Waterloo Region is home to three diverse growing cities—Kitchener, Waterloo, and Cambridge. Each is distinct in its own right and each has their own unique identities and histories, despite close geographic proximity.
The region has transitioned from bustling industrial centers to a collectively recognized global technology cluster, all while smartly retaining their own unique, must-explore identities.
Formerly known as Berlin, Kitchener has a long history of German heritage, stemming back to the 1800s. The city’s deep Germanic roots and history are most evident during the annual Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest, the largest celebration of all things Bavarian outside of Germany, and the Christkindl Market, a festival reminiscent of traditional German Christmas markets.
Consistently voted one of Canada’s smartest cities, Waterloo is a dynamic urban center located in the heart of Canada’s Technology Triangle. Home to BlackBerry and two of Canada’s leading universities, the University of Waterloo and Wilfrid Laurier University, the city attracts students and thinkers from around the world. Take in a lecture at the Perimeter Institute of Theoretical Physics or tour through the hi-tech sectors that include the world-renowned Institute for Quantum Computing and the Centre for International Governance Innovation.
If you’re a cyclist or would like an opportunity to bike through a city, Waterloo is a cycling-friendly community with over 230km of trails, bike lanes, and signed bike routes. Even if you rather walk, the Region has 58 km of walking trails — many along its waterfront — and spectacular views from atop 400-million-year-old limestone cliffs.
Take a stroll through Uptown Waterloo, the core of the city, there’s endless foodie-approved dining as well as boutiques and amenities, most of which are operated by local business owners.
Nestled at the convergence of the Grand River and Speed Rivers, Cambridge consists of four distinct centers: Galt, Hespeler, Preston, and Blair. Characterized by historic limestone and heritage architecture, the city has a European ‘Dickens-like’ flair. The classic example is the Old Post Office, located along the banks of the Grand River in downtown Cambridge. While the exterior shows the beauty of the 19th- century architecture, with its majestic clock tower, textures, and beautiful stonework that harken back to a bygone era, the inside has been completely transformed into the newest location of Idea Exchange (formerly Cambridge Library), being Canada’s first all-digital library.
THE CULINARY SCENE
For authentic food experiences, visit farm gate stands that can be found throughout the Region, or spend a day at Canada’s largest year-round farmers’ market, the St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market.
Looking for more options in the region? Check out one (or more) of these delicious spots:
MUST-VISIT LANDMARKS
FUN FINDS IN THE CITY
Though we’ve already mentioned plenty of fun finds within each of the cities above (each one offering their own array of options), we’ve included a few more here:
WHERE TO STAY
Luckily, this region is filled with beautiful spots to stay and enjoy your time. We suggest gorgeous hotel accommodations like:
Puddicombe House
HOW TO GET TO WATERLOO REGION—BOOK YOUR FLIGHT TO WATERLOO WITH ABEONA
Do you hear Waterloo Region calling your name? We can hear it, too, and we’re ready to help you get there. If you seek adventure, excitement, and a smart urban environment, Waterloo is the perfect destination for you.
Abeona is proud to be a resource for you—no matter where you wish to fly! Simply reach out to us at your convenience to discuss how we can help you book, arrange, and put a plan into action for your trip to Waterloo Region!
Not sure where to fly in? We can help. There are plenty of private airfield options available, including:
Region of Waterloo International Airport (CYKF/YKF)
John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport (CYHM/YHM)
Lester B. Pearson International Airport (CYYZ/YYZ)
London International Airport (CYXU/YXU)