Scenic Summer River Loop in Cambridge
2 km – Approximately 30 mins of walking

   Park: Parking lot – 7 River Street, Cambridge
Click here for other parking locations in downtown Cambridge

  • Head left down the footpath located in the parking lot and follow it until you see the Grand River Pedestrian Bridge also known as “Craig’s Crossing”– named after former Cambridge Mayor, Doug Craig. Take your time, get your camera ready & enjoy the view of the Grand River that surrounds you from this bridge .Once at the other side, keep left and continue to follow the path that runs alongside the river. Keep straight to follow Water St.

  • Notice the Galt Carnegie Library – a historical landmark building in downtown Cambridge, built in 1903.

  • LA Franks – 104 Water St. N

  • Just past the Galt Carnegie Library, get back onto the footpath and head along the river to LA Franks for a bite – Cambridge residents wait all season for the re-opening of this little gem! (There’s almost always a lineup…but it’s worth it!) *NOTE: THIS LOCATION IS SEASONAL AND ONLY OPEN FROM THE MAY LONG WEEKEND THROUGH LABOUR DAY.

  • Explore Mill Race Park next door - 36 Water St. N. 

  • Take your time, wander the path along the side of the river, and be sure to check out the amphitheatre that was built within the ruins of an old textile mill. Take a photo here and tag us on social!


  • HEAD LEFT TO THE INTERSECTION TO CROSS THE ROAD TOWARDS THE CAMBRIDGE MILL

  • Parkhill Dam Lookout – Park Hill Rd. W

  • As you cross the bridge, you will see the Parkhill Dam – on the other side of the bridge, you will find a lookout where you can get a great view. Originally built in 1839, this dam is part of the Grand River Canadian Heritage River Designation. Although the original dam was later damaged by ice, a concrete dam was built to replace it in 1939 – this is the dam you see today. You’ll want to get your camera out here! 

  • Grand Café – 18 Queens Square

  • Stop into this little family-owned café for a java-refuel. Grab a seat inside or on the outdoor patio or take your beverage to go. (There’s a beautiful lookout next door!)

  • Dalton Court Parkette – 14 Queens Square

  • This is a great little rest-area to sit and catch another great view of the picturesque Grand River - and a beautiful spot to sit and sip a coffee! Enjoy the view before heading back to your car.

  • Other points of interest while in Queens Square:


    • The Gore Centennial Fountain – 8 Grand Ave. N

    • Galt War Memorial Cenotaph – 25 Queens Square

    • Queens Square Idea Exchange: Cambridge Art Galleries/Library – 1 N Square