Summer Fun In Guelph On A Budget

It's finally summer here in the Royal City. And it's about time too! After two very damp and much cooler summers, we're due for some hot weather. Summer, can also be expensive. The financial cost of going out and doing things in the nicer weather can add up. We here at Visit Guelph came up with a list of fun things to do if you're in Guelph for the summer but you're on a budget. After all, having fun doesn't mean you need to spend a lot of money! 

Movies in the Square

The family favourite Movies in the Square is back again this summer! This year's movies include Minions, Big Hero 6, The Avengers, and How To Train Your Dragon. Seating is BYOC (bring your own chair) and first come first served. Don't forget the snacks!

Check out the new skate park

Guelph finally has an outdoor skate park! Located across from the old OPP station, where the volleyball courts on Wellington Street used to be, the new skate park is already proving to be popular. It's always buzzing with activity when I drive by! Check out this awesome 360 video of the new skate park! 

Play a round of disc golf at the Arboretum

Admission to the Arboretum is free and the disc golf course is open to the public without reservations. Challenge your friends to see who can get the best score! 

Grab a copy of Ispy

After last year's successful relaunch, the Ispy challenge is back again this year. This year's theme encourages people to explore their own city in a way they might not have before. Grab a copy of Ispy from your local library branch, the brochure racks at the Civic Museum, or download a copy to print at home. Bring your completed card to the main branch of the library any time in August for a prize!

Go for a hike or bike ride

Guelph is covered in hiking trails. Many of the trails in town are level and easily accessible. Some are even paved! Don your favourite pair of walking shoes, grab a friend, and hit the trail. You can literally walk from Clair Road all the way up to Guelph Lake on the trails!

Canada Day at Riverside Park

Always a hugely popular event, admission does require a small donation to the Rotary Club of Guelph. The cost is $2 per person or $5 per family, and the money does go to local charities. Canada Day in the Park has events going on all day for people of all ages.

John Galt Day

John Galt Day is a family friendly event that takes place over the Civic holiday weekend in August. Carden Street is shut down to traffic and open to fun. Run through the splash pad or check out the live entertainment. Admission to the civic museum will also be free that day! 

Grand River Raceway's Weenie Race

It was such a big hit last summer, they're doing it again this year! Take the short drive north to Grand River Raceway on July 8th to watch the second annual Wiener Dog Races. Hilarity will unfold as dachshunds race to their owners on the finish line. Last year's champion, Junebug, has entered again to defend his title! There are no losers at this event, only wieners!