905-527-1158, ext. 404
is a living, interactive museum filled with natural wonders, including 1,100 hectares (2,700 acres) of breathtaking gardens and spectacular nature sanctuaries. We have the world’s largest lilac collection, a magnificent iris garden, 3,000 rose bushes, 100,000 spring bulbs, 32 kilometres of trails, and Cootes Paradise—a vibrant wetland at the westernmost tip of Lake Ontario.
Why is RBG called "Royal" Botanical Gardens?
In December 1929 the Parks Board approved the suggestion that the name Westdale Park be changed to something more grand, Royal Botanical Gardens. This change was prompted by Thomas Baker McQuesten, a lawyer who eventually became the Member of Provincial Parliament for the City of Hamilton, who was a frequent visitor to Royal Botanic Gardens, in the town of Kew, in the south-western area of metropolitan London, England. Royal Botanic Gardens, also called Kew Gardens, has been a model for many botanical gardens around the world since the 18th century. McQuesten was authorized by the City of Hamilton to approach the Government of Canada for permission to use the term "Royal" in the name of the park.
A Royal Charter was granted by King George V of England for the name "Royal Botanical Gardens" in 1930. RBG is the only botanical garden in Canada with the right to use "Royal" in its name.
Are dogs permitted on the RBG trails?
Dogs are allowed on trails provided owners follow a few basic rules. Please keep your dog leashed at all times. Free running dogs damage the natural habitat by disbursing the seeds of invasive plants, and disturbing nesting birds and other small animals. Keep your dog under control. Many creatures, human and otherwise, are afraid of dogs. Please remove dog excrement from the trails.
When are the Garden admission kiosks open for business?
Generally, the kiosks open in mid- to late-April, depending on weather, until Thanksgiving Day. RBG Centre is an ideal point of entry when visiting Royal Botanical Gardens and is open throughout the year.
What are your hours of operation?
RBG Centre: Daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Outdoor Garden Areas: Daily 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Mediterranean Garden: Daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Nature Interpretive Centre: Daily 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
RBG is closed on Christmas Day and New Years Day.
Are dogs permitted on the RBG trails?
Dogs are allowed on trails provided owners follow a few basic rules. Please keep your dog leashed at all times. Free running dogs damage the natural habitat by disbursing the seeds of invasive plants, and disturbing nesting birds and other small animals. Keep your dog under control. Many creatures, human and otherwise, are afraid of dogs. Please remove dog excrement from the trails. Please note: Dogs are not permitted in the RBG Centre. Trails do not have access to Hendrie Park.
1. What is the term of a membership to Royal Botanical Gardens?
One-year memberships provide unlimited admission for one year from time of purchase. Membership cards must be presented at each visit. Membership cards are non-transferable.
2. What are the membership benefits?
- Admission to all our breathtaking gardens and nature sanctuaries
- Discount admission to RBG special events
- Discounts at amazing plant sales and other Auxiliary events
- Discounts at our fantastic restaurants and gift shop
- Discounts on registration for our general-interest programs and children’s day camps
- Paradise Found magazine and program listing mailed to your home quarterly
- Eligibility for reduced premiums on home and auto insurance.
- Gardening Information Services from our experts.
- Reciprocal free admission to other botanical gardens and arboreta throughout North America. Download a pdf for more information.
- ROYALSELECT™ plants for members only.
3. Which is the best level of membership for me?
The Gardens has categories and combinations to fit every lifestyle.
Family/Grandparent/Dual memberships come with two designated membership cards (two named adults). These memberships allow either dependent children up to the age of 18 or up to four grandchildren up to the age of 18 to visit the Gardens for free when accompanied by the cardholder. Members receive all member benefits and can take advantage of discounts on RBG children’s programs including Summer, Spring Break and Winter Wonders day camps.
Single memberships come with one membership card admitting the named member. Single members receive all member benefits.
Youth memberships are for individuals between 18 and 23 years of age. ID is required. Members receive all benefits.
Guest Passports are available to purchase along with any of the above memberships for an additional cost. A guest passport allows a member to bring a guest when visiting RBG. One guest per visit per passport stamp.
For more information please call 905-527-1158, ext. 290, or email membership@rbg.ca.
4. Do you have to share a dual membership with your partner or spouse?
No, you can share a membership with any designated adult of your choice—a friend, relative, neighbour, etc. However, you must also share your member mailings. RBG sends out one mailing per membership to one address only.
5. How does a member know when it is time to renew a membership?
Members receive a renewal notice and a return addressed envelope about one month prior to the expiration date on their membership. Complete the renewal notice and enclose either a cheque or credit card number or renew over the telephone with a credit card. Members also have the option of authorizing automatic credit card renewal. We ask that you keep your credit card information valid and up to date.
Memberships are renewed from the day they expire and not from the date on the cheque.
6. Does RBG have gift memberships?
The Gardens' memberships make great gifts that can be enjoyed all year long! The easiest way to order a gift membership is to call 905-527-1158, ext. 290. Order a gift membership over the phone with a credit card and personalize a gift card. If preferred, RBG can mail the gift package directly to the recipient. Gift memberships can also be picked up during regular business hours—Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
7. Do you have corporate sponsorship opportunities?
Yes, there are several opportunities for company or individual recognition. For more information please call 905-527-1158, ext. 295.
8. Do RBG members get in to all events and festivals without paying additional charges?
In addition to year-round free admission at all our cultivated gardens, nature sanctuaries and trails, RBG members are admitted without charge to all our bloom celebrations and numerous events we showcase. Occasionally, we host an event in partnership with another organization and on these occasions there may be a discounted admission charge for members. Our music series, which includes Tranquil Tuesdays and Red-Hot Jazz & Cool Blues. has a member admission price of $5 per evening. RBG members can opt to purchase a Music Pass for $32.25. Please consult our special events calendar for details.