Introduction
Downtown Burlington is a waterfront community that borders the QEW to the north, Lake Ontario to the south, Brant Street on the west and Guelph Line on the east. The area has all the benefits of a waterfront community - without the waterfront traffic or congestion of a big city.
Lifestyle
Downtown Burlington hosts the majority of the city’s festival including Canada’s largest rib fest, Children’s festival, Lakeside Festival of Lights and the Sound of Music festival, which has been voted one of the top 100 festivals in Ontario. There is a large emphasis on the arts and many well-known celebrities grew up in and around the neighbourhood including Jim Carrey and Ryan Gosling, who attended high school just outside the downtown area.
The Vibe
This affluent neighborhood has still managed to maintain a pretty down-to-earth vibe. The area screams vitality and there is a strong sense of solidarity among the residents. A lot of this can be attributed to the activities and events held on a regular basis, such as ‘Fit in the core’ a workout class open to all Burlington residents and ‘Saturdays in the Square,’ a weekly music concert. And the best part is - they’re free!
Meet the Neighbours
The majority of downtown Burlington residents fall within the 25-44 age bracket and there’s a fairly high percentage of individuals 65+. The area also appeals to young couples and families who are attracted to the low crime rate, which is approximately half of downtown Toronto, as well as the family-friendly amenities.
In the Area
There are a ton of restaurants, pubs, ice-cream shops and cafes along the main streets of the area. Brant Street is a shopaholic’s paradise with rows of trendy boutique shops. Additionally, the Brant Pier, which recently opened in 2013, is a popular spot for residents and visitors alike. The pier extends 137 meters over Lake Ontario, offering one of the best lake views in the city.
Planes, Trains & Automobiles
Residents have direct access to the QEW and highway 403. There is a Burlington GO station located at Fairview St. and Brant St., which will get you to Toronto’s Union Station in exactly one hour. There is also ‘Handi-Van,’ a door-to-door car service for those with disabilities.
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
Although there are great benefits of living in downtown Burlington, it’s important to keep in mind that the main highways to get out of the city (the 403 and QEW) are considered to be two of the busiest in the GTA- particularly the QEW. If you hate traffic (which most of us do) you may want to get used to taking public transit.
Dollars & Sense
There is high demand for areas like downtown Burlington – most notably, the fact it’s a waterfront community. So naturally, it’ll cost you. The area is not the most affordable neighbourhood in the GTA, with housing prices going upward to $1.8 million.
Gallery
Neighbourhood Hotspots
Joelle’s/Jeff’s Guy Shop
If you’re looking for wardrobe makeover, head over to Joelle’s. The boutique shop offers some of the best brands, including L.A.M.B and Michael Kors where you’ll find everything you need – at the price you want.
more infoKelly’s Bake Shop
The mother-daughter owned bakery is full of vegan goodies from elaborate cupcakes to fabulous cookie sandwiches. Baked with healthier, organic ingredients these treats allow you indulge your sweet tooth without the guilt.
more infoRC on the Boardwalk
From the outside, RC looks like a simple take-out restaurant, but when you walk through the doors there is a retro-inspired ambience that will satisfy any nostalgic craving. If you’re looking for something simple and fast, RC is the place to go.
more infoBeaver and Bulldog
The restaurant, located right at the foot of the lake, is a little more upscale than your typical pub. This hotspot offers a beautiful view and a ton of different dishes to choose from.
more infoSon of a Peach
This charming mom-and-pop restaurant offers some of the best pizzas in town. The best part: the large marble counter that allows you to scope out how the chefs make the pizza.
more infoSpencer’s at the Waterfront
Experience fine-dining at its finest. The glass walled dining room offers a panoramic view of the lake. If that’s not enough water for you, the patio also overlooks a pond. Not only does the restaurant have a top-notch ambience, it also has a great rep for the delicious food and friendly staff.
more info