Your Guide to University of Guelph Homecoming Weekend
It’s almost time to break out the red, gold and black! University of Guelph Homecoming returns on Saturday, September 26, bringing students, alumni, families and Gryphon fans together for one of the biggest weekends of the year.
The main event kicks off at 1 p.m. at Alumni Stadium, when the Guelph Gryphons take on the Waterloo Warriors. Gates open at 11 a.m., giving you plenty of time to get settled in and soak up the Homecoming atmosphere before kickoff.
Coming from out of town? Make a weekend of it! From places to stay to local restaurants and coffee shops, here are a few spots to add to your Homecoming plans.
Stay Close to the Action
Skip the drive home after a busy Homecoming Saturday and spend the night in Guelph.
For one of the closest stays to campus, Delta Hotels Guelph Conference Centre is located at Stone Road and Gordon Street, just steps from the University of Guelph. Its convenient location makes it easy to get to campus while still being close to shopping, dining and other things to do around the city.
Guelph also has a variety of accommodations throughout the city, whether you’re looking for a full-service hotel, an extended-stay option or something simple for a quick overnight visit.
Looking for a place to stay? Explore Guelph accommodations and available offers through the Gather. Stay. Save. hotel portal.
Fuel Up Before the Game
Homecoming calls for a good meal, and there are plenty of options close to campus.
For classic pub fare and a casual atmosphere, The Shakespeare Arms on Harvard Road is a short trip from campus and a great spot to grab a bite with friends or family.
Looking for something a little more upscale but still game day friendly? Check out Bar Mason for a relaxed but elevated dinner hotspot.
You can also head a little farther north to Bardō on Gordon Street, where the menu features stone-baked pizzas, salads, shareables and more.
Are You A Visiting Student from Another School?
You don’t have to be a Gryphon to get in on Homecoming weekend!
If you’re making the trip from Waterloo or another university to cheer on your team, turn game day into a full day in Guelph. Arrive early and grab breakfast or coffee downtown before heading to Alumni Stadium, then stick around after the game to explore more of the city.
Downtown Guelph is just a short trip from campus and is packed with student-friendly restaurants, cafés, shops and places to hang out. Grab a coffee at SOL Bakehouse or a Dirty Soda at Dirty Soda Girls. While you are here, explore the shops and restaurants throughout the downtown core.
Planning a night out? Visit some of Guelph’s hotspots including Royal Electric, Frank and Steins, and The Stampede Ranch.
Whether you’re wearing red and gold or cheering for the visiting team, we’re happy to have you in Guelph.
Make a Weekend of It
Homecoming may bring you back to Guelph, but there’s plenty of reason to stick around after the final whistle.
Spend some time exploring Downtown Guelph, grab dinner or drinks at a local restaurant, walk one of the city’s trails or rediscover a few of your favourite spots from your university days. Whether it’s your first visit to Guelph or you’re returning to your old university stomping grounds, Homecoming is the perfect excuse to experience more of the city.
Welcome to Guelph, and go Gryphons!
