Royal Botanical Gardens (RBG) Tours and Tickets

Admission to the Royal Botanical Gardens starts at CA$19.50 for adults, CA$16.50 for students and seniors, and CA$11.50 for kids aged 3–12. Admission to the smaller Rock Garden or Laking Garden (seasonal) costs CA$10 for anyone aged over 3. This is an ideal option for visitors short on time.

The opening hours of the Royal Botanical Gardens vary by season and section. In general, the gardens are open daily from 10am to 5pm, or from 8am to dusk, and are closed on some holidays. The eateries operate more limited hours, with some only open weekends. Check the gardens’ website and calendar before your visit.

The Royal Botanical Gardens are in Burlington and Hamilton, Ontario, southwest of Toronto along the shores of Lake Ontario. Don’t confuse them with the Toronto Botanical Gardens, which are located in Toronto itself. Reaching the Royal Botanical Gardens from central Toronto is easiest if you have your own car; it’s about an hour’s drive from the city.

There are many facilities at the Royal Botanical Gardens, including nature trails, an arboretum, a well-stocked gift store, three different eateries, electric vehicle charging, and outdoor ice-skating in winter. Additionally, the gardens often host artistic and educational workshops and events, day camps, and seasonal festivals and exhibits.

Yes, the Royal Botanical Gardens are generally accessible to wheelchair and stroller users, although some areas might present challenges. Accessible parking is available, and a small number of wheelchairs are on hand to borrow. Some of the garden areas and nature trails have wide, smooth paths, while others may be narrower and paved with gravel.

The Royal Botanical Gardens are enjoyable year-round, with seasonal attractions happening every month, including ice-skating in winter. However, the greater Toronto area in general is more pleasant in the warmer months—May through September—as it experiences very cold, snowy winters. Because most of the Royal Botanical Gardens are outdoors, it’s best to visit in good weather.