

City of Burlington Parks and Recreation
About
City of Burlington Parks and Recreation serves as the central hub for family-friendly activities in this charming Ontario lakeside city. With indoor swimming pools, skating rinks, and diverse fitness programs, this facility offers year-round fun regardless of the weather, making it perfect for visiting families who want active entertainment any time of year.
Highlights
- ✓Indoor swimming pools with family swim times and shallow areas for young children
- ✓Ice skating rinks offering public skate sessions and skate rentals
- ✓Year-round programs protecting families from extreme summer heat or winter cold
- ✓Professionally supervised activities with certified instructors
- ✓Multiple facility locations throughout Burlington for convenient access
Pro Tips
- 1.Note that listed hours (8:30 AM to 4:30 PM weekdays) are for the administrative office only. Individual facilities like pools and arenas have extended hours, so check the city website or call ahead for specific program times.
- 2.Register for drop-in programs online before your visit, as popular swim times can fill up quickly, especially during school holidays and weekends.
- 3.Bring Canadian dollars or a credit card, as some facilities may not accept US currency at favorable exchange rates.
- 4.Many pools require swim caps for children with long hair, so pack one to avoid having to purchase at the facility.
- 5.Street parking on Brant Street is metered, so budget for parking fees or look for nearby municipal lots with better rates for longer visits.
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (9-11 AM) are ideal for avoiding crowds at public swim sessions. Visit during Canadian school holidays for special programs and camps designed for visiting families.
What to Know
This is an administrative office that manages multiple recreation facilities across Burlington. Program fees vary by activity, typically ranging from $5-15 CAD for drop-in sessions. Individual facilities have their own parking and amenities.
Seasonal Notes
Year-round operation with indoor facilities. Winter months (December-February) feature extended skating programs, while summer offers additional swim times and day camps. Some outdoor facilities may be available seasonally but indoor amenities operate all year.
Nearby Eats
Just blocks away, you will find family-friendly dining along Brant Street and nearby downtown Burlington, including The Works Gourmet Burger Bistro (kid-friendly menu with creative burgers) and Emma's Back Porch (casual comfort food with children's options and outdoor seating in warmer months).
More Activities Near Burlington
Brant Street Pier
Brant Street Pier offers families a perfect lakefront escape with a scenic walking pier extending into Lake Ontario, a sandy beach for building castles, and expansive green spaces ideal for picnics and kite flying. The calm, shallow waters make it a safe spot for young swimmers, while the iconic lighthouse and panoramic views provide endless photo opportunities that kids and parents alike will treasure.
Burlington Public Library - Central Branch
Burlington Public Library's Central Branch is a welcoming haven for families traveling with children, offering free entertainment and educational activities rain or shine. With dedicated children's zones, engaging story time sessions, and a variety of kids' programs, it's an excellent option for parents seeking a quiet, climate-controlled break from sightseeing or a rainy day alternative.
Spencer Smith Park
Spencer Smith Park is a gem along Lake Ontario's waterfront, offering families a perfect blend of beach fun, water play, and green space all in one location. With its sandy beach for swimming, interactive splash pad, modern playground, and ample picnic areas, this free park delivers a full day of outdoor entertainment without breaking the bank.
Lowville Park
Lowville Park is a beloved community gem in Burlington offering the perfect combination of water play and traditional park fun. The splash pad provides refreshing relief on hot summer days while the playground equipment and expansive green space give kids plenty of room to run, explore, and play. With an impressive 4.7-star rating from nearly 2,000 reviews, this park has earned its reputation as a local favorite for families with young children.