Guelph Travel Guide

Explore the best of Guelph with our comprehensive travel guide providing you with all the information you need to have a memorable trip to Guelph.


Introduction to Guelph

Guelph is an attractive city nestled in Wellington and Dufferin Counties, in Southwestern Ontario, Canada. It is widely known as the “Royal City” because of its charming architectural structures and well-maintained historic landmarks. Guelph is an interesting mix of natural beauty, rich history, and modern development. It is home to numerous natural wonders, cultural treasures, and entertainment hotspots, making it a perfect destination for families, couples, and solo visitors.

List of Places to Visit in Guelph

There are various places to visit in Guelph that offer a unique and unforgettable experience. From natural attractions to culturally significant museums and historical sites, Guelph has something for everyone.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you love history and culture, Guelph has something for you. Here are some of the popular museums and historical places you should visit:

  • McCrae House - This museum commemorates the life of Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae, a Canadian soldier, and physician who served in the First World War. He is best known for penning the poem, “In Flanders Fields”.
  • Guelph Civic Museum - This museum provides an in-depth understanding of Guelph’s history, from its colonial past to the present.
  • Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum - If you’re a sports enthusiast, then this museum is a must-visit for you. It showcases the history and achievements of Canadian baseball players.

Natural Attractions of Guelph: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

If you love outdoor activities, Guelph has beautiful natural attractions that will offer you an unforgettable experience. Some of them are:

  • Ignatius Jesuit Centre - This centre offers 600 acres of scenic beauty, hiking trails, and peaceful surroundings.
  • Riverside Park - Located on the banks of the Speed River, this park is well-maintained and offers various recreational activities such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking.
  • Guelph Lake Conservation Area- This is a popular spot for camping, fishing, swimming, and hiking. It also provides a serene environment to enjoy nature walks, picnics, and scenic views.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Guelph

Guelph offers scenic hiking trails and bike routes that are unbeatable. They offer a perfect opportunity to exercise, explore, and connect with nature. Some of the popular routes include:

  • The Imperial and Royal City Trails - This trail is for cycling enthusiasts and covers about 42 kilometers of scenic beauty, winding its way through downtown Guelph and various historic sites.
  • The Trans Canada Trail - This trail is known as the Great Trail. It offers hiking and biking experiences across Canada, connecting Guelph to other great trails in Canada.

Best Things to Do in Guelph: Activities and Tours

Guelph provides an array of fun and exciting activities for visitors. Here are some of the best things to do in Guelph:

  • Go on a Food Tour - Guelph is known for its thriving food and drink scene. You can’t miss trying some of the best craft beers, ice cream, and pastries while touring the city.
  • Visit the Johnson Greenhouses - This attraction offers a vast collection of rare and exotic plants. You can take a self-guided tour or join a guided tour of the greenhouse and learn about the species of plants.
  • The Ward Fossil Plant Tour - This tour takes you on a fossil adventure, providing insights into the history of Guelph and the surrounding area.
  • Go on a Public Art Tour - Guelph’s public art scene is fascinating and offers insight into the city’s culture. A walking tour provides a unique opportunity to view its diverse collection of public artworks.

Week-Long Itinerary for Guelph

A week-long itinerary is a perfect opportunity to explore Guelph’s most famous attractions and scenic wonders. Here’s an example itinerary for a week-long trip to Guelph:

Day Tourist Attraction
Day 1 Visit the Guelph Civic Museum and enjoy a warm cup of coffee in the downtown area
Day 2 Explore the beautiful Royal City Park and enjoy scenic views of the Speed River
Day 3 Visit the McCrae House and learn about its rich history
Day 4 Take a guided tour of the Johnson Greenhouses
Day 5 Visit the popular Sleeman Brewery and learn about its brewing process
Day 6 Go on a public art tour
Day 7 Visit the stunning Guelph Lake Conservation Area and enjoy various recreational activities

Food and Drink Scene of Guelph

Guelph’s food and drink scene is thriving, and there are various must-try dishes and local beverages that visitors shouldn’t miss.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pierogi at Baba’s - Baba’s Pierogies offers a variety of handmade pierogies that are a must-try for visitors. It is a perfect place to have a quick lunch.
  • Royal Breakfast Poutine at Baker Street Station - This poutine is Guelph’s staple breakfast dish that offers a delightful culinary experience.
  • The Whit Tripel at Royal City Brewing Company - One of the best local beers in Guelph, Whit Tripel is a must-try when you visit the city.

Local Beverages

  • Guelph’s Very Own Gin - Dixon’s Distilled Spirits offers a unique gin that is a perfect souvenir for visitors.
  • Craft Beers at Royal City Brewing Company - This brewery is known for its unique and flavorful craft beers.

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

Guelph provides various accommodation options that cater to different budgets and preferences.

  • Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Guelph - This hotel offers comfortable, modern amenities that cater to both leisure and business travelers.
  • The Waterside Inn - This charming boutique hotel provides a relaxing waterfront atmosphere with excellent service.
  • Norfolk Guest House - This guesthouse offers a peaceful, homely atmosphere with comfortable and affordable rooms.

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

Guelph offers various souvenirs and local products that visitors can take back home as unforgettable memories. Here are some of the popular souvenirs and local products:

  • Guelph’s Artisanal Chocolate at Chocolats Favoris - This store offers an unrivaled selection of artisanal chocolates that are perfect for gifting.
  • Handmade Soap at Sweet Violets - This soap store offers handmade soaps that are vegan, organic, and cruelty-free.
  • Guelph’s Local Honey at Market Fresh - Market Fresh offers a selection of fresh, locally-sourced honey that is perfect for cooking, tea, or dessert.

Local Culture and Customs of Guelph

Guelph’s culture is an interesting mix of British, Scottish, and Irish influences, embodied in its architectural structures and cultural landmarks.

Best Time to Visit Guelph

The best time to visit Guelph is during the summer months (June-September) when the weather is pleasant, and various outdoor activities are available.

Do’s and Don’ts of Guelph

Do:

  • Do Engage with the Community - Guelph’s community is vibrant and welcoming. Engage with them to learn more about their culture and way of life.
  • Do Take Advantage of Guelph’s Outdoor Activities - Guelph offers various outdoor activities that visitors should take advantage of to enjoy the city’s natural beauty.

Don’t:

  • Don’t Litter - It is illegal to litter in Guelph; therefore, visitors should take care to dispose of their trash responsibly.

Safety and Health

Safety in Guelph

Guelph is a safe city, but visitors should take precautions to prevent theft, especially in crowded areas.

Health in Guelph

Guelph offers various medical facilities that cater to different medical needs; however, visitors should take precautions due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Getting to Guelph: Transportation Options and Logistics

Guelph is accessible by various transportation modes, making it easy to access.

Airports Near Guelph

  • Toronto Pearson International Airport - Located about an hour and a half away from Guelph.
  • Region of Waterloo International Airport - Located 35 minutes away from Guelph.

Bus Stations Near Guelph

  • Guelph Central Station - This station is located in the downtown area and provides various bus services within Guelph and other nearby cities.

Other Options

  • Car Rentals - Various car rental companies offer services that cater to visitors’ transportation needs.
  • Taxi Services - Taxi services are available within the city.

How to Get Around in Guelph

Guelph offers various modes of transportation, including car rentals, bike rentals, and public transportation. Visitors can also go on walking tours to explore the city’s unique landmarks and scenic natural attractions.

Where to Go Next from Guelph: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors can explore other nearby destinations after visiting Guelph. Some other nearby destinations include:

  • Elora Gorge Conservation Area - Located 30 minutes away from Guelph, it offers hiking trails, scenic views, and rivers.
  • Rockwood Conservation Area - Located 17 minutes away from Guelph, it offers exceptional hiking trails, picnic areas, and natural beauty.

Conclusion

Guelph is an attractive and charming city that offers various natural wonders, cultural landmarks, and exciting activities, making it a perfect destination for visitors. With this comprehensive travel guide, visitors can explore Guelph’s hidden gems and must-visit landmarks to create unforgettable memories.

Johnston Hall, University of Guelph Johnston Hall, University of Guelph Basilica of Our Lady Immaculate Basilica of Our Lady Immaculate Footbridge in Riverside Park Footbridge in Riverside Park