Things to Do in Burlington

The indoor arena, outdoor arena, and winding trails on Five Star Ranch's grounds resound with pounding hooves as instructor Gail Haynes and her experienced staff guide visitors during lessons, clinics, and trail rides. In a well-lit 80'x130' indoor arena, teachers imbue horseback-riding students with safety tips for horse leading and expound on tacking techniques and grooming principles, such as which horse breeds look best with a pompadour. 

The Ranch's clinics cover the gamut of equine wherewithal, from basic horsemanship skills to learning how to properly conduct a horse using reins instead of a magic wand. Visitors to the ranch can also amble into the tack store for all of their equestrian needs, such as hand-picked grooming supplies from renowned brands Professionals' Choice and John Lyons.

Managing his struggles with weight and depression via Bikram Yoga, studio director Dann Thew—determined to share his newfound passion with others—left his job in the oil industry to become a certified Bikram Yoga teacher. During each 90-minute class, balmy air within the sunny yellow studio envelops kinetic bodies in its 40-degree-Celsius embrace, coaxing forth detoxifying sweat from pores and revealing the identity of undercover snowmen with its 40 per cent humidity. Dann and his staff of instructors foster a welcoming, nonjudgmental environment while teaching the yogic method developed by Bikram Choudhury as they guide students through 26 postures accompanied by soothing breathing exercises that facilitate a full-body workout while enabling weary minds to recharge. To further ensure pupil's comfort, Bikram Yoga Oakville staff requires that posers bring along two litres of water, two towels, and a yoga mat to class.

After making a name for herself in the world of theatrical costuming during stints on the production teams of The Lion King and Mamma Mia!, Dilys Tong co-created Sew Be It Studio in 2005 in order to inspire others to craft their own wearable art. Lindsey Wise, a graphic designer and former magazine art director, joined her in 2009, and together they helm workshops and classes alongside a cast of dedicated instructors. At their two studios, the staff lead students through hands-on tutorials or arm them with DIY patterns for items such as a lace tank top, a flower headpiece, or a leather mini wallet ideal for fitting into a regular-size wallet. Enhancing the space are studio mascots Betty and Madi, a pair of well-dressed pups who can often be found lounging around in a variety of miniature ensembles.