Brianna HarrisonAh, spring—a time when Instafeeds everywhere burst with colorful blooms and lush greenery. As I scrolled through, I stumbled upon a friend’s gorgeous post about the Royal Botanical Gardens.
Powered by Insta-envy (which, TBH, is basically my motivation for everything), I rallied my friend group for a visit. And you know what—seeing it in person was even more breathtaking!
Everywhere we looked, there were flowers in full bloom and towering trees, making it feel straight out of a storybook. We wandered through themed gardens, marveled at nature trails, and even stumbled upon hidden peaceful nooks.
Feeling inspired, I decided to channel my inner good samaritan and whip up a fun guide to the Royal Botanical Gardens.
With insider info about admission, attractions, tours, and more that’ll make your visit hassle-free, your Instafeed is bound to thank me later!
- What Is the Royal Botanical Gardens?
- History behind the Royal Botanical Gardens
- Royal Botanical Gardens Attractions
- Royal Botanical Gardens Experiences
- Royal Botanical Gardens Programs, Camps, and Courses
- Royal Botanical Gardens Onsite Restaurants
- How to Get to the Royal Botanical Gardens
- Things You Should Know before Going to the Royal Botanical Gardens
- Where to Get Royal Botanical Gardens Admission Tickets
- Best Time to Go to Royal Botanical Gardens
- Where to Stay Nearby
- Other Things to Do Nearby
What Is the Royal Botanical Gardens?
The Royal Botanical Gardens (RBG) is Canada’s largest botanical garden tucked between Burlington and Hamilton, ON. It has gardens, nature trails, a park, and an arboretum and also serves as a horticultural, educational, and conservation hub.
History behind the Royal Botanical Gardens
The Royal Botanical Gardens (RBG) idea kicked off with Thomas McQuesten leading the charge, and they got the official go-ahead from King George V in 1930. Over time, it grew bigger, adding cool stuff like the Rock Garden and protecting natural areas too.
Thanks to folks like Dr. Norman Radforth and Leslie Laking, it became a big deal, with new experts and lands joining the mix. Now, it’s a massive 1,100-hectare spot, one of North America’s biggest botanical gardens, celebrating all things green and gorgeous!
Royal Botanical Gardens Attractions
RBG Centre
RBG Centre is your gateway to all the wonders of the Royal Botanical Gardens! It’s full of Insta-worthy spaces, such as its captivating Mediterranean Garden, where plants from five Mediterranean climate zones come together in harmony.
Check out their Breezeway Display, which is a breath of fresh air, or let your little ones run wild at the Natural Playground, open year-round for endless outdoor fun. And when you’re ready to immerse yourself in nature, follow the entryway to Hendrie Park.
Hendrie Park
Hendrie Park has a beautiful Rose Garden, 12 themed gardens, the Dan Lawrie International Sculpture Collection, and the iconic Hendrie Park Gates. Guests can get lost in the fragrant lily collection or be inspired by the bountiful vegetable garden.
It also has two healing gardens—the medieval garden has plants used for food, dye, and medicine, and the medicinal garden boasts remedies arranged by body part. The Greenhouse Café and the seasonal Turner Pavilion Tea House are also located here.
Rock Garden
Since the Rock Garden’s debut in 1932, it has been the heart of the RBG, and after a major facelift in 2016, it has never looked better! Imagine bold bursts of perennials painting the landscape with vivid hues all year round.
This Japanese-inspired garden also has charming water features and historic limestone. After admiring your gorgeous surroundings, pop into Rock Garden Bistro—the perfect spot to refuel and soak in the garden’s beauty over a tasty bite.
Laking Garden
Once a bustling market garden, Laking Garden is now home to RBG’s stunning year-round blooms. When June comes around, don’t miss Laking Garden’s iris and peony collections.
Its Heritage Garden has a mix of edible, medicinal, and ornamental plants. With key attractions like the Barbara Laking Memorial Heritage Garden and charming lookout points, there’s plenty to explore across its 1.7 hectares of green goodness!
Arboretum
You can also explore RBG’s Arboretum, a sprawling landscape that feels more like an English park than a traditional garden. Immerse yourself in the fragrant blooms of the Katie Osborne Lilac Collection, boasting over 400 varieties and cultivars.
We love their Flowering Tree Collections in May and June, and the Anishinaabe Waadiziwin Trail is perfect for a serene nature walk. And don’t miss the early spring spectacle of our Flowering Cherries, steeped in centuries of tradition!
Nature Trails
For the adventurous, go ahead and explore RBG’s nature sanctuaries, offering 27 km of trails in Burlington and Hamilton, with four main trailheads and two canoe launch sites. Fitness junkies can traverse rugged landscapes, including challenging hill sections.
These 1,100-hectare sanctuaries are super vital within the Niagara Escarpment World Biosphere Region and the Cootes to Escarpment Ecopark System. The area’s also home to wildlife spanning plants, birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and fish.
Royal Botanical Gardens Experiences
Paddling
During the summer, RBO offers guided tours by canoe through Cootes Paradise, where you’ll witness the beauty of the marshes. Upon registration, they’ll provide canoes, paddles, and life jackets—just bring your camera and binoculars and you’re good to go!
If you have your own watercraft, use their canoe launches for self-guided paddling—launch from Princess Point or Valley Inn at Grindstone Creek. Seasonally, docks are available to assist with landing and portaging around the Fishway.
Diverse Birding
Bird-watchers would love RBG’s diverse birding opportunities. Whether you’re spotting nighthawks and swifts at Hendrie Park, or witnessing thousands of swallows and blackbirds at Spencer Creek delta, the birding experience here is unmatched.
Don’t miss the chance to visit during spring bloom festivals! If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of Broadwing Hawks, Rose-breasted Grosbeaks, Baltimore Orioles, and Chimney Swifts among the gorgeous blooms.
Skating
RBG’s Princess Point offers a designated skating area across Cootes Paradise. Every Friday, the ice is measured and updated on-site, on IG, and on Twitter, but weather changes quickly, so the ice conditions may differ upon arrival.
For safe skating, the ice should be approximately 4 inches (10 cm) thick, so enjoy your skating adventure while being mindful of the natural surroundings! Also, keep in mind that Cootes Paradise is an environmental protection area with sensitive species.
Royal Botanical Gardens Programs, Camps, and Courses
Royal Botanical Gardens Programs
School Programs
ECE and Kindergarten – For little adventurers in ECE and Kindergarten, RGB offers fun-filled learning experiences. From interactive hikes to sensory activities, their goal is to spark a love for nature early on.
Elementary – Calling all elementary students! RBG’s programs are designed to ignite your curiosity and foster connections with nature. Through games, explorations, and discussions, get ready to learn about natural spaces and your role in preserving them.
High School – RBG’s secondary programs take learning to the next level, with real-world experiences. Students can dive into inquiry-based learning, conduct hands-on investigations, and even tackle environmental issues head-on!
Virtual Programs
RBG’s Virtual, Nature-Based Programs are for those who prefer learning remotely. Their educators and scientists will guide your class through topics like biodiversity, conservation, botany, plant ecology, and the environment.
Through interactive videoconferencing and web-based technologies, students can engage in immersive learning experiences. Teachers also receive comprehensive packages with presentation outlines and pre- and post-conference activities.
Youth Programs
Junior Naturalists’ Club – Designed for ages 6 to 13, this monthly program will immerse you in the wonders of the natural world. Themed sessions are offered throughout the year, where members explore ravines, forests, fields, and wetlands.
Camp Leadership Development Program – For ages 14 and older looking to level up their leadership skills, this is the program for you. Whether it’s leading games, crafts, or facilitating camp programs, you’ll be making a difference while having a great time!
Children & Youth Gardening Program – Budding gardeners should join this program, which is actually the longest-running program of its kind in Canada. Get your hands dirty as you plant, cultivate, and harvest in your very own garden plot at RBG.
Green Angels Subsidy Program
You can also become a Green Angel and make a difference today! Your donation helps support individuals and families facing financial difficulties to access the wonderful offerings of Royal Botanical Gardens.
With your contribution, you’ll provide admission passes, school programming, transportation costs, and access to day camps and clubs. Additionally, your support enables virtual learning opportunities for children and youth, especially in remote areas.
Royal Botanical Gardens Camps
March Break Camp – RBG offers camp experiences for children aged 5-13, where they can explore our trails, follow animal tracks, and dive into the wonders of nature. Your child will be immersed in outdoor exploration and fun.
Summer Camp – In the summer, their week-long camps are perfect for kids aged 5 to 15. Let your child spend their days outdoors, with activities in fields and forests, games, and plenty of exploration!
Winter Camp – These day camps for children aged 5 to 11 offer outdoor and environmental education, allowing kids to discover the magic of nature in winter. Each day brings new adventures and opportunities to learn about the diverse wilderness.
Royal Botanical Gardens Courses and Workshops
RBG offers a wide array of courses and workshops for families, kids, and adults, spanning gardening, nature, botanical arts, and wellness. These range from renowned children’s clubs to engaging gardening programs and seasonal workshops.
Examples of courses and workshops are “Paddling in Paradise: Spring Canoe Tours” and “The Joy of Birding” workshops. Activities like “Spring Edible Planter Design Workshop” and “Yoga at the Gardens” are also offered.
Royal Botanical Gardens Onsite Restaurants
The Greenhouse Café
Address: 680 Plains Rd W, Burlington
Website: rbg.ca/dining/greenhouse-cafe
Instagram: instagram.com/rbgcanada
Hours:
- Mon – Fri: 11 AM – 4 PM
- Sat – Sun: 10 AM – 4 PM
Contact: (905) 527-1158
After working up an appetite, head over to The Greenhouse Café, conveniently located in RBG Centre. Once you enter RBG Centre, simply make your way past the gift shop, down the stairs or ramp, and head to the far left.
The Greenhouse Café offers a fantastic fast-casual menu, featuring a variety of options such as ready-made sandwiches, salads, and homemade soups. We suggest going for their signature scones—they’re freshly baked and oh-so-yummy!
Turner Pavilion Tea House
Address: Hendrie Park, 680 Plains Rd W, Burlington
Website: rbg.ca/dining/turner-pavilion-teahouse
Instagram: instagram.com/rbgcanada
Hours: Seasonal
Contact: (905) 527-1158
The newly renovated Tea House is nestled within the innovative Rose Garden of Hendrie Park. Here, you can unwind in the serene ambiance of nature while treating yourself to a scrumptious lunch, traditional afternoon tea, or a delicious sweet treat.
We suggest going for the RBG Afternoon Tea experience. This includes your choice of one Sloane Tea accompanied by a range of offerings—from finger sandwiches to freshly baked scones served with whipped honey butter, every bite is heaven!
Rock Garden Bistro
Address: 1185 York Blvd, Hamilton
Website: rbg.ca/dining/rock-garden-bistro
Instagram: instagram.com/rbgcanada
Hours: Wed – Sun: 11 AM – 5 PM
Contact: (905) 527-1158
Rock Garden Bistro is a full-service restaurant located in the historic David Braley and Nancy Gordon Rock Garden. They offer an eclectic menu highlighting fresh, locally sourced ingredients, some handpicked from their very own gardens!
Whether you’re dining indoors or enjoying the refreshing ambiance of our outdoor patio, you’ll be treated to a picturesque view of the garden’s rejuvenated lower bowl. We just love chilling here after a day of hitting the nature trails.
How to Get to the Royal Botanical Gardens
Location: 680 Plains Rd W, Burlington
Website: rbg.ca
Instagram: instagram.com/rbgcanada
Hours: Mon – Sun: 10 AM – 5 PM
Contact Details: (905) 527-1158
By Bus: Hop on the Burlington Transit Plains 1 bus—it’ll drop you right at the doorstep of RBG Centre/Hendrie Park. If you’re coming from Hamilton, you can smoothly switch from Burlington Transit to HSR buses downtown.
By Car: Go on the Queen Elizabeth Way heading towards Highway 403 West (Hamilton) and take the exit at Waterdown Rd, then cruise south until you hit Plains Road West. Hang a right onto Plains Road West and keep on for about 2 kilometers.
By GO Train: If you’re rolling in by GO train, hop on the Lakeshore West Train Line. When you reach the Burlington Train Station, hop off and catch the Burlington Transit Route 1 Plains to Hamilton.
By Train: Roll into the Burlington Train Station, about 9 kilometers away from RBG Centre—both GO Transit and VIA Rail have you covered. Once you disembark, catch the Burlington Transit Route 1 Plains to Hamilton bus right from the station.
By Bicycle: Hop on the GO Train and bring your trusty bike along; once you reach the Aldershot station, it’s just a breezy 4-kilometer ride to RBG. There, you’ll find handy bike locking stations waiting for you at each garden area and major trailhead.
Parking Info: Parking is available at each Garden Area and major trailhead, complete with dedicated lots. Check out their parking fees here.
Things You Should Know before Going to the Royal Botanical Gardens
- This garden paradise is HUGE—we’re talking 1,100 hectares of lush gardens and nature spots. While walking is an option, consider zipping between locations by car or bike.
- Their blooms are always changing, so check out their blooms calendar for a sneak peek at what’s in store each season.
- They have wheelchairs available at the RBG Centre and Rock Garden. Just bring a piece of ID and snag one on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Leashed doggos are welcome to join the fun during regular hours. Just remember to scoop the poop and keep ’em on the leash!
- Pack a picnic, but choose your spots wisely. Outside food is okay at Laking Garden and the Arboretum, but not at RBG Centre, Hendrie Park, or Rock Garden.
- Water fountains and bottle fillers are scattered throughout all garden areas, so you can quench your thirst while you explore.
- For upcoming guided tours and discovery activities included with your admission or membership, check out this link.
- Scooters, bikes, and skateboards aren’t allowed in the gardens, but wheelchairs and motorized scooters for accessibility are totally cool.
- Keep it smoke-free, folks! Lighting up is a no-no in all RBG properties, from the gardens to the parking lots.
Where to Get Royal Botanical Gardens Admission Tickets
You can buy Royal Botanical Gardens Admission and Special Events tickets on their website. Guests can choose between full garden access (entry to three gardens) or single admission tickets!
Royal Botanical Gardens Admission Ticket Prices
Full Garden Admission
| Type of Ticket | Price |
| Adult Ticket | $19.50 |
| Senior Ticket (65+) | $16.50 |
| Student Ticket | $16.50 |
| Child Ticket (3-12) | $11.50 |
| Infant Ticket (0-2) | $0 |
Single Garden Admission: Arboretum, Rock Garden, and Laking Garden
| Type of Ticket | Price |
| Adult Ticket | $12.30 |
| Senior Ticket (65+) | $12.30 |
| Student Ticket | $12.30 |
| Child Ticket (3-12) | $12.30 |
| Infant Ticket (0-2) | $0 |
Royal Botanical Gardens Membership Prices
With Royal Botanical Gardens memberships, you can unlock a bouquet of benefits, from unlimited visits to exclusive events and discounts on workshops. Choose from General Membership levels or Charitable Membership options.
Royal Botanical Gardens General Membership Prices
For nature-loving adults and families who want year-round full access to RBG’s gardens, these membership packages are for you.
| Type of Membership | Price |
| Single | $85 per year |
| Single Plus(1 Cardholder + 1 Guest) | $120 per year |
| Family(2 Cardholders + 6 Children) | $130 per year |
| Family Plus(2 Cardholders + 6 Children + 2 Guests) | $175 per year |
Royal Botanical Gardens Charitable Membership Prices
Charitable memberships help preserve and enhance RBG’s natural treasures. The full inclusions of Charitable Memberships are listed here.
| Type of Membership | Price |
| Single | $85 per year |
| Single Plus(1 Cardholder + 1 Guest) | $120 per year |
| Family(2 Cardholders + 6 Children) | $130 per year |
| Family Plus(2 Cardholders + 6 Children + 2 Guests) | $175 per year |
Best Time to Go to Royal Botanical Gardens
The Royal Botanical Gardens in Canada are awesome no matter when you go, but the spring and summer are prime time for flower lovers. May and June are when you can catch cherry blossoms and tulips showing off their colors.
From June to August, the gardens are buzzing with life and outdoor fun. Come fall, around September to November, the foliage turns into a beautiful patchwork of autumn colors, making it a dreamy spot for strolls and snapping pics.
Then, in winter, from December to February, it becomes a real-life snow globe. No matter when you visit, there’s always something cool happening at the RBG, with events and programs to jazz up your trip!
Where to Stay Nearby
The City View Inn
Address: 1400 Plains Rd W, Burlington
Website: cityviewinn.ca
Instagram: instagram.com/thecityviewinnburlingtonon
Hours:
- Check-in time: 3 PM
- Check-out time: 11 AM
Contact: (289) 245-1133
Just a hop, skip, and a jump away from the Royal Botanical Gardens, City View Inn in Burlington offers comfy accommodation with all the essentials. Whether you’re exploring Dundurn Castle or catching a game at Ron Joyce Stadium, this spot’s got you covered.
Kick back in your room with a flat-screen TV, enjoy their free Wi-Fi, and cozy up for a good night’s rest before your next adventure. Plus, Devil’s Punch Bowl and African Lion Safari are within reach too, making it a perfect home base for your Ontario escapades!
Knights Inn
Address: 517 Plains Rd E, Burlington
Website: knightsinn.com/ca/on/burlington/knights-inn-burlington
Instagram: instagram.com/knights-inn-burlington/
Hours:
- Check-in time: 2:00 PM
- Check-out time: 11:00 AM
Contact: (905) 634-2383
For a budget-friendly spot, Knights Inn Burlington is a solid choice. It’s a motel that offers 24-hour reception and free Wi-Fi. Air conditioning keeps you cool during warmer days, and vending machines provide refreshing drinks.
Plus, each guest room comes with handy amenities like a refrigerator and microwave, cable TV, and sofa, along with an en suite bathroom. The best thing is that attractions like the Royal Botanical Gardens and Burlington Mall are just a short drive away!
Waterfront Hotel
Media credit: blades420
Address: 2020 Lakeshore Rd., Burlington
Website: waterfronthotelburlington.com
Instagram: instagram.com/waterfront-hotel-downtown-burlington-ontario/
Hours:
- Check-in time: 3 PM
- Check-out time: 12 PM
Contact: (905) 681-5400
Nestled beside Spencer Smith Park and the scenic Waterfront Trail, this Burlington hotel offers both relaxation and convenience. Enjoy a refreshing dip in the on-site pool or take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque waterfront.
For those seeking a bit of luxury, select rooms boast stunning views of Spencer Smith Park. Before heading out to RBG, we recommend starting your day off right with a delicious breakfast buffet featuring yogurt, cereal, eggs, waffles, and more!
Homewood Suites by Hilton
Address: 40 Bay St S, Hamilton
Website: hilton.com/en/hotels/yhmhwhw-homewood-suites-hamilton-ontario-canada/
Instagram: instagram.com/homewoodsuites
Business Hours:
- Check-in time: 3 PM
- Check-out time: 12 PM
Contact: +1 905-667-1200
Homewood Suites by Hilton Hamilton is located near the Royal Botanical Gardens. This 4-star property offers modern amenities including an indoor pool and 24-hour fitness centre, along with complimentary hot breakfast and Wi-Fi.
Each spacious guest room features a full kitchen, cable TV, and a cozy seating area, ensuring a relaxing stay. With a 24/7 front desk, on-site minimarket, and electric car charging station, they’re there to meet all of your needs.
Other Things to Do Nearby
Besides checking out the awesome Royal Botanical Gardens, there’s a ton of cool stuff nearby to explore!
You can take a quick drive over to Dundurn Castle, a stunning mansion from the 1800s with tours and killer views of Lake Ontario. History buffs can geek out at the Hamilton Museum of Steam & Technology, set in an old waterworks building.
If you’re into the great outdoors, hit up the Burlington Waterfront Trail for some sweet lake views. And for a bit of culture, check out the Art Gallery of Burlington for cool exhibitions featuring local and international artists.
