POSTED 03.16.18
Things To Look Forward To This Spring in Rockwood
This winter has without a doubt felt like one of the longest in recent history. With temperatures hitting all-time lows and enough snow falling to make even a snowman sigh, everyone is ready for spring. With the first day of this greatly anticipated season quickly approaching, it’s time to stop binging Netflix series, crack open your windows for the first time in a long time, and check out what’s going on around your Rockwell home this spring.
Aberfoyle Antique Market
With the start of spring comes the re-opening of Canada’s largest outdoor antique market, the Aberfoyle Antique Market. Located at 57 Brock Road South in Puslinch, this farmer’s market has been a popular destination for treasure hunters and day-trippers for over 55 years. With more than 100 vendors selling everything from collectibles and folk art, to books, jewelry, and toys, there is surely something for everyone. The market is extremely accessible to all visitors, boasting a family-friendly atmosphere, wheelchair accessibility, on-site ATMs, a home delivery service for your larger purchases, a playground, an outdoor patio, and plenty of free parking. After spending the morning shopping, you can dine at the market’s restaurant, which features a rotating menu inspired by fresh, locally sourced ingredients. If you’re looking for more of a snack rather than a full meal, the market is host to several food vendors, at which you can enjoy homemade ice cream, artisanal sweets, gourmet pretzels, and so much more. You’ll surely find yourself coming for the antiques and staying for the food.
Elora Gorge
One of the greatest benefits of living in a Rockwell home is that you are always only a short drive away from one of Ontario’s premier destinations for nature and sports enthusiasts alike. The world-renowned Elora Gorge, located at 7400 Wellington Country Road 21, is the most stunning natural area in the Grand River Valley, boasting riverside trails, scenic overlooks, and the spectacular Grand River. The Elora Gorge has no shortage of fun things for you to do with your friends and family. In addition to picturesque natural trails, the park also offers its visitors family swimming areas, designated camping areas, fishing spots, a splash pad, picnic areas, and the tubing adventure of a lifetime featuring 22-metre high cliffs and turbulent rapids. Don’t forget to keep an eye on the Elora Gorge’s event calendar! The park offers activities and events throughout the season fit for the entire family, such as workshops on different ways to improve your wilderness skills, tree planting events, day camps, and fishing lessons! With the park being dog friendly, the Elora Gorge is the perfect day trip spot for the entire family, furry members included.
University of Guelph’s Observatory Telescope
You’ll never be so close to the stars as you’ll be when you’re visiting the University of Guelph’s academically celebrated physics department. The rooftop of the university’s MacNaughton Building, located at 43 Reynolds Walk, is home to a top-of-the-line observatory telescope, most commonly used by the university’s astronomy classes, its Astronomy Club, and senior student projects. Throughout the spring, summer, and fall months, the physics department opens its doors to the community, hosting tours of the observatory and giving brief lectures to the public. During the tour, visitors can expect to see planets like Venus, Jupiter, and Saturn, as well as Messier objects, moons, and star constellations. Tours are about 2-3 hours long, accommodate up to 20 people, and can be hosted for private parties upon request, making it the perfect spot for everything from parties to dates, even the pluto-nic ones!
Ghost Walk of Guelph
If you’re a lover of local history and the supernatural, you’ll love being in on one of Guelph’s best kept secrets: the Ghost Walk. Join a dedicated team of historians turned tour guides for an hour long stroll through downtown Guelph during which you will explore not only the Royal City’s rich history, but also its haunted past. Check out the Ghost Walk’s official website or Twitter profile for tour times and dates; however, Ghost Walk encourages visitors to contact them regarding private tours if they would prefer a different date. Whether you’ve been a Guelphite your entire life or you’re just settling in to your Rockwell home, you’ll love learning something new about Guelph’s vibrant history.
