Summary
Hamilton is Canada’s 9th largest city, ranking as the third biggest in Ontario after Toronto and Ottawa. This port city, once renowned for steel production, is conveniently located between Toronto and Niagara Falls in Southern Ontario, serving as an ideal stopover when traveling between these popular destinations. However, Hamilton is a vibrant destination itself, boasting rich culture, history, delectable cuisine, and beautiful outdoor spaces.
Art Gallery of Hamilton
Address: 123 King St W, Hamilton, ON L8P 4S8, Canada
Phone: +1 905-527-6610
The Art Gallery of Hamilton (AGH) is a prominent museum notable for its impressive permanent collection that celebrates both Canadian and international art. Among the highlights is the Bruegel-Bosch Bus by Kim Adams, which captivates younger visitors.
Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum
Address: 9280 Airport Rd, Mount Hope, ON L0R 1W0, Canada
Phone: +1 905-679-4183
Located conveniently next to the Hamilton International Airport, the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum showcases aircraft utilized by Canadians or the Canadian Military from World War II to the present day. This museum offers interactive experiences, including flight simulators for hands-on engagement.
James St. North
Address: James St N, Hamilton, ON, Canada
Once a relatively undefined neighborhood, James Street North has transformed into a cultural hotspot, known for its monthly Art Crawl and annual Supercrawl festival, showcasing vibrant local shops, restaurants, and galleries.
Whitehern Historic House and Garden
Address: 41 Jackson St W, Hamilton, ON L8P 1L3, Canada
Phone: +1 905-546-2424 ext. 3168
An exemplary mid-19th century urban estate, Whitehern was owned by the influential McQuesten family, whose impact on Hamilton’s development is profound. Visitors can see fine examples of domestic and intellectual life that reflect the Georgian, Victorian, and Edwardian periods.
Dundas Main Street
Address: 2 King St W Unit #1, Dundas, ON L9H 6Z1, Canada
Phone: +1 905-627-1004
Dundas is a serene part of greater Hamilton, displaying a main streetscape reminiscent of a century past. Despite its quaint appearance, King Street remains a bustling commercial area featuring friendly shops, such as Mickey McGuire’s cheese shop and other local favorites that contribute to its heritage charm.
Dundurn Castle
Address: 610 York Blvd, Hamilton, ON L8R 3E7, Canada
Phone: +1 905-546-2424 ext. 3168
Showcasing the affluent lifestyle of Sir Allan Napier MacNab, one of Canada’s first premiers, Dundurn Castle serves as an important historical site. Constructed in 1835, this grand estate features over 40 rooms that are furnished to reflect the domestic life of both the well-off residents and their servants.
Waterfalls
Counterintuitive for a city known primarily for industrial activity, Hamilton is home to an impressive array of green spaces, including an astounding 126 waterfalls. The geographical features of the Niagara Escarpment give rise to many easily accessible falls.
Locke Street
Address: Locke St S, Hamilton, ON L8P, Canada
Locke Street has long been one of Hamilton’s most delightful streets, offering a relaxed yet stylish atmosphere. Visitors will discover a variety of shops and restaurants within charming heritage buildings along this picturesque road.
HMCS Haida National Historic Site
Address: Pier 9, 658 Catharine St N, Hamilton, ON L8L 8K4, Canada
Phone: +1 905-526-6742
The HMCS is a Tribal Class destroyer commissioned in 1943 that served notably during the Second World War, the Korean War, and the Cold War. It now resides as a historic attraction in Hamilton Harbour, open for visitors from May to October.
Royal Botanical Gardens
Address: 680 Plains Rd W, Burlington, ON L7T 4H4, Canada
Phone: +1 905-527-1158
The Royal Botanical Gardens (RBG) is Canada’s largest botanical garden, serving as a sanctuary that connects people, plants, and nature. Located technically in Burlington, Ontario, RBG maintains thematic gardens and trails enjoyed year-round, alongside various conservation efforts within Hamilton.