Hey, I’m Alex—born and raised in Burlington—and I’m here to give you the real scoop on what makes summer in this city an absolute vibe. Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or lucky enough to call Burlington home, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the season. Think lakefront adventures, local eats, sunny hikes, and good old-fashioned community fun. Let’s dive into the best of Burlington this summer.

Start with Nature: The City’s Backyard

We’ve got some of the best outdoor spaces in Ontario, and summer is when they shine. First stop: the legendary Royal Botanical Gardens. This isn’t your average stroll through the park—RBG spans over 2,400 acres of trails, gardens, and wildlife. Go for a hike, snap wildflower pics, or take a peaceful moment at one of the hidden benches tucked along the trails.

For a view that’ll stop you in your tracks, hike Mount Nemo just north of the city. You’ll catch panoramic views of the escarpment and, if you’re lucky, a falcon or two soaring overhead.

And then there’s Beachway Park—a long stretch of sandy beach right along Lake Ontario. It’s perfect for sunbathing, paddleboarding, or taking a bike ride on the Waterfront Trail that runs alongside it.

Festival Season is in Full Swing

If Burlington has a summer heartbeat, it’s at Spencer Smith Park. That’s where you’ll find our biggest summer event—the Sound of Music Festival—happening June 12–15. It’s the largest free music festival in Canada, and trust me, it draws crowds from across the province. Think multiple stages, food trucks, beer gardens, and a whole lot of dancing on the grass.

Later in the summer, the Burlington Latin Festival (August 23–24) turns the park into a full-blown cultural celebration. Expect live performances, Latin street food, dance classes, and family-friendly fun. It’s new, it’s bold, and it’s definitely worth checking out.

Local Eats & Drinks with a View

Nothing says summer like a cold drink on a patio. For something upscale with serious lake views, Spencer’s at the Waterfront delivers on both food and setting. Their seasonal menu and wine list hit different when you’re watching the sunset over Lake Ontario.

If you’re into more casual bites, check out Port House Social Bar & Kitchen for craft beers and shareables. And for breakfast or a mid-morning coffee, Tamp Coffee Co. is a local favourite with serious chill vibes.

Shop Local, Stroll Local

Summer’s also prime time for the Burlington Centre Lions Farmers Market, open multiple days a week. It’s where you’ll find everything from farm-fresh produce to homemade baked goods and handcrafted treasures.

Downtown’s Village Square is also worth exploring—brick laneways, indie shops, and plenty of patios. Pro tip: grab a pizza at Son of a Peach and eat it outside with a cold drink.

Cycle or Walk the Waterfront Trail

Whether you’re cycling solo or taking a family walk, the Waterfront Trail is one of the most scenic paths in the region. Start at Spencer Smith Park and wind your way along the shoreline to Beachway. Pack a picnic, bring your camera, and take your time.

Canada Day Done Right

If you're in town on July 1st, Burlington’s Canada Day celebrations are where it's at. The whole city heads down to Spencer Smith Park for live music, food trucks, family-friendly games, and fireworks once the sun goes down. It’s big, bold, and totally Burlington.

Make the Most of It

Burlington’s got that sweet spot: small-town charm with big energy in the summer. Whether you’re sipping drinks by the lake, grooving at a festival, or just hitting the trails, you’ll find something here that makes you want to stay a little longer. See you out there.