Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to RBG! Let us help you to get the most out of your visit.

Parking

• Available at all RBG locations. Paid parking applies at all trailheads. See rbg.ca/directions for details.

Strollers, Wagons, Nursing

• Small strollers are welcome at RBG. Wagons, stroller-wagons, or large running strollers are not permitted to our buildings or garden areas (trailheads excepted).
  • Evening event exceptions: Wagons are permitted at RBG’s annual Great Pumpkin Trail, Winter Wonders, and Movie Night.
• There are several benches throughout where you are welcome to nurse your baby. A more private and quiet area can be found upstairs in the mezzanine.

Food and Drink

• Outside food and drink are not permitted in RBG Centre/Hendrie Park or Rock Garden.
  • Greenhouse Café at RBG Centre is open daily.
  • Teahouse is open Wednesday-Sunday (reservations required)
  • Rock Garden Bistro hours vary seasonally. See rbg.ca/bistro for details.
• Picnics are allowed only at the Arboretum, 16 Old Guelph Rd. Hamilton. Barbeques and open fires are not allowed.
• Eating on trails is discouraged.
  • Do not feed the birds or any other animals.

Wheelchairs

• Wheelchairs are available to borrow, first come, first serve, at the Guest Services desk upon entry to RBG Centre and Rock Garden.

Pets & Service Animals

• Pets are not permitted at RBG Centre, Hendrie Park, or Rock Garden at any time.
• Service animals are always welcome in accordance with Ontario law.
• Leashed dogs are permitted on trails. For the protection of our natural areas and wildlife keep dogs leashed.

Prohibited Items

• Recreational scooters, bicycles, skateboards, etc., are prohibited in all garden areas, as well as on RBG’s trail systems. Kites, sports balls, etc., are prohibited in cultivated garden areas but are allowed at the Arboretum.
• Drones

Photography

• Hobby photography is welcome. We invite you to share your photos with us on social media @RBGCanada by using the hashtag #RBGblooms.
• Paid permits are required for professional photo shoots such as wedding, engagement, family, etc. Visit RBG’s Photography page to request a permit.

Washrooms

• Throughout RBG, we’re working to ensure that everyone has a washroom option that they feel comfortable with. There is gender specific as well as an all-gender and fully accessible washroom in McQuesten Theatre near the Greenhouse Cafe.

Other

• RBG property is a smoke-free environment, including e-cigarettes. Smoking is prohibited in all buildings, common work areas, garden areas, natural lands, trails and parking areas.
• Do not climb on trees and shrubs, pick fruits and vegetables, walk in garden beds, collect plants, flowers, or labels, or feed wildlife.

Operating Hours

Stay up to date with all our operating hours so you can plan your next visit without any surprises! See rbg.ca/hours.

Topic-Specific FAQ’s

Do you have a question that isn’t answered above? Find more detailed and department-specific common questions and answers at the links below.

Many events / programs have alternative requirements and guidelines. Find more information at rbg.ca/events and locate the specific event you are interested in.