Culture Trip
- Laura Shirk
- 09 Dec 2016
10 Cultural Gems in Burlington
REFRESH & REMIND:
BURLINGTON’S CULTURAL GEMS
Deemed just another bedroom community by some, Burlington has more to offer than meets the eye of those passing through. While the suburb is best known for its waterfront views and downtown food favorites, the buzz of things to see and do reaches beyond the central intersection of Lakeshore Road and Brant Street. Let this serve as an introduction (or in some cases a reminder) to a number of Burlington-based spaces and places worth visiting.
01. Centro Garden
Centro’s season-to-season mission: live outside inside. The one-of-a-kind shop is rooted in a love for all things green. Described on the company’s website as living and breathing a plant-centric culture, Centro displays an emerging lifestyle design and local artisan work. A wide and sorted collection of old and new, pieces for sale feature a blend of styles, and more often than not, a transformation of sorts. When it comes to Centro, it’s not always about the product, but more so the presentation that makes for a worthwhile walk around. Think: a mix between home and gallery – with a twist on the art and a double twist on the no-touching policy. For those interested in an even more hands-on experience, a variety of workshops are available throughout the year. In store this fall – to get ahead of the holiday hunt – spend an hour learning how to create a personal apple crate planter, indoor succulent garden or terrarium. While the seasonal Centro Farmer’s Market is now closed for business, the shop continues to connect creativity with community all year-round.
Centro Garden: 437 Brant Street, Burlington, ON, Canada (289) 337-5755
02. Climber’s Rock
As pointed out on Climber’s Rock website, the indoor climbing facility is only a handful (or two) minutes away from Mount Nemo and Rattlesnake Point. Found on Harvester Road, the fully equipped site is a win for those challenged by a rainy day or just short on time. Offering a climbing + yoga combo, Climber’s Rock is home to multiple ways for strength training and sweat breaking. After a quick sign of the waiver, options for elevation include bouldering, top-roping and lead climbing. Providing support to a full range of movers and climbers, the team encourages everything from learning the ropes to finding the perfect “partner in climb.” Beyond general lessons and tests for certification, Climber’s Rock offers a full list of adult and youth programs – for both recreational and competitive levels. Or keep your feet to the floor and sign up for yoga teacher training. With the studio at Climber’s Rock a registered yoga school, its mission is to “teach the person, not the pose.” Check online for registration, pricing, scheduling, and some cool trick pics.
Climber’s Rock: 5155 Harvester Road #1, Burlington, ON, Canada (905) 633-7625
03. No Vacancy
What can be described as a literal hidden cultural gem, No Vacancy finds temporary homes across the city throughout the year – marking its territory along the way. Operating completely on a volunteer basis, the Burlington based non-profit arts organization is a leader in the arts and culture community with strong ties to Burlington Downtown and City of Burlington. As described online, No Vacancy’s mission is “to expand public awareness of contemporary art and prompt creative innovation.” Relying on a communal interest in modern, abstract, installation, interactive and technology-based art, No Vacancy transforms public spaces, hosts contemporary pop-up art events and invites Burlington residents to take part in full, engaging experiences.
No Vacancy, connect online or out and about.
04. A Different Drummer Books
It only takes a quick study of the name to realize that A Different Drummer Books is not your average find. Tucked away downtown on Locust Street, the independent community bookstore has been welcoming readers of all types for over forty-five years. While the company’s online profile reflects its year of establishment, its website includes the standard need to knows: hours, location and e-mail subscription. However, true to the saying: you can’t judge a book by its cover, A Different Drummer Books has so much more to offer than initially meets the eye. Similar to the books housed inside, the building itself is full of history, stories and character. Having exchanged hands last year, the bookstore continues to cater to the book lover, someone who spends their time exploring aisles and flipping pages. Giving reason for its success, current owner, Ian Elliot reveals, “the place has a certain rhythm,” a
communal shared passion for reading. Along with being able to find a comfy corner, visitors are likely to come across scheduled events as part of the bookstore’s Book and Author Series.
A Different Drummer Books: 513 Locust Street, Burlington, ON, Canada (905) 639-0925
05. Boon Burger
Boon Burger has officially boomed in Burlington. Originally established in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Boon has gone on to cross borders and open five locations – it’s most recent in Burlington, Ontario. Dubbed “the world’s first vegan burger café,” Boon’s food plan works to positively impact both the overall environment and personal health. With top values including the elimination of animal suffering, educating others about the vegan lifestyle and sourcing local ingredients, Boon expands its reach through available catering, delivery and App options. Aside from the recently cooked up Boon Blog, the best thing about the burger café’s first rate website: the farm animal pop up imagery – with thought bubbles and all. Always love for a company that can handle both a good joke and the rules of the kitchen.
Boon Burger: 399 Elizabeth Street, Burlington, ON, Canada (905) 632-2666
06. Revolver
With a list of familiar brand names completing its list of top sellers, Revolver provides gently used clothing and accessories to Burlington trendsetters. Targeting the junior/adult market,
the independent consignment shop tackles issues of nature and nurture by recycling old fit favorites in quality condition. Even with a few years under their belt, inventory continues to reflect a causal and cool sense of style. In addition to finding new shelves thanks to local families and charities, outgrown clothing has also been shipped worldwide to those in need. Short on change? Read more online about Revolver’s Cash for Clothes program, where the shop pays customers for designer clothes. Keep in mind their top priority: no junk allowed. Or drop in to check out new to you products.
Revolver: 3455 Fairview Street, Burlington, ON, Canada (905) 639-9105
07. Cinestarz Burlington
Head north less than half a block and trade in the long lines and overpriced tickets that define Cineplex for a cozy evening out to the cinema (yes, cinema). Cinestarz, which recently put
the finishing touches on a major and much-needed facelift, now shows off bigger screens, brighter projection equipment and better taste. For filmgoers craving range, the theatre’s ‘now playing’ selection features a classified artistic film. While offering a reduced and perhaps somewhat dated movie list in comparison to its competition, Cinestarz proves better bang for
your buck with a five dollar movie option for all. With new releases rotating within weeks, this Burlington gem promises audiences a second chance to catch the latest flicks – along with a little old school charm.
Cinestarz Burlington: 460 Brant Street #3, Burlington, ON, Canada (905) 632-1919
08. K1 Kickboxing Academy
Outside of the downtown core, K1 Kickboxing Academy is located between Walkers and Appleby Lines and works to break a sweat from inside the ring. A member of the team notes,
“Burlington is a city for families, and families will feel right at home at K1. From kickboxing and boxing, to weight and personal training, K1 Kickboxing has training available for beginners to pros.” Having recently celebrated its first year anniversary, the academy strives to make a longstanding impression through its commitment to exercise and mission to revolutionize working out for all ages. Decorated trainers Vic Costa and Amy Reid offer a free week trial pass for the chance to see what it takes and how it feels to train like a champion.
K1 Kickboxing Academy: 4129 Harvester Road, Unit E, Burlington, ON, Canada (905) 333-5425
09. Lasalle Park
Located on the water, between Burlington Sailing and Boating Club and Burlington Golf and Country Club, LaSalle Park is a go-to for family fun. Among the greenery and open space, the park’s biggest draw is its popular public pairing: splash pad and playground. With surrounding picnic areas available, parents and guardians can keep a close watch while catching some rays of their own before calling for a communal lunch break. Open seasonally, rules of admission and direct supervision are clear when it comes to age, swimming ability and the facility swim test. Outside of the splash zone, LaSalle Park is also known for weddings and group photography – having hosted more than just a couple of walks down the aisle and tosses of the bouquet.
LaSalle Park, 50 North Shore Boulevard, Burlington, ON, Canada (905) 335-7738
10. Anise Apothecracy
Recently re-located to Brant Street, Burlington’s main downtown strip, Anise Apothecary’s change in venue has welcomed an increase in foot traffic. With the tagline: inspiring natural
health, central to the company is its belief in ethically and sustainably produced products. Recognizing a new wave of beauty, Anise Apothecary offers everything from lip balm to lotions, from clothes to cleansers – and all the good stuff in between. Check online for a full list of available brands or check out the shop for a full flavor and test to impress experience. With products that specifically target, men, women and mom and baby, the heavy lifting and hours of research are left to the professionals. Shopping online is as easy as adding to cart, adding to routine.
Anise Apothecary, 446 Brant Street, Burlington, ON, Canada (905) 632-8041
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