Guelph (pronounced Gwelf), in the Canadian province of Ontario, offers a rare blend of cultural, business and recreational facilities to suit all needs. With a population of 125,000 people, Guelph is ranked among the top 10 places to live in Canada and is located in one of the strongest economic regions in the country – 60 miles west of Toronto, just east of Kitchener-Waterloo. Meeting venues in Guelph benefit from surroundings rich in culture, architecture, parks and riverside green spaces.
Getting to Guelph is easy; groups fly into Canada's largest airport (Lester B. Pearson International) in Toronto, which is a 50-minute drive to Guelph. The airport is served by all major airlines as well as car rental companies.
Among the newest conference venues in Guelph is the downtown River Run Centre, located on the banks of the Speed River. The center houses an 800-seat auditorium, a 200-seat theater/workshop space and a 350-seat banquet/conference reception hall. Not to be outdone, The Sleeman Centre is a multi-purpose entertainment complex across from the River Run Centre. With the ability to entertain 5,100 for an ice event or 6,500 for a concert or seminar, this center is a versatile facility that can accommodate events—from VIP receptions to trade shows to formal dinners—for up to 1,500 people. Hotel venues in Guelph include the Delta Guelph Hotel and Conference Centre and the Holiday Inn Guelph Hotel & Conference Centre. Other venues include the Arboretum - University of Guelph.
There's something for everyone in and around Guelph. Downtown Guelph is a friendly mix of shops and unique restaurants. Event venues in Guelph include the Guelph Civic Museum, which illustrates the story of Guelph from pre-settlement times to today; and the McCrae House Museum, which is the birthplace of John McCrae, best known for his World War I poem, "In Flanders Field." Several different historical walking tours offered by the Guelph Arts Council can also be arranged.
When in Guelph, visit the village of St. Jacobs, the heart of Canada's Mennonite community. This village is home to many artisans and their studios, among numerous interesting attractions. The Farmers' Market is a lively indoor/outdoor food and craft market with more than 400 vendors. Customized tours may be arranged to view the Mennonite countryside, visit an Old Order farm, a buggy factory and the oldest covered bridge in Ontario. For outdoor enthusiasts, canoe rentals are available on the Eramosa River, and the city maintains a well-developed trail system for joggers and walkers. The Kortright Waterfowl Park is a conservation area nearby with more than 90 species of wild birds, and the Guelph Lake Conservation Area provides opportunities for water sports, camping and nature study.
