A Perfect Winter Day in Burlington

Burlington offers a range of activities for a relaxing day out, including shopping, spa treatments, delicious food, unique beverage options, and live entertainment. You can get there easily with GO Transit, and we also have the perfect guide to help you spend the day there.

Travelling to Burlington is easy with GO Transit

Gather your friends and family, hop onto GO Transit,  and prepare for a delightful winter day in Burlington, where cozy vibes meet urban adventures. Whether planning a catch-up day with friends or a stress-free outing with the family, Burlington offers the perfect backdrop for a memorable day out. You can plan your trip to one of three stations: Burlington GO, Appleby GO, or Aldershot GO station.

Take advantage of special fares like the One-Day Weekend Pass for $10 or the Weekday Group Pass starting at $30 for two people, plus kids 12 and under ride free. With free GO Wi-Fi Plus, you can stay connected to loved ones or listen to a free audiobook. Before you know it, you will arrive in Burlington. Now you can focus on making the most of a winter day with your crew.

Your Day Trip Guide to Burlington

Morning

Start your day with a scenic train ride. Begin your adventure by taking the Lakeshore West Line to Burlington. With trips every 30 minutes, you can leave early or late morning and get to the city in an hour from Union Station. On the ride, you can relax and enjoy the lovely views. Once at the Burlington GO station, transfer to local Burlington Transit for free when you use your PRESTO card on GO Transit (not applicable if you buy an e-ticket)  and then head over to the downtown area of Burlington. After a quick snack, if you feel up for it, take a short walk down to Spencer Smith Park and enjoy a peaceful skate right by the water before moving on to the next activity. Enjoy leisurely walks along the paved Centennial Pathway Trail and the scenic Burlington Waterfront Trail, perfect for strollers and young children.

A must-visit in Burlington, Downtown Village Square is the city's vibrant hub filled with culinary delights and specialty shops. Located just a short walk from the Waterfront and Spencer Smith Park, this plaza offers a variety of dining options, from cafés to gourmet restaurants. Stroll through boutique shops featuring unique gifts and local artisan crafts.

Afternoon

After lunch, it’s spa time! Make your way to The Pearle Spa, where relaxation and rejuvenation are the order of the day. Enjoy a range of treatments designed to pamper and refresh you. Once you’re blissed out, stroll through the quaint Village Square to explore the charming shops in the area.

Still looking to burn some energy before dinner?  After a stroll, embrace the excitement of tobogganing at one of the city's designated hills, where laughter and fun await. Whether you're a thrill seeker or simply soaking in the serene winter landscape, tobogganing is a classic Canadian pastime.

Evening

Cap off your day with a satisfying dinner at one of the many notable restaurants in the area. We’ve listed them below so you can choose which one appeals to your palate.

For family groups seeking unique and creative fun, visit the Art Gallery of Burlington (AGB) which features thought-provoking exhibitions throughout the year and hosts special studio events where families can create crafts together.

Dining Spots to Fuel Your Hunger

Pearle's Café offers delicious snack options for anyone seeking a quick bite. It is also close to the waterfront, so that you can access your favourite activities more easily.

For a more upscale meal, consider Paradiso Restaurant, renowned for its exquisite ambiance and delectable menu, which makes it the perfect setting for dinner and drinks.

For families, a must-try is The North Coal, which brings an “Up North” Canadiana feel to downtown Burlington and offers a menu featuring familiar options with some unique twists.

Looking for a sweet ending? Try Lola Choco Bar and Sweet House for their treats that will surely hit the spot and perfectly conclude your exciting day.

Check out these exciting events in Burlington

Burlington's winter festivities shine brightly with the annual Festival of Lights, illuminating the waterfront from November 28 to January 7. This beloved tradition attracts thousands of residents and visitors who wander through the park to admire the themed displays. In contrast, many others enjoy the spectacle from their cars along Lakeshore Road.

For families, enjoy Winter Wonders at the Royal Botanical Gardens, from November 27 to January 4 when Hendrie Park transforms into a dazzling winter wonderland with festive lights, enchanting displays, and interactive installations. Stroll through the scenic landscape, enjoy warm holiday treats, and explore the all-new outdoor artisan market. Don’t miss the Botanical Train Display featuring iconic Canadian landmarks and floral displays in the Breezeway and Mediterranean Garden.

The City of Burlington Santa Claus Parade, scheduled for Sunday, December 7, 2025, brings a festive spirit to the streets, complete with floats and holiday cheer.

Looking ahead to 2026, the Floral Showcase: Bloomland in Oz, invites guests from January 30 to April 6 to explore a magical landscape inspired by L. Frank Baum's “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz.” This indoor adventure features vibrant botanical displays and fragrant blooms that promise to brighten the winter months.

Food lovers can indulge in the Taste of Burlington in February, which showcases the city's culinary scene with two weeks of prix-fixe menus crafted by local chefs.

With various activities, Burlington truly offers something for everyone during winter!

Laid back fun for everyone!

With affordable fare options like One-Day Weekend Pass and Weekday Group Pass, and kids 12 and under travelling for free, trip planning is easy and convenient.

Pack your layers and prepare with your favourite people for an unforgettable winter day in Burlington. Whether exploring the charming streets or unwinding at the spa, Burlington has everything you need for a fantastic day out.