The Royal Botanical Gardens is launching a new weekend shuttle service in Burlington this year to help visitors reach its Arboretum during the busy spring bloom season. Starting May 2-3, 2026, the shuttle will provide a transportation option from the RBG Centre to the Arboretum, helping guests avoid parking congestion at the destination.
The Arboretum, located at 16 Old Guelph Road in Hamilton, is known for its 116-acre grounds and world-class lilac collection. Because on-site parking at the location is very limited, the shuttle service is designed to make it easier for the public to view the spring blooms, which include magnolia and lilac collections throughout May.
For those planning a visit, tickets for the shuttle cost $10 for non-members, while the service is free for members who pre-book. Passengers can catch the shuttle from the back of the parking lot at the RBG Centre, located at 680 Plains Road West in Burlington.
The need for the shuttle will increase later in the month. From May 9-24, 2026, on-site weekend parking at the Arboretum will be reserved exclusively for members with a reservation. During this time, all other visitors will be required to use the shuttle service from the RBG Centre to access the grounds.
According to Royal Botanical Gardens officials, the peak bloom season runs from the end of April through late May. While the flowering cherry trees reached their peak earlier this spring, the shuttle launch aligns with the upcoming periods for magnolia and lilac blossoms. The gardens, which span 2,700 acres across Burlington and Hamilton, are recognized as the largest botanical garden in Canada.
