Canada's Massive Nature Destination Offers The Largest Botanical Gardens In North America

Canada is one of the world's friendliest countries and it's a scenic gem beloved by travelers from all over the globe. It is also the second-largest country on earth. Some tourists may struggle to decide how exactly to spend their time when visiting the expansive nation because there is so much to explore. World class cities attract culture lovers and foodies, while stunning natural scenery in national parks like Banff and Jasper are bucket-list destinations for outdoor enthusiasts. If you're looking for one attraction that offers the best of both worlds, consider visiting the Royal Botanical Gardens.

Canada's Royal Botanical Gardens (RBG) are located in the province of Ontario. The east-central Canadian province is known for attractions like Niagara Falls, world-class museums, and the Royal Botanical Gardens. The massive gardens extend into two different cities within the province, with portions of the gardens located in Hamilton and Burlington. In total, the gardens cover over 2,000 acres, making RBG the largest botanical garden in all of North America.

The Royal Botanical Gardens have been delighting visitors since it was first established on April 1, 1941, after nearly two decades of design and construction. Construction on its indoor gardens began in the 1980s. In 1994, the Royal Botanical Gardens were named a National Historic Site of Canada. They also became part of the Niagara Escarpment UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. Visiting is a wonderful experience for nature lovers, history buffs, and art enthusiasts. Travelers can enjoy over 16 miles of walking trails, four formal gardens, beautiful sculptures, and over 180,000 species of plants.

Over the last several years, the Royal Botanical Gardens have been renovated and restored, and currently they're better than ever. If everything goes as planned, the destination is poised to be one of Canada's leading environmental centers. According to the official website, the goal is to offer visitors, "world-class gardens, natural areas, programs, services and facilities that powerfully influence positive change in the way people interact with our planet."

Within the Royal Botanical Gardens you'll find multiple formal gardens. The historic Rock Garden is a must-see. It dates back to 1932, when an abandoned gravel pit was transformed into a stunning landscape. It is considered the birthplace of RBG. Start at the Visitor Centre, which is home to a restaurant and a lovely patio where you can enjoy views of the gardens, then wander around the paths and enjoy the water features, sculptures, and conifers. After you've explored the Rock Garden, head to Hendrie Park and the RBG Centre. The Rose Garden is particularly beautiful in the spring and summer. The Turner Pavilion Tea House is a wonderful place to enjoy an elegant afternoon tea surrounded by the blooms. Art lovers shouldn't skip the Dan Lawrie International Sculpture Collection, which is also located within Hendrie Park.

Throughout the year there are plenty of fun events held at the Royal Botanical Gardens, so it's worth checking out the calendar to see what's happening during your trip to Ontario. At the time of writing, a few highlights included a pop art sculpture exhibition, a spooky candlelit pumpkin trail, and movie nights. After Dark events are also held at the gardens throughout the year. 

Spring and summer are the best times of year to visit the Royal Botanical Gardens. When the weather warms up and the plants are thriving, you'll be able to enjoy all of the walking paths and the outdoor gardens in full bloom. The hours change depending on the season, so make sure to check the website for the most up to date information before your visit. Admission costs $19.50 per adult.

Canada's Royal Botanical Gardens are located about 45 minutes from Niagara Falls, so if you're looking to see a Canadian attraction that's not the waterfall, it's worth making the short trip. The city of Toronto, which is a great destination for a fall getaway, is also under an hour away.

There are two airports nearby. John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport is the closer of the two and is just 20 minutes away from RBG. Toronto Pearson International Airport, a major Canadian hub, is about 40 minutes away. Car rentals in Toronto start at around $25 per day.

There are plenty of hotels to choose from near the Royal Botanical Gardens. Hampton Inn by Hilton Hamilton, Visitors Inn, Homewood Suites by Hilton Hamilton, Admiral Inn Hamilton, and Sheraton Hamilton Hotel are all around 2 miles away. Nightly rates start at around $120 per night.