A Weekend In Kitchener: How To Make The Most Of Your Visit

Are you planning a weekend visit to Kitchener? If so, then you’re in for a surprise. Even though Kitchener is known for its famous Octoberfest, there is so much more to discover year-round. In this guide I’ll help you make the most of your time and experience Kitchener like a local.

As a long-time resident of Kitchener, I’ve experienced most of the activities that Kitchener has to offer. In this post, I’ll share my top recommendations on how to spend your weekend when you visit this Ontario Southwestern city. I’ll also provide a few alternatives so that you can customize your two day itinerary to your liking.

The weekend itinerary that I’ve put together is assuming you are visiting as a couple, solo, or with friends. If you’re visiting with children, you can check out some of the best things to do in Kitchener, with children.

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Friday Night: Get Settled And Explore

Check In:

If you don’t want to drive or have taken the train into Kitchener, then I recommend starting your weekend by checking into one of Kitchener’s charming boutique stays like The Walper Hotel, a historic landmark with modern flair right in the heart of downtown. The Walper is within walking distance to the Museum, restaurants, Kitchener’s historic district, and the Centre in the Square.

If you don’t mind driving, then I recomment staying at the Double Tree by Hilton, which is located just outside of the downtown core and across the street from the Charcoal Steakhouse, Kitchener’s finest dining restaurant.

Dinner:

Head to the Lancaster Smokehouse for a cozy meal and local craft beer. This restaurant offers a fun and vibrant atmosphere and serves up award-winning smoked pork, chicken and ribs. They also offer live entertainment if you’re looking for a fun night out.

Evening Stroll:

After dinner, walk off some calories with a stroll through Victoria Park. The park is especially pretty at sunset when the bridge lights up and the swans glide across the pond.

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Saturday: Local Eats And Culture

Morning:

If you opt to stay at the Walper Hotel, Coffee Culture is located on the main floor of the hotel. This is the ideal option if you’re looking for coffee and a bagel, or croissant. Otherwise, Wimpey’s Family Restaurant is located just down the street from Double Tree. The Double Tree also has a full-service restaurant on site if you’re looking for a full-blown breakfast. If coffee is all you need, then you’re in luck! The Waterloo Region offers the best coffee, with a coffee shop found around any corner.

After breakfast, I recommend exploring the downtown core and Kitchener’s Historic District – don’t forget to check the alleyways for street art! To learn all about the history and culture of Kitchener, I recommend booking a private walking tour.

If you’re into culture, visit TheMuseum or the Kitchener-Waterloo Art Gallery. Both are great spots to learn something new and soak up local creativity. This is all within walking distance of the Walper Hotel.

Alternative: Active visitors to Kitchener might want to forgo the arts and culture and hit the slopes at Chicopee Ski Hill when visiting during the winter months.

Lunch:

After a morning of exploring, I’m sure you’ll be hungry and thirsty. In my opinion, the Waterloo Brewery offers the region’s best craft beers and freshly made pizza.

Afternoon:

Once you’ve fueled up, I highly recommend visiting St. Jacobs Market, one of Canada’s largest markets. If you don’t want to drive, then you’re still in luck. The Kitchener Market is right downtown Kitchener and is within walking distance of the Walper Hotel.

Evening:

Kitchener has so many great places to eat, but I recommend going for broke and enjoy a leisurely dinner and drinks at the Charcoal Steakhouse. This is one of Kitchener’s finest dining options and reservations are required.

Alternative: Abe Erb Brewing offers a fun, more relaxed atmosphere and is located in the downtown core within walking distance to the Walper Hotel. It’s a fun spot to spend the night, beer tasting, enjoying delicious food, and even playing a game of corn hole.

Driver’s Tip: Even though the Charcoal Steakhouse is fine dining, jeans are still allowed.

Evening Entertainment Options:

Kitchener has many options for night owls spending the weekend in Kitchener. Sports-lovers will definitely enjoy a night cheering on the Kitchener Rangers or the Titans. The Centre in the Square offers many live performances for the artsy visitor.

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Sunday: Last Day To Relax

Brunch:

After checking out of your hotel, treat yourself to an expansive brunch served at Golf’s Steakhouse. Reservations are required.

Explore Before You Leave:

Before heading home, head to the Huron Natural Area, one of Kitchener’s best-kept outdoor secrets. Hike the scenic trails, enjoy the lookout views, and take a peaceful break surrounded by nature.

Kitchener Weekend Getaway: In Conclusion

A weekend in Kitchener is the perfect mix of city energy and small-town warmth. With so many things to see and do, you’ll leave with a new appreciation for this underrated Ontario gem. Maybe you’ll even start planning your next visit before you’ve left town!

Have you spent a weekend in Kitchener? I’d love to hear what your favourite things to do are when you’re visiting.

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SAVE A WEEKEND IN KITCHENER