Guelph has an unmistakable identity. From its historic buildings and noteworthy architecture, to its vast array of independent eateries, Guelph is a city to be savoured. Here’s how to spend two days discovering the hidden gems of the The Royal City!
DAY 1
#Guelphites know The Common is a great place to start your day, where you can sit back, relax and sip on your coffee (we’d order their nutmeg latte!).
Once you’re fueled up, walk down Wilson Street to the Guelph Farmers’ Market; this community hub is open year-round and offers farm-fresh fruits and veggies and artisanal products. While on Wilson Street, be sure to take a moment to admire the four murals that adorn the street – they provide the perfect backdrop for some Instagram-worthy photos (#RoyalCityWings).
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Next, wander through the charming boutiques along Quebec Street in downtown Guelph. Stop to browse around The Bookshelf, one of Canada’s oldest independent bookstores and a must-do on Quebec Street.
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All that walking and shopping will make you hungry, so lunch at Atmosphere Cafe+ before venturing out of downtown to have an ‘out of this world’ experience at Ctrl V. They are one of North America’s first virtual reality arcades!
For dinner, head to Sugo on Surrey; one of Guelph’s newest Italian culinary delights. Their menu features fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from local suppliers.
DAY 2
Visit With the Grain to grab some decadently delicious baked goods like scones, muffins, tarts and mores. Then pop across the street to Park Grocery deli and bar. This brand new eatery pays homage to the original grocery store that once occupied the same location.
Head back toward downtown for a tour of the Guelph Civic Museum and pick up a unique souvenir from the Hilltop Shop.
When it come’s to experiencing Guelph’s culinary scene there is no better representation than Miijidaa café + bistro. Miijidaa’s menu is a very modern take on, and mélange of, our northern gastronomic history. They’ve even given a nod to the Vikings and the Portuguese who visited our shores before the early explorers.
