridge Centre.
50 Young St. W., Waterloo 519.725.0511 | waterloo.ca Waterloo Park is the premier park in the City of Waterloo. Often called the “jewel of the city,” Waterloo Park boasts 45 hectares (111 acres) of prime parkland, with a multitude of active and passive uses.
Hwy 24 at Bishop Street Over 120 Shops and Services
CAMBRIDGE CENTRE 355 Hespeler Rd., Cambridge 519.624.9415 | cambridge-centre.com Over 120 shops and services. Enjoy winter fun all year round at Cambridge Ice Centre. Enjoy a movie at Galaxy Cinemas or dine at one of the restaurants.
2 Arthur St. S., Elmira 519.669.8225 | kitchenkuttings.com @KitchenKuttings
SEE & DO
KITCHEN KUTTINGS INC.
A specialty food store offering high-quality products, specializing in fresh local food. Homemade preserves and summer sausage, cheeses, fudge, brittles, sauces and spreads, and much more.
CONESTOGA MALL
MARKET ROAD ANTIQUES
550 King St. N., Waterloo 519.886.5500 | conestogamall.com
845 Weber St. N., Waterloo 519.746.1999 | stjacobs.com
Waterloo’s premier shopping destination. Shop at over 130 retailers, including Apple, H&M, Justice, lululemon, Mountain Warehouse, Pandora, Raffi Jewellers & Rolex Boutique, Saje, Sephora and Victoria’s Secret Pink.
A treasure house of over 100 quality antique dealers with new items arriving almost daily. Find high quality estate jewelry, furniture, glass, china, toys, collectibles, vinyl albums and more! Open daily all year.
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SHOPPING
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SEE & DO
ST. JACOBS MILL & SILOS
ST. JACOBS VILLAGE
1441 King St. N., St. Jacobs 519.664.1133 | 1.800.265.3353 | stjacobs.com
519.664.1133 | 1.800.265.3353 | stjacobs.com
Venture into the basement of a refurbished historic mill and discover Ontario’s Maple Syrup Museum, story of electricity, and a model railway exhibit. Shop at a fairtrade craft store, eco-coffee shop, and a pottery studio. Open all year.
Visit this Waterloo Region backyard gem just 3 kilometres north of the St. Jacobs Farmers' Market. Open 7 days a week. Great shopping and a place to learn about Mennonite culture, along with restaurants, exhibits and galleries.
SPAS
ST. JACOBS OUTLETS
THE PUDDICOMBE HOUSE SALON & SPA
25 Benjamin Rd. E., Waterloo 519.888.0138 | stjacobsoutlets.com
145 Peel St., New Hamburg 519.662.2111 | 1.855.699.2111 | puddicombehouse.com
A bright, friendly mall with over 20 outlets and stores, and an emphasis on knowledgeable, friendly service. Proof that good things can come in smaller packages! Open daily all year.
Puddicombe House has a full service restaurant, spa and hair salon as well as a bed and breakfast.
STONEBRIDGE IMPORTS & THE ROCK SPA 396B Victoria St. N., Kitchener 226.444.0176 | therockspa.com 519.579.1747 | stonebridgeimports.com One of Canada’s largest selections of crystals, gems, beads and home decor, plus a full suite of relaxing and healing modalities—7,000 sq ft of health!
THE SPA AT LANGDON HALL 1 Langdon Dr., Cambridge 519.740.2100 | 1.800.268.1898 | langdonhall.ca
UPTOWN WOODS 56 King St. N., Unit #4, Waterloo 226.647.4219 | UpTownwoods.ca | woods
Relais & Châteaux luxury including accommodations, Five Diamond restaurant, and a full-service day spa.
@UpTown-
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UpTown Woods is a fashion and lifestyle boutique that carries exclusively Canadian brands and designers. At UpTown Woods, a strong emphasis is put on creating an environment that helps support Canadian fashion.
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UPTOWN BEAUTY LOUNGE 4 King St. S., Waterloo 519.954.5274 | UpTownbeautylounge.com @UpTownBeautyLounge Waterloo’s ultimate fully licensed boutique salon and beauty bar. Enjoy a cocktail while experiencing the next generation of beauty and exceptional customer-service.
PRESTON MEMORIAL AUDITORIUM
ACTIVA SPORTSPLEX
1458 Hamilton St., Cambridge 519.740.4681 | cambridge.ca
135 Lennox Lewis Wy., Kitchener 519.741.2699 | theaud.ca A 108,487 sq ft multi-purpose athletic facility that hosts ice sports, summer indoor sports, boxing, and recreational walking. The environmentally-friendly venue is the first arena facility to receive LEED certification.
THE AUD
The arena features an ice surface of 80 ft x 180 ft and permanent seating capacity for 1,000. Meeting space is also available for up to 175 people. Kitchen, bar and stage are also provided.
RIM PARK AND MANULIFE FINANCIAL SPORTSPLEX 2001 University Ave. E., Waterloo 519.884.5363 | waterloo.ca
400 East Ave., Kitchener 519.741.2699 | theaud.ca The Aud is a premier entertainment facility, hosting sports competitions, family shows, concerts and tradeshows. The Aud is home to the Kitchener Rangers and pro basketball team, the KW Titans.
RIM Park is home to the Manulife Financial Sportsplex and Healthy Living Centre, and is the City of Waterloo's premier recreation and park complex . Many exciting events are held at RIM Park each year, drawing large crowds to the world-class venue.
WATERLOO MEMORIAL RECREATION COMPLEX
GALT ARENA GARDENS 98 Shade St., Cambridge 519.740.4681 | cambridge.ca
101 Father David Bauer Dr., Waterloo 519.886.1177 | waterloo.ca
640 Ellis Rd. W., Cambridge 519.740.4681 | cambridge.ca Two 200 ft x 100 ft ice rinks with seating capacity of 720 in rink one and 300 people in rink two. Meeting rooms also available with capacity of up to 350. Kitchen, bar and stage available.
NORTH DUMFRIES COMMUNITY COMPLEX 2958 Greenfield Rd., Ayr 519.632.8800 | northdumfries.ca The NDCC offers an ice rink for public use, a walking track around the upper area of the skating rink, a seniors lounge and a youth room.
Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex offers a variety of recreational and rental opportunities. The facility features the Sun Life Financial Arena (an Olympic-size ice surface), a track, indoor pool, and meeting rooms.
WILMOT RECREATION COMPLEX 1291 Nafziger Rd., Baden 519.634.9225 | wilmot.ca An ideal venue for home shows, trade shows and special events, offering an expansive lobby on two levels, two NHL-sized ice surfaces, aquatic centre, community centre with a well-equipped kitchen, and meeting rooms. Parking for 600 vehicles.
WOOLWICH MEMORIAL CENTRE 24 Snyder Ave. S., Elmira 519.669.1647 | woolwich.ca Offers two NHL-sized ice surfaces, two pools, a fitness centre and walking track. The facility also includes a community centre, concession, Concourse Cafe, two meeting rooms and offices for minor sport teams.
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The oldest continually operating arena in the world – opened in 1922. Features an ice surface of 185 ft x 85 ft and a meeting room with capacity for 100 people.
HESPELER MEMORIAL ARENA
SEE & DO
SPORTS
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V I S I T
Step back in time to a lavish Victorian era
Castle Kilbride is a grand Victorian home that was built in 1877, for James Livingston, flax industrialist, politician and entrepreneur. Named after his birthplace of East Kilbride, Scotland, the house was designed in the Italianate style of architecture and capped with a belvedere lookout. The Castle offers a glimpse into the breath-taking past of Victorian opulence. Discover 4 floors of exquisite interior décor, see nationally designated Trompe l’oeil (“fools the eye”) wall murals and a beautiful exterior mansion.
15 minute drive from Kitchener or Stratford!
Bus tours and large groups welcome. Please call to book. 60 Snyder’s Rd. W., Baden 519-634-8444 | 1-800-469-5576 castlekilbride.ca
Events Calendar 2018
The Roaring Twenties: Childhood Dreams May 1 – January 6 To celebrate what would have been the 100th birthday of Laura Louise Livingston this exhibit, highlights influences from her youth during the 1920s. In partnership with the Stratford Festival Archives. 1920s Tea and Tour Tuesday – Friday, June – August Dust off your pearls and join us for a guided tour of the house by costumed Livingston staff. Enjoy lemon chiffon tea paired with a tray of assorted sweets all enjoyed on the front lawn of Castle Kilbride. Perfect for groups! Pre-booking required. November 20 to January 6, 2019 Christmas Season Castle Kilbride is fully decorated in Victorian Christmas splendour. Each room throughout the 1877 Victorian mansion sparkles with themed trees and festive decor, all based on Scottish, German, and Victorian influences.
Castle Kilbride is a National Historic Site Operated by the Township of Wilmot
DESCENDANTS BEER & BEVERAGE CO.
RESTAURANTS
FOOD & DRINK
BREWERIES & DISTILLERIES
ANGIE’S SINCE 1962
319 Victoria St. N., Kitchener 226.241.3700 | descendantsbeer.com @DescendantsBeer Kitchener's award-winning craft brewery offers a bierhalle with 10+ taps, full bar, including cider and spirits, eatery, retail shop and event venue. Bring friends for a night out, or pick up some cans to go!
47 Erb St. W., Waterloo 519.954.8500 | angieswaterloo.com Featured on The Food Network “Great Canadian Cookbook” Famous German breakfast with mouthwatering SCHNITZEL. Reservations for private groups/buses. LLBO.
GRAND RIVER BREWING 295 Ainslie St. S., Cambridge 519.620.3233 | grandriverbrewing.com Award-winning craft brewery located in a historic building in Downtown Galt (Cambridge) along the Grand River. Tasting room available. Open 7 days a week. Follow the brewery on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
MURPHY’S LAW DISTILLERY
ANNA MAE’S RESTAURANT & BAKERY
90 Earl Martin Dr. Unit 2, Elmira 519.669.2500 | murphyslawmoonshine.com @murphyslawdistilleryltd
4060 Perth Line 72, Millbank 519.595.4407 | annamaes.ca
Murphy’s Law is an award-winning distillery, sourcing key ingredients from Waterloo Region.
WATERLOO BREWING
As seen on the Food Network’s “You Gotta Eat Here!” Anna Mae’s is a great family owned business in the heart of Amish country. Come in and try the famous broasted chicken, homemade Mennonite meals and baked goods. Eat-in or take-out. Gluten-free baking available.
400 Bingemans Centre Dr., Kitchener 519.742.2732 | waterloobrewing.com @WaterlooBrewing
AT THE CROSSROADS FAMILY RESTAURANT 384 Arthur St. S., Elmira 519.669.8117 | 1.877.496.8117 | crossroadsrestaurant.ca Family style restaurant in the heart of Ontario’s Mennonite country. Close to St. Jacobs, and central for many types of tours. Home-style cooking, daily buffets and menu dining. Adjoining gift and quilt stores add shopping options to your dining experience.
ExploreWaterlooRegion.com
Founded in 1984, Waterloo Brewing is Ontario’s first craft brewer. Open 7 days a week – drop in for samples, growlers, merchandise and more. Pour the Boar!
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FOOD & DRINK
B@THEMUSEUM
BEERTOWN PUBLIC HOUSE WATERLOO
10 King St. W., Kitchener 519.742.2337 | bhere.ca
Waterloo Town Square, 75 King St. S., Waterloo 519.885.5151 | beertown.ca
Welcome to B@THEMUSEUM in Downtown Kitchener. If you are a lover of local craft beers, fresh local foods, and a unique, comfortable space to kick back and enjoy, you’ll be right at home.
@BeertownPublic Leaders of the craft beer dining revolution. Beertown is a chef-driven kitchen that is as passionate about crafting dishes as they are about the extensive beer selection they offer. Beertown quenches your thirst for the unconventional with an endless stream of crafted beer and one-off, exclusive releases.
BEERTOWN PUBLIC HOUSE CAMBRIDGE 561 - #1a. Hespeler Rd., Cambridge 519.629.0288 | beertown.ca @beertownpublic
ExploreWaterlooRegion.com
Leaders of the craft beer dining revolution. Beertown is a chef-driven kitchen that is as passionate about crafting dishes as they are about the extensive beer selection they offer. Beertown quenches your thirst for the unconventional with an endless stream of crafted beer and one-off, exclusive releases.
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BRUCE CRAFT HOUSE 700 Hespeler Rd., Cambridge 519.622.5252 | cambridgehotel.ca/the-bruce-restaurant Bruce Craft House was forged out of fire, craft beer and local food. With its state-of-the-art stone fired oven, making everything from traditionally inspired pizza to freshly baked breads, to its 10 local craft beer taps, there is something for everyone to enjoy!
CAMBRIDGE MILL 100 Water Street North, Cambridge 519.624.1828 | cambridgemill.ca | @cambridge_mill From Steak & Wine Mondays, to Buck-a-shuck Thursdays, there’s a reason to celebrate every day of the week at Cambridge Mill. Open for lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch.
HARMONY LUNCH
429 Ottawa St. S., Kitchener 519.745.5617 | concordiaclub.ca
90 King St. N., Waterloo 519.886.4721 | harmonylunch.ca @harmonylunch
Visit this Schenke Restaurant. A true taste of Germany! Traditional German menu with food that really “schmecks” good. Come in for lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch.... more than just Oktoberfest.
FOOD & DRINK
CONCORDIA CLUB
An UpTown Waterloo staple since 1930. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, seven days a week. Featuring old-school milkshakes and the famous Harmony Burger. Homestyle cooking – no fuss, no muss!
HEIDELBERG RESTAURANT, TAVERN & MOTEL 3006 Lobsinger Ln., RR 15, Heidelberg 519.699.4413 | oldhh.com
EVO KITCHEN
Good food – friendly service. Established in 1860 as a stagecoach stop, Heidelberg Restaurant is renowned for ribs, pigtails, smoked pork hocks, sausages, schnitzel and sauerkraut. Located 5 minutes from St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market.
31 Water St. S., Cambridge 519.740.9900 | evokitchen.com Founded in 2010, EVO Kitchen is a locally owned and operated restaurant that offers a wide range of dine in, take out and catering options.
FOUR ALL ICE CREAM Unit 105, 141 Whitney Pl., Kitchener 519.635.0490 | fourall.ca | @fourallicecream
Mon-Sat: 10am-7pm Sun: 10am-6pm 400 BINGEMANS CENTRE DR. KITCHENER
ExploreWaterlooRegion.com
Four All Ice Cream is small batch ice cream, made with local ingredients with an emphasis on partnerships in Kitchener. Their goal is better ice cream for everyone, no matter your dietary restriction!
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FOOD & DRINK
JACOB’S GRILL
MARBLES
1398 King St. N., St. Jacobs 519.664.2575 | jacobsgrill.ca
8 William St. E., Waterloo 519.885.4390 | marblesuptown.com @Marbles1977
@JacobsGrill A popular neighbourhood grill in Downtown St. Jacobs. Jacob’s Grill features wings, burgers, pizza, salads, proper fish and chips and decadent desserts with a commitment to locally produced and sourced food products.
LANCASTER SMOKEHOUSE 574 Lancaster St. W., Kitchener 519.743.4331 | lancsmokehouse.com @lancsmokehouse Waterloo Region's Original Barbecue Joint! Featuring Hickory Smoked BBQ and made-fromscratch cooking.
ExploreWaterlooRegion.com
Family Dining
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Casual fine dining in a newly renovated and modern venue in UpTown Waterloo. Fresh food and classic cuisine. Open for lunch and dinner daily, as well as brunch on weekends
MILESTONES RESTAURANT 410 The Boardwalk, Waterloo 519.579.4949 | milestonesrestaurants.com @MilestonesCa Fresh ingredients and a passion for the plate. Gather around the tables for a meal that will be truly memorable, and an atmosphere that inspires good times.
RHAPSODY BARREL BAR
110 Erb St. W., Waterloo 519.208.3333 | proofwaterloo.com
179 King St. W., Kitchener 226.647.3996 | rhapsodybarrelbar.com @rhapsodybarrelbar
Proof offers a menu that pairs local ingredients with global flavours. Their contemporary industrial décor is the perfect atmosphere for dining or trying the latest craft beer in the lounge or patio.
FOOD & DRINK
PROOF KITCHEN + LOUNGE
Features speciality coffee, wine and whisky as well as a full lunch and dinner menu. A great place for a business meeting, catching up with old friends or a place to stop in for a bite to eat in a culturally rich environment.
PUBLIC KITCHEN & BAR 300 Victoria St. N., Kitchener 519.954.8111 | kwpublic.com @kwpublic Featuring small, shareable plates, fresh cocktails, good wine, craft beer and great tunes. Now open in its new location on Victoria Street in one of Kitchener’s fastest growing neighborhoods!
STONE CROCK RESTAURANT & CATERING 1396 King St. N., St. Jacobs 519.664.2286 | 1.866.664.2286 | stonecrock.ca @StoneCrock Since 1975, the Stone Crock has been serving home-style comfort food in the heart of St. Jacobs. Enjoy the savoury entrées, signature soup and salad, and the famous fresh baked pies.
30 William St. W., Waterloo 226.647.4687 | redhouseuptown.ca @redhouseUpTown UpTown Waterloo restaurant by local chef Dan McCowan. Offering genuine and professional hospitality in an intimate setting. The always evolving menu is focused on quality, fresh-inspired international cuisine, with crafted cocktails and a sommelier-selected wine list.
ST. GEORGE RESTAURANT 665 King St. N., Waterloo 519.729.0020 | stgeorgerestaurant.ca @kwrestaurant An elegant ambiance with many dishes that are prepared to perfection. Dishes include schnitzel, burgers, and traditional Serbian foods such as chevaps and meat platters.
TACO FARM 8 Erb St. W., Waterloo 519.208.1300 | tacofarm.ca @TacoFarmCo Featured on the Food Network’s You Gotta Eat Here. Mexican inspired and locally sourced. Everything is made in house, from tortillas and salsa, to their hot sauces, bar mixes and infusions.
ExploreWaterlooRegion.com
RED HOUSE
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FOOD & DRINK
TASTE AT THE TANNERY 141 Charles St. W., Kitchener 519.804.9088 | tastetannery.ca |
THE BERLIN @tasteatthetannery
Located in the historical Tannery building Downtown Kitchener, Taste at the Tannery is the social hub for lunch and dinner, where guests can experience bold flavours from a menu packed with craveable dishes!
THE BAUER KITCHEN & BAUER BAKERY CAFÉ 187 King Street South, Unit 102, Waterloo 519.772.0790 | thebauerkitchen.ca @TheBauerKitchen
ExploreWaterlooRegion.com
The original neighbourhood restaurant. Soho inspired industrial setting, known for weekend brunch, cocktails, classic dishes done right and spectacular service. Hit up the café for your daily treat baked in-house, and houseblended coffee!
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45 King St. W., Kitchener 519.208.8555 | theberlinkw.ca The Berlin is not your average neighbourhood restaurant. A destination for amazing food, service and culture, the ever-changing menu allows Chef Benjamin Lillico to showcase the best of seasonal and local ingredients paired with an old world inspired wine list, craft beer and cocktail menu.
WILDCRAFT GRILL BAR 425 King St. N., Waterloo 519.885.0117 | wildcraft.ca @WildcraftGrill A Waterloo icon with suburban approachability. Visit the W Bar for expertly built cocktails made by the city’s best bar chefs. Dine on masterly crafted dishes by the city’s best chefs.
Like to pretend you're a food photographer? Share your shots with us! ExploreWR explorewaterlooregion explorewaterlooregion Use #ExploreWR for a chance to be featured.
130 King St S., Waterloo 226.647.6668 | wildfirewaterloo.com A passion for great food, exceptional wine and good company. Wildfire promises extraordinary service, great value and even better food. Come enjoy Wildfire Steakhouse's award winning and critically acclaimed menu in Waterloo.
FOOD & DRINK
WILDFIRE
WATERLOO REGIONAL POLICE ASSOCIATION 1128 Rife Rd., Cambridge 519.622.0771 | wrpa.org With a convenient location right off Hwy. 401, in-house catering, ample free parking and banquet rooms for up to 400 people, WRPA is the perfect location for special events like weddings, reunions, conventions and anniversaries.
WHISTLE BEAR GOLF CLUB 1316 Dickie Settlement Rd., Cambridge 519.650.BEAR (2327) | whistlebear.ca Easily reached from neighbouring cities, Whistle Bear’s atmosphere fuses the relaxed and comfortable with something grand. Their special events team will guide you through the planning process and take care of all the details.
CATERING & EVENTS B ELEGANT CATERING & EVENT PLANNING 41 Ardelt Pl., Kitchener sales@belegant.ca l belegant.ca Creating memorable experiences through food is their passion. Creating unforgettable celebrations down to every last detail is their promise. With decades of event expertise, the B·Elegant team unites under a shared passion for celebrating special moments.
Small-town hospitality meets big-city amenities.
#MeetWR
We can help make Waterloo Region your next event destination. For more information, contact:
SWEET AND SAVOURY PIE COMPANY AND JUST LOVE PIE 33 Erb St. W., Waterloo 519.954.3141 | justlovepie.com They use only the finest and freshest local ingredients to create wonderful pies and tarts that will satisfy your appetite and warm your heart.
EXPLOREWATERLOOREGION.COM
ExploreWaterlooRegion.com
Jennifer Eddings, Director of Sales jeddings@wrtmc.org | 519.585.7517 ext. 210
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Never stop or park on the light rail tracks Obey new signage Stay alert
Find more information online at:
CAMBRIDGE VISITOR & BUSINESS INFORMATION CENTRE
750 Hespeler Rd., Cambridge Located at the junction of Hwys. 401 and 24 519.622.2336 | 1.800.749.7560
KITCHENER VISITOR WELCOME CENTRE Kitchener City Hall Ground floor, 200 King St. W., Kitchener 519.741.2200 ext. 7130
WATERLOO VISITOR & HERITAGE INFORMATION CENTRE 10 Father David Bauer Dr., Waterloo 519.885.2297
TOWNSHIP OF WOOLWICH VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE 1406 King St. N., St. Jacobs Open seasonally May-Oct. 519.664.3548
ELORA & FERGUS TOURISM 10 East Mill St., Elora 519.846.9841 | elorafergus.ca Discover the perfect place in Elora & Fergus. The dramatic beauty of the Elora Gorge, world class festivals and events, a haven of arts and culture all with a heritage river running through it. Truly an outdoor adventurer’s dream.
GREAT CANADIAN HOLIDAYS 353 Manitou Dr., Kitchener 519.896.8687 | 1.800.461.8687 greatcanadianholidays.com
PLAN YOUR TRIP
VISITOR CENTRES
Worry-free, innovative getaways spanning Canada and the U.S. from one to 23 days in length. Getaways include sightseeing, casinos, shopping, sports, coach and cruise, and more.
GREAT CANADIAN COACHES 353 Manitou Dr., Kitchener 519.896.8687 | 1.800.461.8687 greatcanadiancoaches.com The award-winning fleet of over 50 luxury motor coaches is available for rent for groups including sports teams, weddings, airport transfers, corporate groups, school groups and more.
FIELDS TRIPS 44 Old Huron Court, Kitchener 519.894.8687 | fieldstrips.ca |
@FieldsTrips
For tour operators and travellers alike, Fields Trips offers flexible and customized local travel excursions and receptive services including: Kitchener-Waterloo City Tours, Mennonite Countryside Tours, and themed tours.
GROUND TRANSPORTATION BRENTWOOD LIVERY 299 Bridge St. E., Kitchener 519.741.5700 | brentwoodlivery.ca @brentwoodlivery Brentwood specializes in transforming transportation into an unforgettable experience. Personalized concierge chauffeured service to meet and anticipate all your corporate, wedding or personal travel needs.
TOUR SERVICES & OPERATORS 219 Frederick St., Stratford 519.271.7741 | cherreybuslines.com @cherreybuslines Cherrey Bus Lines is a full-service company dedicated to providing personalized service. They offer individual vacation tours, group tour packages and charter services. Their diversified fleet can accommodate many different group sizes and budgets.
GO TRANSIT (Buses & Trains)
1.888.GET.ON.GO (438-6646) | gotransit.com
GRAND RIVER TRANSIT
519.585.7555 | TTY: 519.575.4608 | grt.ca
ExploreWaterlooRegion.com
CHERREY BUS LINES INC.
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PLAN YOUR TRIP
VIA RAIL CANADA
126 Weber St. W., Kitchener 1.888.842.7245 | viarail.ca
AIR TRANSPORTATION REGION OF WATERLOO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (YKF) 1 - 4881 Fountain St. N., Breslau 519.648.2256 | 1.866.648.2256 | waterlooairport.ca @FlyYKF Travelling has never been easier. $9 parking per day, free baggage carts and Wi-Fi, licensed lounge and car rentals – Fly from home and have more time for the things that matter.
Travelling for business or pleasure has never been easier.
FLYGTA AIRLINES YKF - 4881 Fountain St. N., Breslau 1.888.470.4595 | flygta.com @iFlyGTA Skip the traffic. 18 minutes to Downtown Toronto! Fly non-stop weekdays with FlyGTA to Toronto Island from Waterloo Region. FlyGTA Airlines is Canadian-owned and operated.
SUNWING AIRLINES YKF - 4881 Fountain St. N., Breslau 416.620.4955 | 1.877.SUNWING | sunwing.ca @SunwingVacay
ExploreWaterlooRegion.com
Sunwing Airlines offers seasonal weekly service between Kitchener-Waterloo and a sun destination. Travellers can choose from a wide selection of all-inclusive resorts for unforgettable vacations. Seasonal: December to March.
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WESTJET AIRLINES YKF - 4881 Fountain St. N., Breslau 1.888.937.8538 | westjet.com @WestJet Fly non-stop daily with WestJet to Calgary from Waterloo Region with connections to Edmonton, Vancouver and other great destinations. Proud to be Canada’s most preferred airline.
The Region of Waterloo International Airport is owned and operated by the Regional Municipality of Waterloo, Ontario (Canada).
Discover. Explore. Play. Learn.
MUSEUMS
Waterloo Region Museum and Doon Heritage Village 10 Huron Road, Kitchener 519-748-1914
Schneider Haus
McDougall Cottage
National Historic Site
Historic Site
466 Queen Street South, Kitchener
89 Grand Avenue South, Cambridge 519-624-8250
519-742-7752
www.regionof waterloo.ca/museums TTY: 519-575-4608