6 interesting day-trips to take from Kitchener-Waterloo

Kitchener-Waterloo is ideally situated for taking day-trips to different parts of Southern Ontario. Our proximity to quaint towns, scenic routes and culinary surprises makes it easy to open a map, point a finger on a spot, and get behind the wheel and drive. With such an abundance of charming towns nearby, it can be hard to decide where to start, but we've done the hard work for you and rounded up six beautiful day-trip destinations near Kitchener-Waterloo, all of which promise a memorable time.

Each community offers its own unique attractions and ambiance, making them perfect destinations for a day trip from Kitchener-Waterloo. Whether you're a nature lover, a foodie, or a culture enthusiast, there's a nearby locale waiting to be explored.

Read on for six interesting communities to consider exploring on your next road trip, and enjoy the drive and the discoveries.

Stratford

Route: While there are several side roads you could take, Highway 8 is the most direct route. It will send you through the village of Shakespeare where you'll enjoy plenty of pastoral landscapes and charming farmsteads along the way.

Local Points of Interest:

• Stratford Festival: Catch a world-class theatre production in this culturally vibrant town and consider staying the night at one of the several boutique inns. Wendy and Peter Pan is perfect for the whole family this spring/summer, while Twelfth Night and Cymbeline, two Shakespeare classics, run now until the fall.
• Rheo Thompson Candies: Indulge in sweet treats at this beloved local confectionery, which offers more than 154 varieties of confectionaries, including chocolates, gummies, hard candies, and more.
• Three Squirrels Antiques: Perfect for browsing a vast selection of antiques and collectables in a delightful setting.

St. Jacobs

Route: Head north on King Street North for a drive through the picturesque St. Jacobs country.

Local Points of Interest:

• St. Jacobs Farmers' Market: Explore Canada's largest year-round farmers' markets and its 300 vendors. The specific selection of fresh produce will vary, depending on when you visit, but there is always preserves, condiments, baked goods, snacks, crafts, flowers and so much more.
• Artefacts Salvage & Design: This specialty design shop carries vintage salvaged architectural pieces like old doors, beams, windows, handles, ect, from Ontario and beyond.
• Block Three Brewing Company: Locals and tourists alike flock to this cozy craft brewery. The busy little tasting room has seating indoors as well as a patio space come summer.

Elora

Route: Take Regional Road 21 to experience the laidback beauty of the Grand River region.

Local Points of Interest:

• Elora Gorge: Pack a picnic or head onto the trails for a hike and enjoy the natural beauty of this breathtaking gorge.
• Elora Mill Hotel & Spa: Luxuriate in a spa day or enjoy fine dining with river views and stay the night at this 27-room luxury property.
• Elora Bread Trading Co: Enjoy fresh breads, cookies, pastries and other baked treats from this beloved shop. It's around the corner from the Elora Mill Hotel and also has rotating daily bread features.

Guelph

Route: Drive east on Highway 7 for a quick route that offers both speed and scenic views.

Local Points of Interest:

• University of Guelph Arboretum: Discover diverse plant species and beautiful walking trails at the U of Guelph Arboretum. The grounds are free to access and open daily from dawn to dusk.
• Downtown Guelph: Don't skip the lovely little downtown that Guelph has to offer. There are a variety of shopping options and eateries tucked into historic architecture.
• Wellington Brewery: Tour one of Ontario's oldest independent microbreweries (usually the tours take place on Saturdays) or stop in on a weekday during trivia night and taste Ontario's brewing history.

Niagara-on-the-Lake

Route: It's a 90 minute drive south east on the QEW as it runs alongside Lake Ontario, but you can also take Highway 8 for an alternate route.

Local Points of Interest:

• Wineries: Visit world-renowned wineries, including smaller ones like Caroline Cellars, Big Head or Frogpond Farm Organic Winery (Ontario's first organic winery) for tastings, bottles and tours.
• Historic Old Town: Stroll along the charming streets lined with boutique shops, historic buildings that date back to the War of 1812, and gourmet restaurants.
• Ghost Tours of Fort George: Niagara-on-the-Lake--or 'NOTL' as the locals call it--has a storied history, including a number of buildings that are allegedly haunted. The Ghost tour at Fort George lets you explore the historic property while learning about some of the paranormal activity that has happened over the years.

Dundas

Route: If NOTL feels too far, stop in Dundas instead. Take Highway 8 and follow signs to this picturesque community nestled in the Niagara

Escarpment. Local Points of Interest:

• Dundas Valley Conservation Area: Explore this 40-kilometre hiking trail system with scenic lookouts in this lush conservation area.
• Detour Coffee Roasters: A perfect stop for coffee enthusiasts looking for something memorable. If you're hungry, order something off the breakfast menu.
• Carnegie Gallery: Discover local art in this historic Carnegie library, which first opened its doors in 1910 as the first public library in the community.