For our family and friends from out of town, we want you to enjoy the city as locals. Here are some of our favorite spots to eat, drink, and explore.
Activities
Activities & Things to Do
Walk or hike along the Speed River
Right in Hespeler Village, Cambridge
Enjoy a peaceful walk along the river. Trails like the Mill Run Trail offer scenic views and the skyline of our backyard. A great way to take in the natural beauty of our hometown and enjoy a quiet, scenic stroll.
Riverside Park, Cambridge
5–10 minute drive from our venue
Our favourite spot to go as a couple! We love feeding the birds, keeping an eye out for turtles in the ponds, and playing Pokémon Go along the trails. The park is quite large, has public bathrooms, and features an accessible bridge path through the trees. It also offers playgrounds, picnic areas, and open fields — perfect for a relaxed morning or afternoon outing.
Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory
2500 Kossuth Rd, Cambridge, ON N3H 4R7 (~15 min drive)
Step into a tropical indoor garden filled with thousands of free-flying butterflies, lush greenery, waterfalls, and tropical birds. This is a beautiful spot for family or friend photos, thanks to the vibrant colours and scenic backdrops. General admission is in the moderate price range for adults and children and timed entry tickets must be reserved in advance online, though you can usually get lucky with walk-ins. Great if the weather is not ideal.
Bingemans
425 Bingemans Centre Dr, Kitchener, ON N2B 3X7 (~20 min drive)
A local go-to spot on a hot summer day! Water slides and wave pools, bowling, mini golf, and arcade games make it perfect for families or groups. We also recommend camping here if you’re traveling in and choose to camp. We can’t stress enough, this place is legit.
THEMUSEUM
10 King St W, Kitchener, ON N2G 1A3 (~20–25 min drive)
Interactive exhibits covering science, art, and culture. Engaging for all ages and a fun indoor option if the weather isn’t ideal.
African Lion Safari (Top pick!)
1386 Cooper Road, Cambridge, ON N1R 5S2 (~25–30 min drive)
A drive-through wildlife adventure where you can see lions, giraffes, zebras, and more from your car or guided tours. We do not recommend the drive-through option if you are renting a car. If your family or group would like to enjoy the full experience, please talk to Emma about borrowing a car. Great for kids and adults alike.
St. Jacobs Farmers' Market
878 Weber St N, Waterloo, ON N2V 0H2 (~35–40 min drive)
One of Ontario’s most beloved markets, featuring fresh produce, artisanal goods, baked treats, and unique souvenirs. Open only on Thursdays and Saturdays. Worth the drive for a morning outing and local shopping.
Food and drinks
Four Fathers Brewing Co. (Top Pick)
125 Guelph Ave, Cambridge, ON N3C 1A5, Canada
Our favourite local spot and a must-visit in Hespeler Village. This child-friendly craft brewery and restaurant offers great food, excellent craft beer, and a relaxed atmosphere for all ages. Located along the Speed River, it is surrounded by beautiful walking trails and scenic views that showcase everything we love about our town. We recommend the patio!
Ernie’s Roadhouse
7 Queen St W, Cambridge, ON N3C 1G2, Canada
A beloved Hespeler restaurant that Emma has been going to since she was a kid. Known for its classic comfort food and welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere, it is a true local favourite and a meaningful part of the community.
Cyprianna’s Pizza
18 Queen St W, Cambridge, ON N3C 1G2, Canada
Our go-to spot for a quick slice or takeout pizza, right in downtown Hespeler. Family-run with incredibly kind owners that we truly love — perfect for an easy, delicious meal close to our venue.
Grind House Café and Eatery
2 Queen St E #101, Cambridge, ON N3C 2A6, Canada
A charming café in the heart of Hespeler Village serving coffee, light meals, and sweet treats — perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a relaxed stop while exploring the area.
Choun Kitchen
39 Queen St E Unit 102, Cambridge, ON N3C 2A7, Canada
A popular local Asian fusion restaurant offering flavourful Southeast Asian-inspired dishes in a cozy, welcoming space.
Namaste London – Bar & Grill
58 Beech Ave, Cambridge, ON N3C 1S7, Canada
Family-run Indian restaurant serving rich, flavourful North Indian dishes. We especially recommend trying their butter chicken — it’s outstanding and a favourite of ours. Perfect for lunch or dinner.
Country Girl Family Restaurant
561 Hespeler Rd #15, Cambridge, ON N1R 6J4, Canada
A cozy, family-friendly diner known for hearty breakfast, brunch, and classic comfort food.
Beertown Public House Cambridge
561 Hespeler Rd #1A, Cambridge, ON N1R 6J4, Canada
One of our favourite spots for a casual dinner out. Beertown offers a lively, welcoming atmosphere with a creative menu featuring fresh, locally inspired dishes and an excellent selection of craft beers. Perfect for gathering with friends or family for a fun, relaxed evening. Great menu for special diets.
Symposium Cafe Restaurant Cambridge
500 Can-Amera Pkwy, Cambridge, ON N1T 0A2, Canada
A large, family-friendly restaurant offering breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, and desserts.
Cambridge Mill (reservations recommended)
100 Water St N, Cambridge, ON N1R 1P1, Canada
A fancy beautiful riverfront restaurant known for excellent food cooked by top chefs and scenic views, perfect for occasions or a special date night.
Hespeler Road is not too far from our house or venue and offers many convenient fast-food options, including Chick-fil-A, McDonald’s, and several Tim Hortons locations. It also has our town’s only Walmart.