5 Things to Do in Burlington this Fall

Fall in Burlington feels like that moment when everything finally slows down just enough to notice the little things — the crunch of leaves, the smell of apples and cider, the glow of soft light as the sun starts setting earlier. It’s the season where hoodies become outfits, pumpkin everything becomes acceptable, and the city somehow turns golden.

If you’re putting together your fall “must-do” list, here are some of my favourite things that mix outdoors, hidden gems, and food/drink moments worth savouring.

1. Hike Mount Nemo's Fiery Trails

Mount Nemo is one of those places where fall just pops. The Niagara Escarpment trails give you big views, and as the trees shift into shades of red, orange, and gold, it’s almost like nature is putting on its own art show. The trails are reasonably accessible, so you can take your time, breathe, and soak it all in without rushing.

Bring a warm drink, pause at the lookouts, maybe snap some photos. On a good clear day, you might even see parts of Toronto way off in the distance. It’s the kind of hike that feels like fall, full stop.

2. Go Apple & Pumpkin Picking (Close to Home)

Farm visits in fall are such a classic for good reason. One of the top picks is Springridge Farm (it’s in Milton, about a short drive from Burlington). They’ve got apples, pumpkins, cider, a bakery, a barn market, and fun farmyard stuff.

There’s also The Apple Orchard just next door (Hamilton area), which is also great if you don’t mind a little bit more driving for that perfect pumpkin or apple pick.

These farms aren’t just about picking fruit. At Springridge, for example, there’s a bakery with things like pies and muffins, a fun farmyard with slides, sandbox play, wagon rides, and cornstalks.

So plan to spend the afternoon: wander, pick, get something warm, maybe buy some preserves to take home, and enjoy the fresh air.

3. Eat & Drink the Season

One of my favourite parts of fall is seeing Burlington’s cafés and restaurants go all-in with seasonal menus. It’s not just one coffee spot doing fall drinks — almost every coffee shop you hit downtown or in the neighbourhood will have something special. Pumpkin spice lattes, apple cinnamon syrups, maybe a maple twist, warm drinks that make you slow down and savour the moment.

On the food side, there are a few restaurants that really lean into harvest flavours: squash, root vegetables, warm sauces, and comforting risottos. DiMario’s Trattoria is one that stands out (with things like squash agnolotti, sage, brown butter) because it feels like fall on a plate. And then there are smaller, cozier spots you might stumble into — maybe a neighbourhood café doing seasonal soups, or a bakery with squash bread, apple cake, pies, or tarts.

If you’re wandering Burlington this fall, part of the fun is coffee-hop-and-eat: try a fall drink at one place, then pop into another for a pastry, maybe pick up something warm for lunch. Let the local spots surprise you.

4. Get Cozy at the RBG (Royal Botanical Gardens)

The Royal Botanical Gardens are always beautiful, but fall adds its own magic. Walking the paths as the leaves change, trails turning into tunnels of colour, the light getting softer in the late afternoon — there’s something meditative about it.

One big highlight is their Great Pumpkin Trail, which feels like stepping into a fairytale: winding paths, autumn décor, and family-friendly vibes. The Gardens also often host fall workshops, nature-inspired crafts, maybe some small events that let you slow down and get creative. Whether you go alone, with family, or a friend, there’s something peaceful and special about being among color, nature smells, and softened light this time of year.

5. Wander the Fall Markets

Market season continues strong into fall, and Burlington has some gems. The Burlington Centre Farmers’ Market is perfect for late-October visits — local apples, pumpkins, jams, baked goods, homemade pies, fresh produce that tastes like fall. Then there are pop-ups and artisan fairs where makers show off candles, knit socks/scarves, cozy throws, fall décor.

I love the idea of starting the morning with a latte, strolling through stalls, grabbing something warm to eat, maybe buying something handmade — a candle, a preserve, a scarf — as a little fall treat. It’s low-pressure, charming, and always feels like you leave with a piece of fall with you.

Wrapping It Up

Burlington in fall is about noticing: noticing colour, flavour, warmth, simple joys. Whether you’re hiking up escarpment trails, rummaging through pumpkin patches nearby, tasting seasonal menus, exploring gardens, or wandering markets, the season invites you to slow down and feel grounded.

So put on your sweater, grab a friend (or go solo), and make this fall one where you soak up as much change as the trees themselves. ||