The Ultimate Long Weekend in Hamilton, Canada

Discover the beauty and adventure of Hamilton, Canada.

22 April 2023

Hamilton is a vibrant city in Ontario renowned for its stunning natural landscape, historic architecture, and cultural diversity. As a tourist, you can explore the picturesque waterfront, visit iconic landmarks such as Dundurn Castle and the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum, and sample delicious cuisine at local restaurants. A trip to Hamilton promises an unforgettable experience that combines rich history, scenic beauty, and modern amenities.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Discover Hamilton's History and Art

  • Stay at the gorgeous and historic Sheraton Hamilton Hotel in the heart of downtown.
  • Start your tour of Hamilton's history at Dundurn Castle, the former residence of Sir Allan MacNab, one of Canada's first prime ministers.
  • Visit the Art Gallery of Hamilton, known for its collection of Canadian contemporary and historical art.
  • Check out the Hamilton Museum of Steam and Technology, where you can learn about Hamilton's industrial heritage.
  • End your day with a delicious meal at Earth to Table: Bread Bar, an organic restaurant that sources its ingredients from local farmers.
Day 2

Nature and Adventure in Hamilton

  • Start your day by taking a hike at Dundas Valley Conservation Area, which offers breathtaking views of the Niagara Escarpment.
  • Take a scenic drive to the Royal Botanical Gardens, one of Canada's largest botanical gardens with over 2,700 acres of gardens and nature reserves.
  • For adrenaline junkies, check out Wild Waterworks, Ontario's best water park that offers thrilling water slides and a relaxing lazy river.
  • Take a stroll along the Hamilton Waterfront Trail and enjoy the stunning views of Lake Ontario.
  • End your stay by having a romantic dinner at The Harbour Diner, a cozy spot located on the Hamilton Harbour, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and waterfront views.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Hamilton, Canada by plane is to fly into John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport, which is located 11 km southwest of the city center. There are several airlines that offer direct flights to Hamilton from major cities in North America, such as Air Canada, WestJet, and Flair Airlines.

Car

If you are planning to drive to Hamilton, Canada, there are several major highways that run through the city, including the QEW and the 403. Depending on your starting location, you can take one of these highways to reach Hamilton. It's also worth noting that there are several parking garages and lots in the city center where you can park your car.

Train

Unfortunately, there are no direct trains that run to Hamilton, Canada. The closest train station is the Aldershot GO Station, which is located in Burlington, approximately 9 km east of Hamilton. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to get to Hamilton.

Boat

Although there are no direct boat services to Hamilton, Canada, the city is located on the western end of Lake Ontario, which makes it accessible by boat. If you have your own boat, you can dock at one of the marinas in Hamilton, such as the Bay City Marina or the Macassa Bay Yacht Club. Alternatively, there are several boat tours and charters that operate in the area and offer sightseeing trips around Lake Ontario.

Bus

One of the easiest and most affordable ways to get to Hamilton, Canada is by bus. Greyhound and Megabus offer daily bus services to Hamilton from Toronto, Montreal, and other major cities in Canada. The bus station in Hamilton is located in the city center, making it a convenient option for travelers.

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