Discover Hamilton: A Gem by Lake Ontario

Hamilton, a port city at the western tip of Lake Ontario, is not only a significant industrial hub but also a place of natural splendor due to its location along the Niagara Escarpment. A short drive from Toronto, Hamilton is accessible by car rental for a convenient day trip.

The city's "mountain," as locals call the escarpment, is home to numerous waterfalls, accessible via hiking trails. Hamilton is also the starting point for the Bruce Trail, Canada's longest at 890 kilometers. The city boasts conservation areas, cultural sites, and a lively food and drink scene.

1. Hike the Historic Bruce Trail

The Bruce Trail offers a hiking experience from Niagara Falls to Georgian Bay. Hamilton's section passes by the picturesque Canterbury Falls and is part of the UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.

Address: 650 Governors Road, Dundas, Ontario

Official site: https://brucetrail.org

2. View the Royal Botanical Gardens

The Royal Botanical Gardens, located in Burlington, cover over 2,420 acres and feature a rich biodiversity with over 1,100 plant species.

Address: 80 Plains Road W, Burlington, Ontario

Official site: www.rbg.ca

Guided tours in Hamilton

3. Visit Dundurn Castle

Dundurn Castle, built in 1835, is a Neoclassical mansion that has been restored to its 1855 appearance.

Address: 610 York Blvd, Hamilton, Ontario

Official site: www.hamilton.ca/attractions/hamilton-civic-museums/dundurn-national-historic-site

4. Take Flight at the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum

This museum features 47 military aircraft, including the flying Avro Lancaster bomber.

Address: 9280 Airport Road, Mount Hope, Ontario

Official site: www.warplane.com

5. Hamilton's Waterfalls

Hamilton is known for its waterfalls, including the 20-meter-high Albion Falls and the 41-meter-high Tews Falls.

Address: 885 Mountain Brow Blvd, Hamilton, Ontario

6. Take a Waterfront Stroll in Bayfront Park

Bayfront Park is a revitalized green space with trails, a beach, and fishing spots.

Address: 200 Harbour Front Drive, Hamilton, Ontario

Official site: www.hamilton.ca/city-initiatives/our-harbour/bayfront-park-pier-4-park-and-waterfront-trail

7. Visit Canada's "Fightingest" Warship: HMCS Haida

Explore the historic HMCS Haida, a WW2 destroyer and National Historic Site.

Address: Pier 9, 658 Catharine Street N, Hamilton, Ontario

Official site: www.pc.gc.ca/en/lhn-nhs/on/haida

8. Enjoy the Art Gallery of Hamilton

The Art Gallery of Hamilton features over 10,000 artworks, with a focus on Canadian and contemporary international art.

Address: 123 King Street W, Hamilton, Ontario

Official site: www.artgalleryofhamilton.com

9. Travel Back in Time at Westfield Heritage Village

Westfield Heritage Village offers a glimpse into Canadian life from the 1800s to the early 1900s.

Address: 1049 Kirkwall Road, Rockton, Ontario

Official site: https://westfieldheritage.ca

10. Score a Touchdown at the Canadian Football Hall of Fame & Museum

The museum celebrates Canadian football and its players, with free admission on game days.

Address: 64 Melrose Ave N, Hamilton, Ontario

Official site: https://cfhof.ca

Hamilton offers a blend of cultural attractions and natural wonders, making it a diverse destination for visitors.