It’s time for a few fun facts about Guelph, Ontario, one of our favourite places on earth! You may already know that we are called the “Royal City” due to King George having Guelph lineage. What you may not realize is that North America’s first cable TV system came to be right here, and we also developed the Yukon Gold potato.
Now that we’ve piqued your interest, let’s talk about something even more inspiring. Guelph is perfect for families of all stripes and sizes. Here, you’ll find safe communities, stunning parks and trails, every convenience imaginable, and perhaps most importantly, outstanding schools.
Whether you have youngsters about to begin preschool or a young adult ready to head off to university, you couldn’t ask for a better place than Guelph to put down roots. In this post, we’ll shine the spotlight on a few of our top neighbourhoods for families.
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Pineridge and Clairfields
Located in Southern Guelph, Pineridge is bordered by Clairfields and Hanlon Creek. This community has it all, including easy access to Highway 401, which makes it great for anyone commuting in and out of the city. Many homes were built starting in the 1990s, coming in all structures and sizes to accommodate families of all types.
With numerous restaurants and shops nearby, this is also one of Guelph’s most convenient neighbourhoods. For families, a high standard of living often revolves around safety, recreation, and access to excellent schools, and Pineridge and Clairfields deliver on all fronts. Younger children have plenty of playgrounds to fill their free time with, and residents of all ages can explore the fields and amenities of nearby parks, including Clair Park, Gosling Gardens Trail, Larry Pearson Park, and more.
Access to public schools will depend on your catchment area. Your family will likely be within the boundary of Rickson Ridge Public School, Sir Isaac Brock Public School, or Westminster Woods Public School. If you don’t want to be limited by postal code and prefer a private alternative, your options may include Montessori School of Wellington, Trillium Waldorf School, or the Wellington Hall Academy.
Are you wondering where and what to look for in your next home? The posts below will help you fine-tune your goals:
- Is Guelph, Ontario, a Good Place to Live?
- 10 Things To Consider When Buying a Home
- 5 Reasons to Make Guelph Your Next Home
Kortright Hills
If you and your family appreciate nature and prefer a quieter lifestyle, look no further than Kortright Hills. This semi-secluded enclave is located in Southwest Guelph just west of Pineridge. Peaceful, tree-lined streets, spacious homes, and tons of green space are the highlights of this desirable community, along with some of the best schools in the city.
Despite the rural feel, Kortright Hills still boasts all of the amenities and services you’ll need, including a YMCA right nearby. With access to Highway 401 and Highway 6, you’ll find it easy enough to travel to the local urban centres for any of your shopping and dining needs. Right at home, your family can spend endless hours immersed in nature thanks to breathtaking trails and parks, including the Kortright Hills Loop Trail, Downey Trail, Preservation Park, and Woodland Glen Park.
Depending on your catchment area, children will attend Kortright Hills Public School, Fred A. Hamilton Public School, Centennial Collegiate Vocational Institute, or Bishop Macdonell Catholic High School.
Kortright East
The south end neighbourhood of Kortright East is one of the most affluent areas in Guelph. Here, you’ll find an abundance of spacious executive homes, perfect for the dual-income or high-earning family. The exclusive vibe is felt not just in the upscale properties, but in the community itself. You’ll find endless amenities right at your fingertips, including Stone Road Mall, as well as lavish green spaces and parks.
Many of the homes in Kortright East are situated on larger-than-average lots, giving you the perfect opportunity to create your outdoor paradise for lounging or entertaining. If your family prefers a more low-maintenance lifestyle, you can choose from one of the numerous move-in ready townhouses or invest in an upcoming pre-construction condo. There’s something for everyone here, as long as you’re prepared for a slightly higher price point.
Highlights of the community include stunning green spaces such as Jubilee Park, Eramosa River Park, and the Zaduk Trail. In terms of education, it’s nothing but the best for the children of Kortright East. Local schools include Priory Park Public School, Jean Little Public School, and College Heights Secondary School. When relocating, our local real estate agents are happy to help you find a home in the catchment area of your choice.
Want to learn even more about the communities we serve? You’ll find all of our neighbourhood guides right here.
Exhibition Park
Calling all sports lovers, you’ll find your community in Exhibition Park. This is one of Guelph’s older neighbourhoods located just south of June Avenue. As the name implies, it’s also home to one of our largest green spaces, where you’ll also find tennis courts, baseball diamonds, a massive sports field, and an indoor skating arena. There are also multiple hiking trails and a giant playground that will have the little ones jumping with delight. These are just a few features that make Exhibition Park particularly attractive to active families.
The houses in this community are nothing short of spectacular. Century homes in gorgeous architectural styles adorn tree-lined streets, and each is full of individual charm and character. The real estate mix is complete with some low-rise apartments and a few condos, which makes the neighbourhood relatively accessible for younger buyers. Close proximity to Downtown Guelph promises a world of excitement and convenience in addition to the unlimited recreation available right in your backyard.
Local schools include Central Public School, Willow Road Public School, and Victory Public School for younger students. Secondary students will likely attend Guelph Collegiate Vocational Institute or College Heights Secondary School. There are also a number of French and Catholic options to choose from.
Old University
If you’re looking for a great mix of old and new, the centrally-located Old University neighbourhood has much to offer. Unique housing structures, typically on large lots, make this little enclave the neighbourhood of choice for many families. A wide array of options also includes relatively affordable homes for the young buyer, as well as spacious, upscale residences for the established family and everything in between.
If beautiful homes aren’t enough, the scenery along Speed River may convince you to give Old University your attention. Unsurprisingly, this community is home to the University of Guelph, along with highly-rated public schools such as John McCrae Public School and Priory Park Public School.
During your spare time, you and your family will enjoy countless recreation options at the many gorgeous green spaces in the area. Silvercreek Park, Royal City Park, and W.E. Hamilton Park are among the most beautiful areas in the city.
June Avenue
Nestled to the north, June Avenue represents the epitome of family-friendly living. The area is highly walkable, has access to public transit, and is a haven for those who enjoy a vibrant dining scene. Perhaps best of all, a varied real estate landscape offers spacious homes with plenty of outdoor living space. Many houses were constructed from the 1950s to the 1970s, offering relatively affordable price points where you can get the absolute most for your budget.
Close proximity to Northwest Industrial Park provides access to a fantastic array of shops and restaurants, and this commercial sector provides numerous employment opportunities. When it comes to outdoor recreation, June Avenue does not disappoint. The neighbourhood is home to Kimberley Park, Riverside Park, the Enabling Garden, and Exhibition Park is just minutes away where your whole family can partake in a variety of sports and activities.
June Avenue Public School and Guelph Collegiate Vocational Institute serve local students, but you will also have some private, French, and Catholic options.
Do you have more questions about Guelph? You’ll find all the answers you need in Living in Guelph FAQs.
Central East
Several of Guelph’s communities have recently been renamed, but all of them still offer the character and family-friendly atmosphere we have grown to love. The neighbourhood formerly known as St George’s Park is now Central East. Whatever you prefer to call it, there’s no denying the warm and historic atmosphere that prevails throughout the community.
Beautiful scenery, tree-lined streets, and classic architecture are just a few attributes that give Central East an air of exclusivity. For families, the park the neighbourhood was previously named after is a hub of recreation, offering activities such as basketball, tennis, and outdoor skating in the winter. If that’s not enough, Riverside Park, Exhibition Park, and Eramosa River Park are also a stone’s throw away, and you can reach the downtown core in about five minutes.
The exceptional real estate offerings include everything from townhouses, apartments, and semi-detached houses to sprawling heritage homes with luxury living space to spare. With numerous public, French, and Catholic elementary and secondary schools in the area, it’s easy to see why Central East continues to be a popular choice for families.
Successfully buying a home begins with a bit of background knowledge. The posts below will help you make the best decisions:
- Common Clauses & Conditions in Real Estate
- Do You Need a Mortgage Broker When Buying a Home?
- Straight Talk About Second Mortgages and Refinancing
Waverley
Originally known as Riverside & Victoria North, Waverley lies just north of Central East. As one of the largest neighbourhoods in Guelph, your family will find plenty of amenities and recreational activities here. The area is practically synonymous with the stunning and expansive Riverside Park that runs along Speed River.
Asphalt trails make it easy to hike or cycle through the gorgeous tree-filled park, and a bridge is the perfect place to stop for a photo. The park also features a rock garden and multiple baseball diamonds, as well as a fully-accessible children’s playground. At Green Meadows Park, your family can enjoy a picnic area and a soccer field for organized sports – or you can simply run and play.
Like many Guelph neighbourhoods, Waverley offers a wide variety of housing styles. Whether you’re looking for a convenient bungalow or a sprawling two or three-storey home, you’ll find it all and more, usually along a peaceful street or court and often with plentiful outdoor living space. Waverley Drive Public School comes highly recommended by many parents in the area, but you’ll also have private, French, and Catholic options for your children’s education.
West Willow Woods/Parkwood Gardens
Last, but most certainly not least, let’s talk about the neighbourhood many residents know and love as Willow West/Sugarbush. Originally named for the many sugar bush trees in the area, West Willow Woods/Parkwood Gardens is one of the most accessible areas in Guelph for families and move-up home buyers.
The benefits of residing in this fast-growing enclave are numerous; it’s convenient, safe, and chock full of fun things to do! Public transit is readily available, and this is one of the most walkable areas in the city. Whether you’re out running errands or indulging in some retail therapy, getting around is easy, with or without a car.
For some outdoor fun and relaxation, try taking your family to Deerpath Park (which also has an off-leash area for your four-legged friend), Marksam Park, or the Rochelle Walkway. Neighbourhood schools include options like Mitchell Woods Public School, John McCrae Public School, and Guelph Collegiate Vocational Institute for secondary students. Conestoga College is also located here, making West Willow Woods/Parkwood Gardens the perfect home for families of all ages.
Do you want personalized guidance during each step of your home buying process? Our top Guelph real estate agents will help you find a home your whole family will love. Connect with us at info@gowylde.ca or call 519-826-7109 for more information.
