Aliu IsaThere’s something special about Burlington that has always stuck with me. A few summers ago, I visited it for the first time to hike around its famous trails, relax by the lake, and just get to know the locals.
That day, I discovered Burlington was brimming with more adventure and charm than I ever imagined. Since then, I’ve explored more of the city, uncovering hidden gems and unique activities that make it such a vibrant place.
I wanted to share my favorite experiences in this article, so you, too, can discover the best things to do in Burlington.
1. Explore the Royal Botanical Gardens
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Website: http://www.rbg.ca/
Location: 680 Plains Rd W
Operating hours: Daily 10 AM to 5 PM
Phone: +19055271158
Admission fee:
- Adult, $19.50
- Youth (ages 13-17), $16.50
- Senior (ages 65+), $16.50
- Child (ages 3-12, $11.50
- Infant/Toddler, FREE
At the western edge of Lake Ontario, you’ll find the Royal Botanical Gardens with its extensive plant collections and scenic nature trails spread over 2,400+ acres.
You have four gardens to explore—RBG Center, Hendrie Park, Rock Garden, and Laking Garden. Each season paints a different canvas, so if time is limited, head straight to the areas in full bloom to see a breathtaking floral display.
While you have several photo opportunities throughout the gardens, don’t miss out on an iconic spot at the Scented Garden. Beyond the Hendrie Gates, you’ll see a stone fountain framed by vibrant flowers, perfect for a romantic snapshot.
Pro Tip:
If you’re going to be a frequent visitor of the Royal Botanical Gardens, you might as well get a membership to have FREE admission all year round. You can also have a 10% discount at the Rock Bistro, Greenhouse Cafe, and other shops.
2. Join a guided canoe tour of Cootes Paradise
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Website: http://www.rbg.ca/
Location: Dundas, ON L9H 5M5
Operating hours:
- Mon-Wed, 10 AM to 6 PM
- Thu-Sun, 10 AM to 8 PM
Phone: +19055271158
Ticket fee: $45 + HST and $1 service fee
Tucked away in the sprawling Royal Botanical Gardens, Cootes Paradise is a large, marshy nature reserve where migratory birds make their annual stopovers. The best way to see this sanctuary is on a canoe.
There aren’t any rental services around, but they’ll provide everything you need when you sign up for a guided tour. You’ll row across the wetlands, see the wildlife, and hear the restoration efforts to keep Cootes a paradise.
If you have a canoe, you can carry it all the way to the water and explore the wetlands on your own. You do have to follow a bunch of rules to protect the surroundings and the wildlife so review all of them before your trip.
Pro Tip:
Check the website for the scheduled tour dates.
3. Go wildlife viewing at Cherry Hill Gate
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Website: http://www.rbg.ca/trails
Location: Cherry Hill Gate, ON L7T 1H1
Operating hours: Daily 8 AM to 8 PM
Phone: +19055271158
Parking fee: $1 to $3
Another hidden gem in the sprawling Royal Botanical Garden is Cherry Hill Gate, one of four main trailheads in the area. Arguably the most underrated, this trail is an easy, scenic route where you’ll come across chipmunks, egrets, ospreys, and more.
Unlike the gardens, you won’t have to pay for admission to enter here, but if you arrive by car, parking fees will apply. The trail will take about 1 to 2 hours depending on where you want to wander off.
It’s stroller-accessible and dog-friendly! Just keep your pup on a leash so it won’t go past the marked areas or chase the wildlife.
Pro Tip:
Wildlife feeding is strictly prohibited because it can affect the natural migratory patterns of the birds, as well as their health.
4. Enjoy water activities at The Beachway
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Location: 1100 Lakeshore Road
Operating hours: 24 hours
Parking fee: $2.50 per hour; daily flat rate of $20
If you’re looking for fun, budget-friendly activities to do, spend the day at The Beachway on the southwest corner of Lake Ontario. What I like the most about coming here is that there’s something for everyone.
You can soak up some sun and take a dip in the like. But if you’re craving adventure, don’t miss the chance to try a night paddleboarding session—an unforgettable experience that lets you glide across the water under the stars.
There are outdoor showers and public change rooms at the Pavilion, which are clean and well-maintained so you can freshen up after a swim.
Pro Tip:
Weekends can get very crowded. If you can’t reschedule, arrive early so you can park your car nearby and secure a great lounging spot right by the water.
5. Watch the sunset at Brant Street Pier
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Location: 1400 Lakeshore Rd
Operating hours: 24 hours
Phone: +19053357738
Known for its waterfront trail and sweeping views of Lake Ontario, Brant Street Pier is arguably the most iconic location in Burlington. After having fun at The Beachway, you might as well come here to watch the sunset and take memorable photos.
It extends 137 meters into the lake, so it’s pretty hard to miss. It also has a large beacon, which lights up in a different color every night.
Although it can get more crowded at night, the views definitely make up for it. You’ll leave with stunning photos and a memorable experience.
Pro Tip:
Since the pier is quite long, you can ride a bike all the way to the end, but be mindful of the pedestrians. After all, it is a popular hangout spot for locals and tourists alike.
6. Hike around Mount Nemo Conservation Area
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Website: https://www.conservationhalton.ca/parks/mount-nemo/
Location: 5317 Guelph Line
Operating hours: Daily 8:30 AM to 9 PM
Phone: +19058540262
Admission fee:
- Adult (ages 15 -64), $10.50 +HST
- Senior (ages 65+), $8.25 +HST
- Children (ages 5-14), $7.25
Mount Nemo Conservation Area is a popular hiking destination with trails suited for moderate skill levels. The terrain is varied, with some rocky sections, but overall, it’s accessible for most hikers.
As you explore the trails, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Niagara Escarpment. Depending on your pace, the entire hike should take two hours or more.
Since Mount Nemo is also an excellent spot for birdwatching, don’t forget to pack binoculars. You will most likely see turkey vultures soaring overhead!
Pro Tip:
Book online to save a few dollars off the admission fee. If you pay at the gate, a single ticket for an adult will cost $12 + HST.
7. Go rock climbing in Rattlesnake Point
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Website: https://www.conservationhalton.ca/parks/rattlesnake-point/
Location: 7200 Appleby Line, Milton
Phone: +19058540262
Admission fee:
- Adult (ages 15 -64), $10.50 +HST
- Senior (ages 65+), $8.25 +HST
- Children (ages 5-14), $7.25
Located within Mount Nemo Conservation Area, Rattlesnake Point is a go-to for rock climbing and year-round camping. Whether you’re a pro or a newbie looking for lessons, this is an ideal spot to practice in Burlington.
You can sign up for some lessons with Zen Climb and On the Rocks Climbing, which will cost hundreds of dollars per person for a full-day session. However, it is worth the investment if you’re serious about this hobby.
Even if you’re a pro, signing up for a rock climbing course will be beneficial because you can get acquainted with this niche community in Burlington.
Pro Tip:
Wrapping, climbing, or slinging on trees is prohibited as it may cause damage. To help preserve the natural habitat of the animals, stay on the marked trails and climbing routes.
8. Join a scavenger hunt in Downtown Burlington
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Website: https://www.operationcityquest.com/Locations/burlington-on
Starting location: 426 Brant St
Ticket fee: $25-$28 per person
A unique way to explore the downtown core of Burlington is through a scavenger hunt. It’s a fun, easy activity that you can do with the entire family.
You will be given a series of riddles and challenges through the scavenger hunt app, which you can download on your phone. You must guess the answers, take snaps of the items, and submit them on the app.
What I like the most about this scavenger hunt is that there are different themes. From date night and bachelorettes to team buildings, there’s a game for every mood and occasion.
Pro Tip:
The scavenger hunt might take you across the city. On average, players walk about two miles while playing the game so make sure to wear your comfiest pair of shoes.
