Introduction
This popular residential area is centrally located, bordered by Queen, Joseph, Victoria, Highland and West Streets. Established in 1894, the unapologetically romantic Victoria Park (the city’s oldest) is the jewel at the centre of this crown, sprawling over 60 acres. It bustles with events and activities year round, making it the social hub of the community.
Lifestyle
It’s all about the park – strolling through it, taking the kids there, walking the dog, cycling and spending a summer’s day at the splash pad. If you’re after hyper modern, this isn’t it. This is a microcosm of Kitchener’s past, with old factories and grand homes once belonging to the city’s forefathers, like the Pennsylvania-German Mennonite Joseph Schneider. His house circa 1816 is now a museum and national historic site.
The Vibe
Along with the Victorian single-family homes, the area is balanced with a mix of modest dwellings, condos and rental units. Historic buildings, including Kitchener’s oldest (the Joseph Schneider House Museum, built 1816) gives this beloved heritage district a sophisticated, old-world feel. People come to live here initially because it’s so close to the downtown core, but stay when then fall in love with its close-knit, come-one-come-all community vibe.
Meet the Neighbours
There seems to be two types of residents: the lifers – people who have lived in the area for eons, have never lived anywhere else and don’t want to; and boomers who have moved into the new condo developments. Singles drawn to KW for tech jobs, newly marrieds and couples with young kids have migrated to the area from all over Ontario and across the country.
In the Area
Because of the prime central downtown location, going cheap isn’t really an option. Those tony cafes and chic boutiques pay premium rents, underwritten by yours truly with every purchase. But this is where the action is and many don’t mind paying the cost of entry.
0.7 km
Planes, Trains & Automobiles
Being in the centre of Kitchener, the area is well served by public transit, primarily buses. The main bus station is handy for longer trips outside the area. Residents may have vehicles, but they seem to leave them at home once their workday is over, opting to cycle or walk to nearby shops and eateries. It’s a bit of a drive to the major highways, but traffic is well managed.
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
There’s no shortage of amenities and services in the area. The park itself has a splash pad, basketball court, picnic areas, public art and playgrounds. Education abounds, from high schools to University of Waterloo’s School of Pharmacy nearby. The beloved Kitchener Market and downtown’s mix of shopping and restos are a short hop away.
Dollars & Sense
Victoria Park is steeped in history, which brings mixed blessings. There are plenty of trees and greenspaces, while many heritage dwellings have been converted to residential housing. Some haven’t and sit decaying, waiting for either demolition or revitalization. Traffic into downtown can be noisy, and the park fluctuates in personality, depending on time of day. Sketchier types hang out there in the late evening, giving it a menacing feel.
Gallery
Neighbourhood Hotspots
Candy Candy Candy
Candy, Candy, Candy, I can’t let you go. Those with a sweet tooth flock to this downtown spot. Retro candy (hello, Pop Rocks!), artisan sodas, vintage-looking tins… Everything your dentist told you not to eat.
more infoEllison’s Bistro
Turn a blind eye to the dated decor and focus on the food. This Caribbean eatery brings a taste of the islands to KW. The standouts include jerk chicken, pepperpot soup and the curried goat.
more infoNougat Bakery & Delicatessen
It’s nearly impossible to escape this European bakery empty-handed. You might come for a coffee, but the smell of freshly baked bread is seductive. Bring home a loaf of sourdough and cherry puff pastry Danishes.
more infoEast African Cafe
What this eatery lacks in aesthetics, it makes up with lovely, spiced dishes. It caters to vegetarians and carnivores alike, but don’t expect cutlery. Food is meant to be scooped up with soft, doughy injera.
more infoThe Firkin at Tannery
Gather up a few buddies and kick back at this local watering hole. It’s housed in a former tannery, which gives it a cool industrial vibe. Drink, eat and be merry.
more infoQueen Street Wellness
Registered massage therapist (and U of W grad) James Ward works out muscle aches and knots at reasonable prices. He also offers a couples’ massage class to help keep twosomes harmonious and healthy.
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