As a student attending school in the Waterloo Region of Ontario, Canada, there is no shortage of things to learn or places to explore. Equipped with all the conveniences of a large city, the Waterloo Region remains uniquely community-centred, despite its status as one of the
fastest-growing regions in Canada. The Waterloo Region contains three cities, including Waterloo, Kitchener and Cambridge, with the townships of Wellesley, Wilmot, North Dumfries and Woolwich covering its rural areas. Home to over 630,000 people, the Waterloo Region is a place to both appreciate the charm and beauty of the countryside while experiencing the cultural excitement of the cities.
As a student of Waterloo Catholic Schools, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to explore the Waterloo Region for yourself, from excursions with your homestay family to trips with your classmates. Below, discover a few of the top Waterloo Region activities that you won’t want to miss during your time at Waterloo Catholic Schools.
Visit Some of the Region’s Historic Sites While You Attend English Catholic School
Given the Waterloo Region’s long history within Canada, you’ll be able to discover many museums and historical sites while you receive your Catholic international education. For one, you can visit Castle Kilbride, where Canadian parliament member James Livingston resided in the 19th century. In addition to being a designated National Historic site of Canada, it features many Italian Renaissance-style works of art, making it a great spectacle to visit.
Another option is the Doon Heritage Village, a living history village which offers visitors a glimpse into what life was like in the rural Waterloo region in 1914. The village includes historic buildings, museum exhibits, activities and even live farm animals!
The Waterloo Region is home to some nearby historic sites
Experience Canada’s Largest Year-Round Farmers’ Market
Looking for something to do on your weekend off from school? If you’re near the city of Waterloo, check out the St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market on a Saturday or Sunday. Famous for being the largest year-round farmers’ market in all of Canada, this market is a popular destination for both tourists and locals. The St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market doubles as a flea market, taking place in one large building where you can expect to find fruits, vegetables, knick-knacks and even furniture.
Escape the Cold in the Tropics of the Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory
Canada’s winters can get chilly, and if you’re looking for a place where you can find tropical temperatures while attending English Catholic school, the Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory is a great option. The conservatory is home to thousands of butterflies, which visitors can glimpse as they explore the 10,000-square-foot indoor garden. Additionally, there are many different birds, plants and animals to observe. Also within the vicinity of the conservatory is the Kossuth Bog, a site of environmental interest.
Explore the Wilderness by Getting Outdoors
There are many opportunities to discover the beautiful scenery within the Waterloo Region. At the Huron Natural Area, you’ll find some of the best hiking trails in Kitchener, with access to forests, meadows and wetlands. You can also hike through the forest in the city of Waterloo at the Laurel Creek Conservation Area, which is home to many different trails. As a Waterloo Catholic international student, you may also get the chance to engage with nature by participating in a tree planting excursion with your classmates.
There are many opportunities to get outside while attending English Catholic school in the Waterloo Region
Learn How to Ski at Chicopee
Want to make the most of a Canadian winter? As an international student in Canada, one of the best activities you can take part in is skiing! At Chicopee Ski & Summer Resort, just outside of Kitchener, you can learn how to ski, snowboard or participate in some sledding at the tubing park. The ski hill is perfect for learners, making it a great place to spend some time as a student in the Waterloo Region.
Are you interested in attending a Catholic school in Canada? Learn more about Waterloo Catholic Schools today!