Plan your visit

Why visit Brubacher House | Hours | Admission | Location | Directions | Parking | Accessibility | Outdoor photography | Bike-friendly | Canoo 

A room with bed, dresser and chair

Book your tour or event!

Why visit Brubacher House

  • Become acquainted with the Pennsylvania German heritage of Waterloo County
  • Learn firsthand from knowledgeable tour guides about the life of a Pennsylvania German Mennonite family during the mid-nineteenth century
  • See an authentic depiction of a Pennsylvania German farm home in Waterloo County during the 1850-90 period
  • Watch a video depicting the history of Mennonites in Waterloo County

For a taste of what you will experience during your visit to Brubacher House, check out this YouTube video from Digital Doors Open Waterloo Region 2020.

Old Brubacher house

Location

Brubacher House is located on Frank Tompa Drive, on the University of Waterloo's North Campus inside the David Johnston Research + Technology Park. 

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Directions

Driving: Turn west from roundabout at Hagey Boulevard and Frank Tompa Drive to reach gravel parking lot at end of road. 

Public transit: Take ION to Research & Technology Station. Walk or cycle to Brubacher House: head south toward Laurel Trail, turn left onto Laurel Trail, turn right onto Frank Tompa Drive, continue straight at the roundabout to stay on Frank Tompa Drive (1.1 km / 13 min. walk). 

See Grand River Transit Trip Planner for alternative public transit options, including bus routes. 

Cycling/Walking: From Laurel Trail, head west on Frank Tompa Drive to reach Brubacher House at end of road. 

Accessibility

Brubacher House strives to provide inclusive museum experiences, and hosts will work with visitors to accommodate specific accessibility needs when possible.  

The museum includes three floors, and is not wheelchair accessible. The grounds and pathways may also be a barrier to those with limited mobility. 

Service animals are welcome in the museum and grounds. Pets, however, are not permitted.

For questions, comments, or more information on museum accessibility, please contact us:

Tel: 519-886-3855

Email: bhouse@uwaterloo.ca

Car and bicycle parking

Free 24-hour car parking available in gravel lot beside Brubacher House. 

Outdoor bicycle rack available near museum basement entrance. Ask hosts about secure bicycle parking during your tour. 

Outdoor photography

Brubacher House offers a beautiful and unique backdrop for wedding, family, and event photos. We generally welcome respectful use of the museum grounds for photography but require that you contact us in advance to request permission. Donations to our program are welcome. 

Brubacher House is bike-friendly!

Brubacher House is a certified Bike-Friendly Attraction, located on two of Waterloo Region's best cycling routes, the Laurel Trail and the Farmers Market Trail--both part of the longer Trans-Canada Trail.

We offer:

  • A 24/7 outdoor bike rack and covered porch rest area
  • Access to a washroom, indoor rest area, and drinking water during open hours
  • Cycling maps and information
  • Informed staff
  • Basic bicycle repair tools
  • Use of environmentally responsible practices
  • Accessibility to and knowledge of nearest public transportation node
  • First aid kit readily available

Start planning your visit to Brubacher House by bike using the Ontario by Bike Network's map and listings for Waterloo Region, and the FREE Cycling Guide app.