The Community EditionROAMING THE REGION VIA ION
As the birds start chirping, the sun shines longer and the gas prices continue to burn craters in our pockets. May I suggest ditching the four-wheeled guzzler for a more sustainable and, dare I say, entertaining way to explore Waterloo Region this spring?
Typically, I use two main forms of transportation when abroad: the heel-toe express and public transit. I’ve often contemplated why I don’t practice certain “travel traits” at home. Longer and warmer days seem like an opportune time to transform thought into action—and to pass the fun on to you.
The ION is many things to the Region’s residents—a controversial and costly undertaking, a novelty and a major artery of movement, to name a few. I propose that it is also a source of entertainment and enjoyment.
Beyond the obvious delight of people watching and general observation of the world around us, the ION offers users a free 3D art gallery, face-to-face social interaction (who would have ever thought that was novel) and countless day-trip itineraries.
Here is a four-stop trip to tickle your fancy the next time you’re itching to roam the region.
Logistics
If you’re not a regular ION user, consider using a Multi-Ride Fare Card for the day’s hop-on and hop-off journey. It’s a disposable electronic card on which you can load between five and 15 rides, and it includes transfers. Purchase them from onsite fare vending machines. Group fares can also be purchased and loaded onto EasyGo Fare Cards. If you already have an EasyGo Fare Card, fares are valid for 120 minutes.
Stop 1: The Departure Point AT Conestoga Mall
Before hopping on the train, take in the striking public art created by local artist and educator, Catherine Paleczny. “Continuum” is a multi-panel piece displaying the abundance and interconnectedness of natural and human resources in Waterloo Region. For the coders in the group, translate the binary code in the sky for your fellow travellers. Throughout your day, keep an eye out for the rest of the ION Public Art Passport installations.
Stop 2: Pastries and Coffee At Research and Technology Park
A friend and fellow traveller, Katie, insisted the next stop is a must. After a quick ride, hop off the ION and head to Maison Kookoo on Philip Street for “croissants and really lovely pastries”. Fuel for the day is a must, and there’s nothing like fresh baked goods to increase excitement, plus her past pastry recommendations have always been stellar.
Stop 3: Fresh Air, Festivals and Patio Jams At
Victoria Park
Stretch your legs at Victoria Park. Watch out for geese, smile at strangers, enjoy a picnic or outdoor concert, maybe even hop on the swings. Acquaint yourself with the colourful pedestrian Gaukel Block in preparation for summer festivals, markets and more. If it’s a rainy day, head to AOK Craft Beer + Arcade, THEMUSEUM, or the Adventurers Guild Board Game & Video Game Café.
Stop 4: Soundtrack Surprise At
Fairview Park Mall
Walk across the street to the Beat Goes On. Browse the stacks of vinyl, DVDs, CDs and more. Add extra fun into the mix by gamifying the visit. Purchase an album for your travel companion(s) and surprise them with it on the return ride or go on a hunt to find the coolest cover art or oddest band name.
Return to Start
After travelling from one end of the ION to another, it’s time to head back to where you started. Ride straight through without stopping or continue the hop-on hop-off adventure. The journey is yours to decide.
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