Royal Botanical Gardens Hendrie Park & RBG Centre
Canada's largest botanical garden, offering stunning seasonal displays, themed gardens, and a beloved Afternoon Tea experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Witness vibrant blooms
Royal Botanical Gardens Hendrie Park & RBG Centre
Best Time
Witness vibrant blooms
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Canada's largest botanical garden, offering stunning seasonal displays, themed gardens, and a beloved Afternoon Tea experience.
"A truly wonderful piece of serenity within the hustle and bustle of the Hamilton-Burlington area!"
🎯 Book Tea Time in Advance
Afternoon Tea is very popular! Secure your spot at The Tea House by booking ahead online.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast gardens.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hendrie Park Rose Garden
Hendrie Park
Thousands of rose varieties create a breathtaking spectacle of color and fragrance. A must-see for any flower enthusiast.
Afternoon Tea at The Tea House
Turner Pavilion, Hendrie Park
Indulge in a charming afternoon tea experience with scones and signature blends, set against a beautiful garden backdrop.
Seasonal Exhibits
Various locations
From 'Alice in Bloomland' to 'Winter Wonders,' RBG hosts captivating seasonal events that transform the gardens into magical realms.
The Rock Garden
Rock Garden
A serene and beautifully maintained garden featuring diverse plant species and tranquil water features.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Visit & Tea Time
Seasonal Spectacles
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tea Time in Advance
Afternoon Tea is very popular! Secure your spot at The Tea House by booking ahead online.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast gardens.
📸 Capture the Magic
Bring your camera or phone to snap photos of the stunning floral displays and seasonal exhibits.
📅 Check Seasonal Events
RBG hosts unique events like 'Alice in Bloomland' and 'Winter Wonders' - check their schedule!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tea Time in Advance
Afternoon Tea is very popular! Secure your spot at The Tea House by booking ahead online.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast gardens.
📸 Capture the Magic
Bring your camera or phone to snap photos of the stunning floral displays and seasonal exhibits.
📅 Check Seasonal Events
RBG hosts unique events like 'Alice in Bloomland' and 'Winter Wonders' - check their schedule!
🚗 Parking Availability
Ample parking is available, and it's often included with membership or admission.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Royal Botanical Gardens for its beauty, variety of plant life, and well-maintained grounds. The seasonal exhibits and the Afternoon Tea experience are frequently highlighted as exceptional. While generally positive, some visitors note that admission can be a bit pricey, and during peak times, it can get crowded.
"As aways, a wonderful time. The staff are so nice and helpful.
Lots of parking. I am a member so parking is included. These exhibits are most definitely worth checking out."
Lindsey Marion
"We went here prior to afternoon tea at the pavilion and it was lovely. We cannot wait to go back when even more roses are in bloom! It's absolutely gorgeous, a perfect date idea."
Joanna B
"It's an amazing place. Everything is so beautiful there flowers for each season spectacular. It's a must go for the whole family"
Blue Orchid
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Royal Botanical Gardens (RBG) is located at 680 Plains Rd W, Burlington, ON. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. For those using public transport, GO Transit buses and trains serve the Burlington area, with connections to local bus routes that can take you to the gardens.
While some outdoor areas might appear accessible, general admission fees apply to explore the main gardens and exhibits like Hendrie Park and the RBG Centre. Membership often includes parking and admission benefits.
The RBG is about a 45-minute drive from Toronto. You can also take the GO Train from Toronto to Burlington and then a local bus or taxi to the gardens.
Parking is typically included with admission or membership. If you are visiting for a specific event or without admission, it's best to check the RBG website for current parking rates.
General admission is required to access the curated gardens and exhibits. However, some special events might have separate ticketing or free components. Always check the official RBG website for the most up-to-date information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices vary by season and age group. As of recent information, adult admission is around $22.74, with concessions for seniors and youth. Children under 4 are often free. It's best to check the official RBG website for current pricing and to purchase timed tickets.
Yes, booking timed tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons and for popular events like 'Winter Wonders' or 'Alice in Bloomland,' to guarantee entry.
General admission typically includes access to the RBG Centre, Hendrie Park, and the Rock Garden. Special ticketed events may require separate purchases.
Discounts may be available for seniors, youth, and children. Membership to the RBG also offers benefits like free admission and parking. Check their website for details on group rates or special promotions.
Yes, RBG membership often includes complimentary parking, which can be a significant saving.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
Hendrie Park is famous for its stunning Rose Garden, featuring thousands of varieties. It also hosts seasonal exhibits like 'Alice in Bloomland' and the 'Great Pumpkin Trail.'
Yes, The Tea House in Hendrie Park offers a delightful Afternoon Tea experience. There are also other cafes and dining options within the RBG Centre.
RBG hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including seasonal festivals ('Alice in Bloomland,' 'Winter Wonders,' Halloween parties), concerts, floral showcases, and literary festivals like 'Telling Tales.'
Many of the main pathways in Hendrie Park and the RBG Centre are paved and generally accessible. However, some garden areas might have uneven terrain. It's advisable to check the RBG website for specific accessibility information.
Photography is generally encouraged for personal use. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require special permits. Always check RBG's guidelines.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The highly recommended Afternoon Tea is served at The Tea House, located in Hendrie Park at the Turner Pavilion. Reservations are essential.
The Afternoon Tea typically includes house-made scones, a selection of teas (including RBG's signature blend), and other delightful treats.
Yes, the RBG Centre usually has a cafe or dining area offering lighter fare, snacks, and beverages. Some events may also feature food vendors.
Picnicking is generally allowed in designated areas. However, it's always best to check RBG's specific policies regarding outside food and beverages.
It's advisable to contact The Tea House directly when making your reservation to inquire about accommodating dietary restrictions or allergies.
📸 📸 Photography
Hendrie Park offers numerous picturesque spots, especially the Rose Garden, the Mediterranean Garden, and areas with seasonal floral displays. The Rock Garden also provides beautiful, serene backdrops.
Personal photography is generally allowed. However, commercial shoots, professional photography sessions, or drone usage may require permits and adherence to specific RBG guidelines.
Early morning or late afternoon 'golden hours' offer the best natural light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a softer, more appealing ambiance.
Yes, capturing the magic of seasonal exhibits is encouraged for personal memories. Be mindful of other visitors and avoid blocking pathways.
The Rose Garden, the Rock Garden, and the various themed gardens within Hendrie Park offer beautiful and diverse settings for portrait photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting the Children's Discovery Garden for interactive fun. Pack snacks and drinks, and be prepared for plenty of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must. The RBG Centre often has family-friendly amenities.
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
An Afternoon Tea at The Tea House is a perfect romantic date idea, offering a charming and intimate experience. Consider visiting during a special evening event like 'Winter Wonders' for a truly magical atmosphere.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) provides the best light. Be sure to check for seasonal exhibits, as they often provide unique and visually striking subjects for your photography.
🌸 Garden & Nature Lovers
Don't miss the Rose Garden and the Rock Garden. Keep an eye on the blooming schedules for specific flowers like tulips, magnolias, and lilacs to plan your visit for peak beauty.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Seasonal Wonders: A Year-Round Garden Experience
As autumn arrives, Hendrie Park transforms into a festive landscape with elaborate pumpkin displays, making it a popular spot for the 'Great Pumpkin Trail.' Come winter, the gardens are illuminated with 'Winter Wonders,' a magical light installation that creates an enchanting atmosphere for evening strolls. Beyond these seasonal highlights, RBG frequently hosts captivating exhibits like 'Alice in Bloomland,' which immerses visitors in a whimsical wonderland inspired by classic literature, often featuring thousands of real blooms and artistic installations.
These rotating exhibits and seasonal transformations ensure that a visit to the Royal Botanical Gardens can be a unique and memorable experience no matter when you choose to go. It's worth checking their event calendar on the official website to plan your visit around these special attractions.
The Enchanting Afternoon Tea Experience
The tea service typically includes freshly baked scones, a curated selection of teas (including RBG's own signature blend in collaboration with Sloane Tea), and an assortment of sweet and savory treats. The setting itself, nestled within the gardens and overlooking the stunning rose displays, adds to the overall magic of the experience.
Due to its immense popularity, reservations are strongly recommended and often required. Visitors are advised to book their Afternoon Tea well in advance through the RBG website or platforms like OpenTable to secure a spot and avoid disappointment.
Exploring Hendrie Park's Diverse Gardens
Beyond the roses, the park features other notable areas such as the Mediterranean Garden, offering a unique collection of plants adapted to warmer climates, and the serene Rock Garden, known for its tranquil beauty and diverse flora. During spring, visitors can marvel at the blooming magnolias and lilacs, adding to the park's seasonal charm.
Hendrie Park also serves as the venue for many of RBG's special events and exhibits, including immersive floral displays and festive seasonal celebrations, making it a dynamic and engaging space to explore throughout the year.
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