Located at the confluence of the Grand and Speed Rivers, Cambridge is a new city with a rich history. Formed in 1973 by the amalgamation of Galt, Preston, Hespeler and the surrounding townships, Cambridge is becoming increasingly cosmopolitan with families drawn by the multitude of modern conveniences, natural amenities and robust employment opportunities. Keep reading to learn more about all that Cambridge has to offer.
1. It’s a Nature Lover’s Paradise
Outdoor enthusiasts are sure to feel right at home in Cambridge, thanks to the multitude of lush parks and conservation areas that surround the city. Just 10 minutes from our Westwood Village community, Shade’s Mills Conservation Area is a popular destination for hikers, cyclists, canoers, swimmers and fishermen. Nearby Riverside Park is also a local favourite spot for its hiking trails, picnic areas and tennis courts, as is Churchill Park, with numerous baseball and football fields and 14 camping sites.
Locals and visitors alike enjoy visiting the Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory, which is home to dozens of butterfly species from counties as far as Costa Rica and the Philippines.
2. It Has a Thriving Foodie Scene
With Waterloo, Kitchener and Guelph locals frequenting Cambridge’s restaurants, it’s safe to say that the city has quite a thriving foodie scene. Cambridge is home to a variety of breakfast, lunch and dinner options with local and internationally-inspired flavours represented.
Cambridge Mill
The Cambridge Mill earned its namesake from the historic 1800s mill that it’s located within. This downtown fixture features an impressive patio that overlooks the Grand River and a delicious menu that prioritizes high-quality, farm-to-table ingredients.
Blackshop
Another local favourite, Blackshop specializes in both classic and imaginative European-inspired dishes made with fresh ingredients. Their menu features an array of delicious meat and fish dishes, as well as a variety of vegetarian options.
13 Food + Beverage
With an interior reminiscent of an old English pub, 13 Food + Beverage is a cozy lunch or dinner spot. The menu changes seasonally to accommodate the freshest produce available, and the bar also has a large selection of craft beers.
Q BBQ Public House
A haven for meat and barbecue lovers, Q BBQ is a must-visit Southern-inspired restaurant. Their signature smokehouse collection includes pork ribs, meatloaf, wings, brisket, pulled pork and pulled chicken. If you’re having a hard time deciding what to try, don’t worry — the restaurant also offers sharing platters with a variety of smoked meats.
Obie’s Bar & Grille
If you’re in the mood for burgers and fries, you’ll want to make a reservation at Obie’s. The restaurant prides themselves on using only the freshest locally-sourced ingredients and their reputation for everything being made in house, from their sauces and dressings to their juicy burgers and crispy fries.
Amici Restaurant
Visit Amici’s for when you’re craving a taste of Italy. This Glamis Street restaurant is home to a charming atmosphere and a large selection of pizza and pasta dishes, as well as a variety of chicken and veal plates. Be sure to save some room for dessert, as their tiramisu and cheesecake are simply delizioso!
3. It’s Home to Excellent Boutique and Big-Box Shopping
If you love to shop, then you’re sure to be pleased with the many shopping options that are available in Cambridge, including local boutiques and a modern shopping mall.
Cambridge Centre
Conveniently located just south of Highway 401 and just 10 minutes from our Westwood Village community, the Cambridge Centre is a local go-to for big-box shopping.
Downtown Cambridge
Experience the charm of Cambridge’s European-inspired buildings as you stroll along the downtown, which is home to a blend of clothing and jewellery boutiques, specialty shops, furniture and home accessories stores and more.
4. It Has Strong Education & Employment Opportunities
Cambridge is close to some of the province’s best higher education institutions, and home to one of the fastest-growing and strongest economies. With quick access to the University of Waterloo, Wilfrid Laurier University and the University of Guelph, students have ample opportunity to learn and grow. And with many start-up and high-tech firms attracted to all the area has to offer, Cambridge is quickly being recognized as one of North America’s top tech centres.
5. It’s Rich in History
If you’re a history buff, then you’ll appreciate the rich history that Cambridge has to offer. Step back in time at the McDougall Cottage Historic Site, a former post office with an impressive mix of Gothic and Roman architecture, and at the old Forbes Textile Mill, a heritage building that dates back to the late 19th century. And don’t forget to peruse the Cambridge Farmers’ Market, which has been running since 1830 and operates year-round, selling a mix of local produce and unique, homemade crafts.
6. The Grand River is at Your Doorstep
One of Cambridge’s best perks is that it enjoys an unbeatable proximity to the Grand River, with the waterway traversing through the heart of the city’s downtown. You can experience this natural landmark from a restaurant patio, by walking along the riverside pedestrian trails, or by getting in and on the water during the summer months. Adventure seekers can boat, paddle, fish, tube, swim and raft along the Grand River, or participate in a local favourite pastime by Tubing the Grand.
7. It’s Famous on the Small Screen
Beautiful rivers, lush parks and historical buildings make Cambridge a popular destination for TV shoots. Keep an eye out for local landmarks next time you’re watching The Handmaid’s Tale, The Queen’s Gambit, Murdoch Mysteries and more.
Just 10 minutes from Cambridge’s downtown core, our Westwood Village community offers an outstanding collection of well-crafted homes in a spectacular setting. Visit our Westwood Village website to learn more about how you can call this community home.
Images courtesy of Anne Edgar Photography (Cambridge Mill); Yellow Pages (Blackshop); Waterloo Region Record (13 Food + Beverage); Q BBQ (Q BBQ); Obie’s via Facebook (Obie’s Bar & Grille).
