Things To Do
in Burlington
Burlington, Ontario sits on the shore of Lake Ontario just west of Toronto and north of Hamilton. It blends scenic waterfronts, parks, and family-friendly attractions with a compact, walkable downtown. The city is known for its strong sense of community, well-kept streets, and easy access to nature at the Royal Botanical Gardens and nearby escarpment trails.
Outdoor recreation, arts, and a relaxed pace make Burlington a versatile base for exploring Southern Ontario.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café in the historic downtown area, where you can enjoy fresh pastries and locally brewed coffee. After breakfast, take a stroll along Brant Street, exploring boutique shops filled with unique crafts and artworks. Don’t forget to visit the Burlington Performing Arts Centre for a glimpse of the local art scene.
In the afternoon, head to the Burlington Museum to learn about the city's rich history and cultural heritage. Following your museum visit, take a walk in the nearby Spencer Smith Park, where you can enjoy beautiful views of Lake Ontario and the Toronto skyline. Grab a light lunch at one of the park's picnic areas while soaking up the sun.
As the sun sets, dine at a waterfront restaurant, savoring fresh seafood while enjoying the picturesque lake views. Post-dinner, take a leisurely walk along the boardwalk, where the sounds of waves create a calming ambiance. Consider ending your evening with a local theater performance or live music at a nearby venue.
Kick off your day with a breakfast picnic at the beach at Burlington Beach, enjoying the soft sand and refreshing lake breeze. Afterward, rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the tranquil waters of Lake Ontario, with stunning views of the shoreline. The morning sun will add a spark to the clear blue waters as you glide along.
In the afternoon, unwind at the beach and indulge in a variety of water sports, such as jet skiing or windsurfing, available for rent. Alternatively, relax on the sand with a good book, taking in the vibrant atmosphere around you. Enjoy a beachside lunch at one of the nearby eateries, sampling local flavors.
As evening approaches, witness a breathtaking sunset over Lake Ontario, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. After the sunset, enjoy a casual dinner at the beachside grill, where you can savor burgers and fries. Conclude your day by gathering around a beach bonfire, sharing stories and laughter with friends or family.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-5 |
| 🚆One-way local transit fare | $3-5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $120-180 |
| 🛒Weekly groceries for one person | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong waterfront access and parks
- Good mix of outdoor activities and family-friendly attractions
- Proximity to Toronto, Hamilton, and the escarpment region
- Smaller nightlife scene compared to larger cities
- Seasonal tourist crowds can peak in summer weekends
- Public transit coverage outside the core can be limited
Places to Visit in Burlington
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic lakeside greens with skyline views and marina activity; ideal for sunrise and sunset photography.
Long pier extending over the lake offering dramatic waterline views and city silhouettes at dusk.
Expansive gardens, seasonal blooms, and tranquil water features provide a variety of backdrops.
Nearing the escarpment edge, this spot delivers sweeping views of Lake Ontario and the surrounding landscape.
Historic brick facades, tree-lined avenues, and cafe culture provide charming urban portraits.
Food in Burlington
Burlington Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential Canadian dessert: flaky pastry with a rich, gooey butter-sugary filling.
Must-Try!
Fries topped with cheese curds and gravy; widely available in pubs, casual eateries, and market stalls.
Dishes featuring fresh local fish, often prepared simply to highlight the seafood and seasonal sides.
A Toronto-area favorite featuring thick-cut peameal bacon on a soft bun, commonly found in cafes and casual spots.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering local produce, baked goods, cheeses, and ready-to-eat bites from regional vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite hello or good day, hold doors for others, and queue patiently in stores and transit.
Respect personal space in public, be punctual for meetings, and keep noise manageable in residential areas.
Dispose of litter properly and keep parks and trails clean; follow posted rules in nature areas.
Safety
Tipping in Burlington
Ensure a smooth experience
In Canada, standard tips in restaurants are 15-20% before tax. Tip higher for exceptional service and smaller for poor service; tips can be given in cash or added to credit cards.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, as are contactless payments. Cash is accepted in most places, though some small vendors may be card-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm, occasionally humid days with plentiful outdoor events. Water activities are popular; stay hydrated and wear sunscreen.
Crisp air and vibrant foliage along escarpment trails and parks; ideal for scenic walks and photos.
Cold with occasional heavy snow; layers, waterproof footwear, and indoor hyggie dining options are recommended.
Mild temperatures with spring showers; gardens begin to bloom and trails become welcoming again.
Burlington at Night
Hiking in Burlington
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic escarpment hikes with expansive views of Lake Ontario and the surrounding countryside.
Popular for cliff-edge lookouts, rock climbing, and forest trails; great for longer hikes.
Airports
How to reach Burlington by plane.
Closest major airport; about 25-40 minutes by car or taxi from Burlington, with regional and some international connections.
Major international hub about 40-60 minutes by car depending on traffic; multiple flights worldwide and strong ground transportation links.
City-center airport servicing short-haul flights and regional connections; about 60-90 minutes by road and transit from Burlington.
Alternative option about 75-90 minutes by car; good for cross-border trips and weekend getaways.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many neighborhoods are family-friendly with parks, schools, and community events.
Proximity to Toronto and stable local amenities attract professionals seeking a balanced lifestyle.
Quiet neighborhoods and waterfront access appeal to retirees and active seniors.
Nearby universities and colleges in the region support student populations with internships and part-time work.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in winter; local rinks and leagues reflect the Canadian hockey culture.
Common spring and summer sports played by youth and adults in parks and community leagues.
Active on the lake; waterfront access supports water sports and club activities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Burlington.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Burlington restaurants offer vegetarian options; look for plant-based mains or request meat-free preparations.
Many menus indicate gluten-free options; ask staff about cross-contact and potential substitutions.
Dairy-free adaptations are common; inform servers of dairy restrictions to tailor sauces and dressings.