Kitchener-Waterloo is a bustling region in southern Ontario, Canada, known for its technology hub, universities, and vibrant cultural scene. While there’s plenty to do in the region, sometimes it’s nice to explore nearby towns and attractions. Luckily, Kitchener-Waterloo is located near some fantastic day trip destinations that are perfect for a weekend adventure or day trip. Here are some of the best day trips from Kitchener-Waterloo.
- Stratford
Located about an hour’s drive from Kitchener-Waterloo, Stratford is a charming town known for its Shakespearean theatre festival and picturesque scenery. The town is filled with restaurants, cafes, and shops, making it a perfect place to spend the day. Be sure to check out the Stratford Festival, which features world-class theatre productions, or take a stroll through the beautiful gardens at the Stratford Perth Museum.
- Elora
Elora is a small town located about 40 minutes from Kitchener-Waterloo, known for its stunning natural beauty and quaint downtown. Take a stroll along the Elora Gorge, which features towering cliffs and rushing waterfalls, or explore the quaint shops and cafes in the downtown area. Be sure to check out the Elora Quarry, which features a beautiful swimming hole and hiking trails.
- St. Jacobs
Located just a short drive from Kitchener-Waterloo, St. Jacobs is a charming village known for its Mennonite history and culture. Take a horse-drawn carriage tour of the town, explore the quaint shops and boutiques, or sample some of the delicious Mennonite cuisine. Be sure to check out the St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market, which features local produce, artisanal products, and handmade crafts.
- Cambridge
Located just a short drive from Kitchener-Waterloo, Cambridge is a picturesque town known for its beautiful architecture, historic sites, and charming downtown. Take a stroll through the historic Galt neighbourhood, which features beautiful Victorian homes and lovely parks, or explore the Cambridge Sculpture Garden, which features over 100 sculptures by Canadian artists.
- Paris
Located about an hour’s drive from Kitchener-Waterloo, Paris is a small town known for its beautiful natural scenery and quaint downtown. Take a stroll along the Grand River, which features stunning views of the town and surrounding countryside, or explore the shops and boutiques in the downtown area. Be sure to check out the Paris Wincey Mills Co., which features a variety of artisanal products and locally sourced food.
- Guelph
Located just a short drive from Kitchener-Waterloo, Guelph is a charming university town known for its beautiful architecture, historic sites, and vibrant cultural scene. Take a stroll through the historic downtown area, which features beautiful Victorian buildings and lovely parks, or explore the Guelph Arboretum, which features over 400 acres of stunning gardens and natural beauty.
- Niagara-on-the-Lake
Located about 1.5 hours’ drive from Kitchener-Waterloo, Niagara-on-the-Lake is a charming town known for its stunning natural beauty and world-class wineries. Take a stroll through the quaint downtown area, which features beautiful shops, restaurants, and galleries, or explore the wineries in the surrounding countryside. Be sure to check out the Shaw Festival, which features world-class theatre productions.
- Port Dover
Located about 1.5 hours’ drive from Kitchener-Waterloo, Port Dover is a charming town known for its beautiful natural scenery and vibrant cultural scene. Take a stroll along the pier, which features stunning views of Lake Erie and the surrounding countryside, or explore the quaint shops and cafes in the downtown area.