March 3rd, 2025
Come Early, Stay Late Attractions

By Gathering 2025 release

Come Early, Stay Late – Make the Most of Your Trip to Gathering 2025!

If you're traveling from outside the Kitchener-Waterloo region, why not extend your stay and make it an extra memorable trip? Arrive early to settle in and explore, or stay for the weekend after the Gathering wraps up on Saturday at noon.

Whether you enjoy thrill rides, outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or relaxing beach days, there are plenty of options to make your time in Ontario even more exciting. We’re happy to suggest some activities below that just might fit your interests!

Here are some things to do in Kitchener-Waterloo & surrounding areas:

Outdoor Adventures & Nature

🌲 Grand River Canoeing or Rafting – Paddle through scenic landscapes right in the region.
🌊 Elora Gorge Tubing & Hiking – Experience beautiful cliffs, waterfalls, and river tubing.
🏕 Visit a Provincial Park – Options like Pinery or Algonquin offer stunning hikes, canoeing, and nature exploration.
🌳 Conservation Areas & Beach Days – Relax at places like Shade’s Mills or Laurel Creek.
🌲 Treetop Trekking – Challenge yourself on high ropes courses and zip lines.

Family Fun & Attractions

🎢 Canada’s Wonderland – One of North America’s best amusement parks with roller coasters, water slides, and entertainment.
🦁 African Lion Safari – Get up close with exotic animals in a drive-through safari.
🦋 Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory – A peaceful indoor rainforest filled with thousands of butterflies.
💦 Bingemans in Kitchener – Arcade, water park, mini golf, bowling, and more.

Local Experiences & Cultural Activities

🛍 St. Jacobs Market – Canada’s largest year-round farmers’ market, featuring fresh produce, local goods, and handcrafted items.
🏙 Toronto Day Trip – Visit the CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium, or take a stroll through Kensington Market and Harbourfront.
🌎 Blanket Exercise – A powerful interactive experience exploring Indigenous history and reconciliation.
🌊 Niagara Falls – One of the world’s most famous natural wonders, plus attractions like Clifton Hill, Hornblower Boat Tour, and Niagara-on-the-Lake.
⛰ Blue Mountain Resort – Enjoy scenic gondola rides, hiking, or mountain biking in a breathtaking setting.

Plan Your Adventure! Make the most of your time in Ontario—Come Early, Stay Late, and Explore!