Weekend Getaways Near Major Cities in Kitchener, Ontario, Canada
1. Blue Mountain Resort
A popular ski resort offering winter sports and summer activities like hiking and ziplining, just over an hour's drive from Kitchener.
- Winter Sports: Ideal for snowboarding, skiing, tubing, and ice skating
- Summer Activities: Enjoy scenic hiking trails, ziplining, and mountain biking during the warmer months
- Accommodations: Stay at a variety of lodging options, from hotels to vacation rentals
2. Niagara-on-the-Lake
A picturesque town known for its wineries and historic sites, approximately an hour's drive from Kitchener.
- Wineries: Taste world-class wines at more than 20 wineries in the region
- Historic Sites: Explore historical sites like Fort George and the Shaw Festival Theatre
- Scenic Beauty: Enjoy the charming, pedestrian-friendly town and scenic Niagara River
3. Elmira Maple Syrup Festival
A celebration of all things maple syrup, held annually in Elmira, a short 30-minute drive from Kitchener.
- Maple Syrup Productions: Learn about the maple syrup making process and enjoy fresh syrup samples
- Parade: Participate in the famous Maple Syrup Parade featuring floats, marching bands, and costumes
- Food Vendors: Indulge in delicious maple-themed treats like pancakes, candies, and ice cream
4. Stratford Festival
A world-renowned theatre festival offering performances of classic plays, a short 1.5-hour drive from Kitchener.
- Classic Plays: Watch productions of Shakespeare, Chekhov, and other celebrated playwrights
- Talented Actors: See award-winning actors and rising talents on stage
- Beautiful Theatre Settings: Enjoy performances in stunning theatre settings, like the Avon or Festival Theatre
5. St. Jacobs Farmers Market
A bustling open-air market selling fresh produce, artisanal goods, and homemade treats, a short 30-minute drive from Kitchener.
- Fresh Produce: Find locally grown fruits, vegetables, and meats
- Artisanal Goods: Discover handmade crafts, quilts, and furniture
- Homemade Treats: Taste delicious baked goods, preserves, and cheeses from local vendors
6. Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest
A week-long celebration of German culture, held annually in Kitchener and Waterloo, offering music, food, and beer tastings.
- German Culture: Immerse yourself in traditional German music, dance, and food
- Beer Tastings: Sample a variety of German beers at tents and events throughout the city
- Community Spirit: Join in on the lively, festive atmosphere with locals and visitors alike
7. Doon Heritage Village
A living history museum showcasing life in early Ontario, located just minutes from Kitchener.
- Historic Buildings: Explore over 40 restored buildings dating back to the 1800s
- Costumed Interpreters: Meet costumed interpreters demonstrating daily life in early Ontario
- Special Events: Attend seasonal events like Christmas at Doon or the Harvest Fair
8. Woodbine Race Track
A horse racing track offering live races and simulcasts, located approximately a 1-hour drive from Kitchener.
- Live Races: Watch exciting horse races throughout the season
- Simulcasts: Bet on races from tracks around the world via simulcast screens
- Dining and Entertainment: Enjoy dining options, entertainment, and special events at the track
9. Bruce Peninsula National Park
A scenic national park featuring rugged coastline, turquoise waters, and hiking trails, approximately a 2-hour drive from Kitchener.
- Scenic Beauty: Marvel at the stunning cliffs, caves, and beaches
- Hiking Trails: Explore various hiking trails with breathtaking views
- Wildlife Viewing: Spot wildlife like deer, foxes, and birds in their natural habitat
10. Collingwood Scenic Caves
An underground cave system and scenic park offering hiking trails, a short 2-hour drive from Kitchener.
- Underground Cave Tour: Explore the mysterious underground cave system
- Scenic Hiking Trails: Hike through beautiful landscapes with scenic views
- Nature Viewing: Discover local wildlife and plant life in the park
11. Horseshoe Resort
A four-season resort offering skiing, snowboarding, and golf, just over an hour's drive from Kitchener.
- Winter Sports: Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and ice skating during the winter months
- Golf Courses: Play on beautiful golf courses during the summer months
- Accommodations: Choose from a variety of lodging options, including hotels, condos, and cabins
12. Wasaga Beach
A popular beach town offering sandy beaches, watersports, and restaurants, a short 2-hour drive from Kitchener.
- Beach Activities: Relax on the sandy beach, swim, or participate in watersports
- Restaurants: Enjoy a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to fine dining establishments
- Accommodations: Stay at hotels, motels, or vacation rentals along the beach
13. Prince Edward County
A picturesque county known for its vineyards, sandy beaches, and charming towns, approximately a 2-hour drive from Kitchener.
- Wineries: Taste award-winning wines at more than 40 wineries in the region
- Scenic Beaches: Relax on sandy beaches like Sandbanks Provincial Park
- Charming Towns: Explore charming towns like Picton, Bloomfield, and Wellington
14. Cambridge Mill
A historic mill turned restaurant and inn offering dining, shopping, and spa services, a short 30-minute drive from Kitchener.
- Dining: Enjoy meals at the Water's Edge Restaurant or The Bakery Café
- Shopping: Browse unique shops featuring art, home decor, and local goods
- Spa Services: Relax with a massage or spa treatment at the Mill Spa & Salon
15. St. Jacobs Market Country Inn
A charming inn located near the St. Jacobs Farmers Market offering comfortable accommodations and a restaurant, a short 30-minute drive from Kitchener.
- Accommodations: Stay in cozy rooms with modern amenities
- Dining: Enjoy farm-to-table meals at the on-site restaurant, The Smiling Bakery & Bistro
- Market Proximity: Easy access to the St. Jacobs Farmers Market for shopping and dining