Kitchener-Waterloo
Known as “KW”, the sister cities of Kitchener and Waterloo are famous for two prestigious universities, an innovative tech industry, vibrant culture, unique events and fun attractions.
Kitchener has a proud German heritage and hosts the world’s largest Oktoberfest celebration outside of Germany each year. Enjoy numerous music festivals throughout the year, including the Kitchener Blues Festival and Kultrún World Music Festival, as well as museums and art galleries and several public parks and gardens. Another popular attraction is the Kitchener Market, one of the oldest public markets of its kind in Canada.
Where is Kitchener-Waterloo?
Part of the Grand River Valley region, Kitchener-Waterloo is located 100 kilometres west of Toronto in the Saint Lawrence Lowlands. Together, the cities of Kitchener, Waterloo and Cambridge make up the Regional Municipality of Waterloo, often referred to locally as the Tri-Cities.
Kitchener and Waterloo can be reached by car via Hwy 401, VIA Rail and GO Transit. The region is also serviced by the Region of Waterloo International Airport.
Things to do in Kitchener-Waterloo
Visit a Victorian garden
Spend an afternoon strolling the grounds of Rockway Gardens, a beautifully manicured Victorian garden, complete with gazebo and a wide variety of plants and wildlife. Open year-round.
Enjoy a music festival or seasonal event
Groove to global sounds at the Kultrún World Music Festival or get down with the blues at the Kitchener Blues Festival, an annual event that attracts upwards of 140,000 music lovers. From haunted walks to light displays Bingemans hosts several seasonal events.
Spend a day at the park
Pack a picnic and visit the “jewel of the city”, Waterloo Park. This 45-hectare park offers an animal farm, splash pad, playground and more. Open daily from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Celebrate Oktoberfest
Make a toast at Oktoberfest, Kitchener-Waterloo’s annual Bavarian festival that features plenty of singing, dancing and beer.
Visit a museum
Kitchener’s “THEMUSEUM” offers hands-on, family-friendly exhibits and a revolving calendar of special events. Don’t miss the Sol LeWitt installation, part of the permanent collection.
Stop at the “Kissing Bridge”
Listed on the Canadian Register of Historic Places the West Montrose Covered Bridge, known as the “Kissing Bridge” has delighted visitors since the late 1880s when it was constructed.
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Last updated: April 11, 2024