Cambridge Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit and things to do in Cambridge, Ontario with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Cambridge

Cambridge is a city located in the Region of Waterloo in Southwestern Ontario, Canada. It is a fascinating destination filled with cultural landmarks, breathtaking natural attractions, rich history, and a thriving food and drink scene. Cambridge has something for everyone, from museum enthusiasts to adrenaline seekers. Known as the “Hespeler’s Town,” Cambridge offers visitors an incredible experience, and its diverse communities make it stand out among other Canadian cities.

List of Places to Visit in Cambridge

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Cambridge has a rich history and many museums and historical attractions sprinkle throughout the city. The city is home to the following cultural landmarks:

  • Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory: A living paradise, this conservatory houses thousands of tropical butterflies within a lush rainforest.
  • Westfield Heritage Village: A restored 19th-century village that depicts the daily life of early European settlers in Canada.
  • Dundas Museum & Archives: This museum features artifacts, art pieces, and photographs that celebrate the cultural and industrial past of Cambridge.
  • Canadian Military Heritage Museum: A place where visitors can learn about Canada’s military history, from the War of 1812 to modern peacekeeping missions.

Natural Attractions of Cambridge: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

For outdoor enthusiasts, Cambridge has an array of natural attractions that will thrill you. Here are some of the best places to explore:

  • Mill Race Park: A 35-acre park located alongside the Speed River, perfect for relaxation, picnics, and hiking.
  • Shade’s Mills Conservation Area: A beautiful natural park for nature lovers, its 300-hectare property includes a lake, a beach, and an extensive network of trails for hiking and biking.
  • Grand River: An excellent location for kayaking, canoeing, or fishing, as it flows through Cambridge’s downtown core.
  • Puslinch Lake: Located just outside Cambridge, is a picturesque lake surrounded by nature and a perfect spot for fishing and swimming.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cambridge

Cambridge is known for its incredible trails and routes for hiking and biking. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a beginner, Cambridge’s routes will leave you impressed. Here are some of our recommended trails:

  • Grand Valley Trail: Stretching 275 km from the town of Alton in Caledon to the shores of Lake Erie, this trail runs through Cambridge’s scenic views.
  • Cambridge to Paris Rail Trail: A popular 18.8 km trail that follows the historic Grand River through Cambridge and ends at the town of Paris.
  • Walter Bean Trail: A trail that follows the Grand River and runs from Cambridge to Kitchener with beautiful scenic views.

Best Things to Do in Cambridge: Activities and Tours

Cambridge offers a plethora of activities and tours that cater to the needs of every traveler. These are some of the activities that will make your visit memorable:

  • Gondola Rides in Cambridge: Hop on a gondola and enjoy a romantic ride with beautiful views of the Grand River.
  • Skydiving Experience: For those seeking an adrenaline rush, skydiving in Cambridge can offer the ultimate adventure.
  • Escape Rooms: Test your problem-solving skills with your friends and family by engaging in one of Cambridge’s exciting escape rooms.
  • Horseback Riding: Whether you’re an experienced rider or a beginner, horseback riding through the wilderness of Cambridge’s forests will be an unforgettable experience.

Week-Long Itinerary for Cambridge

A week-long itinerary can help you explore all of the best attractions in Cambridge. Here’s a sample itinerary for an incredible week in Cambridge:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Cambridge to Paris Rail Trail and explore the town of Paris
Day 2 Go for a gondola ride on the Grand River and take a tour of the African Lion Safari.
Day 3 Head to the Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory and then spend the evening hiking in the Mill Race Park.
Day 4 Take a day trip to nearby St. Jacobs and visit the farmer’s market and outlet mall.
Day 5 Engage in an escape room game and relish in a fine dining experience in downtown Cambridge.
Day 6 Visit the Westfield Heritage Village and explore the historical buildings and architecture of early European settlers.
Day 7 Go for a hike in Shade’s Mills Conservation Area and end the day with a horseback riding adventure in the forest.

Food and Drink Scene of Cambridge

Cambridge’s food and drink scene has a wide range of local flavors, including international cuisine. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Currywurst: A popular German street food dish with a spicy sausage served with curry ketchup.
  • Butter Tarts: A sweet pastry tart filled with a rich buttery filling that originates from Ontario.
  • Burger of the Month: A rotating dish available at the popular Jack Astor’s Bar & Grill.
  • Peameal Bacon Sandwich: A classic breakfast sandwich made with Canadian bacon that can be found at many local cafes.

Local Beverages

  • F&M Brewery: A microbrewery in downtown Guelph that serves a variety of craft beers, ales, stouts, and saisons.
  • N’ata Cosa: An Italian experience serving the best coffee in town made from beans roasted in Italy.
  • Descending Dragon: A local winery located in Cambridge that specializes in producing delicious wines using North American grapes.

Where to Stay in Cambridge: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Cambridge boasts a wide range of accommodations for you to choose from, depending on your preferences. Here are some of our top recommendations:

  • Langdon Hall Country House Hotel & Spa: A luxurious estate located in the heart of nature, equipped with a spa, making it the perfect getaway for your relaxation.
  • Comfort Inn Cambridge: This budget-friendly hotel offers excellent amenities, including hot breakfast and Wi-Fi, making it an ideal choice for your stay in Cambridge.
  • Hillside Suites: A cozy, family-run guesthouse that offers well-placed suites for people that value privacy and comfort.
  • Best Western Plus Cambridge Hotel: This hotel is located off Highway 401, offering easy access to Cambridge’s downtown core and its major attractions.

What to Buy in Cambridge: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking to bring home some local products and souvenirs from Cambridge, here are some recommendations:

  • Handmaid Studio: A charming boutique in downtown Cambridge where you can find unique home decor items and vibrant local artwork.
  • Cambridge Farmers Market: A market that offers local produce, artisanal food products, and handmade crafts from Cambridge and the surrounding areas.
  • Grand River Tea: A local tea specialists that offer a variety of loose-leaf tea blends, European teapots, and infusers for tea aficionados.

Local Culture and Customs of Cambridge

Cambridge is a multicultural city that is home to an array of different communities. It is a friendly and welcoming city that values inclusivity and diversity. The city’s residents are proud of their heritage and place high value on respecting and embracing the customs of others.

Best Time to Visit Cambridge

The best time to visit Cambridge is during the summer months (June to August), when the weather is warm, and outdoor activities are in full swing. Fall (September to November) offers the opportunity to see the beautiful foliage of the forests surrounding the city. Winter (December to February) brings a magical wonder with Holiday celebrations and snowy scenery. Spring (March to May) is the time when you’ll see the blooming flowers and greenery return, making it the perfect time for hiking and biking.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cambridge

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Use public transportation or walk instead of driving whenever possible.
  • Try local cuisine, especially peameal bacon sandwiches and butter tarts.
  • Be polite and cordial to locals.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the city’s natural surroundings.
  • Be loud or disruptive in public places.
  • Overindulge in alcohol or substances.
  • Disrespect the culinary traditions of others.

Safety and Health

Safety in Cambridge

Cambridge is considered a safe city to visit, with low crime rates and friendly locals. Nevertheless, like any other city, visitors should be mindful of their surroundings and take necessary precautions when visiting. It is advisable to avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep valuable items like wallets and mobile phones secure.

Health in Cambridge

The Canadian health system offers universal health coverage to residents and visitors alike, making it easy to access health care services if needed. Visitors are encouraged to purchase travel insurance for any medical emergencies that may arise.

Getting to Cambridge: Transportation Options and Logistics

Cambridge is easy to reach, connected to major highways and transportation hubs. Here are the available transportation options for getting to Cambridge:

Airports Near Cambridge

  • Waterloo Regional Airport: Located just 10 minutes away from Cambridge, this small regional airport offers daily flights to and from the Toronto Pearson International Airport.

Bus Stations Near Cambridge

  • Greyhound Bus Lines: Frequent busses are available from various cities in Ontario to Cambridge.
  • Go Bus: Bus service is available from various locations in Ontario to the Ainslie Street Terminal in Cambridge.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Car rental is available from various companies located near the airport or downtown areas.
  • Taxi / Uber: Taxis and Ubers are available throughout Cambridge and surrounding areas.

How to Get Around in Cambridge

Public transportation is available within Cambridge with bus service offered by Grand River Transit. The city is also bike-friendly, with numerous bike lanes throughout the city.

Where to Go Next from Cambridge: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Cambridge is located in a prime location and is close to other interesting destinations. Here are some of our favorite nearby destinations worth visiting:

  • Kitchener: A vibrant city that boasts numerous cultural festivals and a burgeoning arts scene, just 20 minutes away by car from Cambridge.
  • Stratford: A charming city known for its elegant Victorian architecture, Stratford is a must-visit destination for theatre enthusiasts.
  • Niagara Falls: A world-famous natural attraction that offers a breathtaking view of the falls and a multitude of other activities, such as boat tours and hiking, located approximately 2 hours from Cambridge.

Conclusion

Cambridge is a unique and diverse city that offers a rich cultural, historical, and natural experience to visitors. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural landmarks, fine dining experiences, or quaint boutiques, Cambridge has something for everyone. Use this comprehensive travel guide to plan your perfect trip to Cambridge, and make this beautiful city your next Canadian destination.

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