Elora and Fergus

Elora & Fergus are a quaint duo of towns in Ontario, bursting with charm and adventure. They bustle with unique boutiques, eateries, galleries and artists studios. People visit from far and wide for the Grand River Raceway in Elora, the Elora Festival, hikes along the picturesque Elora Gorge, and Riverfest Elora, an annual music festival held in August. Fergus is known for its boutique shopping, historic architecture, adventures on the Grand River and the annual Fergus Scottish Festival & Highland Games that attracts world-class competitors and entertainers, and is said to be the largest gathering of clans outside Scotland and Cape Breton.

To learn more about all there is to see and do in Elora and Fergus, scroll down or visit the region's tourism website.

Where is Elora & Fergus?

Elora & Fergus are in Centre Wellington, Wellington County. Wellington County is in southwestern Ontario and made up of two towns and five townships. Elora and Fergus are one hour and 40 minutes from Toronto by bus.

Things to Do in Elora & Fergus

Elora and Fergus walking tours will take you back in time to prohibition and give you lessons in architecture and local culture. Starting points are the Elora Info Centre and the Fergus Library. In Fergus, the brave can go on ghost walks, visiting haunted villages. There is even a tour of a juried exhibition of sculptures that includes both Elora and Fergus.

Elora Gorge, a limestone canyon of 22 metre cliffs, is one of the most popular attractions. Following the 47 km Elora Cataract Trailway is a great way to disconnect from technology and reconnect, or connect for the first time, with nature. The Grand River rushes through the gorge and, if youre up for it, you can go tubing or kayaking. At Grand River Parks, you can also camp, fish, picnic, and birdwatch. Its a great place to spend a weekend. 

Elora & Fergus Neighbourhoods & Districts

There are two primary communities of The Township of Centre Wellington.

The Village of Elora

The Village of Elora is home of the Wellington County Museum and Archives, formerly the Wellington County House of Industry and Refuge which was commonly referred to as Poorhouse and opened in 1877. Elora is also known for the Elora Gorge Conservation Area and the Grand River Raceway, a favourite spot for horse racing and slot machines.

The Town of Fergus

The Town of Fergus the largest community in Centre Wellington and is best known for the Scottish Festival and Highland Games, the Fergus Highland Rugby Football Club, Fergus Templin Gardens, Fergus Grand Theatre and the Centre Wellington Community Sportsplex. 

Things to Know About Visiting Elora & Fergus

Whether you’re still in the planning stages or you’re already on your trip to Elora and Fergus, you'll appreciate what the locals recommend around the area.

Where to snap a great Instagram pic

The Tall Man is one of Elora & Fergus most famous art installations. Stop by, say hi and grab a picture

Hidden gem

Locals know that the best place to grab a bite before exploring the city is The Elora Bread Trading Company, specializing in artisanal bread, baked goods and sandwiches. 

Where to take a romantic stroll

Seal your love with a kiss at the Fergus Kissing Stane. A local legend states that receiving a kiss while seated on the stane will bring good luck.

Last updated: November 24, 2022

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