🚗 Burlington & Hamilton One-Day Itinerary (From Toronto)

📍 Perfect for: Nature + history + food lovers, ~1-hour drive from Toronto. 🍽️ Lunch: Spencer's At The Waterfront • Highlights: Lakeside glass-walled restaurant with patio seats overlooking Lake Ontario. Stunning reflections of the sky on sunny days! • Food: Standard Western fare (try seafood platter/steak). Average taste, but views make up for it. • Tip: Reserve ahead on weekends. Paid parking nearby. 🎨 Post-Lunch: Art Gallery of Burlington • Free entry: Small art exhibits + glasshouse botanical garden (Instagram gold). ~1 hour visit. • Hidden gem: Pop-up craft markets with local artisan goods. 🏰 Step Back in Time: Dundurn Castle • Tickets: 9.5-15.5 (guided tour). 40 rooms showcasing 1830s aristocratic life. • Tour highlights: Contrast between upstairs master quarters and downstairs servant areas. Kitchen/laundry rooms are eerily realistic! • Schedule: Tours run hourly (last one ~4 PM). ☕ Afternoon Pick-Me-Up: Donut Monster • Must-try: Creative donuts (e.g., maple bacon) + iced coffee. Artsy Locke Street vibes. • Explore: Quirky boutiques nearby for quick photos. 🌿 Scenic Detour: Upper Kings Forest Park • Lookout point: Panoramic Hamilton views (sunset magic). • Trail: 30-min walk to a hidden waterfall. Easy paved path. 🍷 Dinner: Rapscallion and Co. • Star dishes: Crème brûlée duck liver toast, braised beef cheek. Pair with Ontario wine. • Vibe: Moody industrial-chic with candlelight. Book ahead! 💡 Pro Tips ✅ Route: Toronto → Spencer’s → Art Gallery → Dundurn → Donut Stop → Park → Rapscallion → Home. ✅ Time-saver: Skip the park/gallery if rushed. ✅ Packing: Comfy shoes + sunscreen (park has no shade). “Lakes, castles, donuts, and duck liver—this day is a delicious overload.” 🌄 #TorontoDayTrips #HamiltonEats #BurlingtonViews