Designed to mimic a European city with its broad main streets, narrow side streets, and squares, Guelph served as a British land development company's headquarters in the early 1800s, attracting numerous residents. The town itself was named in honor of the Hanoverians, a British royal family descended from the Guelf dynasty, hence its nickname “The Royal City.”
Today, Guelph is home to the University of Guelph and an incredibly diverse economy that has helped the city maintain some of the lowest unemployment rates in the nation. It boasts critically acclaimed restaurants, vibrant entertainment venues, educational activities, and an array of shopping, making Guelph an amazing place to visit.
Whatever your reasons for coming to Guelph, it's important to find the right hotel that allows you to enjoy everything this gorgeous city has to offer.
Best Time to Visit Guelph, ON
The most popular time to visit Guelph is during the summer when high temperatures average in the 70s Fahrenheit. Sidewalks come alive with tourists exploring the city streets and cultural events, but this also means hotel rates tend to skyrocket. If you're hoping to save money on your trip and avoid crowds, you may want to visit in the offseason instead.
Fall signals a gradual drop in temperatures, but the weather is still pleasant enough for exploring. October averages hover around 56 degrees Fahrenheit, so be sure to pack a few layers. Despite the chill, you'll enjoy a crisp season free from throngs of visitors, making it easier to explore Guelph's many points of interest.
Winters in Ontario easily hit below freezing, and snow showers aren't uncommon. If you're willing to brave the chill, however, you'll be rewarded with the lowest hotel rates of the year; just try to avoid holiday weeks as accommodations tend to raise prices during these times.
Like fall, spring is another of Guelph's off seasons, offering incredible weather and a budding city that's well worth the visit. Temperatures remain quite blustery through March, but April and June provide the best climate with plenty of hotel savings.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Guelph, ON:
Guelph by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts demonstrating mean nightly cost trends by star rating class in Guelph, ON. You can use these illustrations to evaluate the best months to stay in Guelph for upcoming travels.
Luxury Hotel Options in Guelph, ON
If you prefer upscale accommodations in Guelph, you have a few options. Delta Hotels by Marriott Guelph Conference Centre is a modern four-star property located in the University of Guelph Research Park. Guest rooms are subdued and inviting, offering flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, coffee makers, and pullout sofas. Suites add kitchenettes, fireplaces, or whirlpool tubs. The site features an all-day restaurant and bar with a fireplace, a fitness center, seasonal bike rentals, and meeting rooms.
Travelers preferring a bed-and-breakfast experience should check out Norfolk Guest House Bed & Breakfast. This harmonious inn is located in a traditional building 3.2 km from the university. It offers a communal kitchen and garden, free parking, and a complimentary cooked breakfast each morning. Guest rooms are elegantly decorated with antiques and offer whirlpool tubs, private balconies, heated floors, gas fireplaces, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi internet access. Some even feature garden views and kitchenettes.
Fairfield Inn & Suites Guelph is located in a business park setting less than 10 km from the University of Guelph Arboretum. Guest freebies include a hot breakfast, an airport shuttle service, and on-site parking. In addition, there's an indoor pool with a waterslide, a bar, an exercise room, a convenience store, a meeting room, and a business center. Rooms are straightforward and feature work desks with ergonomic chairs, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, iPod docks, coffee makers, and mini fridges. Suites add microwaves and separate living areas, with some featuring whirlpool tubs.
Affordable Hotel Options in Guelph, ON
3 Star Average Prices: $100.63
Finding an affordable hotel in Guelph is easier than you might think. Wayfare Motel is a budget roadside property conveniently located 5 miles from the University of Guelph. Free on-site parking is provided, as is a 24-hour front desk service. Guest room are basic, but offer mini fridges, microwaves, work desks, free Wi-Fi, and cable TV.
Adjacent to both the Old Quebec Street mall and the Guelph train station, Royal Inn & Suites is a straightforward lodging 2.4 km from the University of Guelph. The site provides a coin-operated laundry facility for guest use, a business center, a gym, off-street parking, and a bar. Guest rooms feature microwaves, mini fridges, free Wi-Fi, and cable TV. One- and two-bedroom apartments are also available, offering flat-screen TVs, separate living areas, and full kitchens.
Parkview Motel is another budget accommodation offering free parking and an on-site business center. The property is nestled between Riverside Park Floral Clock and Gardens and Woodlawn Memorial Park, placing guests within easy access of outdoor attractions. Guest rooms are cozy and traditionally decorated. All feature free Wi-Fi, while rooms with mini fridges and microwaves are available upon request.
