Royal Botanical Gardens
Grow Fun, Grow Memories
At a Glance
Best Ages
All ages
Cost
Free
Time Needed
2 - 4 hours
Indoor/Outdoor
Both
Weather Fit
Good year-round
Stroller Access
Excellent
Washrooms
Multiple locations
Food
Cafe & picnic-friendly
Parking
Abundant
Booking
Recommended
Parent Effort
Low to moderate
Unearth nature's wonder at Royal Botanical Gardens - where every trail, bloom, and bug is a story waiting to be discovered with your kids.
About This Place
Royal Botanical Gardens (RBG) in Burlington and Hamilton, Ontario, is Canada's largest botanical garden — a National Historic Site spanning 2,007 acres of cultivated gardens and natural sanctuaries. Highlights include the Rose Garden, the Lilac Garden (one of the world's largest), the Rock Garden, the Mediterranean Garden, and 27 kilometres of nature trails through wetlands and woodland. The RBG runs popular summer camps, guided tours, and seasonal events. Gardens open 10:00–17:00 (April–September); trails open year-round dawn to dusk. Admission: Adults $19.50, Youth (13–17) $16.50, Children (3–12) $11.50, Infants free.
Official Website open_in_new- Monday – Sunday
- 10:00 – 17:00
Hours were last verified in 2026. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date opening times.
- Admission
- FREE
Prices were last verified in 2026. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date rates.
Nature Adventures
Explore 27 km of wild trails and wonder-filled gardens.
Play & Learn
Join hands-on events like bug hunts and garden play.
Sweet Breaks
Savour sunshine with a café cup amid flowers.
Good to Know Before You Go
- Trails Access
- Nature trails are open year-round from dawn to dusk, including through winter, with 27 km of paths through wetlands, woodlands, and scenic landscapes.
- Seasonal Highlights
- Enjoy seasonal attractions like the Great Pumpkin Trail in fall, illuminated winter gardens, and vibrant spring displays in the Lilac Garden and Rose Garden.
- Indoor Attractions
- Visit greenhouses, a greenhouse cafe, and event pavilions for indoor exploration regardless of weather.
- Family Activities
- Participate in ranger-led programs, nature play sessions, guided tours, and seasonal concerts designed for families and children.
- Accessibility
- Most trails and garden areas are stroller-accessible; consider checking specific trail conditions for wheelchair access.
- Parking
- Designated parking is available at multiple trailheads and garden entrances, with options near major visitor centers.
- Membership Benefits
- Members receive discounts, pre-sale event access, and reciprocal entry to over 400 gardens across North America.
Kid Fit by Age
Strollers can easily navigate paved paths and greenhouses; indoor spaces offer comfort during extreme weather.
Short nature trails and sensory-rich gardens engage young children; plenty of open space for safe exploration.
Nature play sessions, interactive signage, and accessible trails make it ideal for early learners.
Trails and gardens offer educational opportunities, but longer walks may challenge some younger kids; seasonal events enhance engagement.
Teenagers may find it less exciting unless attending special events or exploring on bike trails.
Mostly appeals to teens interested in nature, photography, or social outings; seasonal events can boost appeal.
Insider Tips
Use the free trail map at entrance
Check event calendar for seasonal shows
Visit Hendrie Park mid-morning for golden light
Save time for the greenhouse cafe
- •Stay on marked paths
- •Watch for uneven terrain
- •Keep children close near water
- •Step-free access to main gardens
- •Sensory-friendly trails available
- •Baby change stations in restrooms
schedule Best Time to Visit
Visit mid-week mornings for fewer crowds and quieter walking
shopping_bag What to Bring
- check_boxComfortable walking shoes
- check_boxWeather-appropriate clothing
- check_boxReusable water bottle
- check_boxSun hat or rain jacket
- check_boxCamera for photos
Location
Address
680 Plains Rd W, Burlington, ON L7T 4H4, Canada
Phone
+19055271158
Make it a half-day
View All Burlington
Last checked: 2026