Introduction
Idlewood started to blossom as a neighbourhood, starting in the 1960s as the population of Kitchener and Waterloo started to grow and spill over its boundaries. The community, poised between both cities, has continued attracting new residents and new housing developments. The area is bordered by Ottawa Street North and Fairway Road North on its south side, then by Old Chicopee Drive (west) and Lackner Boulevard (east).
Lifestyle
This is a neighbourhood where weekends mean backyard barbecues, house parties and running around with the kids for soccer/hockey/swimming/baseball games and such. Small parks sprinkled over the area welcome a diverse mix of families. Going to the movies or to the mall can happen within a 10 to 15 minute drive. People live here because it’s safe, clean and affordable, while downtown Kitchener and Waterloo are easy commutes for drivers or bus takers.
The Vibe
The neighbourhood has grown steadily, thanks to an influx of primarily middle-income residents. The houses tend to be newer and detached, with swimming pools in the backyard. Not much happens in the core of Idlewood. This is where people live and sleep. To work, shop or hangout, the perimeter of the neighbhourhood holds most of the community facilities. While it might be a bit sleepy for some, families dig it.
Meet the Neighbours
It’s a mixed bag in this neighbourhood – a true mash-up of cultures with a strong presence of first and second-generation immigrants from Southeast Asia and Eastern Europe. The eclectic composition means there are some great ethnic grocery stores, eateries and delis. Low to middle income groups blend harmoniously and there’s a feeling of community first.
In the Area
Over the last 40 years, more amenities have been added to serve this neighbourhood. Active types can take advantage of the Lyle Hallman Pool, Heritage Green Bowling Club, and Grand River Arena nearby. The community has sought activity to improve its park facilities with new playground equipment installed at Eby Park. Green space aplenty is found in Idlewood Park and Wetlands to enjoy.
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Planes, Trains & Automobiles
Nestled between Waterloo and Kitchener, Idlewood can take advantage of the transportation systems in both. Access to Hwys. 7 and 8 is less than 10 minutes away via Fairway Road North. The Region of Waterloo International Airport is about a 15-minute drive away.
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
This area does have it all, but just less of everything – fewer restaurants, less shopping, schools and attractions than some other areas in KW. But what it does have in spades is a great sense of community. People come to live here just for that. Neighbours watch out and help for each other.
Dollars & Sense
Idlewood is still affordable, but prices are creeping up. It’s a desirable neighbourhood with strong demand for properties, so there’s still plenty of “up” potential. You can spend half a million dollars or more on a brand new house, but there are modest semi-detached ones around $300,000 and less.
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Neighbourhood Hotspots
Jumbo Dragon Chinese Restaurant
This cheap and cheerful local hangout is well known for its big portions and small prices. Lunch specials are less than $6 (rice, soda or egg roll included).
more infoGino’s Pizza
This Ontario pizza chain is a local fave. Since its modest beginnings in 1981, it’s added pasta, calzones, chicken wings and subs to its menu.
more infoLyle Hallman Pool
This facility is hopping all year round with a full roster of programs. They span the gamut with classes for everything, from teaching babies to swim to aquafit.
more infoDom Cardillo Trail
Named after the long-time serving mayor, this gravel trail caters to the needs of hikers, joggers and cyclists. Just west of Old Chicopee Trail, it provides a green sanctuary in the city.
more infoStanley Park Community Association
Boredom isn’t as option with a crammed program schedule of classes for everyone from preschoolers to seniors. Take a class – yoga, gymnastics, Spanish, guitar, belly dancing, or bridge.
more info