🚗 Where to Live in Guelph if You Commute to Toronto

🐾 Top Dog-Friendly Areas in Guelph: Where Tails Wag Happily Guelph isn’t just a great place to raise a family—it’s also a city that welcomes dogs with open arms . With scenic trails, off-leash parks, and plenty of pet-friendly patios, Guelph is a haven for dog lovers who want their furry friends to be part of everyday life. Whether you're a lifelong resident or looking to move here, here are the top dog-friendly areas in Guelph to explore, live, and play in with your pup. 🏞️ 1. Exhibition Park Exhibition Park is one of Guelph’s most walkable and community-oriented neighbourhoods—and dogs are practically part of the culture here. The large park features open green space, mature trees, and pet-friendly walking paths. Why dogs love it: Large park with trails and open fields Surrounded by quiet, residential streets for easy strolls Close to pet-friendly cafés like With the Grain and The Common 🧡 Best for: Social pups and owners who love neighbourhood charm 🌳 2. Royal City Park & Downtown Trail Network Right along the Speed River, this area is a dog-walker’s dream. You can walk your pup along the Royal Recreation Trail , wind through Riverside Park , or head downtown for a patio break. Why dogs love it: Scenic riverside trails and shade Lots of other dogs = socializing Dog-friendly patios like Red Brick Café and Kanoo Coffee 🧡 Best for: Active walkers who love a view and coffee on the go 🐶 3. Peter Misersky Off-Leash Dog Park (East End) 📍710 Victoria Rd N One of Guelph’s designated off-leash dog parks, Misersky is fenced, spacious, and a go-to for local dog owners. There’s even a separate area for small dogs. Why dogs love it: Full freedom to run, fetch, and sniff Friendly local dog crowd Wood chip surfaces and shade for hot days 🧡 Best for: High-energy dogs and off-leash playtime 🌿 4. Hanlon Creek Park & Preservation Area (South End) Tucked near the Clairfields and Kortright Hills neighbourhoods, Hanlon Creek offers forested trails and large open areas for dogs on-leash. Why dogs love it: Shaded walking trails with lots of smells Streams and natural features Close to residential areas and parking 🧡 Best for: Nature-loving owners and dogs who like adventure 🏡 5. The Junction This up-and-coming neighbourhood is perfect for urban dog owners . With breweries like Fixed Gear Brewing Co. and pet-friendly local businesses, it’s a relaxed area that’s great for leash walks and lounging outdoors. Why dogs love it: Walkable streets and low traffic Dog-friendly patios and breweries Access to parks and Guelph’s trail system 🧡 Best for: Social city dogs and chill weekend vibes ☕ Honourable Mentions: Dog-Friendly Patios The Boathouse – riverside and relaxed Aviator Coffee (The Ward) – small patio, dog-friendly vibe Brothers Brewing – downtown taproom that loves pups Park Grocery – grab a bite and sit outside with your dog 🏡 Dog-Friendly Living in Guelph Buying a home with a dog means more than just a backyard—think about nearby trails, walkability, and access to parks or off-leash areas . Neighbourhoods like Exhibition Park, The Ward, Old University, and Clairfields offer the perfect mix of green space and community. 📩 Looking for a home in one of Guelph’s best dog-friendly areas? Let’s find the perfect space for you and your pup—backyard fetch included.

🏡 Old University: Charm and Character Close to Downtown Tucked between the Speed River and the University of Guelph, Old University is one of Guelph’s most sought-after and storied neighbourhoods. With tree-lined streets, mid-century homes, and a walkable location close to both campus and downtown, it offers a rare blend of character, convenience, and community. If you’re looking for a neighbourhood with soul—and not just square footage— Old University may be exactly what you’re after. 🌳 A Neighbourhood Steeped in History The name “Old University” comes from its proximity to the original University of Guelph campus , and the neighbourhood's roots date back to the early to mid-20th century. Many of the homes here were built in the 1940s to 1970s and reflect a mix of classic red brick bungalows, charming story-and-a-halfs, and larger custom homes . It's a place where homeowners plant roots for decades—and where curb appeal isn't manufactured, it's authentic. 🏫 Why People Love Living Here 1. Walkability & Location Old University is just a short walk to: Downtown Guelph – cafés, restaurants, and shops University of Guelph – great for faculty, students, or professionals Royal City Park and the Speed River Trails – perfect for runners, dog-walkers, or a quiet stroll 2. Top-Rated Schools Families are drawn to the area for strong public and French Immersion options like: John McCrae Public School École King George (FI) 3. Architectural Character This isn’t a subdivision of copy-paste houses. Here, no two homes are exactly alike. The mature trees, wide streets, and mix of house styles give Old University an established charm that newer neighbourhoods simply can’t replicate. ☕ Lifestyle & Community Living in Old University means being close to: Downtown coffee shops like Red Brick Café & Kanoo Coffee The Boathouse Tea Room along the river The University Arboretum – a local favourite for peaceful nature walks The community vibe is laid-back, intellectual, and neighbourly. You’re just as likely to see professors biking to class as you are to see kids playing soccer in the yard. It’s a neighbourhood with real personality , not just polished edges. 💰 Real Estate Snapshot Homes in Old University range from modest bungalows to fully renovated family homes , often sitting on large, mature lots. Inventory tends to be limited —and when homes hit the market, they’re snapped up quickly. Home Style Typical Price Range 2-bed bungalow $850K–$1M 3–4 bed family home $1M–$1.5M+ Renovated custom builds $1.5M–$2M+ 💡 Pro Tip: Many homes in this neighbourhood have unfinished basements with potential , or are suitable for modest upgrades that dramatically increase value. 🏁 Final Thoughts Old University is one of those rare neighbourhoods where location, character, and community all intersect . Whether you’re raising a family, downsizing with style, or just want to walk to downtown and the trails, this area has timeless appeal. 📩 Interested in buying in Old University or selling your home there? I’d be happy to help you explore what’s available—or position your home to stand out in this high-demand pocket of Guelph. Let’s find you a home that has both story—and stories to come.