The area along the Conestoga River, that's now known as St. Jacobs, was first settled in 1830. Most of those early settlers were Mennonites from Pennsylvania. As the population grew steadily over the next couple of decades, school lessons were taught entirely in the local German dialect, further emphasizing the community's Pennsylvania Dutch heritage. After residents established a dam, a sawmill, a woolen mill, a flour mill, and a school, the village was named Jakobstettel, or Jacob's Village. The “St.” was added later, and the pluralization of “Jacobs” was meant to honor local mill owner Jacob C. Snider and his son Jacob C. Snider, Jr.
Despite a rail line reaching St. Jacobs in 1891, the community remained small, with virtually no population growth until the 1950s. Today, St. Jacobs is a charming commercial center with a bustling tourism industry. The village features numerous historic buildings, restaurants, retailers, and attractions, making it a great destination for a weekend getaway. Whatever your reasons for visiting St. Jacobs, it's important to find the right hotel that allows you to explore everything this wonderful village has to offer.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Saint Jacobs, ON?
The best time to visit St. Jacobs is in the shoulder seasons from late April through May and again from September through October. You'll want to pack plenty of clothing layers, however, as average highs drop below 70 degrees and evening lows are even chillier. Visiting in the off-season certainly has its perks, as you can enjoy discounted hotel rates throughout town.
If you don't mind paying more for your accommodations, summers in St. Jacobs are glorious. The village comes alive with people filling up the patio restaurants, marketplaces, and attractions, which only adds to the excitement. Those who prefer to avoid crowds, however, might want to hold off on visiting until after the tourist season ends.
Winters in St. Jacobs are biting and cold, keeping most visitors away. If you don't mind braving the seasonal weather, you'll enjoy rock-bottom hotel rates across this region of Ontario. And just because the tourists stay at home for the season, doesn't mean the community shuts down. Sites like the farmers market stay open for the season, if only on a limited basis, allowing you to get the full experience. Just be sure to book refundable flights and make some alternative travel plans in the event of inclement weather.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Saint Jacobs, ON:
Saint Jacobs by Star Rating
Below we've posted 3 graphs demonstrating mean rate patterns by star rating class in Saint Jacobs, ON. You can use these charts to calculate the most cost effective seasons to make a reservation in Saint Jacobs for any future trips.
What About Luxury Hotel Options in Saint Jacobs, ON?
4 Star Average Prices: $139.00
Those who prefer more upscale accommodations near St. Jacobs don't have to look far.
The Courtyard by Marriott Waterloo St. Jacobs is a highly rated option in the historical district. Featured amenities include concierge services, a complimentary shuttle service, a fitness center, free Wi-Fi, an on-site bistro and bar, a coffee shop, cooked-to-order breakfasts (for an additional fee), and a full-service business center with event facilities. You can also take advantage of a guest laundry room, luggage storage, a computer station, and a safe-deposit box at the front desk. Guest rooms include 32-inch LCD TVs with cable, mini fridges, microwaves, pillowtop beds, premium bedding, hair dryers, and designer toiletries.
Situated near St. Jacobs Country Playhouse, Homewood Suites by Hilton Waterloo/St. Jacobs features a 24-hour front desk, event facilities, a bar, ticket assistance, an indoor pool, a fitness center, a gift shop, free Wi-Fi, and a complimentary full breakfast. The spacious guest suites feature kitchens with full-sized appliances, 37-inch LCD TVs, cable programming, desks, safes, phones with free local calls, and both wired and wireless internet access.
Delta Hotels by Marriott Waterloo is an exceptional luxury accommodation with a glamorous indoor pool. Additional amenities include a state-of-the-art fitness center, concierge services, a gift shop, laundry services, a business center, a bar, a restaurant, room service, and a delicious breakfast buffet (for an additional surcharge). The well-appointed guest rooms feature flat-screen TVs with cable, pillowtop beds, mini fridges, hair dryers, and toiletries.
Are There Any Low-Cost Hotel Options in Saint Jacobs, ON?
3 Star Average Prices: $179.00
When visiting St. Jacobs, you'll need to expand your hotel search to include surrounding areas. The village itself doesn't have any accommodations within its limits, but there are plenty of nearby options within easy driving distance.
Located about 12 miles from St. Jacobs, Super 8 by Wyndham Guelph is a modest highway motel that doesn't skimp on amenities. Enjoy a 24-hour front desk, express check-in and check-out, a coffee shop, ample parking, and a complimentary continental breakfast. There's also a TV in the common area and outdoor barbecue grills for guest use. Each guest room features a flat-screen TV with cable programming, complimentary wireless internet access, a work desk, a microwave, a mini refrigerator, a private bathroom with a shower/tub combination, and free toiletries.
The Village Inn in Centre Wellington places you within walking distance of Grand River Raceway. Featured amenities include free parking, a 24-hour front desk, free coffee, an on-site restaurant, a picnic area, and free Wi-Fi. The homey guest rooms feature LCD TVs with cable, mini fridges, microwaves, desks, wood furnishings, and phones with free local calls.
If you prefer an option closer to St. Jacobs, consider Ellis in Waterloo. This modern and minimalist accommodation features a TV in the lobby, free Wi-Fi, and free parking.
Guest rooms feature wall-mounted smart TVs with digital programming, pillowtop beds, hair dryers, toiletries, modern artwork, and wood-effect floors.