Hamilton, Ontario, Canada is a vibrant city boasting a vibrant culture, excellent shopping and dining, and plenty of outdoor activities. Located at the western end of Lake Ontario, Hamilton is the 9th largest city in Canada and is the centre of a metropolitan area known as the Golden Horseshoe. With its diverse neighbourhoods, vibrant culture, and close proximity to the US border, Hamilton is a great destination for visitors seeking a taste of both urban and rural Canadian life.
From its beautiful waterfront parks to its museums and galleries, Hamilton offers something for everyone. Nature lovers will appreciate the opportunities to explore the nearby Dundas Valley Conservation Area, where you can take a hike or mountain bike. Those looking for a bit of urban fun can visit the downtown core, where they can explore lively restaurants, bars, and shops. Art and culture enthusiasts will appreciate the city's many art galleries, museums, and performing arts venues.
Hamilton is also a great destination for sports fans. Home to the Hamilton Tiger-Cats of the Canadian Football League, the city also hosts the annual Canadian Open golf tournament and is home to a professional baseball team, the Hamilton Cardinals. There are also plenty of recreational opportunities, including golf courses, skate parks, public pools, and more.
No matter your interests, Hamilton has something to offer. With its vibrant culture, excellent shopping and dining, and numerous outdoor activities, Hamilton is an ideal destination for a weekend getaway.
| Rank | Booking Site | Price Compared to Average | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Cheapest | Booking.com | -4% | |
| 2. Cheap | Hotels.com | -2% | |
| 3. Average | Expedia | -1% | |
| 4. More Expensive | Agoda | 1% | |
| 5. Most Expensive | Trip.com | 3% |
1. Downtown Hamilton: This vibrant and bustling city center is home to many attractions, including the Art Gallery of Hamilton, the Hamilton Waterfront Trail, and the Hamilton Farmers’ Market.
2. Westdale: This charming and historic neighborhood is home to McMaster University, as well as a variety of shops and restaurants.
3. Ancaster: This quiet suburban area is known for its abundance of green spaces and parks, as well as its easy access to the Bruce Trail.
4. Dundas: This quaint small town is situated along the Niagara Escarpment and is a great spot for a family outing or to enjoy the local arts and culture scene.
5. Stoney Creek: Located at the western end of Lake Ontario, this area is known for its natural beauty, including beautiful parks, trails, and beaches.
1. Royal Botanical Gardens: Situated on over 1,100 hectares of land, the Royal Botanical Gardens offers stunning views of nature, including over 2,400 different species of plants, a 32-hectare arboretum, and over 25 kilometres of walking trails.
2. Dundurn Castle: This stunning 19th-century castle was once the home of Sir Allan Napier MacNab, one of Canada's first premiers. Visitors can explore its restored rooms and gardens, and learn about MacNab's life.
3. Hamilton Farmers’ Market: Established in 1837, the Hamilton Farmers’ Market is a must-visit for anyone looking to sample some of the city’s delicious local produce.
4. Art Gallery of Hamilton: For art lovers, the Art Gallery of Hamilton is the perfect place to explore the city’s vibrant art scene. The gallery offers a wide range of exhibitions, from local to international artists.
5. Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum: This museum is dedicated to preserving Canada's aviation history. Visitors can explore a range of aircraft, from WWI to modern-day fighters, as well as learn about the people who flew them.
1. Dundurn Castle Tourtiere: A traditional French-Canadian meat pie served with a side of mashed potatoes, this popular dish has been a staple in the Hamilton area since the 19th century.
2. Chicken Parmigiana: A classic Italian dish of breaded chicken cutlets smothered in tomato sauce and melted cheese.
3. Schmuckatelli Sausage: A local specialty, Schmuckatelli Sausage is a delicious combination of Italian pork sausage, garlic, and spices.
4. Hamilton’s Finest Fish & Chips: Fish and chips is a classic British dish made up of fried fish and potatoes. Hamilton’s Finest is one of the best places to get this classic dish.
5. Hamilton’s Best Burger: A juicy hamburger topped with all the fixings, this is a classic for any burger-lover.