Art and Architecture

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Explore the contemporary vibe of the cities of Cambridge, Kitchener and Waterloo. There are a number of notable and award winning architect design buildings such as CIGI, Perimeter Institute and Kaufman Lofts. Tour our outdoor public art trails and avant-garde galleries. Visit the Canadian Clay and Glass Gallery, Kitchener-Waterloo Art Gallery and Cambridge Galleries. Inquire about concert and performance calendars for KW Symphony, Centre in the Square, Ballet Jorgen and Drayton Entertainment.

Day 1 – Kitchener – Waterloo

Start in downtown Kitchener. Watch for buildings such as the School of Pharmacy, Kaufman Lofts, Kitchener City Hall, Walper Hotel and the Courthouse; all great examples of modern architecture and repurposed buildings.

On your path you will run through various public art pieces. At Kitchener City Hall visit Rotunda Gallery, Berlin Tower ARTSPACE and City Hall’s newest exhibit space the Cube, an architectural feature at the top of the Berlin Tower.

Grab a bite to eat at one of the various restaurants in the area such as Imbibe, The Boathouse, TWH Social and Aqua Lounge.

After lunch make your way into K-W Art Gallery. The Gallery emphasizes contemporary art, often premiering works by Canadian and international artists.

In Waterloo visit The Canadian Clay and Glass Gallery, which is neighbor to CIGI and Perimeter Institute, both architecture award-winning buildings.  Check out  The Mike & Ophelia Lazaridis Quantum-Nano Centre. This remarkable building at the University of Waterloo is a state-of-the-art research centre and an architectural marvel.

Enjoy the rest of the day with dinner at Nick and Nat’s or a drink at Beertown in UpTown Waterloo. You will also find public art pieces nearby.

Architect Shirley Blumberg takes you through CIGI

Learn more about the Public Art Program >>

Day 2 – Cambridge

Nestled at the convergence of the historic Grand River and Speed River, Cambridge is made up of four neighborhoods; Galt, Hespeler, Preston and Blair. Known for its picturesque limestone buildings and heritage, the city compares to a European ‘Dickens-like’ setting.

Visit one or all three of the Cambridge Galleries: Queen’s Square, Design at Riverside and Presto Gallery.

CambridgeGalleries

Take a stroll by the Grand River and discover on your way Cambridge Sculpture Garden.

SculptureGarnden

For those considering a future in architecture, visit University of Waterloo School of Architecture in Cambridge.

For a perfect way to end your journey stop at Langdon Hall for an afternoon tea or dinner.

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