If you live in or near Burlington, Ontario, you're in luck when it comes to day trips. With its central location along the shores of Lake Ontario, Burlington offers easy access to many exciting destinations. Whether you’re into nature, history, or city life, there’s something for everyone within a short drive. Here’s a guide to some of the best day trips you can take from Burlington, all within a few hours' drive.
Royal Botanical Gardens: A Nature Lover’s Dream
For an easy, quick getaway right in Burlington’s backyard, visit the Royal Botanical Gardens (RBG). Located just a short drive from downtown, the RBG offers a tranquil escape into nature with its expansive gardens, trails, and wildlife. The RBG is one of the largest botanical gardens in Canada, featuring over 2,400 acres of gardens, wetlands, and nature sanctuaries. Take a leisurely stroll through the Mediterranean Garden or explore the trails that wind through Cootes Paradise for stunning views of Lake Ontario.
The gardens burst with vibrant blooms during the spring and summer months, while the fall offers breathtaking foliage. Winter brings a whole new experience with light displays and winter walks.
The gardens burst with vibrant blooms during the spring and summer months, while the fall offers breathtaking foliage. Winter brings a whole new experience with light displays and winter walks.
Niagara-on-the-Lake: Wine, History, and Charm
Just a little over an hour's drive from Burlington, Niagara-on-the-Lake is a charming town that offers the perfect blend of history, culture, and wine. Known for its historic buildings and well-preserved architecture, this picturesque town is a popular destination for those who want to step back in time.
Explore the local shops and boutiques along Queen Street, enjoy a meal at one of the many fine-dining restaurants, or visit Fort George to delve into Canada’s rich history. For wine lovers, a visit to Niagara-on-the-Lake’s famous wineries is a must. This region is home to some of Canada’s finest wineries, where you can taste locally produced wines, including the famous icewine.
Explore the local shops and boutiques along Queen Street, enjoy a meal at one of the many fine-dining restaurants, or visit Fort George to delve into Canada’s rich history. For wine lovers, a visit to Niagara-on-the-Lake’s famous wineries is a must. This region is home to some of Canada’s finest wineries, where you can taste locally produced wines, including the famous icewine.
Hamilton: Waterfalls and Urban Exploration
Just a short 15-20 minute drive from Burlington, Hamilton is known as the “Waterfall Capital of the World.” With over 100 waterfalls scattered throughout the city, it’s the perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the most popular waterfalls include Webster’s Falls, Tews Falls, and Albion Falls. These natural wonders can be accessed via scenic trails, making for a great day of hiking and exploring.
In addition to its natural beauty, Hamilton has a thriving arts and culture scene. Visit the Art Gallery of Hamilton, stroll through trendy neighbourhoods like Locke Street or James Street North, or explore the historic Dundurn Castle. Hamilton’s mix of nature and urban excitement makes it an excellent day trip option from Burlington.
In addition to its natural beauty, Hamilton has a thriving arts and culture scene. Visit the Art Gallery of Hamilton, stroll through trendy neighbourhoods like Locke Street or James Street North, or explore the historic Dundurn Castle. Hamilton’s mix of nature and urban excitement makes it an excellent day trip option from Burlington.
Toronto: Big City Adventures
If you’re craving the hustle and bustle of the big city, Toronto is only about 45 minutes away from Burlington, making it a perfect day trip destination. As Canada’s largest city, Toronto offers a wealth of activities and attractions. You'll find something to enjoy whether you’re into sports, arts, shopping, or dining.
Some must-visit attractions include the CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, the Royal Ontario Museum, and the Toronto Islands. Sports fans can catch a Toronto Blue Jays game at the Rogers Centre or a Toronto Maple Leafs game at Scotiabank Arena. If you’re looking for a more relaxed experience, take a ferry to the Toronto Islands for a day of biking, picnicking, and stunning views of the city skyline.
Some must-visit attractions include the CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, the Royal Ontario Museum, and the Toronto Islands. Sports fans can catch a Toronto Blue Jays game at the Rogers Centre or a Toronto Maple Leafs game at Scotiabank Arena. If you’re looking for a more relaxed experience, take a ferry to the Toronto Islands for a day of biking, picnicking, and stunning views of the city skyline.
Elora Gorge: Natural Beauty and Adventure
For those looking for a more adventurous day trip, the Elora Gorge, located about an hour and a half from Burlington, is a must-visit. This stunning natural area is known for its deep limestone gorge, rushing rivers, and scenic cliffs. The Elora Gorge Conservation Area offers hiking trails, tubing, and kayaking for those looking to get active.
The nearby town of Elora is equally charming, with its quaint streets lined with artisan shops, cafes, and galleries. Take a stroll through the town, visit the Elora Mill, or enjoy the scenic views of the gorge from the many lookout points. Whether you’re into outdoor adventure or simply want to relax in a beautiful setting, Elora makes for a fantastic day trip.
The nearby town of Elora is equally charming, with its quaint streets lined with artisan shops, cafes, and galleries. Take a stroll through the town, visit the Elora Mill, or enjoy the scenic views of the gorge from the many lookout points. Whether you’re into outdoor adventure or simply want to relax in a beautiful setting, Elora makes for a fantastic day trip.
St. Jacobs: A Mennonite Experience
Located about an hour and 15 minutes from Burlington, St. Jacobs offers a unique day trip experience that combines history, culture, and shopping. This small village is known for its Mennonite heritage and its vibrant farmers’ market. The St. Jacobs Farmers’ Market is one of the largest in Canada, offering fresh produce, handmade goods, and local crafts.
In addition to the market, the village of St. Jacobs is home to charming shops, museums, and galleries. Take a horse-drawn buggy ride through the countryside, learn about the Mennonite way of life at the Mennonite Story museum, or simply enjoy the relaxed pace of this historic village.
In addition to the market, the village of St. Jacobs is home to charming shops, museums, and galleries. Take a horse-drawn buggy ride through the countryside, learn about the Mennonite way of life at the Mennonite Story museum, or simply enjoy the relaxed pace of this historic village.
The Bruce Peninsula: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Beauty
If you’re willing to venture a bit further, the Bruce Peninsula is about a two-hour drive from Burlington, but it’s well worth the trip. Known for its rugged natural beauty, the Bruce Peninsula offers some of the most stunning landscapes in Ontario. The Bruce Peninsula National Park is home to the famous Grotto, a stunning sea cave with crystal-clear turquoise waters.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the area offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. The Bruce Trail, one of the longest and most scenic hiking trails in Canada, runs through the peninsula, offering breathtaking views of the Niagara Escarpment and Georgian Bay. Whether you’re looking to hike, swim, or simply take in the natural beauty, the Bruce Peninsula makes for an unforgettable day trip.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the area offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. The Bruce Trail, one of the longest and most scenic hiking trails in Canada, runs through the peninsula, offering breathtaking views of the Niagara Escarpment and Georgian Bay. Whether you’re looking to hike, swim, or simply take in the natural beauty, the Bruce Peninsula makes for an unforgettable day trip.
Port Dover: A Beachside Escape
For a relaxing beach day, head to Port Dover, located about an hour from Burlington on the shores of Lake Erie. This small town is famous for its sandy beach, scenic waterfront, and relaxed vibe. Spend the day lounging on the beach, swimming in the lake, or strolling along the waterfront promenade. Port Dover is also home to some great seafood restaurants, where you can enjoy fresh fish and chips with a view of the water.
The town comes alive in the summer with events like Friday the 13th motorcycle rallies and the annual Port Dover Harbour Museum Marine Heritage Festival. Whether you’re looking for a quiet beach day or a lively event, Port Dover is a great option for a day trip from Burlington.
The town comes alive in the summer with events like Friday the 13th motorcycle rallies and the annual Port Dover Harbour Museum Marine Heritage Festival. Whether you’re looking for a quiet beach day or a lively event, Port Dover is a great option for a day trip from Burlington.
Ready to Make a Move? Work with Rina© DiRisio, Oakville Real Estate Expert
Burlington's central location offers residents a wealth of incredible day trip options, whether you’re looking to explore the great outdoors, discover charming small towns, or experience the excitement of nearby cities. If you're thinking of moving to the area or need expert advice on Oakville and Burlington real estate, Rina© DiRisio is here to help. With extensive knowledge of the local market and a commitment to providing top-notch service, Rina© can help you find the perfect home in this beautiful region. Contact Rina© today and start your journey towards finding your dream home!
