One of the best things about Waterloo Region is that it’s the perfect place to raise a family. Family Life in Waterloo Region is enhanced by all the opportunities for outdoor adventure, meeting amazing people, and attending great local events and festivals. Recently, we were talking about our favourite things to do with our family, so we thought we’d let you in on our conversation. Here are our favourite places to go as a family in Waterloo Region.
Family Life in Waterloo Region: Top Places To Go
Bingemans
This is definitely a family hot spot. Bingemans is a one-stop shop for excitement, play and did we say excitement? Bingemans has something to offer all year round: Big Splash in the Summer, Scream Park in the Fall, and FunWorx any time your family needs it. Plus, when the younger family members have gone to bed, Bingemans is an eventful place to be during Oktoberfest.
This Waterloo Region staple has something for the whole family. It’s great because we can have an exciting family outing without the commute.
St. Jacob’s Market
No Waterloo Region top list is complete without mention of the St. Jacob’s Market. People come from far and wide year-round to shop fresh produce, delicious treats and heart meats. We’re lucky enough to have the market in our back yard. The kids will love checking out all the vendors, especially those offering yummy snacks. With lots to see, your family will love spending the morning picking up local foods. It’s an exciting place to be on a Saturday morning and is a great way to kick off any weekend.
Waterloo Park
Donkeys, llamas, pygmy goats and a peacock… need we say more? Waterloo park is the perfect spot for a day out with the family, so pack a picnic and head over. The park has a variety of activities including playground, splash pad, walking trails, tennis, and of course, Eby Farmstead. Eby Farmstead is home to a variety of animals, giving kids the chance to get a close look at the furry friends. The park has lots of green space, so it’s a great place to throw a Frisbee or play catch.
Want to know more? There’s a great piece about the history of Waterloo Park published by the City of Waterloo.
Conservation Areas
The best way to truly enjoy any place is by getting outside and exploring. Waterloo Region is home to beautiful conservation areas, plus a short drive to even more natural places to explore. Laurel Creek Conservation Area is a popular place to take the family for outdoor fun, swimming and go hiking. Cambridge is home to Shade Mill’s Conservation Area and the Cambridge to Paris Rail Trail.
What we love about these conservation areas is that we get to spend quality time with our families outside. We can go to the beach or walk the trails. Hiking is a great way for the family to stay healthy together, and enjoy nature and open space. Some of us even have a rule: no cell phones! We only want to hear the chirps of the birds. No matter how many times we’ve been out exploring Waterloo Region, we always find something new.
Just a short drive away, we have also have quick access to Conservation Areas in Guelph, Rockwood and Elora. Great spots for the family to explore cool caves and see great views.
Trails
The trail system makes for a great family outing. Whether we’re on our way for lunch, to the park, or just want to get some exercise, we love hitting the trails which connect the whole city. This is a great activity for families because you can customize your walk depending how far you want to go. See the full map of trails in Waterloo Region here.
Golf Course
When the sun comes out and the grass is green, there is no better place to be than on the golf course. With a variety of courses available, families can head out to tee off regardless of their skill level…there’s also the driving range; a perfect activity for getting started. We have great courses in Waterloo Region, including Dundee Country Club, Rebel Creek Golf Club and Conestoga Golf Club.
To the Slopes
We’ve listed a lot of fun family activities to do in the region, but we can’t forget about skiing. Once the snow falls we’re ready to gear up and hit the slopes. Thankfully we have Chicopee close by! It’s a fun activity that everyone in the family can take part in. If your family isn’t confident in your skiing ability, Chicopee offers great week-day deals for discounted rentals and lessons!
Let us know what your family loves to do in Waterloo Region. We’re always ready to explore something new. Message us on our Facebook page and let us know!
