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
Visit 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Central Hamilton
If you're spending some time in Central Hamilton, FirstOntario Centre and Hamilton City Hall are top sights worth seeing.
Reviewed on Oct. 19, 2024
Reviewed on Oct. 20, 2024
Reviewed on Oct. 20, 2024
Reviewed on Oct. 14, 2024
Reviewed on Jun. 15, 2024
Reviewed on Aug. 26, 2024
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.
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 acclaimed theater scene in this family-friendly area.
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.
McMaster University
Walk around the campus at McMaster University during your visit to Hamilton. Experience the area's acclaimed theater scene and great live music.
Things to do
Self Guided Driving Taste Tour - Brantford & Paris, ON - Private
Guided Historical and Cultural Tour in Downtown Paris, ON Canada
1 Hour Private Vineyard Dome Experience in Niagara-on-the-Lake
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
- McMaster University
- African Lion Safari
- FirstOntario Centre
- Tim Hortons Field
- Mohawk College
- Village Theatre Waterdown
- Royal Botanical Gardens
- Albion Falls
- Spencer Smith Lakefront Park
- Eastgate Square Mall
- Wayne Gretzky Sports Centre
- Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum
- Long Beach Conservation Park
- OLG Casino Brantford
- Confederation Park
- Dundas Valley Conservation Area
- Dundurn Castle
- Turkey Point Provincial Park
- Liuna Gardens Banquet and Convention Centre
- Ohsweken Speedway
- Spencer Gorge/Webster's Falls Conservation Area
- Copetown Woods Golf Club
- Binbrook Conservation Area