Burlington
Rated by Maclean’s Magazine as the best community in the country to live, as well as the best place to raise a family, Burlington is one of Canada’s hidden gems. Located in the Hamilton Halton Brant region of Ontario, Burlington is a diverse, dynamic, and liveable city. But because of its location on the shores of Lake Ontario, Burlington hardly feels like a city at all. With its nature conservatories, waterfalls, and trails, Burlington finds the perfect balance between the hustle and culture of the city and the tranquility of nature.
To learn more about all there is to see and do in Burlington, scroll down or visit the city's tourism website.
Where is Burlington?
Burlington is a city in the Regional Municipality of Halton located in southeastern Ontario, Canada. It lies between Niagara Falls and the northwest shore of Lake Ontario.
Easily accessible by ground, rail or air, Burlington’s central location is less than an hour’s drive from Toronto and the US border. Burlington is near major highways connected to the Great Toronto Area, the Niagara Region, and Kitchener/Waterloo. If you’re driving, a short, 1-hour drive from both Toronto and the United States border will get you here.
If you’re coming from further away, the closest airport to fly into is the Toronto Hamilton International Airport (IATA: YHM, ICAO: CYHM), a 30-minute drive from Burlington. You can also fly into Toronto Pearson International Airport and explore a bit of Toronto before venturing to Burlington.
If you’re traveling from the United States, the Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF) is an hour and twenty minutes away by car. Just cross the border at the Rainbow Bridge or Peace Bridge border crossings.
Things to Do in Burlington
Burlington is a great getaway destination for its charming gardens, art galleries, museums, trails and conservation parks.
Canada’s largest and world-renowned Royal Botanical Gardens is one of Burlington’s top attractions. The second-largest botanical garden in the world, it is also a National Historic Site and a registered charitable organization. This picturesque garden is something you shouldn’t miss when you visit the city.
If you’re an art lover, head downtown and visit the Burlington Performing Arts Centre near the city’s waterfront. From world-class acoustics to theatrical performances, this theatre is a delight for locals and visitors alike. Burlington is also the home to the Art Gallery of Burlington, the seventh-largest public gallery in the province of Ontario, which has over a thousand art and craft collections. In addition, look for pop-up art events and exhibits, like the “Heart of the Country: Recent Landscapes” featuring three local artists at the Hub Gallery at Burlington Centre Mall running November 15-21.
Rock climbers will enjoy going to the Mount Nemo Conservation Area, which has incredible panoramic views of the Niagara Escarpment. If you prefer walking, cycling or rollerblading, the Burlington Waterfront Trail starts downtown and spans over 22 km of accessible trail.
Enjoy vivid events like Ribfest or Burlington’s Sound of Music Festival. Shoppers will love to go to retail shops in Mountainside or at the Bronte Harbour in Elizabeth Gardens.
Things to Know About Visiting Burlington
Whether you’re still in the planning stages or you’re already on your trip to Burlington, it’s nice to learn what the locals recommend.
Hidden gem
Paletta Lakefront Park & Mansion sits is a 5.5 hectare park with some of the most elegant grounds Canada has to offer. Take a stroll and let yourself get lost in the beauty of the gardens.
Where to snap a great Instagram pic
Head to Brant Street Pier to snap some pics along the waterfront over Lake Ontario.
Where to shop local
Downtown Brant Street is known for local boutiques. Make sure to leave room in your suitcase.
Last updated: November 9, 2022