Gather In Guelph Guide 2026 by Guelph Tourism Services

IN 2026 Guide

WELCOME

Welcome to Guelph – we’re so glad you’re here! Whether you’re visiting to experience our farm to table local cuisine, wander down a trail or through downtown, enjoy the vitality of a music festival, or see where the day takes you, Guelph has a contagious vibe and incredible energy and it’s best enjoyed together. So check it out, gather in Guelph, and create some memories.

Plan your trip

Connect with us

For visitor information, you can reach us by phone or email. Open Monday to Friday 8:30am - 4pm Toll-free 1-800-334-4519 info@gatheringuelph.com Find us online GatherInGuelph.com @GatherInGuelph

As per the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, the Gather in Guelph Guide is available in an accessible format by contacting us at 519-822-1260 extension 2808. TTY 519-826-9771.

Guelph Tourism Ambassadors

Looking for local tips on hidden gems and a map to guide your way?

Our Tourism Ambassadors are ready to help! Each location listed below has team members trained to answer your questions, share local tips, and help you make the most of your time in Guelph. You’ll also find a Visitor Information Kiosk at each spot and a dedicated stand stocked with brochures, guides, and maps to help you explore with confidence.

Find a visitor information kiosk:

• Guelph Civic Museum (52 Norfolk St.)

• Borealis Grille & Bar (1388 Gordon St.)

• Fixed Gear Brewing Co. Canteen (5 Edinburgh Rd. S.)

• Fixed Gear Brewing Co. Tasting Room (20 Alma St. S.)

• KANOO Coffee (82 Yarmouth St.)

• Market Fresh (10 Paisley St.)

• Miijidaa Café + Bistro (37 Quebec St.)

• Park Eatery (294 Woolwich St.)

• Royal City Brewing Company (199 Victoria Rd. S.)

• Sleeman Breweries (551 Clair Rd. W.)

• Smitten Apparel (259 Grange Rd.)

• Spring Mill Distillery (43 Arthur St. S.)

• The Wooly Pub (176 Woolwich. St.)

• Wellington Brewery (950 Woodlawn Rd. W.)

LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

As we gather, let us take time to reflect on our privilege to be in Guelph. 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 long- established 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.

Riverside Park

WHAT’S INSIDE

Throughout this guide, you’ll find QR codes that link to maps, event details, and more. Just open your phone’s camera, point it at the code, and tap the link that pops up!

four seasons of Sights, Bites and Delights & Save the dates for these exciting Guelph Events

HOW TO SPEND

a Weekend in Guelph

Gather in Guelph for a weekend full of flavour, creativity, and connection. Explore local bites, scenic spots, and hidden gems that make this city special.

Friday Night

Kick off your Guelph adventure with dinner at The Ward Bar at Spring Mill Distillery. Pre-book a distillery tour and feel what it’s like to step back in time, beginning with a restored mill that captures the enduring spirit of the Sleeman family.

Saturday

Fuel your morning with a coffee and breakfast at Red Brick Café, then stroll through the lively Guelph Farmers’ Market to meet local vendors and sample fresh finds. Grab lunch at Atmosphere Cafe + etc., then spend the afternoon exploring some of Guelph’s

Spring Mill Distillery

Red Brick Café

Guelph Farmers’ Market

Atmosphere Cafe + etc

landmarks, starting with the stunning Basilica of Our Lady Immaculate. Learn about Guelph’s history at the Guelph Civic Museum and visit the birthplace of John McCrae, doctor, soldier and author of “In Flanders Fields” at the McCrae House. Later on, stop by The Grotto’s coffee bar for a pre-climb pick-me-up, then tackle a few routes on the climbing walls. When you’re ready to refuel, take just a few steps next door to Royal City Brewing for dinner and a well-earned pint.

Sunday

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Uptown Grill, a local favourite to fuel up for a morning outdoors. Then head to Riverside Park, one of Guelph’s most loved green spaces. Wander the scenic trails, check out the disc golf course, and don’t miss the accessible playground or the charming carousel. It’s the perfect spot to slow down and soak up the weekend vibes. For lunch, enjoy wood-fired pizza and Italian classics at Buon Gusto, then wrap up your getaway with some relaxed shopping along Quebec Street, where local boutiques and unique finds make for the perfect souvenir stop.

Basilica of Our Lady Immaculate

Riverside Park

McCrae House

@ieunesia

RIDE, REST, AND REPEAT

Exploring Guelph By Bike

Discover Guelph on two wheels! Whether you’re cruising through scenic trails or pedalling through historic neighbourhoods, biking is the perfect way to experience the city’s charm. After a day of exploring, take time to relax and refuel at the amazing local businesses below. Your next unforgettable ride starts here!

Visit an Ontario by Bike certified business today:

Bardo Guelph

Bar Mason

Cox Creek Cellars

Delta Hotels by Marriott Guelph Conference Centre

Fixed Gear Brewing Co.

Flow State Bike Co

Grounded Getaway

Royal City Brewing Company

Sleeman Retail Store and Taproom

Speed River Bicycle

Staybridge Suites Guelph

Get into your Flow State

Rent a bike from Flow State Bike Co. and feel that “in the zone” flow where you’re totally focused, senses are heightened, and chatter is quieted. Pedal straight from the friendly boutique bike shop along Guelph’s river paths, mixed-use trails, and leafy parks; the shop provides bikes, gear, and a welcoming meeting place to get you moving. Everyone’s invited! Whether you’re a beginner, family, or an experienced rider, Flow State is ready to welcome you. Flow State is voted a top 10 bike shop in Canada by Canadian Cycling Magazine, so you’ll be in great hands for a day of easy adventuring and joyful exploration.

Rent a bike today:

ACCOMMODATION

GAME NIGHT IN GUELPH

Feel the buzz. Guelph turns every match into a hometown celebration with energy, team colours, and an unmistakable local spirit. Whether you’re here in the winter, spring, summer or fall, Guelph is host and home to fan favourites like hockey, baseball, soccer, varsity pride, or even roller derby, there’s a game night here with your name on it!

The home teams:

Guelph Storm

Guelph Royals

Guelph United FC

University of Guelph Gryphons

Guelph Roller Derby

Game Day Checklist:

Wear the team colours

Try a stadium snack

Learn a chant and cheer loud

Capture the moments and tag @GatherInGuelph

Give a high five (after a big goal)

Extend the fun at a local restaurant

Guelph Royals

Guelph Storm

GOLF

Tee off in Guelph! From crisp morning rounds to golden hour finishes, these courses welcome players of every level. Play the opening drive, set up for the perfect approach, and feel the thrill when the ball finds the cup and your friends erupt in cheers, because great golf moments happen here.

Where to play:

Ariss Valley Golf and Country Club

The Guelph Country Club

Springfield Golf & Country Club

Guelph Lakes Golf & Country Club

Victoria Park East Golf Club

Victoria Park Valley Golf Club

Don’t let weather or season stop you, try one of Guelph’s indoor golf simulators for year-round play and practice:

The Golf House & Sports Bar

Next Golf Guelph

DBLCRS Sim Lounge

TARGET Indoor Golf

SPRING: Sights,

Bites, and Delights

Sights: Walk along Cherry Blossom Lane on South Ring Road E at the University of Guelph this spring and discover a breathtaking canopy of blossoms.

tySoda Girls

Bites: Sip sparkling creations in the fresh air at Dirty Soda Girls then savour Sinalove’s vibrant Mexican flavours, perfect for fresh spring afternoons.

Delights: Wander through The Arboretum to see nature come alive.

The Arbour

April 24-26

April 25

May 29

Gain Fest

facebook.com/gainmusicfest/

Doors Open guelph.ca/living/arts-and-culture/doors-open-guelph/

Toronto Argonauts Preseason Game at the University of Guelph argonauts.ca/schedule/2026/

June 5-7

June 5-14

June 6

June 6-7 June 12-14

June 19-20

June 20

Guelph Dance Fest guelphdance.ca

Summer Pride guelphpride.com/summer-pride

Special Saturday at Aberfoyle Antique Market aberfoyleantiquemarket.com/saturday-special-shows/

Guelph Potters Market guelphpottersmarket.com

Guelph and District Multicultural Festival gdmf.ca

Junction Craft Beer Festival fixedgearbrewing.com

Art on the Street guelpharts.ca/programs/art-on-the-street/

SUMMER: Sights, Bites,

and Delights

Sights: Stroll across Guelph’s Covered Bridge this summer and take in the serene river view that invites quiet reflection and timeless charm.

Bites: Cool off with a refreshing hibiscus lemonade from Laza Food & Beverages then linger over high tea or a scoop of ice cream at The Boathouse.

Speed River Pad

Delights: Row along the River with Speed River Paddle and let the gentle current carry your laughter downstream.

June 21

June 26-28

National Celebration of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Guelph.ca/ National-Celebration

Hillside Festival hillsidefestival.ca July 17-19 The Good Games thegood.games/guelph

Canada Day sonicunyon.com/events July 1 The Ontario Pirate Festival thepiratefestival.com July 31Aug 3 August 6-9 August 21-23 Sept 10-13

Guelph Fringe Festival guelphfringe.ca

Guelph Ribfest ribfestguelph.com

Eden Mills Writer’s Festival edenmillswritersfestival.ca

Guelph Jazz Festival guelphjazzfestival.com Sept 11-13 Downtown Vintage Market downtownguelph.com Sept 11

FALL: Sights, Bites, and Delights

Sights: Take a peaceful walk through Preservation Park and soak in the dazzling display of autumn colours.

Bites: Raise a craft cocktail at Standing Room Only, Canada’s smallest bar, then cozy up to comfort classics and a warm, welcoming atmosphere at The Fat Duck.

Standing R mOnl y

Delights: Visit Strom’s Farm’s pumpkin patch and celebrate the simple joys of harvest time.

Strom ’ s Fa

WINTER: Sights, Bites, and Delights

ilica of Our Lady macul a t e

Sights: Gaze upon the Basilica of Our Lady Immaculate and admire its majestic silhouette framed by crisp snow and serene seasonal beauty.

Bites: Warm up with a delicious and steaming cup of hot cocoa from Eric the Baker, then settle into Bardo Guelph for comforting fare that melts away the cold.

Market Square

Delights: Skate in Market Square and glide through a winter wonderland. No skates? Don’t worry, Source for Sports across the street has you covered with rentals!

Eric the Baker

Old Quebec Street Mall

GUELPH.BEER BUS

In Guelph, beer isn’t just brewed, it’s shared. Five local breweries have teamed up to create the awardwinning Guelph.Beer Bus, a free shuttle that connects their taprooms on one Saturday a month from April to November. It’s more than a ride - it’s a celebration of community, collaboration, and craft. Each stop offers a unique flavour of Guelph, whether you’re chasing live music, pet-friendly patios, or the perfect pint, you’ll find it here.

2026 Dates & Themes:

April 18 Ugly Sweater Day

May 23 80s

June 13 Dress Like Dad

July 11 Tropical Luau

August 22 Summer Camp

September 19 Oktoberfest

October 17 Halloween

November 14 Guelph

Raise

FLAVOUR FIRST

Guelph is a city where flavour takes centre stage, inviting food lovers to indulge in a culinary adventure that’s as bold as it is thoughtful. Independent eateries thrive here, serving dishes that are plentiful, flavourful, and crafted with fresh local ingredients. From the first sip to the last bite, Guelph’s food scene promises an experience that makes every visit unforgettable.

Don’t miss these five foodie delights:

Baker Street Station

Step through the doors and you’ll find yourself in a lively yet refined pub where craft brews flow and familiar comfort foods are reimagined with creative flair, inviting you to linger longer than you planned.

Bar Mason

Tucked inside the Delta Guelph Hotel, Bar Mason feels like a hidden gem where wood-fired pizzas and elevated home-style classics are made from local, sustainable ingredients, creating a chic dining experience you’ll be glad you didn’t miss.

Centurian Coffee

From the moment the aroma greets you, every sip feels like a journey. The beans are carefully chosen, roasted to perfection, and brewed into cups that transform coffee into an artful experience.

Watch Italian chefs at work with their custom Malagutti oven, blending tradition, skill, and the freshest ingredients into pizzas so authentic and irresistible you’ll already be planning your next visit.

Na-ha Thai

Here, the vibrant spices, herbs, and regional flavors of Thailand come alive in dishes crafted by Thai chefs, each plate a harmonious story of authenticity that welcomes you to taste the soul of their cuisine.

La Cucina Pizzeria

THE CRAFTY CIRCUIT

Looking to roll up your sleeves and dive into creativity? Guelph is home to a thriving arts community where visitors can learn, play, and make something beautiful. Find a workshop to unleash your creative spirit!

Crock A Doodle

Pottery Painting crockadoodle.com

Dragonfly Art Studio

Painting & Mixed Media dragonflyartstudio.ca

Lucent Glass

Stained Glass & Glass Fusing lucentglassandart.com

Otherwise Studios

Printmaking & Screenprinting otherwisestudios.com

Play with Clay

Pottery Painting & Clay Building playwithclayguelph.com

The Wheel Works

Pottery Wheel & Ceramics thewheelworks.ca

Play with Clay Lucent Glass

Play with Clay

Lucent Glass

GUELPH TOURS

Basilica Tours

Select dates by appointment

Marvel at stained glass, grand architecture and centuries of community history. basilicaofourlady.com

Ghost Walk of Guelph

Select dates and private bookings

Go on an eerie evening stroll through downtown streets under lantern lights –goosebumps possible! ghostwalkofguelph.com

Guelph Urbex Walking Tours

Year-round and private bookings

Step into Guelph’s secret past with adventurous walking tours that explore abandoned sites, bootlegging history, and quirky local legends. guelphurbex.com

Historical Walking Tours by the Guelph Arts Council

Select dates (April - October)

Join lively, art-infused walks that connect Guelph’s creative scene with its historical streetscapes. guelpharts.ca

Guelph Urbex Walking Tours

University of Guelph

Taste Detours

Year-round and private bookings

Savour Guelph through guided food-and-drink walks that pair local stories with tastings from bakeries, breweries, and hidden culinary gems. tastedetours.ca

University of Guelph

Historical Tour

Self-guided

Explore the campus at your own pace with a richly layered route that highlights landmark buildings, stories, and scenic spots.

uoguelph.ca

Woodlawn Memorial Park Tours

Self-guided Wander the 80-acre cemetery where public art, memorials and notable graves tell moving stories of the city.

woodlawnmemorialpark.ca

FAMILY FUN

Looking for ways to keep the whole family entertained? Guelph is packed with playful adventures, hands-on learning, and sweet treats that make every visit memorable.

Riverside Park: A local favourite with something for everyone. Kids can climb, slide, and swing at the incredible playground, or even ride the charming antique carousel for nostalgic spin through the park.

Guelph Civic Museum: Step into history at The Royal City Families Gallery. this is an interactive space designed for all ages, where the whole family can explore Guelph’s story and its place in the wider world.

Funvilla: A vibrant indoor playground bursting with adventure. From climbing structures to obstacle courses, it’s the perfect spot for kids of all ages to burn off energy while having a blast.

The Arboretum: Escape into nature with trails, gardens, and family-friendly workshops. It’s a peaceful retreat where kids can explore the outdoors and parents can enjoy a breath of fresh air.

Children’s Art Factory: Where art meets play! This creative hub invites kids to experiment, imagine, and make masterpieces in a space designed to spark curiosity and joy.

Bonus: Grab a treat! Check out Chocolats Favoris for a specialty ice cream cone or head downtown to Sweet! to find your one-of-a-kind candies from around the world.

Riverside Park

ESCAPE COUPLE’S

Spark some romance and enjoy quality time with your partner. Guelph is the perfect spot for a date night out! Whether you’re looking to relax, seek adventure, or share a new experience, there’s something for every couple.

The Wellness enthusiasts: Step into serenity at Nature’s Salt Cave, then savour a delicious meal at The Fork on York.

The Thrill-Seekers: Challenge yourselves with a climb at The Grotto, then unwind next door with craft brews at Royal City Brewing

The Game Night Duo: Head to The Roundtable for board games, activities, and dinner all in one spot.

The Cocktail Lovers: Tour Spring Mill Distillery and finish with a delicious dinner at The Ward Bar right on site.

The Show-Goers: Catch a performance at the River Run Centre, then dine nearby at the warm and welcoming Miijidaa Café + Bistro

With so much to explore, why not extend your stay in Guelph with a hotel getaway? Turn your date night into a romantic weekend escape and enjoy everythig the city has to offer.