21 Best Things to Do in Hamilton, Ontario (for 2025)

For us, a visit to Hamilton is like coming home. Dave’s dad was born and raised in Hamilton, and he spent much of his childhood visiting family in town. We’ve seen “The Hammer” transform from the economic “Steeltown” we knew as kids into the thriving, creative city it’s today.

Now, with friends living in the world, we visit often and are at all times discovering something recent. Hamilton has blossomed into certainly one of Ontario’s best destinations, with a vibrant arts scene and an incredible natural playground of trails and waterfalls right at its doorstep. With more people moving to the world and others trying to escape town of Toronto, we have now narrowed down the highest things to do while in Hamilton, Ontario.

This guide is a mixture of the classic spots we’ve loved for years and the brand new energy that makes Hamilton so exciting. We’re sharing our favourite things to do to aid you plan an adventure on this surprisingly diverse city.

Top 5 Hamilton Attractions at a Glance

Attraction	Location	Best For
Dundurn Castle	West Hamilton	History & Architecture
Royal Botanical Gardens	Burlington/Hamilton Border	Nature & Gardens
Webster’s Falls	Dundas (Spencer Gorge)	Waterfalls & Scenery
Waterfront Trail	Hamilton Harbour	Walking, Biking & Families
Warplane Heritage Museum	Mount Hope	Aviation & Canadian History

Historic Sites & Museums

Hamilton has a wealthy industrial and military history. These national historic sites and museums offer a captivating look into town’s past and its role in shaping Canada.

1. Dundurn Castle

A tour of this grand 1830s villa is certainly one of the highest attractions in Hamilton. As the previous home of Sir Allan Napier MacNab, Premier of the United Canadas, this National Historic Site has been beautifully restored. Costumed interpreters guide you thru the house, illustrating what life was like within the Nineteenth century.

• Note on 2025 Pricing: Please confirm current ticket prices on the official Hamilton Civic Museums website. Adult admission is often around $16 CAD and kids are $10 CAD.

Dave & Deb’s Tip: Your admission includes the Hamilton Military Museum, which can also be on the property. Give yourself beyond regular time to walk the gorgeous grounds and the kitchen garden, that are free to access and offer lovely views of the bay.

Tickets cost $16 for adults and $10 for youngsters, with children under 5 allowed in free of charge.

2. Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum

ocated beside the Hamilton International Airport, this museum is a must-visit for aviation and history buffs. It includes a collection of over 40 Canadian military aircraft flown since World War II. The highlight is the Avro Lancaster, certainly one of only two airworthy Lancaster bombers left on the planet.

• Admission to the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum is around $18 per adult, with children under 5 in a position to visit free of charge. Flight simulation experiences can be found at an additional cost. Check out the web site for more details.

Dave & Deb’s Tip: Even in the event you don’t book a flight simulation, check their schedule online. Seeing the Lancaster or other vintage planes take off for a flight is an unforgettable experience.

3. HMCS Haida National Historic Site

Known as “Canada’s most fightingest ship,” the HMCS Haida is a floating museum on the Hamilton waterfront. As the world’s only surviving Tribal-class destroyer, this national historic site offers a likelihood to explore the decks and picture life as a crew member of the Royal Canadian Navy during its service in WWII, the Korean War, and the Cold War.

• Note on 2025 Pricing: Admission is just $4.50 CAD per adult, with those under 17 years of age entering free.

Dave & Deb’s Tip: Wear good shoes with a solid grip. You’ll be climbing steep, narrow ladders between the decks, which is all a part of the authentic and immersive experience.

4. Hamilton Museum of Steam & Technology 

Housed within the restored 1859 waterworks constructing, this national historic site is devoted to the history of steam power in Canada. It includes a collection of massive, working steam engines, pumps, and other machinery that after supplied water to town.

• 2025 Pricing: Admission is required. Please check the Hamilton Civic Museums website for current 2025 pricing (typically around $10 CAD for adults).

Dave & Deb’s Tip: Try to go to during a live steam demonstration to see the impressive 70-ton steam engines in motion. It’s an incredible display of Nineteenth-century engineering power.

5. Battle of Stoney Creek

This National Historic Site preserves the situation of the pivotal 1813 Battle of Stoney Creek. The grounds include the Battlefield House Museum (the unique Gage Homestead, built around 1796) and the impressive Battlefield Monument, which stands high on a hill overlooking the park.

Dave & Deb’s Tip: Be sure to climb to the highest of the 100-foot Battlefield Monument. It offers a implausible view and helps you understand the strategic importance of the situation in the course of the War of 1812.

6. The Erland Lee Museum

This Nineteenth-century farmhouse in Stoney Creek holds huge historical significance because the birthplace of the Women’s Institutes, a corporation that spread from here to over 70 countries. The museum has exhibits dedicated to the history of the organization and its role in women’s history.

Dave & Deb’s Tip: This is a must-visit for anyone focused on Canadian history, particularly women’s history. The story of the Women’s Institute is a captivating piece of Canadian heritage that began right here on this house.

Outdoor Adventures & Waterfalls

Hamilton’s unique location on the Niagara Escarpment, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, gives it a surprising natural playground. Here’s where to get outside and explore the paths, gorges, and waterfalls that make “The Hammer” an out of doors destination.

7. Chase Waterfalls (Webster’s, Albion, Tews)

Hamilton is often called the “Waterfall Capital of the World,” with over 100 waterfalls situated inside the city limits. Chasing waterfalls is certainly one of the highest things to do here. Two of essentially the most incredible cascades are Webster’s Falls, a classic plunge-style waterfall, and Albion Falls, a large cascade that tumbles over shelves of rock. Tews Falls is definitely the tallest in Hamilton, standing at 41 metres, just a couple of metres shorter than Niagara’s Horseshoe Falls.

• Important 2025 Note: Access rules, viewing platforms, and reservation systems for Hamilton’s waterfalls can change regularly. Always check the official Hamilton Conservation Authority website before your visit for the latest information on parking, fees, and trail access.

Dave & Deb’s Tip: While Webster’s and Albion are famous, don’t miss a few of the smaller falls. Tiffany Falls is a ravishing, delicate waterfall that’s just a brief walk from the road, making it an incredible and simply accessible stop.

8. Spencer Gorge Conservation Area

This is the star attraction for nature lovers in Hamilton. The conservation area is home to 2 of town’s most famous waterfalls, Tews Falls and Webster’s Falls (though they often require separate reservations). The principal draw for us, nevertheless, is the hike to Dundas Peak, which showcases the stunning great thing about the Dundas Valley.

Dave & Deb’s Tip: The hike to the Dundas Peak viewpoint is a must-do, especially within the autumn. The view overlooking the Dundas Valley is among the best in all of Southern Ontario. Go on a weekday to avoid the largest crowds, as this spot is amazingly popular.

9. Royal Botanical Gardens (RBG)

Of all of the attractions in Hamilton, a visit to Canada’s largest Botanical Garden is a must. A delegated National Historic Site, the RBG is Canada’s largest botanical garden, spanning over 2,400 acres. Nestled into the slopes of the Niagara Escarpment, it features five distinct garden areas, including the gorgeous Hendrie Park and the restored David Braley Rock Garden. It also boasts the world’s largest lilac collection and over 77 km of nature trails.

• Pricing: General admission tickets for entrance to the Royal Botanical Gardens cost $19.50 for adults, with children under 4 admitted free of charge. There are youth, senior, and family tickets available at a reduced price.

Dave & Deb’s Tip: The RBG is very large, so don’t attempt to see all of it in sooner or later. If you simply have time for one section, we recommend Hendrie Park. It has essentially the most diverse collection of themed gardens and is an incredible introduction to what the RBG has to supply.

10. Go for a Hike on the Bruce Trail & More

The Dundas Valley Conservation Area is a large forested area with over 40 km of trails. It’s an out of doors lover’s dream and incorporates several major trail networks:

• The Bruce Trail: Canada’s longest and oldest footpath stretches from Niagara to Tobermory and passes all the way through the guts of the Dundas Valley.
• The Main Loop Trail: Starting from the Dundas Valley Trail Centre, this easy 3.4 km loop is an incredible introduction to the world, passing by ruins and an old orchard.
• The Hamilton to Brantford Rail Trail: This is a wonderful, flat path for hiking and cycling along an old railway line.

Dave & Deb’s Tip: For an incredible taste of the world, start on the Dundas Valley Trail Centre. You can do the simple Main Loop Trail, hop on a bit of the famous Bruce Trail, and see the replica train station all from one convenient place to begin.

Hamilton’s Waterfront & Parks

Once an industrial harbour, Hamilton’s waterfront has been completely transformed into a ravishing space for recreation, connecting several parks and trails. It’s now a preferred outdoor gathering place for families and friends.

11. Explore Bayfront Park

This large park covers 16 hectares along Hamilton Harbour and is filled with recreational activities. It features an in depth trail system for walking and cycling, a ship launch for paddling, and a big, popular playground for families with young children. Throughout the yr, Bayfront Park hosts a wide range of events, including concert events and community festivals.

Dave & Deb’s Tip: Bayfront Park is the proper spot for a family picnic. There’s tons of green space to run around, an incredible playground for the youngsters, and you’ll be able to watch the boats within the harbour.

12. Stroll the Waterfront Trail

The 12 km Waterfront Trail connects Pier 4 Park and Bayfront Park and is ideal for a day stroll, run, or bike ride. Along the way in which, you’ll be able to grab an ice cream cone at Scoops, rent bikes, or watch people fishing from the pier. The Harbour West Trolley also winds along the trail, offering a narrated tour of the world’s history.

Dave & Deb’s Tip: We love renting bikes and cycling a portion of this trail. It’s flat, paved, and offers great views of the harbour. A stop for an ice cream cone at Scoops is a compulsory a part of the experience!

13. Take a Harbour Cruise

For a special perspective, take a 50-minute narrated tour of the harbour with the Hamilton Waterfront Trust. The captain shares fascinating details in regards to the history of the world, from its industrial past to its recent revitalization. Longer dinner cruises are also available on the Harbour Queen.

• Note for 2025: Be sure to ascertain the cruise operator’s website for the present schedule and availability.

Dave & Deb’s Tip: The sightseeing cruise is the perfect option to understand the dimensions of the harbour and its industrial heritage. The captain’s narration is surprisingly interesting and provides you an entire recent perspective on “Steeltown.”

14. Relax in Gage Park

This huge city park in East Hamilton is a destination in itself. Its principal features are the gorgeous themed gardens and the impressive Tropical Greenhouse. The park also incorporates the Hamilton Children’s Museum, walking trails, sports fields, and a wading pool. In the winter, it transforms with a free public skating rink and winter lights festivals.

• Note for 2025: Please confirm the status of the Hamilton Children’s Museum, because it has undergone recent renovations.

Dave & Deb’s Tip: The Tropical Greenhouse is the star attraction here, especially on a chilly winter day. Stepping inside from the snow right into a lush, warm greenhouse looks like a mini-vacation to the tropics.

15. Grab Fish and Chips at Hutch’s

You can’t talk in regards to the Hamilton waterfront without mentioning Hutch’s. This classic, old-school eatery has been serving up fish and chips, ice cream, and burgers right on the beach for many years. It’s a real local institution. I used to return here on a regular basis once I was a child. WE lived just down the road in Burlington, and my Dad would take us there for a treat on Sundays.

Dave & Deb’s Tip: Be prepared for a lineup on a sunny summer day—it’s at all times definitely worth the wait. The fish and chips are a classic, but don’t forget to grab a milkshake. It’s an ideal taste of nostalgia.

Culture, Sports & Entertainment

Beyond the paths and museums, Hamilton has a vibrant cultural scene, from skilled sports to live theatre.

16. Art Gallery of Hamilton

Founded in 1914, the Art Gallery of Hamilton is the oldest and largest art museum in Southern Ontario. Its everlasting collection is recognized as certainly one of the best in Canada, featuring a mixture of historical and contemporary Canadian art, including works by the Group of Seven, Emily Carr, and Tom Thomson.

• Note on 2025 Pricing: This gallery often has a nuanced pricing model (e.g., free for one level, paid for special exhibitions). Please confirm the present admission structure on their official website.

Dave & Deb’s Tip: The everlasting collection of Canadian art is outstanding. Give yourself a minimum of a few hours. The free access to the second level makes it an incredible, budget-friendly cultural stop on any visit

17. Canadian Football Hall of Fame

Located at Tim Hortons Field, home of the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, the Canadian Football Hall of Fame celebrates the history and heroes of the Canadian Football League (CFL). Through interactive displays and artifacts, it offers a deep dive into all elements of Canadian football.

Dave & Deb’s Tip: Even in the event you’re not an enormous CFL fan, it’s value a glance in the event you’re already at Tim Hortons Field for a game. It offers an incredible look into a singular and essential piece of Canadian sports culture, and it’s free to enter.

18. Catch a Hamilton Tiger-Cats Game

Hamilton is usually called the “birthplace of Canadian football,” and town’s passion for the sport is infectious. To see it firsthand, grab tickets to see the Hamilton Tiger-Cats play at Tim Hortons Field. The CFL season typically runs from June to November.

Dave & Deb’s Tip: The atmosphere at a Ticats game is electrical. Hamilton fans are famously passionate. For a real local experience, grab some black and gold gear and join the “Oskee Wee Wee” chants.

19. Hess Village

When the sun goes down, Hess Village is the guts of Hamilton’s nightlife. This cobblestone, pedestrian-only area is lined with historic buildings that house a dense concentration of restaurants, bars, and patios with live music. It’s a vigorous spot, especially on a warm summer evening.

Dave & Deb’s Tip: Hess Village is great for a patio drink, but in the event you’re in search of a quieter dinner, explore the restaurants on nearby King William Street, which has change into town’s unofficial “Restaurant Row.”

20. Theatre Aquarius

For an evening of live theatre, Theatre Aquarius is town’s premier skilled theatre company. Located downtown within the Dofasco Centre for the Arts, it stages high-quality productions, from classic plays to contemporary musicals.

Dave & Deb’s Tip: We’ve seen a couple of shows here, and the standard of the productions is at all times impressive. It’s an incredible option to experience top-level Canadian theatre without the Toronto prices.

Food & Drink

Hamilton’s food scene has exploded in recent times, but some classics never exit of favor.

21. Hamilton Farmers’ Market

Established in 1837, the Hamilton Farmers’ Market is a year-round market and certainly one of the oldest landmarks in town. With greater than fifty vendors, you will discover every thing from fresh local produce and meats to artisan cheeses and handmade goods. It’s situated right downtown beside the central library.

Dave & Deb’s Tip: Don’t just browse—plan to have lunch here. There are some implausible food stalls inside offering every thing from tacos and falafel to fresh pasta. It’s an incredible option to sample the local food scene multi functional place.

FAQ: Visiting Hamilton, Ontario

So, Where Will You Go First?

Hamilton has successfully reinvented itself from a gritty industrial city right into a vibrant destination with a surprising amount of natural beauty. From its historic castles and museums to the a whole bunch of waterfalls waiting to be explored, “The Hammer” offers an ideal mix of urban energy and outdoor adventure. We hope this guide has helped you discover all of the amazing things to do in Hamilton.