12 Best Things to Do in Burlington With Kids: Playgrounds, Splash Pads

Looking for things to do in Burlington with kids? Between the Lake Ontario shoreline, a long list of playgrounds and splash pads, and family-friendly museums and nature spots, Burlington is an easy city for a family day out. Many of the best options are free or low-cost. Here are the 12 best things to do in Burlington with kids, from beach days and splash pads to hands-on history and winter skating.

Best Outdoor Play Spots in Burlington for Kids

These waterfront parks and playgrounds are the go-to spots for burning off energy.

1. Spencer Smith Park and the Dofasco Waterjet Plaza

Spencer Smith Park at 1400 Lakeshore Road is the top family stop on the downtown waterfront. In summer, kids can run through the Dofasco Waterjet Plaza, where thirty water jets shoot up from the ground, and then head to the neighbouring playground. Afterwards, walk out on the 137-metre Brant Street Pier for lake views. There is plenty of lawn for picnics, and the park hosts many of the city's events and festivals.

2. Beachway Park

Beachway Park at 1100 Lakeshore Road is a great pick for a classic beach day. There is no splash pad, but the wide sandy shoreline and gentle waves make it easy for younger kids to play and cool off. The park also has a playground, a pavilion, and a seasonal concession stand.

3. Burloak Waterfront Park

At the eastern edge of the city, Burloak Waterfront Park at 5420 Lakeshore Road East is known for its accessible playground, rubberized play surface, and open Lake Ontario views. With more than 800 metres of shoreline and a Waterfront Trail connection, it is also a good place for a family bike ride or stroller walk.

4. LaSalle Park

LaSalle Park at 50 North Shore Boulevard East has an upgraded playground, lots of green space, a seasonal wading pool and splash pad, and easy access to the marina and waterfront. In winter, families often stop by the marina to look for trumpeter swans.

5. Central Park

Central Park sits in the middle of an area full of family activities and is known for its recently remodelled playground, which includes a wheelchair-accessible swing. It is a convenient central stop when you want a playground without a long drive.

Best Splash Pads and Pools in Burlington

When the weather heats up, Burlington has plenty of ways to cool off.

6. Hidden Valley Park

Hidden Valley Park at 1137 Hidden Valley Road in Aldershot is a family favourite. Kids can cool off at the splash pad with its ground jets, then head to the playground with swings, slides, and monkey bars. A second playground, picnic tables, seasonal washrooms, and plenty of parking make it easy for a full afternoon, and there is a short nature trail along Grindstone Creek if you want to add a walk.

7. Mountainside Pool and Splash Park

Mountainside Pool and Splash Park is a recently renovated outdoor facility and one of the standouts for summer family fun. Pool admission and hours are seasonal, so check the City of Burlington website before you go.

8. Nelson Park Pool and Splash Park

Located at the Nelson Recreation Centre, Nelson Park Pool and Splash Park offers a full day of fun. Beside the pool, the splash park has ground jets, sprinklers, and a huge yellow dumping bucket that kids of all ages love. Check the City's website for seasonal hours and fees.

Best Nature, History, and Arts Outings for Kids

9. Mount Nemo Conservation Area

Mount Nemo is a great first hike for older kids and adventurous families. Short trail loops of about 2 to 3 kilometres lead to the Brock Harris Lookout, with sweeping views, turkey vultures soaring overhead, and crevice caves and cliffs to spot along the way. Gate fees apply and reservations are recommended. Keep children close and well back from the cliff edge.

10. Ireland House Museum

Built in the 1830s, Ireland House was home to Joseph Ireland, an early settler who arrived from England in 1819, and generations of his family lived there until 1985. The museum offers tours, living history demonstrations, special events, and interactive programs that let kids step into the 1850s, 1890s, and 1920s. Check the Museums of Burlington for current hours and programs.

11. Art Gallery of Burlington

The Art Gallery of Burlington at 1333 Lakeshore Road is a public gallery and community centre steps from the waterfront, with art education programs and public tours for all ages. It is a great rainy-day option, and it is home to the largest collection of contemporary Canadian ceramics in the world.

Best Seasonal Family Fun in Burlington

12. Winter Skating and Holiday Events on the Waterfront

In winter, the Rotary Centennial Pond at Spencer Smith Park's Discovery Landing becomes a free outdoor skating rink, with skate rentals available on weekends. Later in the season, the downtown and waterfront light up for the Festival of Lights, and Santa makes an appearance at the Christmas parade, while the Museums of Burlington host holiday activities. Back in late summer, Canada's Largest Ribfest brings live entertainment and carnival rides for kids to Spencer Smith Park.

Burlington With Kids FAQ

What Are the Best Free Things to Do in Burlington With Kids?

The Brant Street Pier, the beaches and playgrounds, the Waterfront Trail, and splash pads at parks like Hidden Valley are all free. Winter skating at Rotary Centennial Pond is free too.

Which Burlington Parks Have Splash Pads?

Hidden Valley Park, LaSalle Park, the Dofasco Waterjet Plaza at Spencer Smith Park, Mountainside Pool and Splash Park, Nelson Park Pool and Splash Park, DesJardines Park, and Brant Hills Park all have splash pads or water play. Seasonal hours vary, so check the City of Burlington before heading out.

What Are Good Rainy-Day Activities in Burlington for Kids?

The Art Gallery of Burlington and the Ireland House Museum are two of the best indoor options, and the Burlington Performing Arts Centre hosts live shows throughout the year.

What Are the Best Things to Do With Toddlers in Burlington?

Beachway Park's gentle shoreline, the Dofasco Waterjet Plaza, and the quieter neighbourhood splash pad at DesJardines Park are good picks for little ones.

Are There Accessible Playgrounds in Burlington?

Yes. Burloak Waterfront Park is known for its accessible playground, and Central Park's playground includes a wheelchair-accessible swing.

Explore More of Burlington

Planning more outings? Check out our guides to the best parks in Burlington, the best hiking trails in Burlington, and the best things to do in Burlington, and follow Burlington 365 for local events and family-friendly ideas around Burlington.