Central (Downtown)

Downtown Burlington offers a rare combination of big-city excitement along with the safety and peacefulness of a small town. Best of all, there is a sense of community here that you will be hard-pressed to find anywhere else. 

There’s also unparalleled convenience with almost everything you need within easy walking distance. It is no wonder that Burlington was ranked the Number One Community in Canada by Maclean’s Magazine. 

Lakeshore Road, Brant Street, Elizabeth, Caroline and Victoria Roads make up the downtown core. 

You can always count on something exciting happening, whether it’s one of our famous festivals or a concert in the park by the waterfront.

The Incredible Amenities of Downtown Burlington

 

Public Schools: 

  • Central Public School  
  • Lakeshore Public School   
  • Tecumseh Public School   
  • Tom Thompson Public School   
  • Burlington Central Secondary School

Catholic Schools: 

  • St. John Elementary 
  • St. Paul’s Catholic Elementary 
  • Assumption Secondary School

Parks

The city of Burlington has 35 parks spanning 520 acres of natural green space where adults and children can go to relax and play. Many of those parks are in or near the downtown core, including the famous Spencer Smith Park.

Spencer Smith Park
Located in the heart of downtown right on the waterfront, Spencer Smith Park is a favourite destination for locals and visitors. It is an exciting place to be any day of the year. A massive playground with a zipline and a rubberized floor (to prevent injuries) will keep the young ones active for hours. 

You can walk for hours along the beautiful boardwalk right beside the water. If you need refreshments on the way back, stop into one of the many shops, ice cream parlours or cafes on Lakeshore Road. Spencer Smith Park is also home to many of Burlington’s exciting annual events, including the Sound of Music Festival and the Burlington Festival of Lights.

Brant Street Pier is a stunning addition to Spencer Smith, added in 2013 that extends 137 metres out over the lake. What better way to enjoy a day of sunshine than taking a leisurely stroll with a stunning view of the shoreline!

The Dofasco Waterjet and Playground is the newest feature at the park. Children laugh and splash as they run through the jets and sprays to cool down on hot afternoons.

Port Nelson Park
As beautiful as Spencer Smith Park is, it can get very busy at times. If you love the water but not the crowds, give Port Nelson Park a try. Located right on Lakeshore Rd, there is a children’s playground, a baseball diamond and a large sports field for organized activities or free play.

Optimist Park
Optimist Park has tennis courts, a basketball net, a baseball diamond, and a wide-open field where little ones can run until their heart’s content. And don’t forget about the beautiful view of the Burlington Bay! If you’re up for a short walk, you can even take a dip in the lake on a hot afternoon.

Roly Bird Park
A short drive takes you to Roly Bird Park, a fantastic park for your whole family, including its furriest members. A leash-free area gives your dog a place to run and play, and the wood-chip floor means no muddy paws in the car for the ride home. Lots of parking is available, and there is a children’s playground and plenty of picnic tables in the shade. 

Restaurants

Downtown Burlington has countless one-of-a-kind restaurants within easy walking distance or a short drive or bus ride away. Here are just a few nearby hotspots that await you: 

Culaccino Bar & Kitchen
Feeling for some Italian fare? The traditional menu at Culaccino’s will not disappoint. With a warm, wood-panelled dining area and a sprawling outdoor patio, you can satisfy your noodly cravings any time of year. For drinks, there are over 100 flavours of beer to choose from and an expansive wine selection.

Downtown Bistro and Grill
This tiny downtown bistro delivers big flavour with a wide variety of offerings, including flatbreads, pasta, creative appetizers and mouth-watering desserts. Enjoy your meal on the patio as you sip your drink and watch the sunset over the city.

Brant Pump and Patio
Great food, great friends, and great times are the overriding themes at Brant Pump and Patio. Judging by the many five-star reviews on Google, they are succeeding. The comprehensive menu means there is something for everyone, including a selection of gluten-free options. 

Mikado Japanese Restaurant
Craving some sushi, teriyaki or tempura? Then check out Mikado Japanese Restaurant just off of Lakeshore and Elizabeth Street. It is one of the city’s first sushi bars, and the food is always fresh and delicious.

Boon Burger Cafe
Even meat lovers are singing the praises of this vegan restaurant, and it’s easy to see why. There are 15 flavours of burgers and five types of sausage brats to choose from, not to mention an extensive poutine and salad menu. Guilt-free, plant-based eating never tasted better!

The North Coal Kitchen and Bar
The whole family can enjoy some casual Canadian fare at The North Coal. Must-haves on the menu include chicken wings, haloumi sticks and fire-roasted dip with naan bread.

The Martini House
Whether you’re on a date, celebrating your birthday or hitting the town with friends, the Martini House is the ultimate place to socialize. Dining options include everything from oysters, cheese wontons, pizzas, salads, and the “pasta of the day.” The real attraction, however, is the martini selection. There are over 50 flavours to choose from, which may mean multiple visits are in order.

Shopping in Downtown Burlington

There is no need to confine your shopping needs to a big box store when living in downtown Burlington. Everything you need is a few steps away! Here are a few of the unique shopping experiences you are sure to love:

Village Square

Village Square is a quick 10-minute walk from Spencer Smith Park. Step inside, and it feels like a magical trip back in time. Weave your way down the cobblestone streets to the many dining experiences and specialty boutiques. Culinary treats include Lola Choco Bar and Sweet House, Rayhoon Persian Eatery and The Dickens. 

The village also has multiple spas and salons, a Blue Room, a cigar store and even a belly dancing studio.

And of course, don’t forget to visit the Little Pop Up Shoppe, a boutique dedicated to supporting Canadian vendors.

The Fashion Boutiques

ABC Resell
Looking for some vintage clothing styles or sneakers? ABC Resell is an 8-minute walk from Spencer Smith Park, and you’ll find great prices on all kinds of hard-to-find apparel.

Gerry Weber
Gerry Weber is a German fashion brand offering stylish clothing for any occasion; work, formal or casual.

Joelle’s and Jeff’s Guy Shop
One shop does it all when it comes to offering sensible, comfortable yet stylish clothes for both men and women. You’ll find denim, dress pants, sweaters, loungewear and outdoor accessories – all under one roof!

Joseph Tassoni
Located just off of Lakeshore Road and Pearl Street, Joseph Tassoni proudly offers high-quality apparel made in Canada. Styles are available for both men and women and range from casual wear, formal-attire and outdoor clothing.

The Festivals 

Downtown Burlington hosts several exciting festivals and other events throughout the year. Of course, there is the famous Sound of Music Festival, Canada’s largest music event, that draws thousands of visitors every June.

However, there are many other notable events that offer fun and adventure for your whole family.

A Taste of Burlington Festival
What better to warm your soul during the cold weather than a food festival? The Taste of Burlington Festival has become so popular that it draws people all the way from as far away as Toronto. It happens twice a year; in February/March and again in October. Come on out and enjoy a heated patio, live music, and the culinary offerings of more than forty of Burlington’s top restaurants.

Burlington Food Truck Festival
This is not the usual food truck fare. In July, vendors with foods from all over the world bring their gourmet offerings for you to test. Admission is free. Cold beer and live entertainment are available.

Burlington Children’s Festival
This end-of-summer celebration is for the kids, but people of all ages will have a blast during the annual children’s festival at Spencer Smith Park. Admission is free, and the fun is guaranteed, with crafts, live entertainment, a kid’s marketplace and exciting play zones.

Recreation and Culture

With so many parks, trails and recreational activities available, there is always something fun to do in Burlington. Here are just a few ways to get out on the town and spend some enjoyable times with your family:

Discovery Landing
Discovery Landing is 13,000 square feet of architectural magnificence, complete with a waterfall, an upscale restaurant and the Burlington Rotary Centennial Pond. Come skating in the winter, or float your model sailboat in the spring or summer. The building gives a beautiful view of the lake and is a popular destination to watch the spectacular Canada Day fireworks. 

Art Gallery of Burlington
The gallery opened in 1978 and is the seventh largest art gallery in all of Ontario. Prepare to be wowed by Canada’s largest collection of ceramics. There are over 20 exhibitions every year, and participants have the chance to craft their own sculptures, woodcarvings, and pottery pieces.

Joseph Brant Museum
Come and explore Canada’s exciting history at one of Burlington’s most prominent museums. Joseph Brant features a travelling exhibition, an educational program and a programming area for school groups. With several galleries featured throughout the year, touring the museum is a fun and interactive way to learn about history.

Commuting 

It is easy to get around in downtown Burlington. City buses run frequently and now accept Presto cards. The Go Station is a quick, seven-minute drive away. Easy access to the QEW and Hwy 403 makes commuting to Hamilton, Niagara Falls, Mississauga and Toronto a breeze. 

Real Estate

Downtown Burlington offers a variety of housing options, including:

  • Single-family homes
  • Bungalows
  • Freehold townhouses
  • Executive style homes
  • Beautiful waterfront condos

Other neighbourhoods in South West Burlington: Aldershot Central, Aldershot South, Maple and Plains


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