Moving into university is a big milestone, and for new University of Guelph students and their families, September 4 and 5 will be the start of an exciting new chapter.
Between unloading boxes, organizing residence rooms and saying your goodbyes, take some time to explore the city your student will soon call home. Whether you’re coming from an hour away or travelling across the country, turn move-in into a Guelph getaway with great places to stay, eat and explore.
Stay the Night in Guelph
Move-in day can be a long one, so why rush home? Staying overnight gives you more time to help your student get settled and experience a little more of Guelph for yourself.
For convenience, the Delta Hotel Guelph is located just across from the University of Guelph campus, making it an easy home base for move-in weekend. Staybridge Suites Guelph is an suite option in Guelph’s south end with easy access to Highway 6 and the 401.
Looking to score a deal? Check out hour hotel promotions page for exclusive deals on accommodations.
Move-in weekend is one of the busiest times of year in Guelph, so book your accommodations as early as possible!
Grab a Bite After Move-In
Once the boxes are unpacked, celebrate a successful move with a meal together.
If you want to stay close to campus, Bar Mason is located inside the Delta Hotel on Stone Road and offers an expansive menu with locally inspired food and drinks.
Students can also give their families a first taste of campus life. Creelman Hall is one of the University of Guelph’s best-known dining halls and is famous among students for its wood-fired pizza. The university has more than 20 dining facilities across campus, so there are plenty of opportunities to get acquainted with where your new Gryphon will be eating throughout the year.
Have a little more time? Discover Guelph’s local restaurant scene. From casual patios and cafés to restaurants perfect for a celebratory family dinner, it’s a great opportunity to introduce new students to an area of the city they’ll soon get to know.
Get to Know Your New Home
Moving in is only the beginning. Before heading home, spend a few hours getting to know Guelph beyond campus.
Start right at the University with a walk through the University of Guelph The Arboretum. With gardens, forests, trails, wetlands and plenty of green space, it’s one of the best places for students and families to unwind after a busy day of moving.
Then, take a trip downtown to explore Guelph’s shops, cafés, restaurants and historic streets. Stop by the Guelph Civic Museum and take in the view from Catholic Hill, home to the iconic Basilica of Our Lady Immaculate.
If you’re looking to stretch your legs after a day in the car, explore the trails along the Speed River or visit Riverside Park for a walk along the river.
Looking for more information about the city? Stop by one of the Gather in Guelph Ambassador Locations to pick up a visitor guide, maps, and other materials to learn more about the Royal City!
Welcome to Guelph, Gryphons!
University might be what brings you to Guelph, but there’s plenty to discover beyond campus.
For students, the next few years will mean finding favourite coffee shops, discovering go-to restaurants, exploring trails, attending festivals and events and getting to know the city they now call home. For parents and families, move-in weekend is just the first of many visits.
So unpack the car, settle into residence and then get out and explore. Your Guelph experience is just getting started!
