Things To Do
in Burlington

Burlington, Canada, is a picturesque city located on the shores of Lake Ontario, known for its beautiful waterfront, vibrant parks, and rich cultural scene. It offers a blend of urban amenities and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for both relaxation and adventure. With its close proximity to Toronto, Burlington serves as a convenient escape for city dwellers seeking outdoor experiences.

The city is also home to numerous festivals and events throughout the year, showcasing its diverse community.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Downtown and the Waterfront
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, then stroll along the Burlington Waterfront Trail, enjoying the fresh lake air and beautiful views.

afternoon
:

Visit the Royal Botanical Gardens, where you can explore stunning gardens and nature trails, followed by lunch at a nearby restaurant.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant, then take a leisurely walk by the marina to watch the sunset over Lake Ontario.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike at Mount Nemo Conservation Area, where you can enjoy breathtaking views and natural landscapes.

afternoon
:

After your hike, head to the Art Gallery of Burlington to explore local art exhibits, followed by lunch at a nearby food market.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with a visit to a local brewery for craft beer tasting, and enjoy live music or entertainment at a nearby venue.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a RestaurantCAD 20-30
CoffeeCAD 3-5
🏨Hotel NightCAD 100-200
🚌Public Transport TicketCAD 3-5
💧Bottle of WaterCAD 1-2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful waterfront and parks for outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural scene with various events and festivals.
  • Proximity to Toronto for additional urban experiences.
  • Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities.
  • Can be busy during peak tourist seasons.
  • Higher costs for dining and accommodations in certain areas.

Places to Visit in Burlington

Visit one of these nice places.

Spencer Smith Park

A stunning waterfront park with beautiful landscaping, perfect for capturing photos of the lake and city skyline.

Royal Botanical Gardens

A picturesque setting with diverse flora and themed gardens, ideal for nature photography.

Mount Nemo

Offers breathtaking views of the Niagara Escarpment and is a fantastic spot for panoramic landscape shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Burlington

Burlington offers a delightful culinary scene that reflects its diverse community and local ingredients. Visitors can enjoy a variety of dishes that highlight the region's flavors, from fresh seafood to farm-to-table options.

Burlington Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Butter Tart

A classic Canadian dessert made with a flaky pastry shell filled with a sweet, buttery filling, often containing raisins or pecans.

Must-Try!

Peameal Bacon Sandwich

A traditional dish featuring Canadian bacon, known for its distinctive flavor, served on a bun with mustard.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Burlington Farmers' Market

Open on Saturdays, this market features local produce, artisanal goods, and street food options from various vendors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Burlington experiences a humid continental climate, with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are warm and humid, with temperatures averaging 25°C (77°F) and occasional heatwaves. Winters (December to February) are cold, with temperatures averaging -5°C (23°F) and snow. Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are transitional, with mild temperatures and varying precipitation.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Canadians are known for being polite; saying 'please' and 'thank you' is expected in daily interactions.

Queuing

Respecting personal space in queues is important; always wait your turn patiently.

Environmental Awareness

Canadians value environmental conservation; disposing of waste properly and recycling is highly encouraged.

Safety Guide

Safety

Burlington is generally considered a safe city with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 911, and local hospitals provide quick access to healthcare in case of emergencies.

Tipping in Burlington

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip service workers around 15-20% at restaurants, and rounding up for taxi drivers is also appreciated.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit and debit cards, while cash is also widely used, especially at markets and smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect blooming flowers and mild temperatures, making it a perfect time for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Warm weather brings vibrant waterfront activities, festivals, and outdoor dining, ideal for enjoying the city's parks.

Fall

Experience beautiful autumn foliage and cooler temperatures, great for hiking and visiting local farms for harvest activities.

Winter

Cold temperatures allow for winter sports and holiday festivities, while indoor attractions provide a cozy escape from the chill.

Nightlife Guide

Burlington at Night

Burlington's nightlife is vibrant yet relaxed, with a mix of bars, pubs, and live music venues. The downtown area features several spots for craft cocktails and local brews. Live music is common, particularly on weekends, at venues like the Burlington Performing Arts Centre. Additionally, there are several nightclubs for those looking for a more energetic atmosphere.

Hiking in Burlington

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Rattlesnake Point

Offering stunning views and well-marked trails, Rattlesnake Point is a popular destination for both casual and experienced hikers.

Crawford Lake Conservation Area

Features beautiful trails and a unique meromictic lake, making it a great spot for hiking and nature exploration.

Airports

How to reach Burlington by plane.

John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport

Located about 20 minutes from Burlington, this airport serves domestic and limited international flights, making it a convenient option for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Burlington is relatively walkable, especially in the downtown area where most amenities are within walking distance. The Waterfront Trail provides a scenic path for walkers and cyclists. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and public spaces are designed for pedestrian access, making it easy to explore the city's attractions on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Families

A significant demographic in Burlington, young families are attracted by the city's parks, schools, and community programs.

Retirees

Burlington is also home to a growing population of retirees, drawn to the city's calm environment and recreational opportunities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Ice Hockey

A beloved sport in Canada, Burlington has several local teams and leagues, with ice hockey being a major winter pastime.

Soccer

Soccer is growing in popularity, with various youth and adult leagues, as well as community teams participating in regional competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Burlington is generally manageable, though it can become congested during peak rush hours, particularly on major roads leading to Toronto. Public transportation options include buses operated by Burlington Transit, which provide local routes and connections to regional transit services. Cycling is also a popular alternative for getting around, with designated bike lanes in many areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Burlington.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, and the Burlington Farmers' Market features a variety of fresh produce for cooking.

Gluten-Free

Several eateries cater to gluten-free diets, providing options for those with dietary restrictions.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Burlington has access to quality healthcare services, with several hospitals and clinics available for residents and visitors. The Joseph Brant Hospital offers emergency care and various medical services. Pharmacies are also widely available for prescription needs and over-the-counter medications.

Discover Canada

Read more in our Canada 2025 Travel Guide.

Canada Travel Guide