Plan Your Next Ultimate Staycation at Staybridge Suites in Waterloo-St. Jacobs

Staybridge Suites in Waterloo-St. Jacobs

The world of travel has changed in the last few years. We have always loved staycations and exploring destinations that are close to home.

However, in the last few years, we have exclusively stayed local and rediscovered the beauty we have right here.

I researched places that are absolute musts to explore in Ontario, and I fell upon the Waterloo-St. Jacobs area. We had passed through the summer before, but we had never stayed to truly explore.

Its location alone boasts quite the family to-do list perfect for staycations or even just a weekend away.

We were super excited to partner with Staybridge Suites, who offered us a hosted stay right in the heart of the St. Jacob’s Market District and 5 minutes from St. Jacob’s Village.

So, we added it as a stop on our March Break vacation. If you’re planning to stay for 3-nights and save 10%, I got you. Make sure you check the ‘Stay Longer and Save‘ rate.

Checked-In and Ready to Relax

The check-in process was a breeze, and we were pleased to see how clean the hotel was the moment we stepped foot inside.

Plus, there was signage in common areas that promoted social distancing and wearing masks. As someone who is very cautious about this, it was comforting to see that the hotel followed all protocols and had guests’ safety in mind. It’s their IHG Clean Promise!

You also have access to their business area, which is open 24/7 and has a printer, scanner, and copying.

As hotel guests, you get FREE WiFi, parking, and a hot breakfast every morning from 6 AM to 9 AM.

We enjoyed a warm breakfast at the breakfast bar in our suite. The family members who slept in reheated the breakfast in the microwave. It’s so convenient having a full kitchen and a breakfast bar!

Comfortable and Convenient

While the Staybridge Suites are perfect for longer stays, we always try to book a suite like this for any length of stay. It’s just convenient and has everything we need as a family.

We always travel with water, drinks, and snacks, and having a large fridge is a plus. Especially if you’re out and about and buying food or sweets to bring home.

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Having a stove and tools to cook is also a plus because sometimes, one kid wants to go out for dinner, and the other wants to make something.

We also almost always traveled with my mom and late father, so having a separate area for them was always a must.

Now, we are still traveling with my mom, so having a space for her is still important. My mom loved that her space had its own heater because she was cozy all night, and we kept our side cool.

Keep Up with Your Routine

If you’re a creature of habit, traveling doesn’t deter you from getting a good workout and having clean threads.

In comparison to other hotel gyms, this one is quite extensive. It had free weights, smith machines, treadmills, ellipticals, and bikes.

You don’t feel limited and can get a full-body workout when away from home. Gym hours of operation are from 12 AM to 11:45 PM.

Your room includes a basket that you can use to bring to the guest laundry. Laundry hours of operation are from 12 AM to 12 PM.

Enjoy a Saltwater Pool and Splash Pad

One of the things we look for when booking a hotel is if they have a good pool. The Staybridge Suites does not disappoint.

They have a heated saltwater pool with a bucket water element and bubbling water in the shallow end.

What does that mean?

Well, TONS of fun. If you have older kids and don’t want to swim, they have plenty of chairs to relax and read a nice book or scroll your social media.

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There’s also a small splash pad for little ones to have a blast too. There’s a choo-choo train, a horse, and a cow that spray out water.

The pool is open from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM and should definitely be added to your to-do list during your stay.

A Shopper’s Delight

The St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market is open year-round on Thursdays and Saturdays. You can find over 250 vendors selling local fruits and veggies, lots of delicious food, and artisans selling giftware and home decor.

We enjoyed fresh and warm apple fritters from Apple Fritter Co., and they’re an absolute must. I can’t quite explain what they are, but they’re a lightly coated ring made of fresh apples, fried and coated, and just DELICIOUS. So, make sure you stop by and pick some up!

Close to the Village of St. Jacobs

Located just outside of Waterloo, Ontario, along the Conestoga River, the Village of St. Jacobs is the place to go for delicious food, the cutest shops, and take in that small-town feel.

We had tried to get reservations for the igloo experience at the Village Biergarten, but, sadly, they were booked solid.

So don’t do what we did. Book in advance!

We went into town, found the cutest stores, and bought some gifts to take home. We even saw a horse and buggy with a dog riding inside. Such a cool town and definitely a must to visit when you’re in the area.

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Visit the Last Covered Bridge in Ontario

Step Into Ontario’s Most Beautiful Village

We had driven through Elora before during the summer. We had gone to the quarry to swim, but we had never walked through the town.

I am glad we did because we got to see it during the winter and it’s so beautiful. I can see why it’s called Ontario’s Most Beautiful Village.

There are many cafes, bakeries, and restaurants to try. As well as the famous Elora Mill Hotel, which is super luxurious. There is plenty to do year-round, so make sure you plan your adventure before you go!

Explore Elora Gorge and Conservation Area

One of our favourite places is Victoria Park and go to the lookout. It’s the easiest place to check out if you’re just passing through, and it doesn’t take long to see. There are plenty of trails to walk beyond the lookout if you’re looking to spend more time here.

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But, for a quick stop, check out the lookout accessed via Victoria Park. When we went, it was snowing, but in typical Ontario weather fashion, it melted two days later. So, unfortunately, we didn’t get to go to the bottom, but we will definitely go next time.

Your Turn to Get Away

There is so much to do in this beautiful part of Ontario year-round. I’ve already listed some of the top places to visit in Waterloo and St. Jacobs. However, there is still so much to explore every season.

Plus, I got your digs sorted out for you too.

All you have to do is book the Staybridge Suites or the Holiday Inn Express next door.

Don’t forget to become an IHG member so you can enjoy lower rates that only members get access to. I can’t wait to hear about your trip. Feel free to reach out with any questions.

Would you visit the Staybridge Suites in Waterloo – St. Jacobs?

Let me know, til then—cheers m’deres!

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