Waterloo West Neighbourhoods

Beechwood

Beechwood, located centrally in Waterloo, is a close-knit community known for its large traditional homes on spacious lots, well-maintained properties, and numerous recreation areas. It's an ideal location for growing families and students alike due to its proximity to schools, parks, and universities like the University of Waterloo and Wilfrid Laurier University. The neighborhood boasts of six home associations that organize various social events like movie nights, bingo, and craft workshops, and provide facilities like swimming pools, tennis courts, soccer fields, and skating rinks. In addition to this, Beechwood offers convenient access to The Boardwalk, Uptown Waterloo, Waterloo Park, and several shopping, dining, and entertainment options, making it a popular residential choice.

Columbia Forest / Clair Hills

Columbia Forest and Clair Hills are vibrant neighbourhoods in the southwest corner of Waterloo, known for their mix of condos, townhouses, semi and single-detached homes. Many of these homes, which range from large 2-storey houses to executive properties, back onto greenspace. Both areas are renowned for their designated greenspaces, with Columbia Forest offering acres of woodland and hiking trails and its close proximity to Laurel Creek Conservation Area. Clair Hills, known for its active neighbourhood association, offers residents miles of walking trails, local parks, tennis and basketball courts, and even an outdoor skating rink. The neighbourhoods host varied events throughout the year, fostering a sense of community. Both locations provide convenient access to amenities like grocery stores, restaurants, Costco, The Boardwalk, and the Westside Marketplace, making them ideal for young, busy families.

Erbsville / Laurelwood

Erbsville and Laurelwood is a lively and serene neighbourhood in the Waterloo Region, home to top-rated schools like Laurelwood Public School and Laurel Heights Secondary School. The area offers diverse housing options, including townhomes, single-family homes, and retirement homes. It's a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with amenities like the Laurel Creek Conservation Area, soccer fields, playgrounds, and skating rinks. Residents can stay active year-round at the Stork Family YMCA and benefit from the John M. Harper Branch of the Waterloo Public Library. The Laurelwood Neighbourhood Association fosters a strong sense of community through regular events and activities for kids. The proximity to The Boardwalk shopping centre, featuring major retailers like Walmart, Costco, and Home Depot, adds to the convenience of living in this neighbourhood.

Lakeshore

Lakeshore, an established neighbourhood centrally located in Waterloo, is known for its wide, tree-lined streets, numerous schools, parks, and a variety of amenities, making it a popular choice for families, empty-nesters, and university students. The area offers a range of housing options, including single and semi-detached homes, townhomes, and rental apartments, mostly built in the 60s and 70s. Its strategic location provides easy commuting within the region, with quick access to the expressway, Northfield Drive, Westmount Road, universities, Uptown Waterloo, and Conestoga Mall. Living here also comes with the significant perk of being close to St. Jacobs Farmers' Market, where you can delight in shopping for fresh produce and artisan goods from local vendors.

University

The University neighbourhood, located centrally in Waterloo, is a vibrant and diverse area that houses the University of Waterloo and Wilfrid Laurier University, making it popular among students and faculty. It has undergone extensive transformation over the last decade, with single-detached properties being replaced by large condo developments, though a variety of high, mid and low-rise apartments, townhomes, and single detached homes still exist. Transit is easily accessible with multiple bus routes and the LRT running centrally between the two schools, but the neighbourhood's walkability often makes foot travel the preferred mode of transportation. The area boasts an array of amenities including various businesses, restaurants, grocery stores, and entertainment venues, largely due to the retail spaces offered by the new large condo towers. Additionally, it's home to several parks and green spaces, including Waterloo Park and the Laurel Creek Conservation Area, and is near the Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex.

Westmount

Westmount is a unique neighbourhood that seamlessly blends modernity and tradition, offering a quiet suburban ambiance while providing easy access to urban conveniences. Homes in this area are highly sought-after and range from quaint war-time houses to expansive multi-million dollar estates, with the majority being single-family properties. The neighborhood is characterized by its lush greenery, tree-lined streets, well-maintained parks, and numerous walking trails, creating an idyllic setting for nature enthusiasts. The Westmount Golf and Country Club, a private club offering luxurious sporting and social activities, is a notable feature of the community, with homes overlooking the golf course in high demand. Additionally, Westmount's prime location allows residents to enjoy shopping and dining in Uptown Waterloo, The Boardwalk, and Belmont Village, as well as nature excursions at Waterloo Park or Victoria Park. Westmount is a vibrant and dynamic neighbourhood that caters to a variety of lifestyles, making it an ideal place for families, professionals, and retirees alike.

Westvale

Westvale is a vibrant and welcoming neighbourhood on the west side of Waterloo, renowned for its friendly locals, scenic parks, and warm ambiance. The community is characterized by tree-lined streets, beautiful homes mainly built in the ‘80s and ‘90s, and well-kept lawns, with a sense of camaraderie among both long-time residents and newcomers. Westvale boasts an array of green spaces, including the expansive Westvale Park and tranquil Red River Park, along with the nearby Laurel Creek Conservation Area for outdoor enthusiasts. The neighbourhood also offers a variety of local businesses, from quaint cafes and trendy restaurants to unique shops at The Boardwalk, ensuring there's something for everyone. Furthermore, its convenient location provides easy access to the broader Waterloo region.