Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Burlington to Toronto
If you live in Burlington, Ontario, and want to take a road trip to Toronto, there are a few routes you can take. One of the most popular is to drive on the Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW). The QEW is a busy highway that connects Toronto to the Niagara Peninsula, and it offers some scenic views of Lake Ontario. The trip from Burlington to Toronto takes approximately 45 minutes, depending on traffic. Along the way, there are several unexpected places that you can stop to break up the drive and explore a new area. Here are five places you should visit if you're driving from Burlington to Toronto:
Halfway Point: Mississauga, ON
Before we dive into the unexpected places to visit, we should mention the halfway point between Burlington and Toronto: Mississauga, Ontario. Mississauga is a large city between Burlington and Toronto, and it offers several attractions that are worth checking out. You can visit the Living Arts Centre, which features various art exhibits, performances, and classes. Or, you can go to Square One Shopping Centre, which is one of the largest malls in Canada. There are also several parks and walking trails in Mississauga, such as J.C. Saddington Park and the Waterfront Trail. If you're hungry, Mississauga has a variety of restaurants serving up different cuisines. Some of the best include:
- Paramount Fine Foods - for Lebanese cuisine
- Avani Asian Indian Bistro - for Indian food
- Union Social Eatery - for casual dining
Now let's discuss the five unexpected places you can stop at while on this road trip:
1. Oakville Harbour
If you enjoy spending time on the waterfront, then Oakville Harbour is a must-see spot. Located just off the QEW, Oakville Harbour is a peaceful and picturesque location that offers stunning views of Lake Ontario. Visitors can walk along the pier and watch boats come and go from the marina. There are also several restaurants and cafes in the area, such as The Harbourside Inn and Bru Restaurant. A must-try food item in this area is the fish and chips at The Harbourside Inn.
2. The Royal Botanical Gardens
The Royal Botanical Gardens in Hamilton, Ontario, are a unique place to explore. Featuring over 2,700 acres of gardens, nature sanctuaries, and hiking trails, the gardens offer a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can walk the trails, take guided tours, and attend educational events throughout the year. There is also a restaurant on-site, called the Rock Garden Cafe, which serves up delicious soups, sandwiches, and salads.
3. The Art Gallery of Burlington
If you're a fan of art, then the Art Gallery of Burlington is a great spot to visit. The gallery features various art exhibits throughout the year, showcasing the work of local and national artists. Visitors can walk through the gallery and appreciate the different styles and mediums of art on display. The gallery also offers art classes for both children and adults. If you're feeling hungry, the gallery has a cafe that serves up sandwiches, soups, and salads.
4. The Toronto Islands
If you want to escape the city for a few hours, then the Toronto Islands are an unexpected and fun place to visit. Located just south of Toronto's downtown core, the Toronto Islands offer stunning views of the city skyline, as well as several beaches, parks, and activities. Visitors can rent bikes, go kayaking, or have a picnic in one of the many parks. There are also several restaurants and cafes on the islands, such as The Rectory Cafe, which serves up delicious brunch items like eggs benedict and french toast.
5. Treetop Trekking
For an adventure-filled activity, try Treetop Trekking, located in Stouffville, Ontario. This outdoor adventure park offers zip-lining, aerial games, and other activities for both kids and adults. Visitors can explore the treetops and enjoy a thrilling experience while taking in the beautiful scenery. If you're feeling hungry after all the excitement, there are several nearby restaurants to check out, such as The Smokery Kitchen & Bar, which serves up smoked meat sandwiches and other BBQ dishes.
In conclusion, if you're looking for a fun and unexpected road trip from Burlington to Toronto, be sure to make some stops along the way. From exploring art galleries to zip-lining through the trees, there's something for everyone. And, of course, don't forget to indulge in some delicious food at each location. So pack your bags, grab some snacks, and take the scenic route between Burlington and Toronto - you won't regret it!