Discover Guelph’s past on foot this summer

Since its inception in 1977, the Historical Walking Tours by the Guelph Arts Council have become a beloved tradition—and they’re back again for another season starting May 4. NEWS RELEASE GUELPH ARTS COUNCIL ************************* Since 1977—Guelph’s 150th anniversary—Guelph Arts Council (GAC) has been conducting Historical Walking Tours. What started as a 150 celebration project has blossomed into a 48-year program. All the great cities have them, and Guelph has seven tours to choose from: Where Guelph Began, Downtown Walkabout, Slopes of the Speed, Alter & Hearth - Catholic Hill, Alter & Hearth - Exhibition Park, Brooklyn and the College Hill, and Ward One. Guelph is filled with splendid architecture, unique neighbourhoods, thrilling stories and fascinating natural features. A walking tour forces us to slow down and pay attention, allowing us to notice so much more along the way. Sharing this exploration in a group adds to the pleasure, as different people notice different things. Even the guide can make a difference, so attending the same tour more than once can feel like a whole new experience the second time around. Led by knowledgeable and passionate volunteers, GAC’s Historical Walking Tours take us back in time, providing remarkable information about early Guelph. Many local walkers have become guides themselves as they are inspired to add personal anecdotes to the tours. Whether we’re new to Guelph, visiting Guelph, or our families have been here for generations, a walk together is a wonderful way to feel a sense of community in our beautiful city. It’s also a great way to show off where we live to our family and friends from out of town while likely learning something new about Guelph, even if we’ve lived here our whole lives. At only $10 per person for a 60-90-minute tour, GAC’s Historical Walking Tours make for a lovely and affordable way to spend Sunday mornings through the summer. In honour of Guelph Arts Council marking its 50th anniversary this year, a $50 7-tour bundle is also available, giving people a chance to experience the entire series at a discounted rate. The season kicks off May 4 and runs most Sundays until October 12. Tours depart from various locations at 10am, making for a wonderful start to our summer Sundays. *************************