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Mennonite families from Pennsylvania settled the Waterloo region of Ontario during the early nineteenth century, establishing the basis for the rich history and culture of this part of Central Canada. More recently, the cultural diversity of the Waterloo area has been enhanced by immigrants from all over the planet. These immigrants are drawn to the prosperous and diverse economy of the region, and to the two highly respected Universities in the area.

Waterloo Pioneer Memorial Tower is a monument which honours the first pioneers of the Waterloo Region. Those original Mennonite pioneers came to the region from Pennsylvania between 1800 and 1803 and settled on the banks of the Grand River where they found lush and productive farm land. The monument was constructed in 1923 on an acre of land just east of the Grand near the small town of Doon. The unique Swiss look of the tower spire reflects the Swiss Mennonite homeland of the original settlers.

Doon Heritage Crossroads is a place where you will be able to see Waterloo County just as it was back in 1914. Come by to witness the daily lives of people back then, along with their businesses, homes, and farms.

Joseph Schneider Haus Museum and Gallery recreates life as it was in the area in the 1850s. This is the house that Joseph and Barbara Schneider built in 1816. They were among the early Mennonite pioneers who trekked to the new frontier from Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, in the early 1800s.

The artist Homer Watson was well-respected in his local area of the Waterloo Region. He was often referred to as the "Man of Doon" because he lived and worked in Doon. Watson's studio has been preserved at the Homer Watson House and Gallery and people may take art classes or workshops there. The gallery also hosts an exhibition of contemporary art.

Canada's 10th and longest serving Prime Minister was William Lyon Mackenzie King who was born in Berlin in 1874 (before its name was changed to Kitchener during WW1). His boyhood home at Woodside National Historic Site has been restored to the beauty of the early 1890's on 4.65 hectares of land.

Castle Kilbride was built in Baden in 1877 by James Livingston and named after his birthplace in Scotland. Seen from the road it dominates its surroundings with its clean Italianate design capped by a towering belvedere. Its attractive external appearance, however, is overshadowed by its amazing interior decor, which in its own right classifies it as artistry of international significance.