Located steps from Downtown Guelph, The Ward is a rich and historic neighbourhood. Overflowing with captivating history and picturesque landmarks, you’ll be amazed by the diverse architecture—from industrial structures to wartime residences, stately Guelph houses, and contemporary developments. Immerse yourself in an array of exclusive foodie delights, thrilling activities, and fantastic entertainment options, making The Ward an exceptional destination.
#StillOpen
Construction is ongoing along York Road, a prominent street in The Ward, throughout the summer of 2023 into 2024. The improvements include increasing water, wastewater, and multimodal transportation (pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists) services for those who live, work and visit the city. Despite these necessary closures, local businesses remain open and ready to serve you. To navigate construction, check out the maps indicating alternate routes to access businesses.
Visit Guelph and Guelph Shops invite you to explore The Ward, offering support to businesses by taking detours to reach them. Take the long way and create an exciting itinerary and spend a delightful day exploring the charm and offerings of The Ward!
Taste The Ward:
Lost Aviator Coffee: The Lost Aviator Coffee bar is both the heart of roasting operations and a captivating vintage aviation-themed coffee haven, providing patrons with distinctive signature blends and single-origin coffees. Enjoy savouring these delightful brews at the bar or take them home in carefully packaged bags. As Ontario’s top-notch coffee, it prides itself on its ethical and sustainable sourcing practices, ensuring consumers relish small-batch, freshly roasted coffee that embodies the perfect balance of excellence and delectable flavours—a truly flawless experience akin to a smooth landing.
Café Greek Garden: For more than two decades, Café Greek Garden has remained a beloved destination for authentic Greek cuisine, making it an absolute must-visit. The restaurant takes immense pride in crafting fresh, mouthwatering, and genuinely traditional Greek and Mediterranean dishes, and other beloved favourites. The ambiance echoes the charm of Greece, making it an ideal spot for a relaxed, casual meal or for hosting sizable gatherings and special events!
Royal City Brewing Co: Nestled in the heart of The Ward, Royal City Brewing is a boutique brewing company dedicated to crafting fresh, intriguing, and accessible beers. Experience The Beer Hall’s charm as you visit and witness the magic of their creations firsthand. With a constantly rotating selection, there’s always something new and exciting on tap for you to savour!
Na Ha Thai Kitchen: Na-ha Thai’s Kitchen, is a delightful family-owned eatery, offering an exquisite array of Thai delicacies infused with an extensive range of flavorful ingredients. Experience the perfect fusion of spices, herbs, fresh vegetables, an assortment of meats, luscious coconut milk, fish and soy sauce, palm sugar, and curry paste, each contributing to the distinctive and harmonious flavours that define every dish on the menu.
Download the Great Taste of Ontario Passport and check in at Lost Aviator Coffee, Café Greek Garden, and Royal City Brewing Co. for a $25 Feast On Voucher.
Explore The Ward:
Artworks Gallery: Artworks Gallery Guelph represents a community of gifted artists, offering a welcoming haven where individuals can come together to immerse themselves in the diverse world of fine art. Step into Gallery 404, an enchanting venue that showcases the cutting-edge creations of this talented and diverse collective. With rotating exhibits every four to six weeks, you can always anticipate fresh perspectives, with a spotlight on a new featured artist alongside the collective’s members. Embrace the intimacy of this space as you revel in the exceptional works of local fine artists.
Guelph Little Theatre: For over eight decades, Guelph Little Theatre has captivated audiences with its grand productions, festivals, and exclusive events! As a cherished Guelph treasure, this small theatre delivers outstanding live performances that leave you yearning for more. Secure your spot today by reserving tickets for an upcoming show and immersing yourself in an unforgettable theatrical experience. Moreover, on select Thursday evenings, the theatre’s parking lot undergoes a delightful transformation, hosting the Ward Night Market, where local artisans showcase their creations.
Riot Axe: Looking for a quintessential Canadian pastime? Look no further than Riot Axe, the top destination for an exhilarating sport! Experience an authentic “Riot” of excitement at Guelph’s premier axe-throwing spot. Immerse yourself in a captivating environment adorned with stunning artwork, comic book pages, merchandise, a Champs wall, and a Supernatural Perfect board. This intimate space is thoughtfully designed to foster connections, cater to private events, team building, leagues, and walk-in visitors.
Guelph Grotto Climbing Co: At the Guelph Grotto Climbing Company, an indoor rock-climbing gym, anyone can climb, so everyone is welcome. Operated by a dedicated family and centred on community values, the Grotto strives to create an inclusive and accessible environment for all. A diverse range of programs and classes cater to climbers of all ages, fostering exploration, strength and technique development, and the achievement of personal goals. Take advantage of exciting offers like youth and adult programs, engaging summer camps, date or friend nights, and the possibility of hosting parties here. For students, a limited-time discounted semester pass is available—so seize the opportunity to embark on an incredible climbing journey!
100 Steps: Put your muscles to the test with the exhilarating climb up the 100 Steps, culminating in a breathtaking panoramic view of the city. For a more leisurely experience, enjoy a jog along the scenic trails at York Road Park, where you can also explore the charming Lattice Covered Bridge.
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Want to support more businesses along York Road? Here’s a list:
- Ferra Flooring Carpet One
- Unitarian Congregation of Guelph
- Guelph Little Theatre
- Luke’s Carpentry
- Steele Bros.
- Star Mechanical
- Busato Woodworking
- Royal City Community Fitness
- MME Bin Rentals
- George’s Electric
- Sign Art
- Centrix Building Group
- Wike Bike
- Guelph Paving
- Turf Plus
- M&N Motor
- Guelph Auto Detailing
- Escarpment Laboratories
- Vault Active Relief Centre
- Riot Axe
- Lean Strong Fitness
- Dauntless Canines
- Restoration Design Inc.
- Vinnie’s Mr. Fixit
- Spira Fire Protection
- Rite Way Mechanical
- Global Gas Station
- JPL Services Inc.
- Gallery 404
- Ed Video
- Lost Aviator Coffee
- York Auto Sales
- Klops Meat
- Old World Woodworking
- BOVJEE Beauty
- Tremble Communications
- Superior Steel Fabricators
- Na Ha Thai Kitchen
- Café Greek Garden
- York Business Centre (490 York Road)
- Lyon Park
- Lyon Pool
- Royal City Brewing Co.
Learn more about the York Road improvement project and detours to businesses.
