Fall in Burlington presents a ton of possibilities, not to mention spooky reminders about Oct. 31. Let’s get into it (puffy jacket recommended)!
For your convenience, and vicarious pleasure if cocooning indoors is your autumn default, we’ve compiled a handy checklist of to-dos for the coming weeks in and around Paradigm Grand. The benefits of our midtown Burlington location will come into sharper focus as we work through the list but the singular advantage of having a bonanza of activities right outside your door is at the heart of our goal to create a lifestyle community.
The new mantra is “Work where you work, LIVE where you play!”
And there are plenty of attractions only short walking distance (or a short car ride in minimal traffic) away within a comfortable radius of our ideally-positioned condo base camp.
Consider heading out now to relish these timeless autumn pleasures before barren branches replace the glorious fall canopy:
- First, set the mood for fun and look up the classic Haunted Elevator ‘David S. Pumpkins’ SNL skit on YouTube. It never gets old
- Get a pumpkin for carving
- Have your picture taken on a hay bale
- Explore a conservation area
- Walk the Waterfront Trail
- Drink hot chocolate in Central Park
- Get someone to cover you in a pile of leaves
Your quest for the right jack-o-lantern should include a visit to pumpkin central, Springridge Farm in Milton. It’s a stress-free, 25-minute drive northwest of midtown and features gorgeous views of the escarpment. The family-owned enterprise has been growing all kinds of produce at this location for over half-a-century. Check their web site for a full list of attractions and business hours; their Harvest Weekends promotion runs through October 30. If you’re lucky, you’ll get a Halloween pumpkin AND your picture taken on a hay bale during the same visit. The farm also is within minutes’ drive of two renowned conservation areas, Rattlesnake Point and Kelso/Glen Eden. Some of the more challenging terrain calls for comfortable hiking shoes.
Burlington’s Waterfront Trail is a community focal point and true gem. It touches all the main lakefront landmarks and you’re never more than a stone’s throw from the lapping waves so remember to bundle up if you plan to go the distance. Pick up the route near Holbert Cove at the south end and head north, stopping to check out the Terry Fox Memorial and continuing along to Spencer Smith Park. This is the perfect place to get a family photo or selfie against the blue horizon. There’s also plenty of room to relax with a warm beverage, people-watch or toss the ball around before your walk continues. The trees have mostly shed by now so leaves are a-plenty for some fun photos.
The tour only gets better on the approach to the Brant Street Pier. The city’s inspired restoration extends more than 100 metres over Lake Ontario. Linger here to take in great views of the city skyline, beachfront and water traffic. The pier features a different colour display on a daily basis to commemorate events and honour various worthy causes, often at the request of Burlington citizens and community groups. Whether the theme is sombre or festive, it’s always a sight to behold.
You’ve been outside the city and covered the waterfront. Next, check out Burlington’s largest green space and recreational hub, Central Park. Aside from being the home of the main branch of the Burlington Public Library, it’s where athletes of all ages come to play year-round on the grass fields and in numerous indoor facilities. There’s a community garden on the grounds, not far from the Drury Lane Theatre where live productions of classic Broadway musicals are scheduled throughout the fall.
No matter how you spend your autumn days and weekends, it’s easy to make the case that Paradigm Grand is the place to come home to, only minutes from the best that Burlington has to offer. Believe us when we tell you, this is exactly how we planned it.
In the haunting (and hilarious) words of David S. Pumpkins, “ANY QUEST-yuns”?