Date our Downtowns

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Swipe right on me if:

You're mildly obsessed with trains. I'd love to show you around the Railway Heritage Museum or take a stroll along the White Junction Trail. I might even take a minute to show off my Trendy Trains public art project... 

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Sometimes people say: 

I can be dramatic? I mean, they're not wrong. You'll often find me at the Norgan, The Crown Harriston, or the Harriston Town Hall theatres with the creative geniuses of the Grey-Wellington Theatre Guild.

We'll get along if:

You like the thrill of escaping into a world of mystery and puzzles, where teamwork is your greatest asset. Can't quite decode what I'm getting at? Meet me at Escape the Old Post... 

My secret talent is:

Gardening. I couldn't kill a plant if I tried. You'll understand more when you see my downtown's Metal Flowers and The Poppy Project. 

My favourite sweet treat: 

Can I only pick one? I love me some baked goods. This week's favourites: a cinnamon bun from the Barrel House or pecan pie from Homestyle Flavours. 

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I am well known for: 

My snazzy phone booths! Operational? No. Beautiful intriguing art celebrating my local phone and communications heritage? Absolutely. These Booths Were Made for Talking, and they sure are a great conversation starter. 

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Something you don't know about me: 

I'm inked. Literally covered in murals. Mural Mania! I've been tattooed (err...painted...) by many local artists and my streets tell bright, captivating community stories. 

A non-negotiable for me is: 

Enjoying summer street parties as much as I do! Whether it is the Raleway Festival, Clifford Carnival, or the Harriston Street Party, you will always find me mingling and beaming with community pride.

Our first date could be:

A food tour! A Canadian bacon burger from the Clifford Snack Shack? A panzerotti from Harry Stones? Indian delicacies from Bombay Hub? The options are here, and I want them Dans Ma Bouche!

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I go crazy for:

Ice cream! From delicious unicorn sundaes at the Magic Ice Cream Shoppe, to creative Cool Cones sculptures beautifying my streets - it's a true (tasty) passion. 

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A long-time hobby of mine is: 

Antiquing! Rooster, Davie, and Rock all know me by my first name, and I love to look through all kinds of different treasures each time I go. 

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Something I like to do:

Support local businesses and buy gifts for family and friends. Whether I go to the Clifford County Store for artisan crafted items, Kidding Around or Teenie Tiny Tots for kids gifts, or Feel Alive Wellness Station for a gift card towards a massage and smoothie, I always find something.

Town of Minto

Minto is a municipality in Midwestern Ontario, on the Maitland River in northern Wellington County. Minto consists of Harriston, Palmerston, Clifford and surrounding areas.

Find more businesses in the Town of Minto in our Wellington County Wellington County Business Directory. 

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Our first date could be:

A self-guided tour of the patriotic murals throughout downtown Arthur with a home-made churro from El Milagro Food Truck in hand.

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My spirit animal is: 

Spirit animal? Or spirit animal? Cause I am often guided by a Silver Fox or a Tipsy Fox, and they show up in all kinds of shapes and sizes... and award-winning craft gin flavours. 

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A favourite pastime:

Grab an iced caramel latte and breakfast boat croissant (drool) from Sterre Cafe, then browse for home decor at Arthur Cash and Carry. I always find something there I didn't realize I needed... 

The next place I will travel is: 

The Wellington North Farmers' Market this Saturday! Ok, I'm a homebody - but who needs to travel when there is so much to Simply Explore in Arthur, Mount Forest, and all my charming surrounding communities?

My secret talent is: 

The Mount Forest Fireworks Festival. IYKYK... and if you don't know, join me from July 18 - 21 for fireworks, food, fun, and festivities. I'm not catfishing - you will not be disappointed. 

Are you an animal person?

One of my favourite things to do is sit back, relax, and enjoy a waffle cone (...and a funnel cake?) with The Old Hound. So to answer your questions, yes, yes I am. 

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On a hot summer day I like to:

Splash! Nothing makes my heart happier than a visit to the Mount Forest or Arthur community splashpads for a quick cool down. Follow it up with some deep fried pickles and a submarine sandwich from Erni’s Place and I’m in heaven.

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My idea of a perfect day is: 

Meat the Butcher and chat about fine foods and our community’s local Coffee Culture, followed by a refreshing walkthrough of my local Eco Den.

Township of Wellington North

The most northerly Township in Wellington County, the Township of Wellington North has is located 30 minutes north of Guelph on Highway 6 and takes in both rural and urban settings. The Township of Wellington North includes the Village of Arthur, the Town of Mount Forest, and surrounding areas. 

Find more businesses in the Township of Wellington North in our Wellington County Wellington County Business Directory. 

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You can often find me: 

Taking in the view at Waterside Park and exploring the Grand River Conservation Area (GRCA). It’s hard to believe (even for me) that both Rockwood and Guelph Lake are in my backyard...

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A list of my hobbies includes:

Hiking! Biking! Boating! Camping! Nature is my playground.

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I will never judge you for:

Keeping your Christmas lights up year-round. Our local Bearded Barista* is a home décor guru and has taught me that decking your halls is appropriate any time of year!
*He serves Lady Glaze donuts on Fridays, so you can trust him.

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I hype myself up for:

Discovering up and coming artists at the Hillside Festival! Every year the festival’s lineup, educational workshops, amazing food options, and palpable sense of community draw me in. It’s a favourite, can you tell?

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A non-negotiable for me:

Prioritizing self-care. Having five salons downtown Rockwood alone is a testament to how important self-care is to me.

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Swipe right on me if...

You love local. Like, everything-handmade-within-an-hour-of-Rockwood local. Cause if you do, we should go ahead and book our first date at Rural Roots so we can peruse the shelves for locally made apparel, food, home items, and more!

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After a long day:

I know the perfect spot to go for a warm welcome and a cold pint. I’m Chompin’ at the Bit to take a date out for a healthy and hearty meal along with some live entertainment.

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Something you may not know about me:

I’m a dog lover. The kind of dog lover that names their local ice cream parlour after their own furry friends, Ed and Rosie, and offers delicious pup cones to local pooches stopping by.

Guelph/Eramosa Township

Guelph/Eramosa is located in the southern end of Wellington County, bordering the City of Guelph and easily accessible to all areas of the Greater Toronto Area. 

Learn more about the businesses in Guelph/Eramosa Township in our Wellington County Wellington County Business Directory. 

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I am well known for: 

My unique libraries. Both big (my Hillsburgh Library Branch has a pond and loans out fishing poles!) and small. Often the talk of the town, all the locals know them well.

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I am looking for:

Someone who likes going to the Century Church Theatre as much as I do! Bonus points if you also love horses and shamrocks.

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I really like to:

Go for High Tea! There is something about the tiny sandwiches and pastries at the Maddie Hatter’s Tea Shop and Café that makes me feel right at home.

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My favourite hangout is:

The Rural Commons. This bright, beautiful, airy coworking space also has a retail storefront and a coffee bar. A real triple threat! What more could you ask for?

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I can sum up my childhood with:

A trip to the Erin Fall Fair with an apple fritter from Holtom’s Bakery in hand. Need I say more?

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Can we talk about?:

All the sweet treats and freshly baked bread at Bistro Dupain? Actually, let’s not talk about it, let’s just go there…

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On a Saturday afternoon you can find me:

Grabbing a refreshing latte from the Tin Roof Café, soaking up the sights and sounds at McMillan Park, and indulging in some jerk chicken tacos, cocktails and live music at The Busholme. TBH I might even do it again on Sunday.

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Out first date could be:

We’d go just outside of town to Erin Hill Acres, where we could go on long lavender field strolls, chat with farm animals, and eat fresh stone oven pizza.

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Fun fact:

Odds are my Uncle Denny (Bus Lines) has probably driven you home at some point.

Town of Erin

Erin is located on the east side of Wellington County, approximately 80 kilometres northwest of the Greater Toronto Area, and bordered by the Town of Caledon, the town of Halton Hills, and the Township of Guelph/Eramosa. The town also includes the smaller communities of Ballinafad, Brisbane, Cedar Valley, Crewson's Corners, Orton and Ospringe as well as Hillsburgh, an urban centre. 

Learn more about the businesses in the Town of Erin in our Wellington County Wellington County Business Directory. 

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On the weekends I like to: 

Go thrifting and antiquing! My community has so many hidden gems to discover, and friends like The Pretty Penny are always helping me uncover the best fits, trinkets, and treasures!

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My favourite show is:

Whatever is playing at the Drayton Festival Theatre – the drama is as thick as Mapleton Maple Syrup.

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My favourite food:

Can I only pick one? To be honest, for me it’s all about being in The Right Spot. The Right Spot Restaurant and Baked Goods that is.

We'll get along if...

You enjoy leisurely strolls down quaint downtown streets, stopping to savour local flavours along the way. Bonus points if you’re up for the occasional picnic at Kinsmen Park, Centennial Park, or Drayton Memorial Park – because nothing says ‘romance’ like sharing local eats under the shade of a maple tree.

I will never judge you for...

Ordering too much on a dinner date. I do it all the time at the Drayton Chop House. The wide variety of seasonal menu items makes choosing just one dish nearly impossible (and I’m not complaining).

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I'm very proud of:

My roots! Community isn’t just a word, it’s a way of life. 
Just take a look at my community murals – they are vibrant storybooks that showcase the tales of our local history, rural traditions, and the spirit that makes Mapleton so unforgettable.

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The key to my heart is:

Something A La Mode. Their cozy atmosphere can cater to any mood, and I know whatever I order will be a deliciously homemade–locally sourced–beautiful experience (with really good coffee). You seriously can’t go wrong.

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I know the best spot in town for:

Breakfast poutine! Followed closely with eggs benedict and crispy home fries. The family-run Moorefield Diner has the best country style portions at affordable prices. Win!

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Do you like to travel?

Exploring my Township’s hidden gems and natural beauty is all I need! Why leave home when I can attend a car show AND shop for local goods at the Mapleton Farmers’ Market? Or take a trip to visit the cows (and the ice cream…) at Mapleton’s Organic Dairy Farm just outside of town.

Township of Mapleton

Mapleton is a rural township in central Wellington County, bordering the Township of Centre Wellington, the Town of Minto, and Wellington North. Drayton is the largest central community in Mapleton, with a number of neighbouring communities closeby.

Learn more about the businesses in the Township of Mapleton in our Wellington County Wellington County Business Directory. 

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Things I love: 

I love Chocolate! I literally LOVE I Love Chocolate!. It is the perfect sweet haven to indulge in delicious Belgian chocolate, handmade fudge, and custom cocoa creations.

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Favourite passtime:

I love to settle in with a good book. From the classics to fantasy, you’ll often find me turning pages at The Bookery or at the Fergus Library branch overlooking the Grand River.

You should swipe left on me if...

You don’t like scones. Specifically, scones from the Vault Coffee and Espresso Bar. IYKYK (and if you don’t know… get over here!).

You should swipe right on me if...

You want to treat your taste buds with some ethnocultural cuisines! I’d love to introduce you to the chicken roti from the Underground Kitchen, followed by an order of Tikka Masala from the Fergus Tandoori Grill. And that’s just our first date!

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My favourite show:

Whatever is on at The Grand Theatre! They have been providing quality community entertainment since 1928, and their performances and productions are a testament to my enduring love for the arts.

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Something special to me:

Tapavino lobster rolls? Gin and Beet cured salmon? Bruschetta? I could go on… indulging in a good array of hot and cold tapas with a nice glass of wine is VERY special to me.
 

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You can often find me:

Out and about! Soaking up the scenery at the Templin Gardens, strolling through my bustling downtown streets, or relaxing at the Brew House. Life is grand along the Grand!
 

Are you close with your family?

YES! I celebrate my strong Scottish heritage whenever I can (kilts are always in fashion). The Fergus Medieval Faire and the Fergus Scottish Festival and Highland Games are basically annual family reunions.

Something my friends say about me:

I can be very accommodating. Just look at my Red Door Restaurant. Special dietary restrictions? Gluten-free? Dairy-free? Their wholesome and healthy menu (combined with the Fountainhead Health Store at the front of the building) can accommodate all your cravings.

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Our first date could be:

Let’s start the evening sipping vino and enjoying a farm-to-table fine dining experience under the atrium at Scozia. I don’t want to be presumptuous, but if the evening is going well the Breadalbane Inn is a beautiful boutique hotel located just upstairs...

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The key to my heart is:

Food! Have you noticed? Whether it is smashing a smash burger at the Offside Sports Bar and Grill or enjoying an authentic homemade Italian dish from chef Angelo at Gente Urban Italian Eatery, you won’t have trouble seeing the foodie in me come out when I’m downtown Fergus.

Fergus, Township of Centre Wellington

Fergus is the largest community in the Township of Centre Wellington situated on the Grand River, approximately 18km north-west of Guelph and 20km northeast of Waterloo Region. 

Find more businesses in Fergus and in the Township of Centre Wellington in our Wellington County Wellington County Business Directory. 

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Things I love: 

Long walks on the....bridge. Doesn’t really matter which bridge - the Badley, Irvine Creek, Victoria, or West Mill Street - they are all so Grand. Absolutely Gorge(ous).

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I really like to:

Entertain! I know how to throw a great festival. And an after party. And brunch at The Friendly Society the next morning. Come for a day trip and you’ll want to stay for the week (and there are plenty places to stay).

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I am a good match for: 

A creative cocktail connoisseur, given the elegant reputation of my local Elora Distilling Company. Schedule a tour, book a cocktail class, or bring some award-winning, locally handcrafted Great Expectations (signature gin) home.

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Our first date could be: 

A luxurious meal at the Elora Mill overlooking the waters of the Grand River. It is sure to be a date that’s as enchanting and unforgettable as I am!

The key to my heart is: 

FOOD! I love to indulge in local Wellington County tastes. My top five you ask? I’m already salivating…

• Salmon eggs benedict from Box Social
• Dulce de Leche crepe from Café Creperie
• French Onion Soup and a Burger from The Evelyn (aka Elora Burger Battle champion)
• Bison striploin from The Badley Steakhouse and Bar
• Any (or all…) baked goods from The Wild Tart, 
  E&G Bakery, or The Tartletous).

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One of my favourite hobbies is: 

Patio culture. So many community flavours to taste and craft beverages to try. Elora Brewing Company makes beer well worth drinking and has taught me that hops may be the secret to happiness…

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You can often find me: 

Shopping! From unique décor items from Cocoon Interiors, to consignment fashion finds from Blackbird Elora, to gift shop items from the Mermaid, to fresh local goodies from the Elora Farmers’ Market – there is so much to discover!

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My favourite time of the year: 

I go all in at Halloween, and the whole community gets involved! I am starting to run out of storage space for all my spooky (beautifully handcrafted and expertly displayed) décor.

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My secret talent is: 

Always managing to catch the free Downtown Elora and Fergus Shuttle right on time! It feels nice to be so closely connected to my bestie Fergus.

Elora, Township of Centre Wellington

Elora is a community in the Township of Centre Wellington situated on the Grand River, approximately 20km north of Guelph and 20km northeast of Waterloo Region. 

Find more businesses in Elora and in the Township of Centre Wellington in our Wellington County Wellington County Business Directory. 

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The key to my heart is: 

Coffee, conversation and self-care – the perfect combination, and all available at Folklore Barber Company. As my barber often reminds me, “it’s when you look your best, that you feel and do your best.”

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My friends say I am:

Full of hidden gems. Like, literal hidden gems/gemstones. The Aberfoyle Antique Market is full of them, along with all kinds of other treasures. You never know what kind of blast from the past you are going to uncover when you visit.

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I go crazy for: 

Peanuts. Smokey maple bacon? Spicy dill pickle? Salt and vinegar? From peanuts to chip nuts, to clusters, and from single bags to beautiful gift arrangements – Picard’s Peanuts is Ontario’s original peanut shop and has had me going nuts for nuts since 1979.

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My ideal date: 

Enjoying five courses of delicious homestyle cooking at a charming country inn… while trying to solve a murder. The Aberfoyle Mill’s Murder Mystery dinner is a good way to really get to know someone.

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I'm a real nerd about: 

Flow State Bike Co. Being a full-service bike repair shop, a licensed coffee bar (with ice cream) and a community hub all in one? They basically have all my cycling needs covered.

I know the best spot for: 

Connecting with myself. The stunning salt caves and wellness services at Let it Be Halotherapy and Wellness Centre provide a safe space designed to heal mind, body, and spirit.

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I'm passionate about: 

Home décor. Creating beautiful spaces is easy when you have friends like Accents for Living and Penwood Furniture around to guide and inspire you.

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You should swipe right on me if: 

You are keen to meet at Bistro Réunion to enjoy delicious food and drinks in a beautiful environment that transports you to wherever you want to be in the world. If that sentence didn’t sell you, I’m not sure we would be a good fit…

Puslinch Township

Puslinch is a township in the south of Wellington County, surrounding the south end of Guelph and approximately . Puslinch Township includes the communities of Aberfoyle, Arkell, Morriston, and surrounding communities. 

Find more businesses in the Puslinch Township in our Wellington County Wellington County Business Directory. 

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