Burlington

Rated by Macleans Magazine as the best community in the country to live, as well as the best place to raise a family, Burlington is one of Canadas 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, Burlingtons central location is less than an hours 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 youre driving, a short, 1-hour drive from both Toronto and the United States border will get you here. 

If youre 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 youre 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. 

Canadas largest and world-renowned Royal Botanical Gardens is one of Burlingtons 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 shouldnt miss when you visit the city. 

If youre an art lover, head downtown and visit the Burlington Performing Arts Centre near the citys 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 Burlingtons Sound of Music Festival. Shoppers will love to go to retail shops in Mountainside or at the Bronte Harbour in Elizabeth Gardens. 

Burlington Neighbourhoods & Districts

Burlington is a large community made up of several neighbourhoods, namely: Aldershot, Alton Village, Brant Hills, Downtown Burlington, Corporate, Dynes, Elizabeth Gardens, Headon Forest, Longmoor, Millcroft, Mountainside, Palmer, Pinedale, Plains, Roseland, Rural Burlington, Shoreacres, Tansley, The Orchard and Tyandaga.  

Aldershot

Aldershot is a waterfront neighborhood. Its one of the earliest settled neighbourhoods in Burlington, and its where the Royal Botanical Gardens is located. 

Alton Village

Alton Village is situated around the Niagara Escarpment, which provides great hiking opportunities. 

Brant Hills

Home to top entertainment events like Canadas Largest Ribfest, Sound of Music Festival, Taste of Burlington, Winter Carnival and more. 

Elizabeth Gardens

This neighbourhood offers a nice place for a quick walk from the lake, bike rides along the waterfront or shopping at Bronte Harbour.

Headon Forest

Here you can find Burlingtons oldest historic properties, like an Ireland House built in 1837. 

Mountainside

Situated on the side of Niagara Escarpment, Mountainside is known for Mount Royal Plaza, which has a nice combination of retail shops, restaurants, and other professional services. 

Things to Know About Visiting Burlington

Whether youre still in the planning stages or youre already on your trip to Burlington, its 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

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