Built in 1941, this wooden-body caboose served the Canadian Pacific Railway for more than 40 years. For the past 23 years, it has been restored by the Guelph Historical Railway Association and is now a railway museum on wheels, reflecting the glory days of the mid-20th century. Locomotive 6167, built in 1940, was used as a passenger and freight train.

This is a magnificent example of modern architecture, built to inspire worshippers — with soaring curved staircases, open spaces, marble walls and large skylights. This impressive feat of architecture also features a Punjabi school, an event hall, meeting spaces and a kitchen. During Doors Open, enjoy lunch while you learn about the cultural connection between Sikh faith and food.

The Muslim Society bought this former elementary school in 2012 and developed it into a place of worship, offices, community hall, library, classrooms and a daycare. Tours and displays will help visitors understand the culture of Guelph’s Muslim community. And, during Doors Open, enjoy a free lunch and learn about the cultural connection between the Muslim faith and food.

Waterloo Avenue, originally called Market Street, was one of the original entrances to the city of Guelph. As the street developed, it became the heart of the new town’s economy. By the 1850s, the quarries that surrounded Waterloo Avenue were a key part of that economy. The building at 225 Waterloo Avenue was constructed on land owned by David Kennedy, one of the most important quarry owners and a master stonemason. He was one of the original owners of Guelph Limestone, now known as the Dolime Quarry – the longest-operating quarry in the city. Remnants of the quarrying operation can still be seen in the backyard. The house, home of Robert C. Kennedy, was built in 1880 of locally quarried limestone in the neoclassical Georgian style with a centre-hall plan. The home is now being lovingly restored by its present owners. As part of Digital Doors Open, learn more about this beautiful house through the video below.

As part of Digital Doors Open, you can follow along with knowledgeable and enthusiastic guides from the Guelph Hiking Trail Club as they explore the new Radial Line Trail from downtown Guelph to the Arboretum in the virtual tour below. Starting at the Covered Bridge, you will follow the path of the old Guelph–Toronto Suburban Railway. See the new walking bridge, which was funded by the Trail Club campaign, find out about the flora and fauna along the way, and climb the limestone cliffs. You can end your hike by wandering the 10 kilometres (6.2 miles) of trails and explore the amazing collection of trees at the Arboretum. Experience this hike digitally from the comfort of your own home.

According to Gordon Couling (as quoted by local author Cindi Conlon in her book, A Limestone Trio), “Douglas Street provides an unexpected contrast to the spaciousness of Wyndham Street. … The street provides an impressive frame for the vista to St. George’s Anglican Church.” Because of its proximity to the County Court House and related buildings, Douglas Street became the location of many lawyers’ offices. Over the years, that tradition has continued but the addition of the Red Brick Café and other businesses has given the street its character. Because of its picturesque streetscape and collection of heritage buildings, it has become a popular film location and has often been used in the CBC’s Murdoch Mysteries television series. As part of Digital Doors Open, Conlon will take you on a virtual walk in the video below and highlight the fascinating history of the street and its buildings.