The Ultimate Guelph Day Trip: Architecture, Cuisine & Campus Charm

⛪ 9:30 AM | Basilica of Our Lady Immaculate Step into a Gothic masterpiece Architectural Marvel: Soaring 79m spire (taller than Niagara Falls!) with intricate limestone carvings Hidden Gem: The crypt chapel features rare 19th-century frescoes (ask staff for access) Perfect Shot: Morning light through the rose window creates rainbow patterns on the nave floor Local Secret: Climb 135 steps to the bell tower for panoramic city views (weekdays only) 🍝 12:00 PM | Buon Gusto - Authentic Italian Lunch 📍 42 Macdonell St (8min stroll from basilica) 🍷 Why Foodies Love It: Wild Mushroom Soup: Truffle oil drizzle + locally foraged mushrooms Burrata Salad: Creamy cheese paired with Guelph-grown heirloom tomatoes Sommelier Tip: Pair with Ontario's Cave Spring Riesling ($9/glass) ⚠️ Heads Up: Tina's meatballs use lean beef - request "extra sauce" if ordering Weekends get lively - book the "Tuscany Terrace" (heated patio) 🧋 2:00 PM | Gong Cha Tea Break Across from basilica at 46 Macdonell St Must-Try: Jasmine Milk Cap (ask for 30% sugar + extra foam) Student Perk: Flash your UoGuelph ID for discount Local Pairing: Grab a maple butter tart from With the Grain next door 🏫 3:00 PM | University of Guelph Exploration 🚗 5min drive or 15min scenic walk 📸 Photo Ops Route: Johnston Hall: Neo-Gothic arches + the famous "Kissing Arch" Arboretum: 400+ tree species (peak fall colors mid-October) UC Clocktower: Time your visit for the 3:30 PM carillon concert 🎓 Pro Tip: Parking Lot P20 (free after 3:30 PM) Visit the Art Gallery of Guelph (free admission) 🌅 Optional Sunset Option If time permits (10min drive): Riverside Park: Feed the swans + riverside trails Boathouse Ice Cream: Kawartha Dairy's seasonal pumpkin flavor #GuelphDayTrip #OntarioWeekend #FoodieAdventure #ArchitectureLovers