Best Places to Visit on a Trip Between Burlington, Ontario and St. Thomas, Ontario

If you're looking for a quick weekend trip filled with interesting history, delicious food, and scenic landscapes, then look no further than a journey between Burlington and St. Thomas in Ontario. This region has a lot to offer tourists in terms of things to see and explore, and we've rounded up the top five places you should include on your itinerary.

Halfway Point: Woodstock, ON

Before we get into the top five, let's highlight our halfway point, Woodstock, ON. This charming town has a rich history that's worth exploring. You can take a guided walking tour to learn about Woodstock's place in the Underground Railroad and Canadian history. After your tour, head to the Woodstock Public Library and Museum to browse their exhibits and see artifacts from the town's past. Finally, grab a bite to eat at one of Woodstock's local restaurants, like Charles Dickens' Pub or Chiba Sushi.

1. Royal Botanical Gardens - Burlington, ON

Our first stop on this trip is the Royal Botanical Gardens in Burlington. This world-renowned garden spans over 2,700 acres and is home to over 100 gardens, nature trails, and sanctuaries. The RBG is a great place to take a walk, learn about plants and horticulture, and escape from the city for a few hours. Be sure to check out the Mediterranean Garden and the Rock Garden during your visit.

2. African Lion Safari - Cambridge, ON

If you're an animal lover, then you'll definitely want to stop at the African Lion Safari in Cambridge. This wildlife park features over 1,000 animals from all over the world and gives visitors a chance to see them up close and personal. You can take a guided tour through the park or drive your own car through the savanna and see lions, cheetahs, and giraffes.

3. Fanshawe Pioneer Village - London, ON

In London, ON, you'll find Fanshawe Pioneer Village, a living history museum that transports visitors back to the 19th century. You can wander through the village and see how people lived and worked during that time period. There are over 30 restored buildings on the property, including a general store, a blacksmith shop, and a one-room schoolhouse. Fanshawe Pioneer Village also hosts events throughout the year, like their annual Christmas market.

4. Covent Garden Market - London, ON

Also in London, you can stop at the Covent Garden Market for some shopping and dining. This indoor market has been a staple in the city since 1845 and is home to over 50 vendors selling everything from fresh produce to artisanal cheeses. You can grab a bite to eat from one of the food stalls or sit down for a meal at one of the restaurants inside the market.

5. Elgin County Railway Museum - St. Thomas, ON

Finally, we come to our last stop in St. Thomas: the Elgin County Railway Museum. This museum is dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of rail travel in Ontario. You can take a tour of the museum and see vintage locomotives and rail cars up close. The museum also offers train rides through the countryside, giving visitors a taste of what rail travel was like in the late 1800s.

In conclusion, there's plenty to see and do on a trip between Burlington and St. Thomas in Ontario. Whether you're interested in nature, history, or food, you're sure to find something that appeals to you on this itinerary. So pack up the car and hit the road for a weekend of adventure and exploration.