Explore Burlington and Beyond: Top Summer Spots to Visit
This summer, the Burlington area and its surroundings are buzzing with activities and beautiful places to explore. Whether you’re in the mood for a scenic hike, a relaxing afternoon on a sunny patio, or a family-friendly outing, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some of the best trails, patios, and nearby getaways that will make your summer unforgettable.
Places to Hike
- Bruce Trail: Stretching across Ontario, the Bruce Trail offers stunning views, rugged landscapes, and varying difficulty levels for hikers. It’s perfect for a day-long adventure through nature.
- Waterdown Falls: A hidden gem near Burlington, Waterdown Falls is a picturesque spot with flowing waterfalls and scenic trails, ideal for a peaceful escape.
- Royal Botanical Gardens (RBG): Explore beautiful gardens, wetlands, and woodland trails at RBG, one of Canada’s largest botanical gardens, perfect for nature lovers.
- Kerns Cliff: A scenic trail with panoramic views of the escarpment, Kerns Cliff is a great place for hiking and photography.
- Tiffany Falls: Located near Ancaster, Tiffany Falls is a must-see waterfall nestled in a tranquil forested area, offering easy trails for all skill levels.
- Shaver Falls: A lesser-known waterfall, Shaver Falls offers a peaceful hiking experience with stunning views of the natural surroundings.
- Mount Nemo: Known for its incredible lookouts, Mount Nemo offers a moderate hike with rewarding views over the countryside and the city of Burlington.
- Rattlesnake Point: With its rugged cliffs and scenic lookout points, Rattlesnake Point is a favorite for hiking, rock climbing, and bird watching.
- Hidden Valley: A peaceful retreat with winding trails through forests and meadows, Hidden Valley is ideal for those seeking a quiet hike.
Best Patios
- Symposium: A relaxed spot offering a variety of drinks and dishes, Symposium’s patio is a great place to unwind with friends.
- Emma’s Back Porch: Overlooking the lake, Emma’s Back Porch offers a beautiful view and a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a summer sunset with a cold drink.
- Royal Coachman: This cozy pub in Waterdown features a charming patio, where you can enjoy hearty meals and a wide selection of craft beers.
- Turtle Jacks: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, Turtle Jacks’ patio is a great spot for casual dining with a view.
- Spencer’s Waterfront: Situated right on the waterfront, Spencer’s offers an upscale dining experience with stunning views of Lake Ontario, making it a perfect date night destination.
Things to Do with Family
- Memorial Park: A great spot for family picnics, sports, and playground fun, Memorial Park is ideal for a relaxed day outdoors.
- Ribfest: Burlington’s Ribfest is a must-attend event featuring delicious ribs, live music, and a fun atmosphere that the whole family will love.
- Spencer Smith Park: This waterfront park is perfect for walking, biking, or simply enjoying a beautiful day by the lake with plenty of green space for kids to play.
- Walks on Lakeshore: Stroll along Lakeshore Road and take in the stunning views of Lake Ontario while enjoying the boutiques and eateries along the way.
- African Lion Safari: Located just a short drive away, African Lion Safari offers an up-close experience with wildlife that kids will remember forever.
- Emerald Lake: A family-friendly campground with a waterpark, Emerald Lake offers swimming, paddle boating, and a sandy beach for a day of fun.
- Valens Conservation Area: Enjoy fishing, camping, and hiking in this beautiful conservation area that offers a variety of outdoor activities for all ages.
- LaSalle Park: With its picturesque marina and scenic trails, LaSalle Park is perfect for a family outing, offering picnic areas and a chance to see the swans.
- Dundurn Castle: Take a tour of this historic site in Hamilton and learn about the rich history of the area while exploring the beautifully preserved grounds.
- Village Theatre in Waterdown: Enjoy a local theater production at this charming venue, offering a great cultural outing for the whole family.
- Artsfest: A celebration of local arts, Artsfest features live music, artisan vendors, and activities for all ages, making it a great way to support the community.
Getaways Within 2 Hours
- Niagara Falls: Experience the breathtaking beauty of Niagara Falls, just a short drive away, and enjoy attractions like the Clifton Hill strip and boat tours.
- Ripley’s Aquarium: Located in Toronto, Ripley’s Aquarium offers an incredible underwater experience, with exhibits featuring marine life from around the world.
- Canada’s Wonderland: Perfect for thrill-seekers, Canada’s Wonderland boasts roller coasters, water rides, and attractions for all ages, just a quick trip from Burlington.
- CN Tower: Take in the views of Toronto from the iconic CN Tower, and enjoy the thrill of walking on the glass floor or dining in the revolving restaurant.
- Great Wolf Lodge: This family-friendly indoor waterpark resort in Niagara Falls is a great overnight getaway, offering fun for kids and relaxation for parents.
No matter how you choose to spend your summer, Burlington and the surrounding areas offer endless opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and family fun. So get out there and explore all that this beautiful region has to offer!
