I happened across this attraction while driving out to Waterloo. I didn't need to stay long and…read moredecided I'd visit on my way back home. It wasn't too hard to find off the highway. It was a summer weekday and although I figured it might have additional traffic with kids on school break, I could tell just by turning into the parking lot that it wasn't crowded. What I did find a little strange was the constant signage and website warnings to book tickets online and not on-site. I guess that might have been an issue in the past but it certainly wasn't a problem the day I visited. I paid my entrance fee and walked the short distance back to the conservatory area. There's really good signage to let you know what species you're seeing, and their habits. What I didn't think of was all the butterfly remains I'd see on the grounds...a little disconcerting at first but ok, what did I expect! The sanctuary is easily accessible. It's very warm and humid, but quiet with the hum of the waterfall. It was great that it was so quiet. There were maybe 2 dozen species of butterflies, and many species of trees and plants. At the back end of the conservatory, there's a counter with large, informative photos naming all the different butterflies and insects, and their distinctive characteristics. There were also pupa hanging, and staff to answer any questions. There were a couple of seating areas. After I had rounded the sanctuary a couple of times, I decided to sit on one of the rocks near the waterfall and enjoy the beautiful atmosphere. I then decided to check out the snack bar/cafe. The offerings included some lunch items and baked goods in addition to the usual beverage selections. One thing I encountered that is one of my pet peeves, is a place that charges full 13% HST on takeout food that's $4 or less. I brought it up to the staff and asked that they enlighten their management on how that works. This isn't some mom and pop corner store and they really should know better. Anyway the cafeteria is large and has plenty of seating space, plus a big patio area out in the back with acres of greenery to look at. There are also some swings and space for children to enjoy some fresh air outside. Last but not least, a visit to the gift shop is mandatory. They had tons and tons of preserved butterflies in frames. They also had a good selection of books and gift items. I liked that they were not the generic same old, same old you often see in other attractions' gift shops. I purchased a couple of things I will use as gifts in the future, and be happy that I won't have to worry they'll already have it or get it from someone else. I would love to revisit in future, and bring a friend with her young child. It's the absolute perfect place to spend a day or afternoon getting some light exercise, enjoying a slice of nature, and recharging your battery.

Absolutely love this place. Thousands of beautiful butterflies in the main rainforest type room,…read moretwo other bug rooms, plus a cafe. Got an annual membership with my family a couple of times now (you can use your admission fee towards the price).

DO NOT BOOK YOUR WEDDING HERE! My first impression was great, the venue grounds are beautiful and…read moreeverything seemed so pleasing. After leaving my hefty deposit, they ignored my phone calls and emails for two weeks when having trouble securing hotels for my guests. They failed to mention that the weekend of my wedding is the Home Hardware Convention; ALL the hotels in the surrounding cities are booked. No one returned any of my calls or emails when trying to change my date. My trust with them diminished.They are not professional, educated or buisness-oriented. The owner spoke to my mother rudely and refused to compromise on returning some of the deposit given their lack of work on the wedding. I would rather lose my deposit than give them any more money. Brides and Grooms, RUN!

Love the Pearle! Have come here a few times to get some work done and love the atmosphere. The…read morestaff here is incredibly warm and friendly. They're dog friendly so that's a huge plus. When I went last time, we had no issues with our dog, however a friend tried to take her dog and they were sadly turned away so you'll have to check beforehand! Coffee is great and I've had their green smoothie before which I also highly recommend. The last time I ordered I believe an apple cinnamon croissant. The taste was good, but the croissant was quite dry. I probably wouldn't order it again, but wouldn't be opposed to trying other food options, as they all looked great. Overall, the Pearle is our go-to coffee spot. Weekends are busy (as expected), so you might have to wait for a table on your Saturday/Sunday's.

A visit to Burlington isn't complete without visiting The Pearle Hotel. It is a beautiful space…read morethat overlooks the lake. They offer valet parking onsite, otherwise there are many city-owned (free after 6pm) and private lots that are located nearby and accessible. They have a restaurant (Isabelle Restaurant) and cafe (Pearle's Cafe) located on the second floor, right above the main lobby area. We visited the cafe to grab a small snack and drink before heading over to the restaurant. There were lots of seating available!

Highly recommend Amy…read moredid an amazing job helping me with my daughters wedding. I hired her for Day Of, not to do all the wedding planning. However, she went above and beyond and was available to answer questions and help seek out anything I couldn't find during the whole planning process and for no extra charge. Her pricing is extremely reasonable even for her accessories that are available to rent. She was very easy to work with, extremely knowledgable about her craft, highly organized and impeccably professional. Her preparations and itinerary left us feeling calm and able to enjoy the day knowing that she had, along with her staffer Nicolette, everything under control. She was so professisonal that we heard nothing of what may have and most certainly did go wrong, it was just handled. She made sure that the only think I had to worry about was where my next glass of wine was coming from. I highly recommend to anyone anywhere, if they need a Wedding Coordinator, look no further. This is who you should hire. It was the perfect day for my daughter and Son-In-Law and I can't thank Amy and her staff at Unmistakably You enough for making it so special. Thank you from the Entire New and Marino Clan. Lisa N.

Unreal. Awesome. Highly recommend…read more Amy did a wonderful job with our wedding. My wife and I lived out of country and it would have been an impossible task otherwise. We met with Amy whenever we could/whenever we were in the country, but a lot of our interactions were via Skype/Facetime given the distance issue. As the wedding approached Amy was impeccable getting last minute details locked down and made it as stress free as could be. She was organized, timely, and thoughtful and went the extra mile. Anything that was in her hands went smoothly. Thank you for being awesome!

Our son got Married in October. Lisa was so helpful, she gave great suggestions and was very…read morereliable. When we needed some last minute things she was right there for us. I would not hesitate to use Best Wishes Linen and Decor again!

I am delighted to recommend Karina Lemke Weddings ! Karina has it all ;…read more creativity , top problems solving skills , diplomacy, a sense of fun , and , many years of diverse planning experience . All combined with --Her years of her working with flair , for couples of different cutures , religions or no religions. In Covid times , it would be very ! smart, to hire Karina first ! Before you do anything else. Her advise is solid , 100 % based on facts , her vast wedding experience and practicality . On top of all of that , she will add touches of magic! Yes, I believe she is the' Best in the City' ! Officiant Sarah Bunnett-Gibson [ 29 years of experience ; I have seen all the best planners ]

From the owner: Wedding Planning made easy.. Continues to be one of the top ten planners in Toronto & GTA…read more Featured in Martha Stewart, Style Me Pretty and other acclaimed publications.