Guelph

Planning Your Trip to Guelph

Country and Province

Canada, Ontario

Time Zone

GMT -4 (Eastern Daylight Time) / GMT -5 (Eastern Standard Time)

Languages Spoken

English (predominantly), French (official languages of Canada)

Currency

Canadian Dollar (CAD)

Weather and Climate in Guelph

Guelph experiences four distinct seasons. Here’s a snapshot:

• January: Coldest month, averaging -8°C (18°F). Expect snow.
• April: Transition month, averaging 6°C (43°F). Snow melts, rain increases.
• July: Hottest month, averaging 21°C (70°F). Warm and humid weather.
• October: Beautiful fall colors, averaging 10°C (50°F). Crisp and cool weather.

Guelph City Overview

Guelph, affectionately known as “The Royal City,” is a vibrant and historic destination located in Southern Ontario. Founded in 1827 by John Galt, Guelph beautifully blends Victorian architecture with a thriving arts and culture scene, and a strong dedication to environmental sustainability. The University of Guelph, a leading institution in agriculture and veterinary medicine, contributes a youthful and intellectual energy to the city. Guelph’s downtown is bustling with unique shops, diverse restaurants, and lively entertainment. Just outside the city center, you’ll find picturesque landscapes with parks, trails, and conservation areas, perfect for outdoor activities. With its welcoming atmosphere, rich history, and progressive spirit, Guelph provides visitors with a unique and enriching experience.

Best Time to Visit Guelph

• Spring (April-May):
  • Pros: Fewer tourists, flowers blooming, comfortable temperatures for outdoor adventures.
  • Cons: Occasional rain, some attractions might have limited hours.
• Summer (June-August):
  • Pros: Warm weather, outdoor festivals and events, lively atmosphere.
  • Cons: Higher accommodation prices, more crowds, potential for humid conditions.
• Fall (September-October):
  • Pros: Breathtaking fall foliage, crisp air, harvest festivals.
  • Cons: Cooler temperatures, potential for rain, some outdoor attractions may close.
• Winter (November-March):
  • Pros: Festive holiday atmosphere, opportunities for winter sports nearby, lower prices on hotels.
  • Cons: Cold weather, snow and ice, limited outdoor activities in the city.

Getting to Guelph & Visa Information

• Flights: The nearest major airport is Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) in Mississauga. From there, you can rent a car, book a shuttle, or use GO Transit to get to Guelph.
• Trains: GO Transit offers train service from Toronto’s Union Station to Guelph Central Station.
• Visa Requirements: Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Check the official Canadian government website for current entry requirements.
• Airport Transfers: Several shuttle companies and taxi services offer airport transfers from Toronto Pearson to Guelph. GO Transit also provides bus service.

Fun Fact About Guelph

Guelph holds the distinction of being one of Canada’s first planned towns. John Galt designed it as the headquarters for the Canada Company, a British land development firm. Galt strategically chose the location because of its position at the junction of several rivers and its potential for water power, setting the stage for Guelph’s growth.

Famous People from Guelph

• John Galt (Founder of Guelph)
• Farley Mowat (Author)
• Jane Goodall (Primatologist – attended the University of Guelph)

Top 10 Guelph Attractions

• University of Guelph Arboretum
  • Description: A large green space with gardens, trails, and natural areas. Perfect for a relaxing walk or exploring diverse plant life.
  • Address: Arboretum Rd, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1
• Guelph Civic Museum
  • Description: Explore Guelph’s history through exhibits and artifacts. Learn about the city’s founding, industrial past, and cultural heritage.
  • Address: 52 Norfolk St, Guelph, ON N1H 3H3
• St. George’s Anglican Church
  • Description: A beautiful example of Gothic Revival architecture, with stunning stained glass windows and a tall spire.
  • Address: 99 Woolwich St, Guelph, ON N1H 5N7
• Riverside Park
  • Description: A scenic park along the Speed River, offering walking trails, picnic spots, and a playground. Great for families and outdoor lovers.
  • Address: 709 Woolwich St, Guelph, ON N1E 5P9
• Guelph Farmers’ Market
  • Description: A vibrant market featuring local produce, baked goods, crafts, and more. Open Saturdays year-round.
  • Address: 2 Gordon St, Guelph, ON N1H 4E6
• The Bookshelf Ebar
  • Description: An independent bookstore with an attached restaurant and bar!
  • Address: 41 Quebec St, Guelph, ON N1H 2T4
• Covered Bridge
  • Description: The only covered bridge in Ontario. A charming piece of history.
  • Address: Wellington County Rd 26, Guelph/Eramosa, ON N0B 2J0
• McCrae House
  • Description: The birthplace of John McCrae, author of “In Flanders Fields”. A poignant historical site.
  • Address: 108 Water St, Guelph, ON N1G 1A7
• Art Gallery of Guelph
  • Description: Explore diverse contemporary and historical art exhibitions.
  • Address: 37 College Ave E, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1
• Royal City Brewing Company
  • Description: Local brewery offering tours and a taproom to sample their craft beers.
  • Address: 33 Allen Rd, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1

Hidden Gems in Guelph

• Sculpture Park at the University of Guelph
  • Description: Discover contemporary sculptures scattered across the University of Guelph campus. A unique art experience.
  • Address: Various locations across the University of Guelph campus
• Goldie Mill Ruins
  • Description: Explore the ruins of a historic grist mill, a glimpse into Guelph’s industrial past. A peaceful spot for a short walk.
  • Address: 75 Cardigan St, Guelph, ON N1H 3Z7
• Lakeside Downtown Guelph
  • Description: Enjoy indoor ice skating during the winter and an outdoor gathering space during the warmer months. A local favorite.
  • Address: 35 Farquhar St, Guelph, ON N1H 3N4

Local Festivals & Events in Guelph

• Hillside Festival (July): A popular music festival showcasing diverse genres and artists.
• Guelph Jazz Festival (September): A celebration of jazz music with performances by local and international musicians.
• Guelph Contemporary Dance Festival (May/June): Experience contemporary dance through performances, workshops, and discussions.
• Guelph Film Festival (November): An annual film festival featuring documentaries, short films, and feature films from around the world.

Day Trips & Nearby Attractions

• Elora Gorge Conservation Area (30 minutes): A stunning gorge with hiking trails, swimming areas, and rock climbing opportunities.
• St. Jacobs (45 minutes): A Mennonite community with a famous farmers’ market and unique craft shops.
• Kitchener-Waterloo (30 minutes): Home to several universities, tech companies, and diverse cultural attractions.
• Stratford (1 hour): Famous for the Stratford Festival, a renowned theatre festival.
• Cambridge (30 minutes): A historic downtown with beautiful architecture and scenic river views.

Photography Spots & Insta-Worthy Places in Guelph

• Downtown Guelph: Capture the charm of Victorian architecture and picturesque streets.
• Riverside Park: Scenic river views and lush greenery create beautiful photo opportunities.
• Covered Bridge: A unique and historic landmark perfect for memorable photos.
• University of Guelph Arboretum: Diverse plant life and peaceful gardens offer stunning backdrops.
• Goldie Mill Ruins: The picturesque ruins of a historic mill provide unique photo opportunities.

Where to Stay in Guelph & Getting Around

Recommended Stay Length

2-3 days

Top Guelph Hotels

Budget-Friendly Hotels

• Norfolk Guest House:
  • Address: 40 Norfolk St, Guelph, ON N1H 3G7
• Western Hotel & Executive Suites:
  • Address: 7 Wyndham St N, Guelph, ON N1H 4E5

Mid-Range Hotels

• Holiday Inn Express & Suites Guelph:
  • Address: 540 Silvercreek Pkwy N, Guelph, ON N1K 1E8
• Hampton Inn & Suites Guelph:
  • Address: 72 Stone Rd W, Guelph, ON N1G 0A3
• Delta Hotels by Marriott Guelph Conference Centre:
  • Address: 50 Stone Rd W, Guelph, ON N1G 0A9

Luxury Hotels

• The Hacienda Sarria:
  • Address: 1254 Victoria Rd N, Kitchener, ON N2B 3E2 (Slightly outside Guelph)

Getting Around Guelph

• Public Transport: Guelph Transit operates bus services throughout the city.
• Taxis: Several taxi companies provide service in Guelph.
• Bikes: Guelph is a bike-friendly city with dedicated bike lanes and trails.
• Walking: The downtown area is easily walkable.

Preparing for Your Guelph Experience

What to Pack for Guelph

• Weather-appropriate clothing: Layers are a good idea, especially during spring and fall.
• Comfortable walking shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking.
• Rain gear: An umbrella or raincoat is essential, especially in spring and fall.
• Sunscreen and hat: Protect yourself from the sun in summer.
• Bug spray: Mosquitoes can be prevalent in the summer months.

Useful Apps for Your Trip

• Google Maps: Navigation and directions within the city.
• Guelph Transit: Access bus schedules and routes easily.
• TripAdvisor: Find restaurant reviews and attraction information.

Local Customs, Safety Tips & Etiquette in Guelph

• Do: Be polite and respectful to locals you encounter.
• Do: Tip service staff (15-20% is customary in Canada).
• Don’t: Litter or damage public property while visiting.
• Don’t: Be overly loud or disruptive in public spaces.
• Scams to avoid: Be cautious of unsolicited offers or deals that seem too good to be true.

Guelph Food, Fun & Finds

Top Guelph Restaurants

• Buon Gusto:
  • Description: Serves authentic Italian cuisine.
  • Address: 39 Wyndham St N, Guelph, ON N1H 4E5
• Borealis Grille & Bar:
  • Description: Focuses on local and seasonal ingredients.
  • Address: 1388 Gordon St, Guelph, ON N1L 1H8

Must-Try Canadian Dishes

• Maple Syrup: A Canadian classic, enjoy it on pancakes or waffles.
• Poutine: French fries, cheese curds, and gravy.
• Butter Tarts: A sweet pastry.
• Beavertails: Deep-fried dough pastries.

Guelph Nightlife & Entertainment

• The Manhattan’s:
  • Description: A popular live music venue and bar.
  • Address:951 Gordon St Unit 101, Guelph, ON N1G 4S1
• DSTRCT:
  • Description: A live music venue and bar.
  • Address: 166 Woolwich St, Guelph, ON N1H 3V8

Where to Buy Souvenirs & Markets in Guelph

• Guelph Farmers’ Market:
  • Description: Find local produce, crafts, and baked goods.
  • Address: 2 Gordon St, Guelph, ON N1H 4E6
• Red Brick Cafe:
  • Description: A local cafe that also sells handmade crafts and gifts.
  • Address: 8 Douglas St, Guelph, ON N1H 2S9