Move Seniors Lovingly – Guelph

Some Must-See Spots for Seniors Exploring Guelph

Guelph, Ontario, is known for its charm and rich history, teaming with cultural landmarks and plenty of green space. For seniors, it’s the perfect city to explore, especially if you’re a war history buff or architectural aficionado. If you’re planning an Ontario staycation, Move Seniors Lovingly – Guelph has some great suggestions for breathtaking spots to put on your must-see list.

Guelph Civic Museum

Where: 52 Norfolk Street

Why it’s a must-see: Those who remember Canada’s centennial celebrations might find it interesting that the Guelph Civic Museum was first created in 1967 and housed in a stable. It moved around a bit, but since 2012, it’s taken over the space of the former Loretto Covenant on Norfolk Street. Here seniors and their families can learn about the city’s history through the 30,000 artifacts on display, from vintage fashion to sports memorabilia. This museum will give you a sense of how the city has evolved. We suggest it as a first stop to brush up on Guelph’s history. Admission is $6 per adult, and parking is free in their lot.

McCrae House

Where: 108 Water Street

Why it’s a must-see: Seniors interested in war history cannot pass up the opportunity to visit the birthplace of John McCrae, the famed doctor and soldier most famously known for writing the poem “In Flanders Field.” In 1858, this small limestone house was built and has since been renovated in 2015 to highlight McCrae’s legacy. McCrae House features many artifacts from his life, including medals and sketchbooks. This space also has a beautiful memorial garden, serves a delicious high tea, and offers the chance to purchase poppy seeds to plant in your garden. Admission is $6 per adult, and there is free parking on some of the surrounding streets.

Basilica of Our Lady Immaculate

Where: 28 Norfolk Street

Why it’s a must-see: This gothic revival-style basilica, whose construction started in 1876 under the lead of Irish-Canadian architect Joseph Connolly, has been designated a National Historical Site of Canada since 1990. Medieval cathedrals in France inspired the Basilica of Our Lady Immaculate, which took over 50 years to build. It was fully restored in 2014 and is a beautiful spot to marvel at the stained-glass interior or climb its steps for an epic view of Guelph. It’s close to the Guelph Civic Museum, making it an easy companion spot. There is a parking lot across the street.

The exterior of Basilica of Our Lady Immaculate: Image Courtesy of Darlene Munro/ iStock

University of Guelph Arboretum

Where: 200 Arboretum Road

Why it’s a must-see: This beautiful green space is located on 400 acres adjacent to the campus and is a nature lover’s delight. The University of Guelph Arboretum features extensive plant collections, walking trails, meadows and more. It’s home to native Ontario trees such as Oaks, Beeches, Maples and Conifers. It also has a stunning Japanese Garden. We think it’s the perfect spot for seniors to admire the changing seasons. Since Guelph is known as a rare Canadian city that has seen growth in its green space in the last decade, this arboretum is a great spot to celebrate that. The Arboretum has 2-hour complimentary parking for guests only.

We hope that you’ve enjoyed our suggestions for exploring Guelph. Whether you’re pausing in the memorial garden at McCrae House or admiring the panoramic views of Guelph from the steps of the Basilica of Our Lady Immaculate, we hope you relish the beauty of this Canadian city. We’d love to hear what your favourite spots in Guelph are.

Published April 2023 

About Move Seniors Lovingly:

Move Seniors Lovingly is a full-service Senior Move Transition Company solely dedicated to assisting seniors and their families in all aspects of the transition from their present home to a new home or senior community. If you or a loved one are planning for a move, reach out to our team of professionals for support and guidance, or to schedule your free consultation.

Call 1-888-884-0804 or Email: info@moveseniorslovingly.com