4 minute read
Guelph offers an abundance of Gram-worthy spots to track down on your travels through the Royal City. We’ve compiled a list of a few gems that shine in the glow of golden autumn leaves or a fresh dusting of snow.
#RoyalCityWings
Be one of the first to spread your wings and fly with the new Main Street Mural Project installations on Wilson Street. Park your car (or bike!) at the Market Parkade and take a stroll down Wilson Street to experience four new bold and beautiful murals. As you reach the Guelph Farmers’ Market, stop in front of the Royal Monarch butterfly and snap your shot. Be sure to tag #RoyalCityWings to be part of the butterfly migration!
The Arboretum
With the fall semester coming to a close, take a moment of reprieve at the University of Guelph’s Arboretum. Crunch through the leaves and enjoy the fall foliage on display in every colour.
The University of Guelph Campus
While you’re by the university, take advantage of exploring the campus in all its beauty. Follow along on the self-guided walking tour to learn more about the university’s history and the visually stunning buildings.
The Covered Bridge
The Downtown Trail takes you to the Covered Bridge which overlooks the connection of the Speed River and the Eramosa River. The structure itself is inspired by the lattice-covered bridge designs of the 1880s. Be transported back in time for a stroll that leads to the Boathouse Tea Room for a sweet spot to warm up.
Basilica of Our Lady
Towering upon the hill, overlooking downtown Guelph, the Basilica of Our Lady is always a popular spot to preserve a travel memory. From the detailed architecture to the delicate stained-glass windows, challenge yourself to discovering this iconic landmark in a new way! Remember to turn around and look over Guelph’s bustling downtown from this unique view.
Guelph Lake Conservation Area
With reflections off the lake, it’s easy to get transported away from reality at the Guelph Lake Conservation Area. Escape the city and be one with nature. Challenge yourself to grab that perfect shot and then put your phone away for a truly immersive hike along the conservation area’s trails.
The Donkey Sanctuary of Canada
Donkeys are a surefire way to make your social feed blow up with envious family and friends. The Donkey Sanctuary of Canada opens up for some very special farm visits starting November 24 and the following three Sundays in December. These loving creatures could warm even the coldest of hearts as the perfect start to the holiday season.
Old Growth Forest at the Ignatius Jesuit Centre
Strap on those snowshoes and explore the 5km of trails at that meander through the Old Growth Forest at the Ignatius Jesuit Centre.
Historic limestone buildings of Downtown Guelph
With so many great spots to shop and eat in downtown Guelph, it’s easy to get sucked in to what is right in front of you. Take a moment to step back and look at the historic architecture that makes up so much of our city’s downtown. Towering limestone structures like the Petrie Building or Albion Hotel carry their own character.
Heffernan Street Footbridge
Whether your focus is St. George’s Church, a view down the river, or the arches of the bridge itself, the Heffernan Street Footbridge is a three-for-one spot to snap a photo. The bridge connects pedestrians from the activity of downtown to the quieter east side of the river.
Did you find a perfect photo spot that’s not on this list? Tag @visitguelph and use #VisitGuelph to share your Royal City adventure. See our Visit Guelph Guide to check out the full Guelph experience.