8 Must-See Attractions in Kitchener, Ontario

Located in southwestern Ontario, Canada, Kitchener is surrounded by three of the Great Lakes. Originally a city with a large German immigrant population, it was even called “Berlin” until the outbreak of World War I. In 1916, its name was changed in honor of Field Marshal Kitchener of the British Army. As a result, when exploring Kitchener, you can still find spots that exude a distinctly German atmosphere.

In this article, we introduce eight attractive tourist spots in historic Kitchener. Incidentally, just south of Kitchener (formerly Berlin) lies Cambridge, north is Waterloo, and to the southwest is a town named London. It certainly gives off a curious vibe.

1. Historic St. Paul’s Lutheran Church

Located in a downtown area of Kitchener, Historic St. Paul’s Lutheran Church is one of the Lutheran churches—also known as the Lutheran denomination—with a somewhat dark and solid exterior that is rare in North America.

A notable feature of this church is its volunteer organization called the Community Cupboard, which provides free meals, clothing, daily necessities, and books to low-income and impoverished people. If you visit Kitchener, experiencing the activities of this organization could be a rewarding addition to your travel memories.

2. Waterloo Region Museum

Situated along the Schneider River on the outskirts of Kitchener, the Waterloo Region Museum displays an abundance of materials related to the Waterloo Region—a local government area where Kitchener plays an administrative role.

Its concept is “12,000 years of human history in the Waterloo Region,” systematically presenting the grand history from the traces of the first human presence in the area, through European settlement, to the development of today’s region.

Particularly captivating is the section explaining the history of industrialization—from traditional handicrafts to today’s high-tech industries—using models of large machinery, which is sure to fascinate both adults and children.

3. Oktoberfest (Canada’s Great Bavarian Festival)

When you think of a beer festival, Oktoberfest naturally comes to mind—and of course, the original is held in Munich, Germany. In Kitchener, a city with many residents of German descent, an Oktoberfest of a scale second only to Munich is celebrated with great fanfare.

Officially known as “Canada’s Great Bavarian Festival,” it starts on the Friday before Thanksgiving in October, contrasting with Munich’s Oktoberfest which begins in mid-September. It’s unexpected to experience a festival representing German culture in Canada!

The event spans a wide area across Kitchener and the neighboring city of Waterloo. If you plan to join the Oktoberfest while sightseeing in Kitchener, it might be best to decide in advance which venue you will attend.

4. Victoria Park

Victoria Park is a green space centered around an artificial lake created by damming the Schneider River, which flows through the heart of Kitchener. It is not only a popular spot for tourists but also a place of relaxation for local residents.

As Kitchener’s oldest park, Victoria Park features a British-style pavilion, a historic clock tower that once served as the old city hall, and vast lawns where various events are held. With a bus terminal nearby, transportation access is excellent.

5. Joseph Schneider Haus

Located along the Schneider River near Victoria Park, the Joseph Schneider Haus is said to be the oldest building in Kitchener. Believed to have been built around 1816 by German immigrant Joseph Schneider, it was designated a Canadian National Historic Site in 1999.

Now serving as a museum that conveys the spirit of pioneer life, the Joseph Schneider Haus also hosts a variety of “living history” events where you can experience traditional pioneer activities and games. This makes it an important historical attraction in Kitchener.

6. Waterloo Pioneers Memorial Tower

Located on the banks of the Grand River, the Waterloo Pioneers Memorial Tower was built in 1926. Although the term “Memorial Tower” might suggest a very large structure, this stone tower stands at a modest 18.9 meters, giving it a charming appearance. It was constructed over three years starting in 1800 to commemorate the establishment of German settlements in the Waterloo Region.

With its Swiss-style stonework and a pointed wooden roof, the memorial tower may not be very tall, but it is an important historical site that narrates Kitchener’s past and is well worth a visit.

7. CF Fairview Park Mall

Located right in front of a highway exit on the outskirts of Kitchener, CF Fairview Park Mall is one of the city’s top shopping destinations for both tourists and locals.
The mall hosts a wide variety of shops and eateries, including apparel, bags, shoes, jewelry, cosmetics, household goods, interior decor, restaurants, fast food outlets, and even sushi restaurants. With many affordable items available, it’s a convenient stop for shopping during your sightseeing.

8. St. Mary Our Lady of the Seven Sorrows Church

The oldest Catholic church in Kitchener is St. Mary Our Lady of the Seven Sorrows Church. In contrast to the Historic St. Paul’s Lutheran Church mentioned earlier, this striking red-brick church draws attention with its magnificent appearance. Inside, the altar is beautifully adorned and features delicate sculptures in various parts of the church. Located in the center of Kitchener, right behind the city hall, it also offers excellent accessibility for tourists.

◎Summary

This article has introduced eight tourist attractions in Kitchener, Ontario. Despite being in Canada, Kitchener’s rich German heritage is evident throughout the city, giving its tourism a distinctive flavor. And in winter, there’s even a ski resort just steps away from the downtown area. No matter when you visit, Kitchener offers a variety of enjoyable experiences—so be sure to plan a trip to explore its unique charm.

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8 Must-See Attractions in Kitchener, Ontario