Hey there! If you’ve only heard about Waterloo Region because of tech startups and university kids, I’m here to blow that tiny bubble wide open. As a girl who grew up in the GTA and now splits her time between the buzz of Toronto and the cozy charm of Waterloo Region, I’m telling you: this place slaps — in the best, most unexpectedly fun kind of way.

Waterloo Region is more than just Kitchener-Waterloo. It’s also Cambridge, St. Jacobs, and a whole countryside packed with farmers’ markets, trails, breweries, and surprise after surprise. So here it is: your ultimate local-girl-approved list of the best things to do in Waterloo Region.

First Up: Kitchener-Waterloo, The Coolest Nerd Town in Canada

You can’t talk about KW without mentioning tech — but you also can’t only talk about tech. Sure, there’s Communitechand Google’s Canadian HQ in downtown Kitchener, but did you know there’s also a wicked good food and drink scene?

Start at TWH Social for cocktails and small plates in a tucked-away, speakeasy-style space. Then hop over to Borealis Grille & Bar in Kitchener or Loloan Lobby Bar in Uptown Waterloo for major dinner party vibes.

And if you’re here in October, you must hit up Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest. Even if you don’t own lederhosen (yet), you’ll want to polka with a pretzel in hand. It’s North America’s largest Oktoberfest for a reason.

For the Artsy and Curious

Let your artsy side shine at TheMuseum in downtown Kitchener — a super interactive space that always has something wild going on (last time I was there, I walked through a full-blown rainstorm simulation).

Then wander over to Clay & Glass Gallery in Waterloo. It’s small but stunning — and if you’ve never been emotionally moved by pottery before, prepare to be proven wrong.

Bonus: KW is lowkey a mural hotspot. Grab a coffee from Smile Tiger Coffee Roasters and stroll the downtown core — you’ll spot walls that belong in a street art gallery.

St. Jacobs: Small Town, Big Charm

Now we’re talking cozy. Just north of Waterloo, St. Jacobs is the region’s unofficial Hallmark movie set — but cooler.

Go midweek to beat the crowds at the legendary St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market. Think handmade perogies, fresh flowers, smoked meats, maple everything, and a giant building full of vendors who know your name by your second visit.

Once you’re full, explore the Village of St. Jacobs itself. Don’t skip Hamel Brooms (yes, like, actual handmade brooms — it’s a vibe), or Stone Crock Bakery for a butter tart that might actually ruin all future butter tarts for you.

Beer, Cider & Chill

Waterloo Region is sneaky good at craft beer and cider.

Block Three Brewing in St. Jacobs is a local fave, and their King Street Saison is dangerously drinkable. In downtown Kitchener, check out Descendants Beer & Beverage Co. for trivia nights, live music, and great beer flights.

More of a cider girl? KW Craft Cider is a hidden gem with a cozy taproom and refreshing small-batch blends that make you question why you ever bought cider in a can.

Walk It Off: Trails & Outdoor Spots You’ll Actually Use

If you need to move your body after all that eating and sipping, you’re in luck. The Walter Bean Grand River Trail runs through the region and offers peaceful views of the Grand River, perfect for morning jogs or reflective strolls.

For something more foresty, hit up Huron Natural Area — it’s like stepping into a different world without ever leaving the city. I bring my journal and snacks and pretend I’m off-grid for an hour or two.

Stay the Night (Or Make It a Staycation)

Why not treat yourself to a night at The Walper Hotel in downtown Kitchener? It’s a historic boutique hotel that’s been lovingly restored — and it’s right in the middle of everything. Or head to Langdon Hall in Cambridge if you’re feeling extra fancy. It’s part spa, part country estate, part culinary destination. Like, the kind of place you go to pretend you're in a Nancy Meyers movie.

Final Thoughts? Waterloo Region is the cool, laid-back cousin of the GTA. You can brunch in a historic hotel, hike through forest trails, shop like a boss, and still be home in time for dinner. It’s creative, community-driven, and full of little surprises that make you want to stay just a bit longer.

Come for the markets, stay for the murals, and leave with a new appreciation for this underrated gem.