Waterloo City Guide

Food is diverse with good vegetarian and vegan options. Try Poutine and BeaverTails. Some late-night spots near campuses. Wide international cuisine due to diverse population.

Active nightlife with many pubs and bars focused on casual socialising, popular with students.

Good mix of chains and specialty coffee shops. Cafes are popular study and work spots.

Tipping is common. Expect 15-20% in restaurants, 10-15% for ride-shares, and 10-20% for other personal services.

Buy SIM cards at carrier stores in malls like Conestoga. Rogers, Bell, and Telus have best coverage but cost more. Freedom Mobile is cheaper in the city. eSIMs are available. ID needed for post-paid plans.

City is clean with good waste management and recycling systems.

Some 24/7 convenience stores and pharmacies. Hospitals have 24/7 emergency rooms. Limited late-night clinics.

Supermarkets like Loblaws, Zehrs, and Sobeys offer international foods. Stores typically open 7 AM to 10 PM, with shorter hours on Sundays and holidays.

Cards are accepted everywhere, even small shops. You rarely need cash.

ATMs are common at banks like RBC, TD, and Scotiabank, and in convenience stores. Beware of CAD $1.50-$3 fees for out-of-network withdrawals.

Strong public schools with English instruction; some offer French Immersion. No specific international schools. Register early for the school year starting in September.

Tech events and university networks provide some community. No large nomad groups but good cafes and coworking options.

Large parks and green areas with shaded trails and good facilities for outdoor activities.

Great running routes including parks and trails. Generally safe and well-maintained paths.

Multiple gyms and fitness options available, including university facilities open to the public.

Many public tennis courts in parks; booking usually first-come-first-served.

Padel courts are rare but increasing in number.

Several studios offer classes in various styles, including hot yoga and meditation.

Various dojos offer BJJ, Muay Thai, Boxing, Taekwondo, Karate, Judo. English-speaking instructors and competitions available.

Local ski hill Chicopee is good for beginners; Blue Mountain resort is 2 hours away for more options during winter.

Kayaking and paddleboarding available at local lakes like Laurel Creek and Conestogo Lake.

No surfing opportunities; Waterloo is landlocked.

No marine diving. Some quarry diving nearby but limited.

Healthcare is publicly funded and reliable. Main hospitals with English staff include Grand River and St. Mary's. Pharmacies like Shoppers Drug Mart are common and provide OTC meds and advice.

Tap water is safe to drink across the city.

Many parks with playgrounds and family-friendly cafés. Baby supplies are easy to find. Attractions include Waterloo Park and Children's Museum nearby.

City is very accepting with strong protections and annual Pride events. Safe and inclusive.

Pet-friendly city with many dog parks, pet supply stores, and pet-friendly patios. Veterinary care is widely available.