Hamilton: A Fun-Filled Long Weekend

Discover the urban adventures and natural wonders of Hamilton, Canada.

22 April 2023

Hamilton, located in Ontario, Canada, offers a distinctive blend of nature trails, breathtaking waterfalls and rich culture. Visitors can explore museums, sample delicious local cuisine, and shop at the charming farmers’ market. This city is the perfect destination for travelers looking for a mix of urban life and natural beauty.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arrival and Exploring

  • Check into the chic and modern Staybridge Suites in the heart of downtown Hamilton, with comfy beds and kitchenettes to make your stay stress-free.
  • Start your day with a quick breakfast at the trendy Cafe Oranje, which serves up delicious Dutch waffles, coffee and other drinks.
  • Walk off your breakfast by exploring the iconic Hamilton Waterfront Trail that leads to scenic parks, bridges, and breathtaking views of the lake.
  • Grab lunch at Jack & Lois, a hip gastropub with ample vegan and gluten-free options that’ll leave you more than satisfied.
  • Visit the Art Gallery of Hamilton and be mesmerized by its impressive contemporary art collection, showcasing local and international talent.
  • End your day with dinner at the charming French bistro, Nique Restaurant. Try their famous house-made charcuterie board and local craft beer.
Day 2

History and Nature

  • Start your day with breakfast from the Hamilton Farmers' Market, which offers fresh produce, baked goods and artisanal treats.
  • Head to the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum and discover Canada’s rich aviation history through interactive exhibits and a vast collection of vintage aircraft.
  • Continue to Dundas Peak, a stunning lookout point that offers sweeping views of the city, and hike the picturesque Bruce Trail.
  • Get your lunch fix at Aberdeen Tavern, a modern eatery with gastropub fare and curated wine and cocktail lists.
  • Take a stroll through the Royal Botanical Gardens it's an oasis in Hamilton’s urban jungle, housing diverse plant species from around the world.
  • End the day with dinner at Ancaster Mill, a fine dining restaurant located in a quaint 19th-century stone mill that's famous for its duck confit and local wine selection.
Day 3

Culture and Adventure

  • Fuel up for the day with a loaded breakfast sandwich from The Burnt Tongue, a cozy spot serving hearty soups, salads and sandwiches.
  • Take a guided tour of the majestic Dundurn Castle, a neoclassical villa built in the 1830s that’s rich in Hamiltonian history.
  • If you're an adrenaline junkie, take a thrilling spin around the Canadian Karting Centre, one of Canada’s top-rated karting facilities.
  • For a casual lunch, head to The Mule, a lively Mexican restaurant that'll leave you stuffed with their tasty tacos and tequila-infused cocktails.
  • If it's summer, check out the weekly “Movies in the Park” at Gage Park and snuggle with your loved ones while enjoying outdoor movie screenings.
  • Wind down the day with gourmet poutine and craft beer at the unpretentious Hammerheads Brew Pub.
Day 4

Art and Food

  • Satisfy your sweet tooth with a luxurious breakfast of artisanal crepes and pastries at Cafe Troy.
  • Pay a visit to the Hamilton Museum of Steam and Technology, an impressive industrial museum where you can learn about the city’s booming industrial past.
  • Go on the Art Crawl along James Street North, a vibrant, walkable street bursting with art galleries, artisanal boutiques and vintage shops.
  • Have lunch at the popular Mezcal Tacos & Tequila, where you can feast on authentic Mexican flavors and refreshing craft cocktails.
  • Visit the iconic HMCS Haida National Historic Site, a fascinating museum where you can tour a historic naval vessel and learn about Canada’s maritime history.
  • End the day with dinner at the acclaimed Brux House, a cozy eatery that serves inventive tapas and delicious craft beers in a charming setting.

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.

More travel plans

4 Days of Affordable Excitement in Hamilton

Hamilton, Canada is a great destination for those who are looking for budget-friendly travel options. With free attractions such as the Royal Botanical Gardens and Dundurn Castle, visitors can easily enjoy the city without breaking the bank. Additionally, Hamilton's food scene offers a variety of affordable options, including food trucks and local markets.

A Fun-Filled Weekend in Hamilton, Canada

A trip to Hamilton, Canada as a tourist can be an exciting experience filled with cultural and outdoor adventures. Visitors can explore the vibrant art scene in the city and enjoy hiking in the nearby nature reserves. Additionally, Hamilton offers a wide variety of dining options featuring local cuisine and craft breweries.

Hamilton Unleashed: 3 Days of Adventure and Art

Embark on a family-friendly trip to Hamilton, Canada, known for its vibrant arts scene and natural beauty. Explore the Royal Botanical Gardens, featuring stunning displays of flora, interactive exhibits, and a dedicated children's garden. Visit the renowned Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum, where kids can marvel at vintage aircraft and engage in interactive displays that educate about Canada's aviation history.

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Hamilton, Canada offers an ideal destination for a family-friendly trip with its plethora of exciting activities. Explore the Royal Botanical Gardens, where kids can enjoy the captivating nature trails and interactive exhibits. Discover the fascinating Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum, where youngsters can marvel at vintage aircraft and engage in hands-on experiences, making Hamilton an excellent choice for an unforgettable family adventure.