Incorporated on the 27th of May, 1857, Waterloo is a small city located in the municipality of Waterloo in the state of Ontario, Canada.
Waterloo is recognized as the smallest city in its region, with a population of one hundred and twenty-one thousand, four hundred and thirty-six after the 2021 census.
Its size and closeness to Kitchener City are why they are usually referred to as the “Twin Cities” or Kitchener-Waterloo.
Waterloo is tagged as one of the best places to visit in Canada, offering you a chance to explore the history and cultures of the people.
There are many places to visit in Waterloo, and these include places such as Grey Silo Golf Course, Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest, Bad Axe Throwing Waterloo, the Galaxy Cinema 10, Canadian Clay And Glass Gallery, and more.
While you plan a trip to Waterloo, scroll down this list of top things to do in Waterloo, Ontario.
Things to Do in Waterloo
1. Waterloo Central Railway
Waterloo Central Railway
How about going on an exciting train ride! Add a visit to Waterloo Central Railway to your list of fun things to do in Waterloo, Ontario.
Waterloo Central Railway features a good number of ancient vehicles which were fully refurbished for visitors to take for a ride.
The railway doesn’t just take you on a train ride but a journey through the path of history. Waterloo Central Railway is run and operated by the Southern Ontario Locomotive Restoration Society.
You are offered three different rides, which begin from the St. Jacobs farmers’ market to the Elmira, during which you can enjoy a snack from the snack bar.
Waterloo Central Railway is operated by a non-profit organization that gives the funds gotten from tickets to support different essential programs.
2. University Of Waterloo
University Of Waterloo
You might be a little surprised to see a university on this guide, but if you truly want to explore the city, you should check out.
The University Of Waterloo is a massive university with a land space of approximately four hundred and four hectares.
You will also find the Graduate House constructed in the 19th century, making it the oldest building located on the campus.
The university was founded in 1957 with a number of seventy-four students in the engineering field, but it currently accepts over forty-two thousand students every year.
This university attracts the best scholars from about one hundred and fifty countries, offering them the highest quality learning facilities and opportunities.
Address: 200 University Ave W, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
3. Bechtel Park
A park that sits on a land space of hundred acres, Bechtel Park consists of numerous facilities available throughout the year.
So, whenever you want to have fun with your family and friends visiting Bechtel Park is one of the top things to do in Waterloo, Ontario.
Bechtel Park features an indoor field house usually used by many sports teams, schools, and community groups for practice and is available for rentals.
There is a dog park for those visiting with their furry friends, do well to take them on an amazing treat in a place where they can have fun with other dogs.
The park also features wetlands situated with a large forested woodland, well-paved trails for cross-country skiing and hiking, and a playground.
Bechtel Park consists of three football fields with dressing rooms, and press box, four tennis courts, and a batting cage.
Address: 185 Bridge St W, Waterloo, ON N2K 1K9, Canada
4. Grey Silo Golf Course
Are you an experienced golf player? Or simply a beginner; there is a perfect golf course for you; add a visit to Grey Silo Golf Course to your list of fun places to visit in Waterloo, Ontario.
Grey Silo Golf Course is a premium 18-hole golf course open to the public, where visitors and residents can come in and explore.
The golf course was established in 2000 and was designed by Steve Young, offering incredibly beautiful scenery.
The golf course is owned and operated by the city of Waterloo, and it was a host to the Manulife Financial LPGA Classic from 2010 to 2014.
Grey Silo Golf Course is beautifully designed, which makes it perfect for players of different skill levels, offering them the desired amount of challenges and fun.
The golf course also hosts several tournaments and offers tours to large groups of up to twelve persons throughout the year. Grey Silo Golf Course is also a venue for weddings and meetings.
Address: 2001 University Ave E, Waterloo, ON N2K 4K4, Canada
5. Kitchener-Waterloo Little Theatre
Kitchener-Waterloo Little Theatre is a non-profit theatre, and it is operated through the support of Kitchener and Waterloo city.
This volunteer-operated theatre offers patrons an exceptional theatre experience through the sets of talents available.
The theatre organizes auditions open to everyone, both locals and visitors; you can also apply if you’re moved to.
Kitchener-Waterloo Little Theatre presents an assortment of small productions, impromptu events, and seminars.
The theatre also offers a variety of workshops, and it is available for rental for any kind of event by residents or visiting entertainers.
Address: 9 Princess St E, Waterloo, ON N2J 2H4, Canada
6. Max’s Sports World
Are you in the mood to go outside and have fun? Then, visiting Max’s Sports World is one of the best things to do in Waterloo, Ontario.
Max’s Sports World features a wide variety of sports facilities catering to the needs of all athletes from different sports fields.
It features two mini golf courses with eighteen holes and an indoor and outdoor driving range to perfect those who want to test their skills.
The sports facility features six batting cages and a large soccer field for the football players to have fun and play their hearts out.
Max’s Sports World is open throughout the year for visitors and locals irrespective of their skill levels.
Address: 800 King St N, Waterloo, ON N2J 4G8, Canada
7. Waterloo Park
Waterloo Park
Waterloo Park is a large park that stretches for one hundred and eleven acres, featuring many fun amenities.
If you’re searching for a place to spend quality time with your loved ones, add a visit to Waterloo Park to your list of fun things to do in Waterloo, Ontario.
The park features playgrounds and a splash pad where the children can play to their heart content and also cool off.
Waterloo Park consists of bike racks for parking, an animal farm, and sports fields used for different activities.
There is a beautiful lake that offers a soothing and comforting ambiance for you to relax and meditate as you enjoy some alone time.
The park consists of a skate park, picnic areas, barbecue grills, and baseball diamonds, all available onsite.
Address: 100 Father David Bauer Dr, Waterloo, ON N2L 2Y4, Canada
8. Conestoga Mall
Conestoga Mall
Conestoga Mall is one of the largest and most popular shopping malls in Waterloo, which attracts people from neighboring cities to come in and shop.
The mall is housed in 63, 292 square meter facility featuring more than one hundred and thirty shops offering different services.
This shopping center is distinct from other reasons that it also features an extensive museum showcasing more than ten thousand artifacts.
Conestoga Mall features renowned shops like the body shop, Apple, Old Navy, Sport Chek & Winners, H &M, and more. It also features many restaurants and cafes offering diverse dining options.
There is a movie theatre known as Galaxy cinema which offers patrons an amazing entertainment experience with loved ones.
The shopping center is well known in the country and has become a trustworthy organization offering visitors nothing but the best.
Address:550 King St N, Waterloo, ON N2L 5W6, Canada
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9. The Galaxy Cinema 10
If you’re searching for a fantastic cinema to watch that your anticipated blockbuster movie, the Galaxy Cinema 10 is the right one.
The Galaxy Cinema 10 is housed in the Conestoga Mall in Waterloo, featuring ten large Tv Screens.
The theatre was founded in 2000, while the Digital projection was launched in 2001, offering visitors a fabulous movie moment.
Currently owned by Cineplex Entertainment, Galaxy Cinema features numerous arcades to enjoy, plus event spaces that are available for rentals.
The theatre is stylishly designed with highly comfortable seats as well as a clean environment, which maximizes relaxation.
The Galaxy Cinema offers the best movie moments through the 3D display system and perfect acoustics used.
Do well to book your movie tickets and visit the concession for some hot popcorn and chilled drinks and have a nice time.
Address: 550 King St N, Waterloo, ON N2L 5W6, Canada
10. Laurel Creek
Laurel Creek
For the nature enthusiasts, here is something for you add a visit to Laurel Creek to your list of fun things to do in Waterloo, Ontario.
Laurel Creek is located in Laurel Creek Park, featuring several exciting facilities for visitors to enjoy in the city.
The Creek is open throughout the year for several recreational activities, so when next you want to have fun with your family, visit this creek.
There are two fully equipped playgrounds with many play equipment for the little ones to explore.
Laurel Creek features more than one hundred campsites for those who want to visit the creek and stay overnight.
You can also go canoeing, windsurfing, and swimming in the creek; there is a picnic area with picnic tables for your and your family to enjoy a meal.
Don’t waste any more time before you visit Laurel Creek with your loved ones to explore everything it has to offer.
Address: 625 Westmount Rd N, Waterloo, ON N2J 2Z4, Canada
11. Earth Sciences Museum
The Earth Sciences Museum was established in 1967 within the University of Waterloo, although it officially opened to the public in 1968.
It formerly occupied two rooms in the Biology One building of the University up until August, 2003 before it was later relocated to a recently built EIT building.
The EIT building was designed by Teeple Architects, Cheryl Atkinson, and Peter Russell, featuring many distinct facilities.
Earth Sciences Museum showcases interactive displays and collections while also offering innovative programs focused on increasing the public’s interest in discovering the facts surrounding planet Earth.
The Museum was founded to educate the public and enlighten them about planet Earth, its history, and all the environmental complications.
Address: 200 University Ave W, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
12. Ctrl V Waterloo
Ctrl V Waterloo was established in 2016 as the first virtual arcade in Waterloo to offer the public a unique experience.
This fun center features sixteen separate virtual reality arcades featuring a wide variety of games perfect for different age grades.
There are more kids’ games here, but there is a good number of games for the older ones, both beginners and professional gamers.
Ctrl V Waterloo allows you to book any of the stations for 60 minutes and even more, depending on the number of sessions you want.
For the beginners, you will be shown a detailed video of how to play the games and all the things you shouldn’t do while using the game tools.
This is an excellent place for different kinds of events such as bachelorette parties, birthday groups, corporate meetings, team building events, and more.
Address: 170 Columbia St W #5, Waterloo, ON N2L 3L3, Canada
13. The Brubacher House
Brubacher House
The Brubacher House was built in 1850, which displays the typical lifestyle of a Pennsylvania German family who resided in the region in the mid-19th century.
This is a fully refurbished Pennsylvania German Mennonite farmhouse located at the University of Waterloo.
The main purpose of preserving the farmhouse is to interpret the history and culture of Mennonites after serving as the family residence of the Brubacher family.
The Brubacher House offers a wide variety of interactive programs and tours of the museum in a bid to promote the people’s dialogue and lifestyle.
Address: 200 University Ave W, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada
14. Sanctuary Day Spas
In as much as you just want to have fun, taking a break to relax your body at Sanctuary Day Spas should be on your checklist of fun things to do in Waterloo, Ontario.
Sanctuary Day Spas provides visitors with a variety of services such as esthetic services, body care treatments, and massage therapy.
These services are beneficial to the body and mind of every individual who receives them using the best organic products.
They also offer services like skin resurfacing, dermal fillers, laser hair reduction, and injectables. Sanctuary Day Spas provide a comfortable and peaceful environment for better relaxation.
Sanctuary Day Spas employs only competent and highly knowledgeable individuals concerned with offering clients the best services.
You will surely leave this place with a smiling face feeling refreshed and relieved than ever before.
Address: 370 University Ave E, Waterloo, ON N2K 3N2, Canada
15. RIM Park
RIM Park
The park is located along the Grand River northeast of Waterloo city, attracting thousands of people annually.
There is a loop trail of seven kilometers perfect for jogging and walking, including twelve multi-use fields available for everyone to use.
RIM Park features a playground for children, four sand volleyball courts, six ball diamonds, and an indoor field.
You will find the Manulife Sportsplex and Healthy Living Centre, which consists of gymnasiums, meeting spaces, ice pads, and more.
This park of five hundred acres offers indoor activities like art classes, special events, theatre groups, corporate gatherings, and more.
The park features the Waterloo Sports Medicine Clinic offering services like massages, physiotherapy, sports psychology, and more.
Address: 2001 University Ave E, Waterloo, ON N2K 4K4, Canada
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16. The Iron Horse Trail
Iron Horse Trail
Are you in need of an amazing adventure? Then, add a visit to the Iron Horse Trail to your bucket list of fun things to do in Waterloo, Ontario.
The Iron Horse Trail begins from the Southern part of Ottawa Street before heading through Waterloo’s Park street.
Take a stroll down the trail, and you will find several benches which serve as spots to take a break and rest for a while before continuing.
There are also points for wheelchairs and strokes to leave the trail, plus numerous bike parking racks. You will also find many essential points such as Raddatz park, highland courts park, Kaufman park, and more.
The Iron Horse Trail is open for cycling and walking, but cars and motorbikes are highly prohibited.
17. Benjamin Tree Farm
Benjamin Tree Farm
The Benjamin Tree Farm was established in 1986 by Bill and Doris Hartman with the partnership of their daughter Heather and her husband, Leon.
They planted thousands of seedlings that would grow and get cut down as Christmas trees. Bill and Doris decided to retire from running the farm in 2009.
Their grandson, Gerard, and Patrick Dolyle, nephew, started operating and managing all the day to day activities of the business.
The Benjamin Tree Farm has expanded into other productions aside from Christmas trees, such as deciduous and coniferous nursery species.
Due to the consistent availability of water, the farm now offers many flowers, shrubs, and trees, including Christmas trees.
Address: 770 Benjamin Rd, Waterloo, ON N2J 3Z4, Canada
18. KW Escapes
Are you in a quest for an extraordinary experience? Then, visiting KW Escapes is one of the best things to do in Waterloo, Ontario.
KW Escapes is an exceptional escape room center featuring five thrilling escape games which offer visitors an amazing experience.
For your next family and friends hang out, KW Escapes is the best place for you all to create new and exciting memories.
The games involve searching for clues and ideas while trying to solve puzzles and riddles to escape the room.
The games and tasks offered here are perfect for spouses, families, and friends who want to test their ability to work together.
KW Escapes is a fun center for birthday parties, team building events, family reunions, get-togethers, and more.
Address: 505 Conestogo Rd Unit 12, Waterloo, Ontario N2L 4C9 Canada
19. Innocente Brewing Company
Innocente Brewing Company is a microbrewery in Waterloo which has been voted the “Favorite craft brewery” in the region for 2016 and 2020.
The brewery first began in Scotland, and it is owned by Steve Innocente, a passionate individual who simply wants to serve the people with the highest quality beers.
Officially opened in May 2014, Innocente Brewing Company has grown to become one of the region’s best and most recognized breweries.
Innocente Brewing Company is dedicated to serving the community starting from the grassroots by participating in events, donating to charities, and supporting other local restaurants.
The drinks’ unique tastes and immense quality will surely tickle your tastebuds and make you want more after each sip.
Some of the drinks offered include charcoal porter, American IPA, golden ale, Inn O’Slainte, pils-sinner, Berliner Weisse, GuInnO’Cente, Crown v. Centennial, and more.
Address: 283 Northfield Dr E Unit 8, Waterloo, ON N2J 4G8, Canada
20. Market Road Antiques
Market Road Antiques is a shopping mall housed in a facility of 20, 000 Square feet with more than one hundred antique merchants.
For those planning to go shopping, do well to stop by Market Road Antiques and be sure to have an amazing shopping experience.
The different booths set up by all the merchants offer a wide variety of goods, including collectibles, furniture, artworks, and more.
Market Road Antiques also offers a large collection of toys, tools, books, glassware, stylish clothing, jewelry, and more.
The mall is open every day of the week with friendly and receptive staff who are always willing to assist customers.
Address: 845 Weber St N, Waterloo, ON N2V 1V8, Canada
21. Bad Axe Throwing Waterloo
Bad Axe Throwing Waterloo is one of the latest establishments in Waterloo, founded in February, 2019.
This is a popular destination for many families and friends in the city searching for an amazing experience.
There is a full-service bar featuring an extensive selection of wines and beers for customers to choose from and enjoy.
Bad Axe Throwing Waterloo features a concession known as Wild Wings, where you can place orders and deliver them within a few minutes.
Don’t get nervous if this is your first time, and there are professional instructors available to offer you all the necessary guidelines you need to help you play optimally.
Address: 321 Weber St N Unit 2, Waterloo, Ontario N2J 3H8 Canada
22. Canadian Clay And Glass Gallery
Canadian Clay And Glass Gallery
The gallery displays a large collection of artworks featuring more than nine hundred pieces, including permanent exhibits.
You get the opportunity to browse through beautiful displays such as stained glass, enamel, ceramic, and glass artwork.
Canadian Clay And Glass Gallery features historical artworks from way back in the mid-20th century to the present day.
This gallery usually welcomes more than twenty thousand people annually who want to explore the beautiful artworks.
Canadian Clay And Glass Gallery was founded in 1993, and it also features a gallery shop where you can purchase a piece of glass art or ceramic as a souvenir.
Address: 25 Caroline St N, Waterloo, ON N2L 2Y5, Canada
23. Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest
Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest
No list of fun things to do in Waterloo, Ontario will be complete without a stop at Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest, especially with your family and friends.
Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest has been held consistently every year for the past seventy-five years, and it is known as one of the biggest events across the nation.
This festival usually attracts more than seven hundred thousand people from different parts of the world.
The events offer a variety of exciting activities, which are both fascinating and exciting to watch or participate in.
Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest is majorly centered on Beer but also offers activities like a 5k Fun Run, barrel race, a parade, and more.
The event is mainly about promoting the culture of the community featuring other shows like the Oktoberfest Car Show and Miss Oktoberfest Gala Ball.
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Plan a Trip to Waterloo
Waterloo is rated as a tourist favorite destination due to the several fun parks, national preserves, recreational areas, and more.
The city attracts numerous nature lovers offering them countless opportunities to truly explore the incredible outdoor amenities.
Waterloo is blessed with not just nature but history and cultures, which will fascinate you.
Start panning your trip to Waterloo today!