When George Hamilton created his eponymous city in the early 19th century, he probably didn’t imagine it would become such a creative center. Hamilton is, after all, an industrial town at heart. Steel and manufacturing have long been the economic mainstays in this Ontario community, and factories still shoot through the skyline. In recent decades, however, Hamilton vacation packages have shifted to incorporate more artistic holidays. It’s no wonder Canada’s ninth-largest metropolitan area is studded with gorgeous green spaces, impressive museums, and an almost overwhelming array of multicultural restaurants. Adventurous tourists can get their kicks at the nearby waterfalls, and luxury lovers swear by the local boutiques. Hamilton travel offers something for everyone. Start your Hamilton vacations with a tour of the most creative sights. The Art Gallery of Hamilton is the best spot to check out Canadian masterpieces, and the McMaster Museum of Art regularly features special events and lectures. Downtown’s James Street is an incredible place to get a taste of the city’s funky personality, and you’ll find so-cool art galleries and hip cafes dotted along its sidewalks. Take the extra time to browse the shops on nearby King, Ottawa, and Locke Streets. The antiquing in this area is top notch, and you’ll likely score a few cheap Hamilton deals and discounts. From King Street, grab the free shuttle to the waterfront for a peek at the Pier 4 Park and a hike along the Princess Point trail. Outdoor enthusiasts can satisfy their sense of adventure at the nearby Tew’s Falls, and families can soak up the scenery — and hit the local beach — at the Christie Lake Conservation Area. Of course, every trip to Hamilton should include a jaunt through the city’s historical wonders. The 19th-century Dundurn Castle is an absolute must, but don’t skip surrounding sights like the Hamilton Museum of Steam and Technology. If you’re traveling during early May, you can even take part in Doors Open Hamilton, an annual festival designed to give visitors a behind-the-scenes look at the community’s oldest and most remarkable buildings. It's a great way to explore the region's history from an insider's perspective.
Hamilton
Where to stay in Hamilton
Paris
Explore Barker's Bush trails and admire rare Carolinian forests, then unwind at riverside restaurants while enjoying views of the illuminated Penman's Dam at night. Don't miss the historic Arlington Hotel and the charming cobblestone architecture.
Ancaster
Historic town on the Niagara Escarpment, Ancaster offers recreational centers like Morgan Firestone Arena and Ancaster Aquatic Centre, as well as sights such as Fieldcote Memorial Park and Museum, and the scenic Bruce Trail.
Stoney Creek
Explore the Bruce Trail, visit Battlefield Park, Devil's Punch Bowl, and Erland Lee Museum, or unwind at Fifty Point Conservation Area. Shop at Fiesta Mall and Eastgate Square Mall, with convenient access via Hamilton Street Railway.
Beamsville
Nestled in Ontario's wine country, Beamsville boasts picturesque orchards, award-winning wineries, and a charming downtown with century-old brick buildings. Easily accessible via the Queen Elizabeth Way.
Dundas
Nestled at the base of the Niagara Escarpment, this artsy town boasts the Dundas Valley School of Art, Carnegie Gallery, and Dundas Museum & Archives. Explore nearby Webster's Falls, Tew's Falls, and Dundas Peak via the Bruce Trail.
Central Hamilton
If you're spending some time in Central Hamilton, FirstOntario Centre and Hamilton City Hall are top sights worth seeing.
Reviewed on May 12, 2024
Reviewed on May 12, 2024
Reviewed on May 10, 2024
Reviewed on May 13, 2024
Reviewed on May 8, 2024
Reviewed on Aug. 14, 2023
Popular places to visit
African Lion Safari
Visit the native and exotic animals who live at African Lion Safari during your trip to Hamilton. While in this family-friendly area, you can savor the top-notch restaurants.
Sanderson Centre for the Performing Arts
You can make plans for a show at Sanderson Centre for the Performing Arts on your trip to Brantford. While in this family-friendly area, you can savor the top-notch restaurants.
Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum
Rich with history, Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum is a cultural attraction worth visiting in Hamilton. Experience the area's great live music and acclaimed theater scene.
Albion Falls
Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Albion Falls during your travels in Hamilton. Discover the area's top-notch restaurants and its great live music.
Spencer Smith Lakefront Park
Explore the great outdoors at Spencer Smith Lakefront Park, a lovely green space in Burlington. Discover the top-notch restaurants and great live music in this family-friendly area.
Tiffany Falls
Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Tiffany Falls during your travels in Hamilton. Discover the area's top-notch restaurants and its great live music.
Things to do
Guided Historical and Cultural Tour in Downtown Paris, ON Canada
Self Guided Driving Taste Tour - Brantford & Paris, ON - Private
Reviews of Hamilton
3/5 - Okay
Noisy hotel if you want party that’s ok otherwise not a place to get rest
3/5 - Okay
Dont go with out navigation, difficult to find your way around, many one way streets some with center of the road parking.
3/5 - Okay
Hate all the one way streets! It makes what should be easily accessible locations a nightmare to get to!
4/5 - Good
We love the city and the hotel we chose after leaving this one. In town for a dance competition.
3/5 - Okay
McMaster university's health sciences building is cool. The houses seemed nice but are a bit small and not very aesthetically pleasing.
4/5 - Good
Locke Street area was trendy and pretty - lots of shops and services in a nicely rehabbed older neighbourhood.
Other places like Hamilton
- African Lion Safari
- McMaster University
- FirstOntario Centre
- Mohawk College
- Tim Hortons Field
- Village Theatre Waterdown
- Royal Botanical Gardens
- Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum
- Albion Falls
- Turkey Point Provincial Park
- Wayne Gretzky Sports Centre
- Long Beach Conservation Park
- Spencer Smith Lakefront Park
- OLG Casino Brantford
- Tiffany Falls
- Wild Waterworks
- Dundurn Castle
- Ohsweken Speedway
- Binbrook Conservation Area
- Confederation Park
- Cave Springs Winery
- Liuna Gardens Banquet and Convention Centre
- Whistling Gardens
- Copetown Woods Golf Club