2 Day Solo Getaway to St. Jacobs
Have you ever felt the urge for a quick getaway? You lack the time and/or money to travel abroad? Your family and friends are busy and you have nobody to travel with? I get it. We’ve all been there. That’s when a quick solo weekend getaway is in order.
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Ontario has so many amazing staycation destinations, which makes it difficult to determine where to go. When in doubt, I usually choose a quick weekend trip to St. Jacobs. The shops, food, vibe, and old-fashioned, laid-back style of living never disappoints. Afterall, this is what makes St. Jacobs such a popular tourist destination.
For the first time solo traveller, St. Jacobs is the perfect destination to get your feet wet in the world of solo travel. It’s a completely safe small town with little to no crime. This should give you a bit of comfort as you wander the streets alone. This little gem is even safe after dark (although there isn’t much open past 8:00 p.m.).
2 Day Itinerary For a Solo Staycation in St. Jacobs
- History of St. Jacobs
- Getting to St. Jacobs
- 2 Day Itinerary
- St. Jacob’s Market
- Holiday Inn Express or Blue Bruce B&B
- Walking Tour of Historic St. Jacobs
- Browse The Shops
- Block 3 Brewing Company
- Dinner At St. Jacobs Grill
- Live Theatre in St. Jacobs
- Take A Hike
- EcoCafe
- West Montrose Covered Bridge
- More Activities in St. Jacobs
- Say Good-Bye 🙁
In this post, I will provide my recommended two day itinerary for a solo visit to St. Jacobs. I acknowledge that we all don’t enjoy the same activities, food, hotels, etc., hence, at the end of the post you will find other hotels, restaurants, and activities which I have also personally enjoyed.
Before we get into the itinerary, let me tell you a little bit about this gem of a town.
History of St. Jacobs, Ontario
St. Jacobs is a small village which sits along the banks of the Conestogo River in southwestern Ontario. It was originally established as a Police Village in 1904, and became part of the Region of Waterloo in 1972.
The land was originally Crown land and was granted to the Six Nations people. In an effort to raise money to put towards an annuity for the Six Nations people, their leader, Mohawk war chief, Joseph Brant began selling off blocks of land. Mennonites from Pensylvania purchased and began farming the land.
The Mennonite culture and way of life has remained prevelant throughout St. Jacobs and surrounding area to this day.
Getting to St. Jacobs
St. Jacobs is located in the Township of Woolwich, which is a Township within the Region of Waterloo in southwestern Ontario. It is several miles from the City of Waterloo, and 121 km (75 miles) from Toronto.
2 Day Itinerary for a Solo Getaway to St. Jacobs
This two day itinerary is one that I’ve personally done on one of my many visits to St. Jacobs. This two day itinerary will provide a bit of insight into the town’s history and culture, great food, retail therapy at the one-of-a-kind boutiques, and entertaining live theatre. St. Jacobs is the perfect Ontario small town to take yourself on a date…..so get your camera ready for lots of pictures and let’s get started!
Day 1 of Your Solo Getaway To St. Jacobs
St. Jacobs Market
Location: 878 Weber Street North, Woolwich, Ontario
Arrive in St. Jacobs early on Saturday morning so you have enough time to wander around Canada’s largest market for a couple of hours.
The St. Jacobs Market is open on Thursdays from 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. and Saturdays from 7:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. year round.
The St. Jacobs Market originates back to 1952 when it was known as the Stockyard’s Farmers Market. It was located adjacent to a stockyard, hence the original name. In 1975 the Stockyard Farmers Market and St. Jacobs Market merged and moved to it’s current location.
Over time, the market has expanded. In 1987 construction began to expand the market into a two story building. The market has continued to grow and now is home to over 250 vendors. The St. Jacobs Market has been dubbed the largest market in Canada.
Over 1 million patrons each year visit the St. Jacobs Market in search of meat, cheese, farm fresh produce, baked goods, international foods, art, quilts, and home furnishings.
Just One Tip: I recommend picking up a little something to snack on in the evening while visiting the St. Jacobs Market.
There are plenty of food stand available within the market. I suggest grabbing your lunch here before checking into your hotel.
Holiday Inn Express
Address: 14 Benjamin Road, Waterloo, Ontario
The Holiday Inn Express is conveniently located directly across from the St. Jacobs Farmers Market and within walking distance to the St. Jacobs Schoolhouse Theatre and St. Jacobs Country Playhouse. It’s a short five minute drive to downtown St. Jacobs.
The Holiday Inn Express provides all of the conveniences of home, including coffee makers, pool, hot tub, and the best gym facility that you will find in a hotel.
I personally have stayed at this Holiday Inn and I loved it. I found it convenient for visiting the market and attending a live play.
Blue Bruce Bed & Breakfast
If you prefer to stay in cozier and more intimate accommodations, I highly recommend the Blue Bruce Bed & Breakfast. I personally have stay here and I can honestly say that it’s my all-time bed and breakfast that I’ve stayed in.
It’s located on a farm approximately a 3 minute drive to downtown St. Jacobs. Breakfast is included and so are some goats, chickens, and horses.
Walking Tour of Historic St. Jacobs
Location: Parkette between The Mennonite Store and Scotiabank
There’s no better way to explore and learn the history of St. Jacobs than through the locals. A walking tour with Stroll Walking Tours will connect you with the places and people of the past. Their stories will be brought to life as you wander the quaint, tree-lined streets of St. Jacobs.
Things to know
- walking tours are available
- cost is $25.00 per person
- tickets must be purchased in advance
- maximum 20 people in a group
- walk lasts approximately 75 minutes
- walk is wheelchair accessible
- tours offered during Spring and Summer
- meet at parkette between The Mennonite Store and Scotiabank
- rain, shine, or snow….the walk is on!
Browse the Shops of St. Jacobs
It’s impossible to visit St. Jacobs without indulging in a little retail therapy. Discover locally produced food, home decor, arts and crafts created by the Mennonite Community, as well as other local artists, and of course, the one of a kind clothing boutiques.
Block 3 Brewing Company
Location: 1430 Unit#2, King St N, St. Jacobs, ON N0B 2N0
After you finish an informative walk with Stroll Walking Tours, duck into Block 3 Brewery, one of the best breweries in the Kitchener area for a cold one (or two). With more than 18 different flavours of craft beer to choose from, it will be difficult to stop with just one drink. Therefore, for this reason, I recommend purchasing a tasting flight. You will have plenty of time to walk of the effects of the beer while browsing the shops of St. Jacobs.
Dinner at Jacobs Grill, St. Jacobs, Ontario
Location: 1398 King St N, St. Jacobs, Ontario
Jacobs Grill is centrally located on the main street of St. Jacobs. Whether lunch or dinner, Jacobs Grill will never disappoint. There is a small patio fronting onto the main street, for those of you who don’t want to miss out on any of the action. If you choose Jacobs Grill, I highly recommend the fish and chips.
For newbies to solo travel check out these tips to help you feel more comfortable eating alone.
Evening Entertainment In St. Jacobs
Live Theatre in St. Jacobs
St. Jacobs is the perfect destination for anyone who loves live theatre. There are two theatre houses, each with its own unique atmosphere. Both theatres are only a 5 minute walk from the Holiday Inn Express & Suites.
Both the St. Jacobs Country Playhouse Theatre and St. Jacobs Schoolhouse Theatre are part of the not-for-profit Drayton Group, which also has theatres in Cambridge, Hamilton, and Grand Bend.
Hildebrand Schoolhouse Theatre
Location: 11 Albert Street West, St. Jacobs, Ontario
The 1867 renovated schoolhouse offers avid theatre goers an intimate, cabaret-style atmosphere. If you are running late, or like me, have made a last minute decision to spend the afternoon at the theatre, there is the option of pre-paying for any tickets and refreshments which will be waiting for you when you arrive.
St. Jacobs Country Playhouse Theatre
Location: 40 Benjamin Road, St. Jacobs, Ontario
St. Jacobs Country Playhouse Theatre was the fifth theatre of the Drayton Group. Opening in 2005, this theatre exuding Mennonite architecture quickly became the pride of St. Jacobs. It remains open year round for enjoyment by theatre lovers. Download this theatres information package here.
Day 2 Of A Solo Weekend In St. Jacobs
After a hearty breakfast which is included with your hotel stay, it’s time to get energized for the drive home. There are a couple of great trails which begin right from downtown St. Jacobs.
Health Valley Trail
This is trail is easily accessible from St. Jacobs and begins behind Block 3 Brewery. The trail is a relatively easy out and back trail. It is 11 km round trip and takes approximately 2 hours. During the spring and winter, it does get extremely slippery due to mud and/or snow. Caution needs to be taken.
Mill Race Trail
There is also the Mill Race Trail which is my favourite year-round trail. It begins behind the silo in downtown St. Jacobs. This trail is also an out and back trail which is approximately 8 km. The trail is flat which makes it easy. It’s also accessible during Spring, Summer, and Fall.
Other Trails In Waterloo Region
If you are ambitious, you might want to hike other trails that are in the Waterloo Region. I’ve compiled a list of what I feel are the best trails in the Waterloo Region for beginner hikers.
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EcoCafe
Location: 1441 King St N, St. Jacobs, Ontario
Once you’ve finished getting your daily exercise, visit the EcoCafe for a specialty coffee and a freshly baked treat. The Cafe is located right at the entrance of both the Mill Race trail and the Health Valley Trail, inside on the town’s silo. Once you visit you will understand why it’s one of my favourite coffee shops in the Waterloo Region.
West Montrose Covered Bridge
Location: 1 Covered Bridge Drive, West Montrose, Ontario
A visit to one of Canada’s oldest covered bridges is a must when you’re visiting St. Jacobs. West Montrose Covered Bridge, also known as the Kissing Bridge, is hands down one of the most instagrammable spots in Ontario. It is well worth the short 12 minute drive from St. Jacobs to get the perfect shots.
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More Activities in St. Jacobs, Ontario
If you’re staying in St. Jacobs longer or are looking for other activities, I recommend the following:
Hot Air Balloon Adventure in Waterloo Region
This 2 day interinary for your getaway to St. Jacobs alone can be done throughout the year, rain, snow, or shine. If you plan a visit to St. Jacobs throughout the Summer months, I highly recommend that get out of your comfort zone and soar high with Sundance Balloons. I personally did this and it was so much fun!
St. Jacobs Sparkles
Don’t let a little snow keep you away from visiting St. Jacobs during the Winter. The magic of the Christmas season comes alive during St. Jacobs Sparkles, boasting twinkly lights, outdoor fire pits, great shopping bargains, and yes, even outdoor dining, consequently, putting St. Jacobs at the top of my list of the best Winter destinations for the solo traveller.
Say Good-Bye to Your 2 Day Solo Getaway
I hope you enjoyed your 2 day solo getaway to the Village of St. Jacobs. It is difficult not to fall in love with this beautiful little town, just like I did. I suspect that you won’t be able to help yourself and you’ll be back to visit and explore more of the Waterloo Region.
Safe Travels 🙂
Travel Solo Like a Pro!
AIRFARE:
♥ CheapOair and WayAway offer flights at a resonable rate. Let CheapOair or WayAway find the cheapest and best flight for your destination
HOTELS & ACCOMMODATION:
♥ I use Booking.com to book all of my accommodations, both domestically and internationally. When booking in the United States, I use Trivago US
ACTIVITIES:
♥ Get Your Guide and Viator are the absolute best sites to plan and book any adventures, activities, and all things fun
BIKE AND MOTORCYCLE RENTALS:
♥ BikesBooking.com will find the best prices for bicycles, motocyles, and scooter rentals any place in the world.
CAR RENTAL:
♥ Economy Bookings will provide rental prices worldwide, which making it a one stop shop for the most reasonable car rentals
AIRPORT TRANSFER AND PRIVATE TOURS:
♥ Kiwitaxi is who you want to contact for transportation from the airport or train station. Why not arrange for a PRIVATE CITY TOUR with Kiwitaxi at the same time.
CRUISES:
♥ Cruise Critic not only provides reviews and answers questions, it also offers great cruise deals. If your a cruise lover (like me), I highly recommend that you check it out!
TRAVEL INSURANCE:
♥ Travel insurance these times of natural disasters, travel interruption and baggage loss is no longer a place where you can cut costs. essentials. It has become an essential part of travel. Visitors Coverage will take care of all of your insurance needs.
Travel Solo Like a Pro!
AIRFARE:
♥ CheapOair and WayAway offer flights at a resonable rate. Let CheapOair or WayAway find the cheapest and best flight for your destination
HOTELS & ACCOMMODATION:
♥ I use Booking.com to book all of my accommodations, both domestically and internationally. When booking in the United States, I use Trivago US
ACTIVITIES:
♥ Get Your Guide and Viator are the absolute best sites to plan and book any adventures, activities, and all things fun
BIKE AND MOTORCYCLE RENTALS:
♥ BikesBooking.com will find the best prices for bicycles, motocyles, and scooter rentals any place in the world.
CAR RENTAL:
♥ Economy Bookings will provide rental prices worldwide, which making it a one stop shop for the most reasonable car rentals
AIRPORT TRANSFER AND PRIVATE TOURS:
♥ Kiwitaxi is who you want to contact for transportation from the airport or train station. Why not arrange for a PRIVATE CITY TOUR with Kiwitaxi at the same time.
CRUISES:
♥ Cruise Critic not only provides reviews and answers questions, it also offers great cruise deals. If your a cruise lover (like me), I highly recommend that you check it out!
TRAVEL INSURANCE:
♥ Travel insurance these times of natural disasters, travel interruption and baggage loss is no longer a place where you can cut costs. essentials. It has become an essential part of travel. Visitors Coverage will take care of all of your insurance needs.
PIN 2 DAY INTINERARY FOR A SOLO GETAWAY TO ST. JACOBS, ONTARIO
Thank you for letting me know places I didn’t even know existed and for allowing me to travel a little bit through your post. It’s a great way to educate myself about places I didn’t know existed in Canada.
The hot air balloon ride would be an activity I would love to do.
It sounds like a pretty interesting place for a getaway, either solo or with company, as there will be no shortage of activities.
There’s a lot to do in St. Jacobs and everytime I visit I find something different. I loved doing the hot air balloon. All the farmland and rivers were beautiful from above.
Another charming town in Canada I didn’t know about but I am now keen to visit. St Jacobs looks so quaint and atmospheric and there’s a lot to do for a weekend. I would be keen on the hot air balloon to appreciate the beauty of the region from above. The kissing bridge looks photogenic and I can already frame some compositions in my mind so would certainly do the detour to visit and take some photos. My list of towns and villages to see in Canada is growing every week!!
I was really surprised how beautiful the hot air balloon ride was. I had always envisioned doing it in some romantic setting, but I’m glad that I did it here at home. It gave me an entirely new perspective.
St Jacobs looks like an interesting place! It reminds me a little of my home country with all the green. I would definitely look at doing the hot air balloon over Waterloo. Nice post!
It looks like a cute little place! I am very ignorant of its history, despite growing up in southern Ontario. The market would definitely be a highlight, though I would also love to browse the local shops. I just googled to see if Mennonites can drink (many do), so I’d feel good going to the brewery, too! haha
This looks like a quaint town to just walk around downtown! The EcoCafe and farmers market sound right up my alley. I love a good walking tour – I feel like I really get to know a place with a walking tour. A hot air balloon would be beautiful there!
This is such a quaint town, I am totally at that Farmer’s Market! Maybe Justin and I will meet there for coffee 🙂
Hahaha. Justin doesn’t come to this part of Canada very often, but you never know.
Would love to visit St. Jacobs one day! Thanks for inspiring 🙂
It’s such a great little town with so much to do. The shopping is great as well!
I love St Jacobs. I try to visit whenever I’m in Ontario – mostly for the market. I can’t get enough of the uniquely flavored homemade jams. I really need to take a walking tour next time I’m there, that sounds like a great way to learn more about the town. You just made me want to go back to St Jacobs asap – I’m sure my boyfriend will be thrilled we’re heading to the market again
I love the market as well. I’m lucky that I live close and can whip over on the weekends. The problem is that I end up spending an entire day there lol.
I love the cute little igloos at the Village Biergarten! So fun!
A hot air balloon ride would be awesome! I remember growing up in southern Ontario and seeing them every summer!
I did it a couple years ago and it was amazing!
Another charming town in Canada, thanks for introducing me to these quaint places and letting me explore it virtually with you. The Balloon ride sounds cool and great to know there are two theatres to chose from for my art & culture fix. And that coffee from EcoCafe with the feathered topping defo needs to be tested & tasted.
Carolin | Solo Travel Story
The balloon ride was fantastic. I always thought I would experience a balloon ride in an exotic destination. But honestly I’m glad I did it here at home. I was taken aback by the beauty from the air. It looks completely different.
What a beautiful place. I haven’t done a solo trip in so long. I can’t believe the Holiday Inn had all of that available.
The Holiday Inn in St. Jacobs is one of the best I’ve been to in a long time. The room was massive and it had the best gym I’ve ever seen at any hotel.
I’m a big fan of old covered bridges, so if West Montrose Covered Bridge is one of Canada’s oldest covered bridges, I have to visit St. Jacobs, wish I hadn’t heard of it before. But your article convinced me that the town is worth seeing, mainly because it has many beautiful attractions. I will try to go there on my next visit to Toronto. I like the Holiday Inn Express chain, so it’s an excellent idea for an overnight stay. I would like to see St. Jacobs Market and take a Walking Tour of Historic St. Jacobs to learn more about the town. It’s great to know that there are two theatre houses, each with its unique atmosphere. I also love taking Hot Air Balloon Adventure in the Waterloo Region.
I highly recommend visiting this area next time you’re in Toronto. I would plan on 2 – 3 days so that you can visit St. Jacobs and Elora both at the same time. They’re both great small towns,, with great food and shopping and so many adventures!
What a great mix of attractions to visit in this area. I’d love to see the Mennonite people, but I know that isn’t a way I could live.
I still get excited when I see the Mennonite’s in their style of dress and transportation. Like you, there is no way that I could live that lifestyle, although there are days that I yearn for “simple” things in life.
I visited this region when I was a kid and it was so interesting to see the Mennonite culture! I’d love to go back now as an adult!
The Mennonite culture is still alive and well. The area really hasn’t changed a lot over the years. A few more restaurants thought which is a good thing.
Great post, Kelly. I love reading about the smaller parts from all corners of the world which isn’t written about so much. Small villages/towns always captivate me where you can instantly make friends for life who you keep in contact with. It’s always where the best food is as well!
How cool that holiday inn in Canada provides those amenities such as a pool, spa, gym etc. You don’t get those luxuries in budgetish hotels here anymore! Love that. Especially the coffee.
The EcoCafe coffee also just had me slightly wet! Sheesh. Great pick me up before going exploring the brewing company.
Incredible shot of the West Montrose covered bridge. They’re the things I love to discover on my travels—simple, beautiful and old-school.
I would also love to do the hot air balloon – what an experience!
Thanks for your sharing.
thank you for you lovely comments. The covered bridge is quite something to see and its situated in a very “old school” area which still has a lot of horse and buggies. The hot air balloon ride was quite something. I did it a couple of years ago and it was so much fun. I was taken aback by the amount of beauty
I love the balloon options and covered bridge tour. Great itinerary!
The balloon ride was so much fun! and I was also surprised at how beautiful the area looks from above. Farmland as far as the eye can see
This town holds such an interesting – Police village then First nations and then Mennonites property, all of which have long past themselves.
It looks a pretty village and I am always fascinated by covered bridges as we don’t have them in the UK, so are a wonder to me.
Lots of great info on where to stay and eat and that balloon ride would be top of my list for adventures.
That’s interesting to learn that you don’t have covered bridges in the UK. Canada doesn’t have many, not like the US. I did the balloon ride a couple of years ago and it was amazing. A check off the bucket list 🙂
I really enjoyed this post. As a foodie I was particularly interested in St. Jacobs Market and the Block 3 Brewing Company – a tasting flight there would be essential. It was nice to learn about the history of the area and a walking tour sounds like fun. And we’d definitely make a detour to see the delightful The West Montrose Kissing Bridge. Thank you for introducing me to an area I hadn’t come across before.
The St. Jacobs Market is massive and you could very easily spend the entire day there. The Kissing Bridge is quite pretty and unique as well. It’s not uncommon to see the horse and buggies in that area still
Fabulous post! I love St Jacobs.
Me too! I always find something new when I go which is often…my favourite clothing store is there lol