Situated along the shores of Lake Ontario and nestled against the majestic Niagara Escarpment, the City of Burlington stands as a perfect blend of suburban tranquility and urban connectivity. Positioned ideally between Oakville and Hamilton, this city emerges as an optimal choice for those seeking easy access to the bustling cities of Toronto and Hamilton while taking advantage of several job opportunities within its land.
The city’s charm is enhanced by its stunning natural surroundings, offering residents of Burlington a picturesque setting that’s also conveniently close to the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). Whether it’s embarking on an adventure along one of the several hiking trails or swimming in Burlington’s several lakes, residents of Burlington enjoy the luxury of seamlessly combining leisure and lifestyle with the ease of access to major urban centers.
Overview
The downtown Burlington waterfront on a calm summer evening. – 2023
Burlington stands out as a premier destination for families looking to establish roots in one of Canada’s most welcoming cities. Its charm stems from a perfect mix of connectivity and community; residents have the luxury of choosing to work in the bustling cityscapes of neighboring areas or seize opportunities within Burlington’s own thriving economy.
The city features expansive residential zones, all conveniently located a short drive from major highways, offering swift access to both work and leisure activities. Those living south of the Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW) enjoy the breezy, scenic beauty of Lake Ontario’s shores, while neighborhoods to the north are close to the tranquil City View Park rural landscapes that lie beyond the city’s hustle and bustle.
Commercial and industrial enterprises flourish along the city’s highways, contributing to Burlington’s economic dynamism. With a diverse population exceeding 187,000, the city reflects the multicultural tapestry of Canada itself. Communities from South Asia, China, and the Philippines enrich the cultural fabric, making Burlington not just a place to live but a vibrant community to thrive in, filled with diverse people and opportunities.
The History of Burlington
Long before Burlington was officially recognized as part of Canada, the land was a part of cultural and historical Indigenous communities. Over the centuries, this fertile area attracted writers and pioneers who set down roots and laid the groundwork for what would evolve into significant urban centers like Hamilton and Kitchener-Waterloo, essential components of Ontario’s Golden Horseshoe.
The area was officially named in 1792 by John Graves Simcoe, the first Lieutenant Governor of Upper Canada. He named the western shores of Lake Ontario, around present-day Hamilton Bay, as Burlington Bay. The name was inspired by Bridlington, a town in Yorkshire, England, where he briefly lived.
Among the early constructions by settlers was the King’s Head Inn, strategically positioned at Burlington Heights. This establishment became more than a mere waypoint; it was the site of a crucial encounter during the War of 1812 between American and British forces. The British victory at this location is often celebrated as a decisive moment in the conflict.
Throughout the 19th century, the region prospered from waterborne trade, with Burlington acting as a key hub in the transportation of commodities such as wheat, quarried ores, and lumber. This vibrant commerce set the stage for Burlington’s development, leading to its eventual recognition as a vital and dynamic community within Canada.
Suburban Development in Burlington
During the mid-20th century, the Ontario government initiated significant infrastructure enhancements, creating a new era for Burlington suburban developement. The expansion of the Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW) in 1938, followed by the construction of the Burlington Skyway Bridge two decades later in 1958, were pivotal developments. The Skyway, elegantly arching over the Burlington Canal, established a crucial arterial link between Burlington and Hamilton, symbolizing progress and connectivity.
This period also saw the unification of Burlington, Nelson Township, and Aldershot into a single, cohesive municipality in 1958, paving the way for unprecedented growth. The creation of the new municipality triggered a construction boom, transforming the landscape from agricultural to suburban. As the QEW expanded, the agricultural lands that once dominated the area were progressively converted into rapidly growing suburban communities, culminating in the development of the Burlington Center.
This transformation spurred Burlington’s population growth, leading to an economic diversification that moved away from its agricultural roots to a robust mix of manufacturing and service industries. Today, these sectors are the backbone of Burlington’s economy, highlighting its evolution from a rural community to a thriving urban center.
Real Estate in Burlington
Burlington serves as an appealing entry point for those looking to explore the dynamic real estate scene in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). The city’s housing market boasts a wide variety, with single detached homes leading in popularity. However, for those with distinct tastes or requirements, a diverse selection of row houses and apartments are also available.
A significant portion of Burlington’s housing stock emerged during the 1960s, marking a period of intense developmental activity. Yet, development did not cease with the decades’ end. Since the turn of the new millennium, Burlington has seen the construction of over 25,000 new homes, further diversifying the city’s architectural prowess.
If Burlington’s real estate opportunities have piqued your interest or you’re considering making it your home, Frank Leo & Associates is here to help. With extensive knowledge of the GTA real estate market, our team offers unmatched guidance and support to both newcomers and experienced investors. We aim to make your venture into Burlington’s housing market both successful and satisfying. Our dedication to excellence ensures we meet your needs, whether you’re aiming to sell at premium rates or find the ideal family home.
Shopping
Burlington, like many suburban cities, finds a rich variety of shopping experiences that span from cozy indoor malls to expansive outdoor centers, along with conveniently located strip malls dotting the city.
SmartCentres Burlington, a notable outdoor shopping venue, is strategically located at the bustling intersection of Dundas St. and Appleby Line. This location is a haven for those who appreciate the convenience and variety offered by big-box retailers, presenting some of the finest selections in the city.
For indoor shopping enthusiasts, Burlington Centre stands out as a prime destination. Situated at the crossroads of Fairview Street and Guelph Line, this mall houses over 130 stores, offering a diverse shopping experience all under one roof. In a similar light, the MapleView Centre provides another premium indoor shopping experience within Burlington. Located near the QEW at Fairview Street and Maple Avenue, it features 180 vendors, catering to a wide array of shopping needs making it a suitable mall for any avid or serious shopper.
Beyond the conventional mall setup, downtown Burlington presents a charming alternative. Exploring the downtown shopping district unveils an eclectic mix of local businesses. From unique boutiques to specialty shops, this area offers a treasure trove of distinctive and personalized shopping experiences, inviting an engaging exploration of Burlington’s local commerce scene.
Village Square in Burlington, Ontario – 2023
Parks & Recreation Centers
Burlington is a haven for those who appreciate the great outdoors, boasting an extensive array of parks, trails, and bikeways to suit various tastes and interests. Whether individuals seek the tranquility of nature or enjoy the picturesque scenes along the city’s waterfront, Burlington’s green spaces offer the perfect backdrop for a range of outdoor activities.
Among these natural attractions, the Royal Botanical Gardens stands out, recognized by UNESCO as a world biosphere reserve. It invites visitors to explore its 300 acres of beautifully maintained gardens and arboretums, providing a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Burlington also excels in offering recreational activities, having programs available for all age groups. The city features a comprehensive network of facilities, including luscious outdoor fields and parks as well as well-equipped indoor spaces like gymnasiums, fitness centers, and swimming pools. Notably, the Haber Recreation Centre, Burlington Seniors’ Centre, and the Mountainside Recreation Centre act as other hubs for community engagement and physical activity. These centers ensure residents have ample opportunities to stay active and connected within the community and with nature.
Sculpture Trail On A Sunny Day In Burlington, Ontario – 2019
Schools
In Burlington, families have access to a broad range of options for their children’s education, courtesy of four distinct school boards within the city. The Halton District School Board manages 36 public schools, offering a diverse array of learning environments and programs. For those interested in education within a Catholic framework, the Halton Catholic District School Board operates 17 schools, combining academic excellence with spiritual development.
Additionally, Burlington hosts two French language school boards, serving families who prioritize bilingual education. The Conseil Scolaire Viamonde administers the public French schools, ensuring students receive a comprehensive education in Canada’s official second language. Meanwhile, the Conseil Scolaire Catholique MonAvenir provides for families seeking French Catholic schooling, blending faith-based learning with a bilingual education. This varied educational landscape makes it easy for Burlington families to find the perfect fit for their children’s educational needs and aspirations.
Traveling by Car
Burlington is intersected by a trio of major 400-series highways, making it an important junction for commuters and travelers around the GTA. Leading the way is the 407 Express Toll Route, which begins at the intersection of the QEW and 403 within Burlington’s boundaries. As a crucial connector, the 407 stretches through the northern suburbs of the GTA to Clarington, near the outskirts of Peterborough, offering a speedy alternative to city traffic.
Equally significant, Highway 403 cuts through Burlington, heading southwestward. It forms an essential link between Burlington and Woodstock, guiding travelers through Hamilton and Brantford, making for those journeys between Toronto and Burlington, quick and accessible.
Diverging from the 403, the Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW) extends southeast, linking Burlington to Niagara Falls. This picturesque route, passing through Hamilton and St. Cathartines is known for its scenic views and historical sites.
Complementing these highways, local roads such as Lakeshore Road and Dundas Street (historically known as King’s Highway 2 and 5, respectively) play vital roles in the city’s connectivity. These routes showcase Burlington’s vast network of commerce and travel routes, highlighting the city’s strategic significance as a hub for both regional and local trade.
Public Transit
Burlington’s transit efficiently keeps the city connected, offering extensive bus services that link with adjacent transit systems such as Burlington Transit, Oakville Transit, Hamilton Street Railway, and GO Transit. This integrated network allows both residents and visitors to seamlessly navigate the local area and beyond.
For those looking to travel further afield, GO Transit operates three strategically located stations within Burlington: Appleby, Burlington, and Aldershot GO Stations. These stations are pivotal on the GO Lakeshore West line, providing a swift and efficient means for commuters heading to Toronto, with stops in Oakville and Mississauga on the way.
Moreover, Aldershot GO Station expands its offerings to intercity travelers by incorporating VIA Rail services, enhancing the level of connectivity available to its commuters. This combination of local and regional transit options underscores Burlington’s commitment to ensuring transportation is accessible and convenient for everyone.
Have Questions About Real Estate in Burlington?
If you’re on the hunt for the perfect piece of real estate in the Burlington area, consider utilizing Frank Leo’s custom property search tool. This tool is designed to streamline your search, allowing you to filter properties using a wide array of criteria. Plus, the convenience of saving your searches means you can easily pick up where you left off at any time.
Dive into the MLS real estate listings, sectioned by region, to pinpoint properties in the exact neighborhoods or areas that catch your interest.
For those poised to dive into the Burlington, Ontario, housing market, lean on our three decades of expertise in guiding thousands to their ideal home purchases and sales. Explore our detailed Toronto & GTA homebuyers guide to gain a thorough understanding of navigating the current real estate landscape. Or, reach out to our approachable and knowledgeable team to embark on your home buying adventure with confidence.
* Featured Image adapted courtesy of CC 2.0 creative commons.
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