The Uptown Waterloo Market area (Willis Way + Waterloo Public Square) has become one of the most vibrant community spots in Waterloo, offering a welcoming space for residents, students, families, and visitors. Known for its local vendors, handmade goods, fresh produce, and friendly neighbourhood feel, this market continues a long tradition of supporting small businesses in the region. Waterloo has hosted open-air markets for decades, and today’s Uptown Waterloo Market carries forward that history by giving independent makers and growers a place to connect directly with shoppers.
Uptown Waterloo is also the city-centre district of Waterloo, known for its walkable streets, public spaces, and a strong local business scene. The area includes 450+ establishments and 90+ distinctive shops—so a market visit is easy to pair with food, shopping, and nearby events.
Essential Information for Visitors
Location: Willis Way, Waterloo, ON N2J 0C2
Postal Code: N2J 0C2
Phone: +1 519-885-1921
Hours: Opens at 9 AM on Mondays; schedules may vary by season
Admission: Free entry
Official Website: You can find updated hours and event listings on the City of Waterloo’s official online pages or tourism listings.
The market is outdoors and generally seasonal, so hours and vendor availability may adjust depending on the time of year. It is best to check the latest details before planning your visit.
Uptown Waterloo: Quick Snapshot (Beyond the Market)
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Local scene: 450+ establishments and 90+ distinctive shops
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Food variety: cafés, bakeries, casual bites, and upscale dining
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Neighbourhood mix: century-old homes (early 1900s–1930s), mid-century bungalows, condos, and student housing
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Vibe: busy but friendly city-centre with pedestrian-focused streets and ongoing redevelopment
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Student-friendly: strong student presence and easy transit access through Grand River Transit (GRT)
Activities and Things to Do
Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities during a trip to the Uptown Waterloo Market. Common experiences include:
- Shopping for fresh produce, artisanal foods, handmade crafts, and local products.
- Meeting small-scale growers, bakers, and artists.
- Exploring rotating pop-up stalls and seasonal themes such as holiday markets or summer produce weeks.
- Enjoying live entertainment during special market events.
- Taking a relaxing walk through the surrounding Uptown area, which is filled with public art, patios, and open spaces.
It is a relaxed, family-friendly environment where people can take their time browsing or simply enjoy the atmosphere.
Who Enjoys This Market the Most
This market attracts a broad range of visitors, including:
- Families looking for fresh ingredients or weekend activities.
- University students searching for unique gifts or local treats.
- Tourists exploring Uptown Waterloo’s cultural spots.
- Residents who prefer buying from local farmers and makers.
- People who enjoy strolling through open public areas with music, food, and community events.
Because the setting is easygoing and walkable, it suits people of all ages.
Notable Features and Nearby Amenities
The Uptown Waterloo Market is located next to several community features, making it convenient for visitors to explore more of the neighbourhood. This area includes public seating, shade structures, nearby washrooms inside adjacent buildings, and easy access to the Waterloo Public Square. The square often hosts festivals and social gatherings throughout the year, giving the market a lively backdrop.
Food and Dining Options
Although the market itself features rotating food vendors, the surrounding Uptown Waterloo area offers a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and grab-and-go spots. Visitors can enjoy baked goods, global cuisine, ice cream, and fresh coffee only steps away from the market. Many market shoppers pair their visit with brunch or lunch at the nearby eateries along King Street.
Local Picks Near Uptown
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Jinzakaya (75 King St S) – Japanese all-you-can-eat plus regular dining options
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King Street Trio – fine dining with locally sourced ingredients and dietary accommodations
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Sweet and Savoury Pie Co. – family-run bakery known for all-natural pies (sweet + savoury)
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Café 22 – European-style café with specialty coffee, lunches, and desserts
How to Get There
The Uptown Waterloo Market is well connected through multiple transportation options:
- Bus: Grand River Transit routes pass through King Street and Uptown Waterloo Station, making it simple to arrive by public transit.
- ION LRT: The Waterloo Public Square ION stop is a short walk from the market.
- Cycling: The area is fully bike-friendly, with racks available near Willis Way and along the main streets.
- Walking: Uptown Waterloo is one of the most walkable areas in the region, with wide sidewalks and pedestrian crossings.
- Taxi or Rideshare: Services like Uber and Lyft can drop visitors off directly on Willis Way or the nearby streets.
From University of Waterloo (Fast ION Route)
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Take the south-bound ION from University of Waterloo Station (across from the Davis Centre).
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Get off at Waterloo Public Square (about 2 stops).
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For the return trip, take the north-bound ION from Willis Way Station back to University of Waterloo Station.
Note: Many full-time undergraduates may have GRT access (buses + ION rail). Eligibility can change, so it’s best to confirm through current student/transit info.
Distance from Major Areas
- From Downtown Kitchener: Approximately 10 minutes by car.
- From Cambridge: Around 25 minutes by car.
- From Toronto: Roughly 1 hour and 20 minutes by car, depending on traffic.
These distances make the market an easy day outing for visitors across Waterloo Region and beyond.
Accessibility Information
The Uptown Waterloo Market is located on level ground with accessible paths, allowing individuals using wheelchairs, strollers, or walkers to navigate comfortably. Nearby parking lots also offer accessible parking spots. Some vendor setups can vary depending on the day, but overall the market area offers good access.
Best Time and Weather for a Visit
The market is most enjoyable in warmer months when vendors are active and outdoor stalls are full. Late spring, summer, and early fall provide the best experience. However, special holiday or winter markets may operate during colder seasons, offering a festive atmosphere with lights, handmade gifts, and warm beverages.
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More Things To Do in Uptown (After the Market)
Entertainment
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The Uptown Zoo – an upscale nightlife venue (typically open Friday/Saturday nights) with strong sound/lighting
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Revive Karaoke – themed karaoke nights in a lounge-style setting
Wellness & Self-Care
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Luxe Nail Bar – full-service salon experience focused on relaxation and beauty
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Hero Yoga Waterloo – approachable yoga sessions with a community feel
Professional & Helpful Services
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KW Headshots – profile/LinkedIn-style headshots and personal branding photos
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Uptown Tailor Shop (Newtex Cleaners) – a long-running local business (family-owned since 1939) offering tailoring and eco-friendly dry-cleaning
Events & Community Spots
A great nearby stop is the Waterloo Public Library (Main Library, 35 Albert Street), which often runs community programming for many age groups—such as tech help appointments, social clubs, craft circles, and conversation groups.
Uptown also hosts pop-up and seasonal events (including night-market style programming). For example, a past Uptown Night Market ran on Thursday, July 18, 2024. Dates and themes change year to year, so always check the latest official listings before planning around an event.
