Exploring the Best of Burlington and Oakville through Road Tripping

As travel restrictions ease across the country this summer, more and more people are looking for a refreshing getaway — a chance to explore new places, savor different regional fares, and soak up picturesque scenery. For road trip enthusiasts, Burlington and Oakville in Ontario offer a wide range of tourist attractions and fun activities to explore. This scenic route stretches for over 60 kilometers, taking roughly an hour to drive from one end to the other. At the halfway point is Oakville, a charming town by the shores of Lake Ontario with easy access to water sports and lakeside dining. Whether you are in the mood for natural beauty, local art and culture, or indulgent treats, you'll find your fill of fun adventures along the way.

Top 5 things to do when in Burlington and Oakville

1. Spend a day at the Royal Botanical Gardens

With over 2,700 acres of lush gardens and nature reserves, this botanical garden is a gem in Burlington's crown. Open to visitors year-round, the Royal Botanical Gardens boast a wide variety of flora and fauna, with a focus on conservation, education, and research. From guided tours to hiking trails, there's something for everyone to explore. The garden is also home to various festivals and events, including art and craft shows, exhibits, and symphony concerts.

Interesting fact: The Royal Botanical Gardens have over 4,000 rose bushes, featuring 1,100 varieties of roses.

2. Visit the Joseph Brant Museum

Take a journey into the past and learn about the rich history of Burlington during your visit to the Joseph Brant Museum. Named after the famous Mohawk leader who played a pivotal role in the American Revolutionary War, this museum houses several permanent and changing exhibits that showcase the local culture and heritage. Take a look at the interactive displays, storytelling sessions, and local art exhibits, which make this museum a must-visit for anyone interested in cultural anthropology.

Interesting fact: The museum houses a 200-year-old wampum belt, considered one of the most important artifacts from the indigenous culture.

3. Indulge in artisan chocolates at Walker's Chocolates

A trip to Burlington and Oakville would not be complete without trying some of the best chocolates on offer in the region. The Walker's Chocolates store in Burlington features a wide array of artisan products, including truffles, caramels, choco-covered nuts, and specialty drinks. The store offers experts to guide visitors through some of the most sought-after flavors and textures, and even sample some of them.

Interesting fact: Walker's Chocolates is one of the oldest chocolate factories in Canada, tracing its history back to 1983.

4. Hit the Beach at Bronte Creek Provincial Park

Bronte Creek Provincial Park in Oakville is an ideal destination for families looking for a little sunshine and downtime by the water. The park offers plenty of scenic trails for cycling, hiking, and bird watching. But the real highlight is the sandy beach, which is perfect for sunbathing, picnicking, and swimming. Visitors can also rent canoes and paddleboats to explore the pristine waters of Bronte Creek.

Interesting fact: The park has seasonal salmon runs, so visitors can get a glimpse of the majestic fish up close.

5. Experience the thrill of an escape room at Mission Possible Escape Rooms

For a change of pace, head over to Mission Possible Escape Rooms in Burlington, where a thrilling adventure awaits. The escape rooms offer unique and immersive scenarios, with clues and puzzles to solve before time runs out. The themes vary from classic murder mysteries to sci-fi and fantasy-action scenarios. Excellent for team building or a family outing, the escape rooms are a must-try for those who enjoy a good challenge.

Interesting fact: The escape room themes at Mission Possible are altered every quarter, keeping things fresh and exciting for returning and new customers alike.

In conclusion

The stretch from Burlington to Oakville is a tourist's dream come true, with endless opportunities for entertainment and exploration. The drive from one end to the other takes approximately one hour, but with the wealth of activities and attractions on offer, visitors will want to extend their trip. From the serene beauty of botanical gardens and the thrill of escape rooms to the history and culture of museums, Burlington and Oakville have something to offer everyone.