See the Fall Colours at the Arboretum

The Arboretum, University of Guelph is beautiful throughout the year, but autumn is when it really shows off.

With gardens, collections, forests and walking trails, there is plenty of room to explore.

The best part is that you can return throughout the season and see something different every time.



For locals, it is an easy way to enjoy the fall colours without turning the day into a road trip.

Walk the River Trails

There is something about crisp air and leaves along the river that makes an ordinary walk feel much better.

Try the Eramosa River Trail, Speed River Trail or Downtown Trail.

Bring a coffee, put your phone away for a while and actually look around.



It is one of the easiest and least expensive fall activities in Guelph.

Visit a Local Market

Fall and farmers' markets belong together.



Start with Guelph Farmers' Market downtown, then explore some of the country markets and farm stands outside the city.

Mosborough Country Market is another nearby option for seasonal produce, baking and locally made goods.

It is a good reminder that one of the perks of living in Guelph is how quickly city streets turn into farmland once you drive beyond the edge of town.

Take a Fall Drive Through Wellington County

You do not need a destination for every drive.

Head toward Rockwood, Fergus, Elora or the rural roads surrounding Guelph and let the scenery be the activity.

Rolling farmland, mature trees and small communities make this part of Ontario particularly beautiful in autumn.

If you do want a destination, pair the drive with lunch, a local shop, a conservation area or a market.

Explore Rockwood Conservation Area

Rockwood feels made for fall.

The limestone cliffs, water and forest create the kind of scenery people drive much farther to find.

Wear proper shoes, give yourself time to explore and do not forget your camera.



It is one of our favourite reminders that some spectacular outdoor spaces are sitting almost in Guelph's backyard.

Rediscover Your Own Neighbourhood

Not every fall activity needs to be an event.

Pick an evening and walk around your own neighbourhood.

The mature streets around Exhibition Park, St. George's Park and Old University are especially beautiful once the leaves change, but every part of Guelph has pockets worth exploring.

There is also something useful about experiencing a neighbourhood on foot.

You notice front porches, gardens, parks, trails and little community details you would never see from your car.

Those are often the things that make a neighbourhood feel like home.

Make Fall in Guelph a Tradition

The best seasonal traditions do not have to be complicated.

Maybe yours is an annual Arboretum walk.

Maybe it is Saturday morning at the Farmers' Market.

Maybe it is driving to Rockwood when the leaves peak or grabbing coffee downtown before walking beside the river.

Guelph is especially good at this kind of fall.

Not flashy.

Not overly planned.



Just enough city, countryside and community to make you appreciate where you live.