Gather In Guelph Guide 2025 by Guelph Tourism Services

Bin-GO to Guelph

Get ready to Gather in Guelph and play a real-life version of BINGO! Complete the activities and explore all Guelph has to offer – don’t forget to share your photos with us using the #GatherInGuelph hashtag.

Stroll the Art Gallery’s Sculpture Park

Snap a #Guelphie

Enjoy live music

Go to a festival

Find Locomotive 6167

Tour the Honeybee Research Centre

Treat yourself at Old Quebec Street Shoppes

Get a coffee downtown

Ride the Riverside Park carousel

Explore Guelph Lake Conservation Area

Delve into history at the Guelph Civic Museum

Shop local at the Guelph Farmers’ Market

Feast at a restaurant

Sip a craft brew at the local pub

Find your zen in the Arboretum’s zen garden

Get comfy at a local hotel

Look up at the Basilica of Our Lady Immaculate

Go for gold with the Guelph Gryphons

Cheer for the Guelph Storm & the Guelph Royals

Reflect at The McCrae House

Splash or skate in Market Square

Stroll around on a walking tour

Hike a trail and explore our rivers

Cross the Covered Bridge

Land Acknowledgement

As we gather, let us take time to reflect on our privilege to live and work in Guelph, but also what it means to visit here. This is a city built over rich Indigenous histories. We are guests here, and we should reflect upon the responsibility to care for this land, the people who live here today, the generations to come, and how we invite others to this land as well. If our actions today can move us towards reconciliation, we should take pause and make those decisions with intention and gratitude.

This place we call Guelph has served as traditional lands and a place of refuge for many peoples over time, but more specifically the Attiwonderonk, and the Haudenosaunee. This land is held as the treaty lands and territory with the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation. Guelph also lies directly adjacent to the Haldimand Tract and is part of a longestablished traditional hunting ground for the Six Nations of the Grand River. Many First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples who have come from across Turtle Island call Guelph home today.

Gather Here

Connection is our cultural heartbeat. There’s a vibe here.

Experience our storied heritage, award-winning food & drink scene, abundant natural wonders, and vibrant downtown – all are ready for your shared adventures.

Immerse yourself in the culture, where small-town charm meets a strong community vibe.

Savour the local flavors with farm-to-table restaurants, craft breweries, and cozy cafes.

Explore nature by strolling through lush parks and scenic river trails.

Embrace active living with outdoor adventures, from cycling to kayaking.

Experience the excitement at a local festival, event, and more.

Gather Here and create a deeper connection to Guelph.

Dive into the lively downtown, filled with arts, music, and unique shops.

Did you know?

You can plan your trip to Guelph online at gatheringuelph.com

More Information

Throughout this guide you will find QR codes linking you to more information.

How to use QR codes:

Open Tuesday - Sunday, 10am - 5pm For

Open the camera app on your mobile device and hold it over the code to scan. Once your device recognizes the QR code, a notification may pop up. Tap the notification to open the website link.

Weekend in Guelph

Get ready to create memories and Gather in Guelph for a truly unforgettable weekend!

Friday

Kick off the night at Wellington Brewery – one of Canada’s oldest microbreweries. Grab a bite to eat in the Welly Tap Room and try one of their award-winning beers. Afterward, embrace your creative side and learn how to unleash your hidden artistry at Dragonfly Art Studio. Check their calendar for open studio times and events.

Saturday

Fuel up for a day of exploration at Sunny Morning – a perfect spot for a traditional and hearty breakfast. Head to the Guelph Farmers’ Market to explore the local produce and unique products.

While you’re downtown, explore the charming shops. Boutiques like Feather and Foe offer stylish clothing, and The Bookshelf is a must-visit for book lovers.

Recharge at Einstein’s Cafe with a delightful home-cooked meal made fresh in house. Spend the afternoon trying to escape a themed

puzzle room at Fantescapes Escape Rooms. After all the excitement, indulge in a treat from Sweet! Ice Cream, Candy & Chocolate. As the evening approaches, explore the University of Guelph Arboretum. With its beautiful gardens and walking trails, it’s a nature lover’s paradise. Gear up for a culinary experience where tradition meets charm at Shakespeare Arms. Embark on a dining experience worthy of nobility.

Sunday

Begin your day with a delicious all-you-can-enjoy brunch at Bardō Guelph. Afterward, check out the Covered Bridge, a perfect spot to snap a #Guelphie and go for a stroll. Grab a coffee and snack at Found Coffee before walking up to the the national historic site, Basilica of Our Lady Immaculate. Soak in the beauty and history before rounding out your weekend in Guelph.

Personalize your weekend in Guelph using the Plan Your Trip itinerary builder!

Art Gallery of Guelph

The Art Gallery of Guelph combines contemporary art and cultural exhibits that ignite curiosity and spark new ideas. Nestled in a serene environment, it’s not just an art gallery but a sanctuary for artistic exploration and appreciation. The adjacent Sculpture Park adds another dimension, inviting visitors to stroll among thoughtprovoking works under the open sky. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply looking for an inspiring day out, the gallery’s engaging programs, exhibitions, and Gallery Shop provide an immersive experience that resonates

with all ages. Plan your visit and be captivated by the creative expressions waiting to be discovered.

Did you know?

The Begging Bear, posed with one inviting arm outstretched, is an artistic metaphor for our native animals’ need for protection and our encroachment on the environment.

artgalleryofguelph.ca

Guelph Museums

Did you know?

Lieutenant-Colonel John McCrae began writing poetry while a student at the Guelph Collegiate Institute and is the author of the famous poem, In Flanders Fields

guelphmuseums.ca

Walk through time at Guelph Museums! Made up of three different sites, Guelph Museums have something to pique everyone’s interest. Tour the Guelph Civic Museum* and take in all the unique exhibitions that celebrate local stories and enjoy some playtime at the Families Gallery! Explore and reflect at McCrae House while learning about Canada’s most celebrated Canadian war poet. Looking for a quick stop? Visit the museum’s largest artifact, Locomotive 6167 and its open-air exhibit. Once you’re done, treat yourself to a gift at the Hilltop Shop at the Guelph Civic Museum where you’ll find an assortment of locally made treasures!

Guelph Civic Museum 52 Norfolk St. McCrae House 108 Water St. Locomotive 6167

John Galt Park

*Check guelphmuseums.ca for construction disruptions as new exhibitions are installed in 2025.

Time to Dine

Guelph is a true food lover’s oasis with a huge selection of independent eateries, five Feast On® certified restaurants, and talented chefs who creatively use local ingredients to craft mouthwatering dishes. Get ready to indulge in a delectable meal and sample the local flavors that will leave you wanting more!

Find your new favourite spot:

Atmosphere Cafe + Etc. atmospherecafe.squarespace.com

24 Carden St

Baker Street Station bakerstreetstation.ca

76 Baker St

Bar Mason barmasonrestaurant.ca

50 Stone Rd W

Buon Gusto buongusto.ca

69 Wyndham St N

Café Greek Garden

cafegreekgarden.ca

497 York Rd

Sip, Sip, Hooray

Guelph is the perfect place to say “cheers”! From breweries to roasters and everything in between, there’s always a beverage to sip. Enjoy the unique blends and artistry that’s poured into every glass and savour the tapestry in every flavour. Here’s to HOP-iness: Immerse yourself in Guelph’s exceptional beer culture by visiting one of our six vibrant microbreweries.

Celebrate gin-credible times: Discover Guelph’s spirit scene by visiting one of the two renowned distilleries.

To apple-y ever after: Relish the unique flavors at Revel Cider, Guelph’s local gem for craft cider and wine enthusiasts.

Java joy in local roasts: Enjoy the rich, aromatic blends at Guelph’s beloved coffee shops and roasteries.

Cheers to local crafts: The artistry extends to even more varieties, from refreshing hibiscus drinks and exquisite wines to delightful lemonades and teas.

Guelph Outdoors

With a long agricultural history, it is no surprise that Guelph is a nature lover’s paradise. Guelph is home to over 70 km of trails and paths that connect into regional networks and capture the hearts of visitors and Guelphites alike. Grab your friends (human or animal), or just yourself and enjoy a break surrounded by tall trees and lush meadows.

Want a challenge while enjoying the great outdoors? Play our Guelph Trail Scavenger Hunt!

Laura Baily

Memorial Trail

Face in a tree

Eramosa

River Trail

Covered Bridge Silvercreek Trail Garbasaurus

Hanlon Creek Trail and Conservation Area Turtles

University of Guelph

Arboretum Trails

Woodpecker tree holes

Guelph Lake Trail

Guelph Lake Dam

Downtown Trail

Speed Skating Arena

Facade Ruin

Watson Creek Trails

Canadian Geese

Starkey Hill Chickadees

Smith Property

Loop Hiking Trail

Look Out Point

Explore the trails (and city) on two wheels! Rent a bike at Flow State Bike Co. and shred the trails!

Did you know?

Did you know, the Black-capped Chickadee is Guelph’s official bird!

2025 Events

GAIN Fest

April 25-27

Enjoy live performances from bands, musicians, DJs, and artists across Downtown Guelph’s coolest venues, cafés, bars, and eateries. Celebrate the arts in a fun, inviting atmosphere. gainmedia.ca/gainfest2025

Downtown Guelph Exotic Car Show

June 1

The Downtown Guelph Exotic Car Show features exotic and hyper cars, along with live music and great prizes. princeadventures.com

Art on the Street

June 21

Artists take over Quebec Street to showcase their works in temporary, open-air studios. Connect with diverse artists and take high-quality original art home. guelpharts.ca

The GOOD Games

June 27-29

Guelph Dance Festival

May 30-June 1

Downtown Guelph becomes a dance haven, offering an unforgettable experience in inspiring spaces. Enjoy compelling performances, and engaging workshops from local and national artists. guelphdance.ca

Canada’s biggest festival of sport, The GOOD Games is more than just a sports festival; it’s a movement redefining what it means to be an athlete and a community. thegood.games

Hillside

July 18-20

A three-day, multistage event with a broad artistic vision that emphasizes diversity of culture, musical heritage, style, age, geography and influence. hillsidefestival.ca

Sparkles in the Park

December 15-31

Guelph Jazz Festival

September 12-14

Live music that reflects the world in which we live and is accessible to the broadest audience through concerts, educational initiatives, and free programs. guelphjazzfestival.com

Fair November (50th Anniversary)

November 13-16

The very best of Canadian designers and artisans showcase their hand-crafted merchandise at the University of Guelph. fairnovember.ca

Spirit of the Season

December 5-7 & December 12-14

A full lineup of events, entertainment, and seasonal magic will bring the downtown core to life. spiritoftheseasonguelph.com

Experience festive light displays as you walk through Guelph’s Riverside Park and enjoy a holiday carousel ride. sparklesinthepark.ca

Hillside Inside

January 30-February 1, 2026

A winter celebration of music and community in the downtown core! hillsidefestival.ca

Find more events: Event dates are subject to change.

Tour Guelph

Taste Detours: Immerse yourself in the culinary pleasures of Guelph with Taste Detours. This unique experience introduces you to the city’s food establishments, the individuals driving them, and its profound agricultural heritage. Indulge in Guelph’s narratives through a delightful journey of food and drink. tastedetours.ca

Historical Walking Tours: Participate in one of the six distinct walking tours organized by the Guelph Arts Council. These tours provide exclusive chances to delve into Guelph’s heritage, all while admiring the city’s captivating architectural and natural highlights. guelpharts.ca/programs/walking-tours

Woodlawn Memorial Park: Explore a range of self-guided tours that lead you through the 80 acres of Woodlawn Memorial Park, unraveling its 160-year-old history, remarkable art, and noteworthy people laid to rest.

woodlawnmemorialpark.ca

University of Guelph Historical Walking Tour: Discover the University of Guelph’s rich history while touring prominent buildings named after individuals who have made indispensable contributions to the university’s development.

uoguelph.ca/historicaltour

Ghostly Guelph

Step into the eerie and mysterious side of Guelph on a walking tour uncovering Guelphs’ ghostly past. Discover spine-chilling stories of restless spirits and haunted landmarks as you explore the hidden corners and historic streets where the past lingers in the shadows. Join the many who have dared to explore Guelph’s haunted side on a walking tour through Guelphs’ past.

Urbex Tours: Embark on guided walking tours, adventures, and paranormal investigations throughout Guelph, exploring notable sites such as the abandoned Guelph Correctional Centre Grounds and concealed burial sites in Downtown Guelph. Featured tours include the Hidden Burial Grounds Tour, Haunted Pub Crawl©, Spirit Crawl©, and Guided Paranormal Investigations.

guelphurbex.com

Ghost Walk of Guelph: Engage in a spine-chilling journey into Guelph’s haunted history on the Ghost Walk of Guelph. This hour-long walking tour delves into the haunted past...and present. Goosebumps possible. ghostwalkofguelph.com

Did you know?

You can read Bonnie Durtnall’s books Haunted Guelph and Guelph Hauntings.

Perfect Day in Downtown Guelph

Discover the heart of Guelph, where you can eat to your heart’s content, play at unique entertainment venues, live the local culture, and shop at charming boutiques.

Good Morning Guelph

Slow down and connect at KANOO Coffee with a specialty coffee or tea paired with a savoury breakfast or bakery item. Explore the history in downtown including the national landmark, Basilica of Our Lady Immaculate, and the heritage site, Petrie Building. Leap into Guelph’s history at the Guelph Civic Museum.

Daytime Delights

Dive into a delectable lunch at Miijidaa Café + Bistro, where you can experience a modern take on northern gastronomy. Discover many local shops including hidden gem, Secret Garden Boutique. This is a plant lover’s paradise offering a unique selection of rare exotic plants and indoor tropics, many of which are grown in-house. Afterward, lace up your walking shoes and hit the Downtown Trail, taking in the scenic beauty and charming atmosphere of Guelph as you stroll along this picturesque path.

Evening Excursions

Wrap up your day with an entertaining evening at The Round Table Board Game Café. Enjoy a delicious dinner while diving into a world of games with an extensive menu and a vast collection of board games and other activities including axe/ knife throwing, and archery. It’s the perfect place to unwind, have fun, and make memories with friends or family.

Shop Like a Local

Bring a piece of Guelph home with you to cherish forever. Guelph is home to many local shops that are like no other. From cute boutique clothing to unique artisanal goods and so much more in between, you’ll certainly find the perfect keepsake!

Grab a refreshing hop water from Fixed Gear Brewing or Wellington Brewery.

Pick up freshly roasted coffee beans from Lost Aviator or Planet Bean.

Find a Guelph inspired gift in the Hilltop Shop at the Guelph Civic Museum.

Satisfy your sweet tooth at the University of Guelph Honey Bee Research Centre.

downtownguelph.com

Browse all things handmade at Benjamin’s Bodega and the Guelph Artisans Store.

Score something delicious from Tomme Cheese.

Discover local produce and more at the Guelph Farmers’ Market.

guelphshops.ca

Bravo and Beyond

Get ready to be swept off your feet by Guelph’s performing arts scene! Whether you’re a fan of live music, captivating theatre, or enchanting storytelling, Guelph has something for all. With a rich tapestry of local talent and lively venues, Guelph’s artistic heartbeat is sure to leave you inspired and entertained.

Gain Media gainmedia.ca

Guelph Symphony Orchestra guelphsymphony.com

Royal City Musical Productions Inc. rcmpi.ca

Guelph Little Theatre guelphlittletheatre.com

River Run Centre riverrun.ca

Silence silencesounds.ca

Guelph Guild of Storytellers guelphstorytellers.com

Music Lives musiclives.ca

Guelph Arts Council guelpharts.ca

Creative Craze

There’s a creative craze in Guelph that’s ready to welcome you to discover the colourful artistic scene. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter, a curious beginner, or looking for a fun family activity, there’s a variety of welcoming spaces to explore your artistic side. Step into these inspiring local spots and let your imagination run wild.

Play with Clay playwithclayguelph.com

The Children’s Art Factory thechildrensartfactory.com

Dots to Mindfulness roxanabahrami.com

Dragonfly Art Studio dragonflyartstudio.ca

Crock A Doodle Guelph crockadoodle.com/guelph-south Lucent Glass lucentglassandart.com

Guelph School of Art at Wyndham Art Supplies wyndhamartsupplies.com

Guelph Pride

Guelph Pride is dedicated to celebrating diversity, education, and visibility within the 2SLGBTQI+ communities and beyond, advocating for accessibility and inclusivity through selfreflection, creativity, and a deep understanding of radical histories. Committed to fostering belonging, safety, culture, and comfort for 2SLGBTQI+ individuals in Guelph and beyond, Guelph Pride aims to shape the future by amplifying diverse voices, empowering emerging leaders, and nurturing connections to form a thriving community in Guelph. Everyone is warmly invited to join the June and February events where all can be who they are and love who they choose, freely and without fear. All are welcome.

Summer Pride

June 5th to 14th

Featuring drag performances, workshops, and the culminating in the Pride in the Park event, everyone is invited to join in celebrating Pride Month in Guelph!

Winter Pride

February 5th to 14th 2026

A collaborative festival organized by various 2SLGBTQI+ organizations and University of Guelph groups, celebrating creativity, resiliency, and diverse kinds of love.

Stay Here

After a full day experiencing all that Guelph and Wellington County have to offer, settle into a comfortable bed at an inviting hotel or guest house.

Annex Garden Bed & Breakfast and Suites annexgarden.com

Comfort Inn Guelph choicehotels.com

Delta Hotels Guelph Conference Centre deltaguelph.ca

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Guelph marriott.com

Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Guelph hilton.com

Norfolk Guest House norfolkguesthouse.ca

Spark by Hilton Guelph hilton.com

Staybridge Suites Guelph, an IHG Hotel staybridge.com

Western Hotel & Executive Suites

westernhotelsuites.com

University of Guelph Summer Accommodation housing.uoguelph.ca/ summerhostel

Erin Hill Acres erinhillacres.farm

Palmerston Railway Heritage Museum

palmerstonrailwaymuseum.ca

Drayton Festival Theatre draytonentertainment.com/ theatres/drayton-festival-theatre

Harmony Meadows Alpaca harmonymeadowsalpaca.ca

Wellington County Museum and Archives wcma.wellington.ca

Cheer for the Home Team

Experience the electrifying entertainment that Guelph’s home sports teams will bring to the rink, field, or track. There’s plenty of action to catch so grab your tickets, wear the team colors, and cheer for the home team. Let’s go, Guelph!

Ontario Hockey League: Guelph Storm

chl.ca/ohl-storm

Intercounty Baseball League: Guelph Royals guelphroyals.com

League1 Ontario: Guelph United FC guelphunitedfc.ca

University of Guelph Athletics: Guelph Gryphons gryphons.ca/index.aspx

Royal City Roller Derby royalcityrollerderby.com

Did you know?

The 2024 Grey Cup champions, Toronto Argonauts, will play a preseason game at the University of Guelph on Friday May 30th

Free To-Do’s

There’s no shortage of economical ways to enjoy the city’s natural beauty, history, and cultural charm. Check out these budget-friendly exploration ideas on your next visit:

Take a refreshing splash in the Market Square wading pool or glide across the ice rink.

Dive into adventure with over 70 km of trails and paths waiting to be explored.

Cycle, play disc golf, hit the tennis courts, have a picnic, or just relax at one of Guelph’s parks.

Marvel at global creativity and groundbreaking ideas at the Art Gallery of Guelph and Sculpture Park, a top-notch public art space.

Enjoy the Guelph Farmers’ Market filled with farm-fresh food, artisanal products, crafts, and delightful homemade goods.

Admire the grandeur of the national landmark, Basilica of Our Lady Immaculate.

Embark on a self-guided tour and uncover the city’s hidden gems.

Explore every corner of the University of Guelph Arboretum.

Hop on the Guelph.Beer Bus, a shuttle bus that explores Guelph’s local breweries on select Saturdays.

Walk across the Covered Bridge, one of Ontario’s last remaining covered bridges.

Instagrammable Guelph

Looking for an Instagram worthy photo backdrop? Guelph’s charming heritage buildings and picturesque landscapes create the perfect setting for your next post. Grab your camera and snap your #Guelphie!