The Best Family-Friendly Neighbourhoods in Guelph for 2025
The Best Family-Friendly Neighbourhoods in Guelph for 2025
Guelph has long been known as one of Ontario’s most welcoming and community-driven cities, and it’s no surprise that families continue to choose it as home. With excellent schools, plenty of green space, safe streets, and a strong sense of community, Guelph offers a wide variety of neighbourhoods suited to families at every stage of life.
If you’re thinking of making a move in 2025, here are some of the best family-friendly neighbourhoods in Guelph to explore.
1. Westminster Woods & Clairfields
South Guelph’s Westminster Woods and Clairfields areas are consistently top picks for families. With extensive trails, nearby parks, and highly regarded schools like Westminster Woods Public School, it’s a safe, vibrant community where kids can walk or bike to friends’ houses. Plus, you’re close to shopping at Clairfields Commons and have quick access to Highway 401 for commuters.
2. Kortright Hills
Nestled in Guelph’s south end, Kortright Hills is loved for its quiet, winding streets, mature trees, and larger lot sizes that give families room to spread out. The neighbourhood backs onto plenty of green space and trails, making it easy to enjoy nature right outside your door. With Kortright Hills Public School at its heart, it’s a true family-oriented community where kids can walk to school and neighbours know each other by name.
3. Exhibition Park
For those who love character homes and community charm, Exhibition Park is a gem. Centered around its namesake park — complete with tennis courts, splash pad, playgrounds, and green space — this neighbourhood combines history with walkable access to downtown. Families love the sense of community and the chance to be steps away from Guelph’s best festivals, markets, and schools.
4. Kortright East & Kortright West
South of the city’s core, Kortright East and West are two of Guelph’s most popular family neighbourhoods. Kortright East is known for its larger executive homes on mature lots, while Kortright West offers a wider mix of housing styles, from established properties to newer builds. Both neighbourhoods give families easy access to schools, shopping at Stone Road Mall, the University of Guelph, and plenty of trails and green space.
5. East End
One of Guelph’s fastest-growing areas, the East End is an excellent option for families seeking more affordable housing without sacrificing amenities. With schools, parks, and community centers built into the neighbourhood design, it’s a hub for young families. Ongoing development also means new amenities are constantly being added, making it a great place to plant roots for the future.
Why Families Love Guelph
- No matter where you choose, Guelph offers families:
- Top-rated Public and Catholic schools
- An active sports and recreation culture
- Abundant parks, trails, and green spaces
- Safe neighbourhoods with strong community pride
- Quick connections to the 401, Kitchener-Waterloo, and the GTA
Thinking About a Move in 2025?
At the Hudson Smith Group, we know that the right neighbourhood is just as important as the right home. Whether you’re looking for quiet streets, walkability, or the best schools, our team can help you find a community that fits your family’s lifestyle.
📩 Reach out today to start your search in Guelph’s most family-friendly neighbourhoods.
There’s something special about Guelph in December. The lights feel a little brighter, the downtown feels a little cozier, and the whole city comes alive with traditions that bring our community together. To help you make the most of the season, we’ve put together a simple guide to some of our favourite local holiday events — the ones that make living in Guelph feel like home. Spirit of the Season December 5–7 & December 12–14 — Downtown Guelph Downtown transforms into a festive hub filled with twinkling lights, artisan vendors, live entertainment, and warm holiday energy. It’s the perfect place to support local businesses, enjoy a hot drink, and soak in the magic with friends or family. If you’re looking for that “start of the holidays” feeling, this is it. Sparkles in the Park December 13–31 — Riverside Park Every evening, Riverside Park lights up with spectacular displays — glowing tunnels, festive scenes, and whimsical designs that bring out everyone’s inner child. And this year, keep an eye out for The Hudson Smith Group lighting display among the magic — we’re proud to support this beautiful community tradition with the Guelph Rotary Club. Even better? The carousel rides are free, and there’s a fireworks show on New Year’s Eve. Santa Run & Santa Claus Parade Saturday, December 6 - Santa Run 4:55 PM & Parade 5:30 PM One of Guelph’s most beloved traditions. The evening starts with the Santa Run — a quick, fun, festive dash — followed by the parade winding through downtown with music, lights, and holiday cheer. It’s a great way to kick off December with the whole family. Old Quebec Street Christmas Market Dates vary through December A cozy, European-style indoor market right in the heart of the city. Expect local makers, handmade gifts, warm drinks, and the perfect place to finish (or start!) your holiday shopping while supporting local vendors. Market Square Skating All winter long — weather permitting Nothing feels more festive than skating under the lights in front of City Hall. Bring a friend, grab a hot chocolate afterward, and enjoy one of Guelph’s simplest — and most nostalgic — winter traditions. Giving Back This Season If you’re looking to make a difference this year, consider supporting one of Guelph’s incredible community organizations, including: The Guelph Food Bank Royal City Mission Hope House Toys for Tots / local toy drives Rotary initiatives A little kindness goes a long way during the holidays. From Our Team to Yours The holidays are a time to slow down, reflect, and appreciate the people who make our community special. Whether we’ve worked together this year or you’ve simply followed along with our journey — thank you. Your trust and support mean the world. Wishing you a warm, joyful, magical holiday season from all of us at the Hudson Smith Group.
Have you ever wished you could have more space — without sacrificing connection? Across Guelph, more families are embracing two-family or multi-generational living as the perfect blend of connection, independence, and financial practicality. Whether supporting aging parents, welcoming adult children home, or creating separate living quarters for long-term stability, buyers want homes that can comfortably and naturally support two households. But as demand grows, suitable properties have become almost impossible to find—especially in walkable, highly established neighbourhoods like Old University. That’s what makes 36 Harcourt Drive such an extraordinary opportunity: a true two-family home that offers space, flexibility, privacy, and location without compromise.
When the snow starts to fall, it has a way of transforming everything — streets, parks, and even front yards take on a quiet, magical charm. But for sellers, winter can also mean extra effort to make sure that charm extends to your home. Curb appeal doesn’t hibernate when the temperature drops — in fact, it matters even more. Here’s how to make your home shine this season and capture that “warm welcome” feeling buyers love, even on the coldest day. Light the Way Winter days are short, which means lighting plays a starring role. Swap out dim porch bulbs for bright, warm-toned LEDs and consider adding soft string lights or lanterns along your walkway. A well-lit entryway not only looks beautiful in twilight photos — it instantly feels inviting. Add a Pop of Colour When the landscape is all whites and greys, a bold front door makes a statement. Deep navy, forest green, or classic red can instantly lift a neutral exterior. If you’re not ready to repaint, a colourful winter wreath or fresh greenery can achieve the same welcoming effect. Dress Up with Winter Greenery Who says planters are only for summer? Evergreen boughs, birch branches, and pinecones arranged in large planters add life and texture to your front entry. They photograph beautifully and bring natural warmth to even the snowiest setting. Keep It Clean and Clear Shovel paths, sprinkle salt, and make sure steps are safe and tidy. It’s one of the simplest ways to show care — and it makes a lasting first impression for both buyers and photographers. Bonus: a clean driveway and entryway make your listing photos feel crisp and polished. Set the Scene for “Cozy” Winter buyers are looking for warmth — literally and emotionally. A soft glow from the windows, a hint of smoke from a chimney, or a front door framed by lanterns all help tell that story. These small touches help buyers imagine themselves stepping into comfort after a snowy day. Thinking of Selling This Winter? A fresh layer of snow doesn’t mean you have to wait until spring. With the right presentation, your home can look more inviting than ever. Selling in winter? We’ll make sure your home stands out — even when everything’s covered in snow. hudson@hudsonsmith.ca | 519-821-3600 | hudson@hudsonsmith.ca
