The Vibe

Burlington is perhaps one of the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area’s best kept secrets. The stunning waterfront views are an idyllic backdrop for a surprisingly vibrant cultural scene. Combined with the beautiful natural surroundings of Lake Ontario and the Niagara Escarpment, this picture-perfect city artfully balances tranquility with vibrancy.

The Story

Located on the designated land of the Treaty Lands and Territory of the Mississaugas of the Credit, the Burlington area is steeped in a rich Indigenous history that includes the Anishinaabeg, Haudenosaunee, and the Métis. Mohawk warrior Joseph Brant was Burlington’s first citizen after receiving 3450 acres from King George III in 1798. Brant, who was also a distinguished British military officer, built his home in 1800 overlooking Burlington Bay. Others who contributed to the city’s development included James Gage, who cleared land in 1810 in what was then known as Wellington Square to make way for flour and saw mills. He also built a wharf and laid out the plans for the entire town.

In the early days, the area’s economy relied heavily on wheat and lumber. England’s demand for wood contributed to the successful timber industry during the Napoleonic Wars between 1799-1815, with the number of local sawmills expanding to 17 by 1846. In the late 1840s, as traditional schooners made way for steamships, a new wharf was built in East Flamborough Township where ships could refuel. This helped keep the timber industry alive.

By the late 1870s, local farmers were growing fruit and vegetables with many supplying the Burlington Canning Company (now known as Aylmer) to produce juice and ketchup to be sold worldwide.

The village of Burlington was incorporated in 1873 and became a town in 1915. Rapid growth followed World War II throughout Burlington, Nelson Township, and the Aldershot area of East Flamborough Township. In 1958, amalgamation combined the Town of Burlington, Nelson Township, and part of East Flamborough Township and Burlington became a city in 1974.

Prime Burlington real estate sits on the shores of Lake Ontario where Roseland, Shoreacres, and Elizabeth Gardens offer desirable waterfront and water “adjacent” properties. When it comes to tree-lined streets, large family homes and impressive lots, Roseland is the area of choice with its exceptional schools and easy walk or bike ride to the city’s downtown area. If it’s pristine lake views you’re after, living in Burlington’s most sought-after condos is the way to go.

The Convenience

Although Burlington is “getting out there,” if you plan to commute, there are three local GO train stations serving the area. You’re also right on Highway 403, Highway 407, and the Queen Elizabeth Expressway, so without traffic you can make it to Toronto in about an hour. This is also an excellent place to live if you work in Mississauga.

Burlington offers a downsized version of everything you expect in a big city with a selection of trendy malls, local shops, and a short drive to Oakville if you’re in the mood for something a little posh. However, you also benefit from the country charm of the local farmers’ market where an abundance of fresh produce and artisanal baked goods, meats and cheeses await. Along with your basic big box stores, you’ve got everything to meet your needs.

Unwinding is easy whether it’s grabbing a drink at a local watering hole or café, heading to the waterfront, or hitting the trails and parks of the Niagara Escarpment to commune with nature.

Local dining experiences are sure to delight, and you’re just 45 minutes away from the Niagara region’s wine country to boot. You also have some of the area’s most celebrated year-round festivals and events, rounding everything up nicely.

The Residents

Burlington is a multicultural city welcoming people of all races, religions and cultures with a diverse population that includes people from South Asia, China, the Philippines, Latin America, and Africa. The city attracts young families and professionals looking for a quieter lifestyle with all the comforts of a city and none of the stress and congestion of downtown TO.

The Best Part

Burlington’s Village Square is not your typical small town main street, with a mix of heritage structures and Victorian-inspired modern buildings set off the beaten path. The barely noticeable iron gates that mark the entry leads to a tiny shopping district complete with cobblestone paths, artisan boutiques and quaint cafés that transport you to a different time and place with its distinctly European ambiance.