Downtown Burlington offers the perfect blend of urban energy and small-town charm. This lakeside community is known for its walkability, stunning waterfront, and strong sense of local pride. From shops and dining to parks and festivals, everything you need is just steps away.

Maclean’s Magazine rated Burlington the #1 community in Canada, and downtown is a big part of that. Residents enjoy a safe, friendly environment with a thriving arts scene, top-rated restaurants, and constant activity. Major roads like Lakeshore, Brant, Elizabeth, Caroline, and Victoria make up the core, placing you at the heart of Burlington’s best.

Whether you’re here for the outdoor festivals, a lakeside stroll, or patio dining with friends, Downtown Burlington offers something for everyone.

The Incredible Amenities of Downtown Burlington

Public Schools: 

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

Catholic Schools: 

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

Parks

Downtown is surrounded by green space, with 35 parks across the city and several located right within the core.

Spencer Smith Park
One of Burlington’s most iconic spots, Spencer Smith Park, sits directly on the lake. The park includes a massive playground with a zip line, scenic boardwalks, and regular festivals like the Sound of Music Festival and the Festival of Lights.

• Brant Street Pier is a stunning addition to Spencer Smith that extends 137 metres out over the lake. What better way to enjoy a day of sunshine than taking a stroll with a stunning view of the shoreline!
• The Dofasco Waterjet and Playground is the newest feature at the park. Children play and laugh as they run through the water jets and sprays to cool down on hot afternoons.

Port Nelson Park
A quieter waterfront alternative, Port Nelson Park features a playground, baseball diamond, and large green fields. Perfect for families who want space to play without the crowds.

Optimist Park
Home to tennis courts, basketball nets, and open fields, Optimist Park is great for pick-up games and outdoor activities. You’ll also find lake views and access points for a quick swim on hot days.

Roly Bird Park
Just a short drive from downtown, Roly Bird Park is a favourite with a playground, shaded picnic spots, and a leash-free dog area with a wood-chip base to keep pets (and your car) clean.

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 extensive 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.

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.

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. This historic square features cobblestone walkways, boutiques, cafés, and spas. Discover local culinary treats such as 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.

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 By Ally
One shop does it all when it comes to offering sensible, comfortable yet stylish clothes for women. You’ll find denim, dress pants, sweaters, loungewear, and outdoor accessories – all under one roof!

Pure Boutique
Located on Brant St, right next to Lakeshore, Pure Boutique offers beautiful and stylish clothes ranging from tops to jeans. They also have the Charm Bar Café, where you get to create your own charm necklaces while chatting with friends in a gorgeous lounge.

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, many other notable events 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 is a food festival that features special prix fixe menus at top local restaurants. 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, and you can enjoy global eats, cold drinks, and live music.

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 in August. Admission is free, and the fun is guaranteed, with crafts, live entertainment, a kids’ marketplace, and exciting play zones.

Arts, Culture & Recreation

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 time 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 

Downtown Burlington is designed for walkability, but it is also well-connected:

• Frequent Burlington Transit buses
• 7-minute drive to the GO Station
• Easy access to QEW, Hwy 403, and Hwy 407 for commuters heading to Hamilton, Oakville, Mississauga, or Toronto

Real Estate

Downtown Burlington offers a variety of housing options, including:

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

Whether you’re a first-time buyer, downsizing, or looking for lakeside luxury, Downtown Burlington has something to offer.

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