Nature Adventures: Exploring Ontario’s Botanical Gardens

Most people think of Ontario, Canada as a chilly wonderland of snow-covered lakes frozen over half the year. Yet for all this, it is also home to some of the most breathtakingly beautiful botanical gardens found in Canada--a rare treat for nature lovers, families and tourists looking for peace. To immerse yourself in Ontario's natural beauty, check out its many budding botanic gardens. Here you can bury yourself in a green oasis, learn about local plants or enjoy several outdoor pursuits. This article serves as an introduction to some of them, including the Royal Botanical, Burlington Gardens and finally, the photo-magnificent Spencer Smith Park.

1. Royal Botanical Gardens

Nestled between Burlington and Hamilton, the Royal Botanical Gardens (RBG) is Canada’s largest and most visited botanical garden.

Spread out over 2700 acres, it's not only a garden but a living museum of nature, rich with plant species; it contains some of the finest scenes in Canada and offers visitors varied experiences on its walking trails -- reminiscent of Ontario's natural ecosystems.

-          Themed Gardens 

It has five main garden areas, each with its unique theme and appeal. Hendrie Park is one of the more popular attractions within the Royal Botanical Gardens. Its numerous artfully designed flowerbeds will set a desire in any gardener's heart or soul. The Rose Garden, with over 3,000 varieties of roses, is perhaps the most famous.

The Mediterranean Garden includes drought-resistant plants that visitors from warm climates can keep as indoor houseplants. The Rock Garden is a must for anyone who appreciates the art of garden design. This space, which was first opened in 1932, is now an oasis of tranquillity. There are waterfalls everywhere, winding paths to follow; the air is thick with fragrance from thousands upon thousands of lilies. It's the ideal spot to reward oneself and commune with nature.

-          Family-Friendly Activities

The Royal Botanical Gardens is not only a must-go site for adults; it’s also a good place to travel with family and for kids’ activities in Ontario. Year-round programs are being launched to instil a love of nature in children. The RBG Discovery Programs offer interactive educational experiences for kids to get close to and learn about the natural world. With activities including pond dipping, bug hunts and nature crafts it is no wonder these activities are planned specifically for tiny little kids.

The Children's Garden at RBG is yet another playground for families. Created for kids, this garden has interactive exhibits which cover subjects such as pollinators, herbs, and how to grow your plants. The touch-and-go way that's been planned makes it an enjoyable but educational experience for the whole family.

-          Hiking Adventures

For those who are built for excitement, hiking trails at the Royal Botanical Gardens, all 27 kilometres worth of them, weave through the myriad woods, hills, ravines and marshy land that marks this fascinating nature reserve. These trails are part of Ontario's Cootes Paradise Marsh.

In this thriving wetland habitat is a variety of splendid wildlife including turtles, herons and migrating wild birds. Along these trails, one breathes in Ontario's biodiversity at close quarters.

2. Burlington Botanical Gardens

It may not be as well known as RBG, but Burlington Botanical Gardens holds its charm. In a quiet little corner in Burlington, this garden is an oasis from urban life. 

-          Peaceful Lakefront Views

The Burlington Botanical Gardens are especially lovely for this reason: they overlook Lake Ontario from close. Visitors can stroll along the lakeside paths, by the cooling wind and sound of waves lapping against shore. This is an ideal place to spend a tranquil afternoon. You can come here to read, have a picnic or take it all in peacefully.

The Burlington Botanical Gardens is meticulously maintained to an extent that no leaf is out of place, providing the very best show year after year without any failures. With a charming design and space so peaceful it’s spiritual, the Burlington Botanical Gardens makes an ideal setting for nature photography or quiet contemplation.

-          Perfect for Families

It’s both a place to continue the family tradition and a good opportunity for children growing up in today’s world of increasing isolation from nature.

There are open spaces for children to run and play, while shaded picnic areas provide a welcoming environment for families to enjoy lunch in the coolness of nearby greenery.

While it doesn’t organize as many innovative children’s programs as the Royal Botanical Gardens, the Burlington Botanical Gardens is still great fun for youngsters. Interacting with nature allows them to discover its beauty and life-giving properties.

3. Spencer Smith Park 

Just next door to the Burlington Botanical Gardens lays Spencer Smith Park, a beautiful community place that features not only landscaped gardens but also facilities for recreation. The park is located along Burlington's waterfront, making it equally popular with locals and tourists from around the nation.

-          Lakeside Walks and Scenic Gardens

Spencer Smith Park is bordered by Lake Ontario and a vibrant cityscape far away. Set amidst the natural beauty of the park with its stunning backdrop of water views, it is an ideal place to be in nature. Its expansive formal gardens combine the array of flower species that peak throughout the growing seasons here. Each visit brings something new.

The Ralph and Eileen Snelgrove Memorial Fountain is a central piece in the grand design of the park's gardens, adding to its tranquillity. Visitors taking leisurely walks around these grounds can stop at the fountain for a few moments of rest, enjoying quiet peace and serenity.

-          Fun for the Whole Family

In Spencer Smith Park, families can enjoy a wealth of facilities, amusement and activities. The Dofasco Waterjet Plaza is a splash pad that runs during the summer, providing children with a fun and secure means to cool off while having outdoor fun; open grassy areas allow families to play frisbee or soccer, and picnic together. 

Also, throughout the year, events for families are held at Spencer Smith Park. Among them are Ribfest and the Burlington Sound of Music Festival. As a result, Spencer Smith Park is a lively blend of nature and the festival, attracting many visitors, from both near and afar. 

Conclusion

If you happen to be native or just visiting, the botanical gardens in Ontario provide experiences filled with natural beauty. More than that though, they are places where one can relax and learn. These destinations offer a perfect opportunity to escape into nature and reconnect with the outdoors. Among the botanical gardens in Ontario, there are more than a few sights and sounds for kids to get into. So, pack a picnic, put on some walking shoes, and set out for Ontario's top botanic treasures.