Kitchener-Waterloo is fast becoming one of the most in-demand places to live in Ontario. It’s no wonder. These twin cities have a lot to offer, including relatively affordable homes, fantastic amenities, gorgeous green spaces, and impressive educational opportunities. In short, this is a great place to put down roots and raise a family.
Thinking of calling Kitchener-Waterloo home? Get a better sense of what the area is like here in our local Guide to Kitchener-Waterloo…
General Feel
Without a doubt, Kitchener-Waterloo is a very friendly place. It’s also incredibly diverse, which is due in part to the fact that the area is a thriving tech hub with a well-known university and several leading research centres. In other words, no matter where you’re coming from and what your circumstances are, you’ll feel immediately welcome here.
Lifestyle
The quality of life available in Kitchener-Waterloo is unbeatable, and a lot of that comes down to the area’s local amenities. Let’s start with where to go when you’re looking for some retail therapy.
Conestoga Mall is the largest shopping centre in Kitchener-Waterloo. Here you’ll find a mix of brand-name retailers that cater to every set of tastes. The area is also home to some smaller shopping districts, such as Belmont Village in Kitchener. Grab a baked good from The Sconery and wander around to find everything from baby apparel to the perfect blend of looseleaf tea.
Waterloo doesn’t disappoint either when it comes to unique shops. Favourites include Cocoon Apothecary (for eco-friendly skincare) and White Tiger Vintage (for retro-yet-stylish women’s and menswear).
When you’re feeling peckish, rest assured: Kitchener-Waterloo is home to a great food scene. Try Korner Kitchen for breakfast staples, Kinkaka Izakaya for Japanese that’s a cut above, and Ennio’s Pasta House for authentic Italian.
Arts, Culture, and Things To Do
From the performing arts to festivals and galleries, there’s no shortage of fun ways to spend your time in Kitchener-Waterloo. The Kitchener Memorial Auditorium (aka “The Aud”) and Centre in the Square are impressive venues that host well-known musical acts, including the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony Orchestra. The Aud also hosts hockey games (the Ontario Junior A League).
Creative types will love the Canadian Clay and Glass Gallery, as well as the Kitchener-Waterloo Art Gallery. If you want to get curious, the City of Waterloo Museum (with its collection of over 10,000 artifacts) may be more your speed.
Here you’ll also find many attractions for little ones, including Bingeman’s mini putt and Bingeman’s Funworx indoor playground. Last but certainly not least, there’s Oktoberfest. The one in Kitchener-Waterloo is the largest in Canada. Need we say more?
Getting outdoors
One of the best things about living here is the access it provides to beautiful outdoor spaces. There are almost too many parks to count, but some are definitely considered to be local favourites. The first is Victoria Park, in Downtown Kitchener. From its pretty lake to its picturesque trails to its convenient playground and splash pad, this is the ideal place to spend some family time outside.
In Waterloo, Laurel Creek Conservation Area is another must-visit. Here you’ll find 300 acres of outdoor space, including forests and wetlands. The number of activities you can delve into is mindblowing—from canoeing, camping, and swimming to skiing, snowshoeing, and much more.
If you’re the type who likes to hit the links, check out Doon Valley and Rockway golf courses in Kitchener. These are great places to perfect your swing while enjoying the greenery around you.
Real Estate
One of many reasons so many Ontarians decide to call Kitchener-Waterloo home is the affordability. Real estate here is, for the most part, less expensive than what you’ll find in the province’s biggest cities. For first-time buyers and growing families, that means a real opportunity to get a foothold in the market.
Whether you’re looking for a single-family home or a townhouse, something in a quiet neighbourhood or a home closer to the action, you’ll find it in Kitchener-Waterloo.
If you’re interested in learning more about this exciting area, check out the spotlight section of Kitchener Today. We’re regular contributors!
Thinking of calling Kitchener-Waterloo home? Take the first step by getting in touch with our team!
