Burlington Travel Guide

Explore the beauty of Burlington, Ontario with this comprehensive guide. Discover the best places to visit, exciting activities to do, what to eat, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Burlington

Burlington is a picturesque city that’s part of the Greater Toronto Area, located in the Halton Region of Ontario, Canada. It has plenty to offer, from beautiful natural areas and outdoor activities to cultural attractions and exciting events. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a longer trip, Burlington is the perfect destination for you.

List of Places to Visit in Burlington

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Burlington is a city that’s rich in history and culture, and there are plenty of attractions to explore. The following are some of the top museums and historical places that you should visit:

  • Joseph Brant Museum: It’s a museum located on the shore of Lake Ontario, offering exhibits on the history of the local Indigenous peoples and the Burlington region.

  • Ireland House Museum: This museum offers a glimpse into the daily life of Burlington’s early settlers.

  • Burlington Art Centre: If you’re an art lover, you’ll want to check out the Burlington Art Centre featuring a wide range of art exhibits and a craft shop.

Natural Attractions of Burlington: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Burlington is blessed with many natural areas that offer breathtaking views and stunning landscapes. The following are some of the top outdoor activities and scenic views that you must explore while in Burlington:

  • Royal Botanical Gardens: Take a stroll through the world-famous botanical gardens and enjoy the beauty of nature.

  • Mount Nemo Conservation Area: A stunning conservation area with numerous hiking trails, scenic views, and diverse wildlife.

  • Burlington Waterfront Trail: Take a walk, jog, or bike ride along the scenic shoreline of Lake Ontario, with stunning views and picturesque landscapes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Burlington

Burlington is renowned for its hiking and biking trails, and it offers numerous options for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the best routes to consider:

  • Bruce Trail: It’s a 900-kilometer trail that runs through the Niagara Escarpment and offers stunning views of the city.

  • Lakeshore Road Route: A scenic bike ride or walk along the waterfront trail, this route offers picturesque views of Lake Ontario.

  • Rattlesnake Point: A popular spot that features several hiking trails, including one that takes you to the top of the escarpment.

Best Things to Do in Burlington: Activities and Tours

Burlington has plenty of exciting activities and tours that’ll keep you engaged throughout your trip:

  • Wine Tours: Enjoy the taste of locally made wines and take a guided tour of Niagara-On-The-Lake’s wineries.

  • Lake Ontario Cruises: Take a cruise of Lake Ontario and enjoy the stunning views of the waterfront.

  • Standup Paddleboarding: Paddleboard on Burlington’s beautiful waterways and soak in the sun and the scenic views.

Week-Long Itinerary for Burlington

Burlington has so much to offer that you’ll want to stay for more than a day. Here’s an itinerary to help you make the most of your week-long trip:

Day 1: Explore the city’s historic sites and cultural attractions, including the Joseph Brant Museum and the Ireland House Museum.

Day 2: Take a stroll through the Royal Botanical Gardens and enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings.

Day 3: Take a bike ride or a hike along the Bruce Trail, and enjoy the panoramic views of the city.

Day 4: Take a wine tour of Niagara-On-The-Lake and sample the locally produced wines.

Day 5: Enjoy a game of golf at one of Burlington’s picturesque golf courses or try paddleboarding on the beautiful waterways.

Day 6: Take a cruise of Lake Ontario and enjoy stunning views of the waterfront.

Day 7: Relax and unwind or head to the spa for a day of pampering.

Food and Drink Scene of Burlington

Burlington has a vibrant food and drink scene, and there are plenty of delicious dishes and local beverages that you should try during your trip.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Butter tarts: A sweet pastry treat made with butter, sugar, and eggs, a traditional Canadian dessert.

  • Maple Syrup: A staple ingredient in Canadian cuisine, maple syrup is a must-try in Burlington.

  • Poutine: A classic Canadian dish consisting of French fries, gravy, and cheese curds.

Local Beverages

  • Craft Beer: Burlington has a thriving craft beer scene, with many local breweries offering a delicious variety of beers.

  • Icewine: Made from frozen grapes, icewine is a sweet Canadian wine that’s perfect for dessert.

  • Cider: Hard apple cider is a refreshing drink that’s popular in the region.

Where to Stay in Burlington: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Burlington has plenty of options for accommodations to suit every budget and preference. Here are some of the top choices:

  • Spencer’s at the Waterfront: A premium hotel offering stunning views of the waterfront and luxurious amenities.

  • Best Western Plus: A mid-range option providing comfortable rooms with many amenities and pet-friendly services.

  • Waterfront Hotel: A budget-friendly hotel with well-equipped rooms and scenic views of the waterfront.

What to Buy in Burlington: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Burlington has plenty of unique souvenirs and local products that you’ll want to bring back home as a memory of your trip. Here are some of the must-buy items:

  • Maple treats: From syrup to candy, Burlington has many maple products that make great souvenirs for your loved ones.

  • Clothing: Burlington is home to many boutique shops selling locally designed clothes.

  • Artwork: The Burlington Art Centre is an excellent place to find unique artwork to take home.

Local Culture and Customs of Burlington

Burlington’s culture and customs are a reflection of the region’s diverse history and heritage. The city celebrates many festivals and events, including the Canadian Tulip Festival and the Sound of Music Festival.

Best Time to Visit Burlington

Burlington is beautiful all year round, but the best time to visit is from May to September when the weather is warm and sunny.

Do’s and Don’ts of Burlington

Do:

  • Respect the natural environment and keep it clean.

  • Take a walk through the beautiful waterfront and enjoy the stunning views.

  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Litter in public places.

  • Ignore the local customs and traditions.

  • Be rude to locals and other tourists.

Safety and Health

Safety in Burlington

Burlington is a safe and friendly city, but it’s important to take precautions to ensure your safety.

  • Keep your valuables safe while walking through crowded areas.

  • Avoid walking alone in isolated areas at night.

Health in Burlington

Burlington has excellent healthcare facilities, including several hospitals and clinics.

Getting to Burlington: Transportation Options and Logistics

Burlington is easily accessible by air, road, and rail. The following are some transportation options:

Airports Near Burlington

  • Toronto Pearson International Airport: The nearest and most convenient airport to Burlington.

  • John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport: A secondary airport located in Hamilton, about 30 km away from Burlington.

Bus Stations Near Burlington

  • Burlington GO Station: A major bus station connecting Burlington to other cities in Greater Toronto Area.

Other Options

  • Car Rentals: Renting a car is a convenient option for exploring Burlington and the surrounding areas.

  • Railway Stations: The closest railway stations to Burlington are located in Oakville and Hamilton.

How to Get Around in Burlington

Buses and taxis are the most popular modes of transportation in Burlington, though cycling and walking are great options for exploring the city.

Where to Go Next from Burlington: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Burlington is conveniently located near a variety of exciting destinations and tourist attractions.

  • Toronto: Canada’s largest city, renowned for its diverse culture, nightlife, and landmarks.

  • Niagara Falls: A world-famous natural wonder, Niagara Falls is just a short drive from Burlington.

  • Hamilton: A thriving city with many attractions, including the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum and the Art Gallery of Hamilton.

Conclusion

Burlington is an exciting and beautiful destination for travelers, offering a mix of natural, cultural, and historical attractions. With numerous options for activities, accommodations, and transportation, there’s something for everyone here. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the beauty and charm of Burlington!

Royal Botanical Gardens in early August Royal Botanical Gardens in early August