There’s a port city west of Ontario in Canada known as Hamilton, also called “The City of Waterfalls.” Niagara Escarpment divides the city and it’s full of conservation areas and of course, waterfalls. Other attractions in Hamilton include museums that will educate you on Canada’s history, gardens that are the largest in the world, and amazing Safari parks. Make time to visit each one by staying among the various accommodation options available in Hamilton. These include RV rentals and Airbnb vacation rentals. Ready to explore Hamilton? Here are the best things to do in Hamilton, Canada.
1. African Lion Safari
This is a family-owned park with over 1,000 exotic birds and 100 species of animals. They have cheetahs, lions, giraffes, zebra, ostrich, kangaroo, and other animals! You can also watch beautiful elephants swimming in the lake. They are really cute. There are walking areas for guests as well us tour buses. This place is perfect for your family!
African Lion Safari
Address: 1386 Cooper Rd, Cambridge, ON N1R 5S2, Canada
Website: African Lion Safari
2. Dundurn Castle
Of the many historic places for sightseeing in Hamilton, Dundurn Castle is definitely at the top of the list. There are 40 well-decorated rooms inside this castle, and a produce garden with lots of vegetables, herbs, and fruits. The castle boasts an Italian-style villa, renovated about 50 years ago. This castle included a zoo before it was turned into a museum in the 1900s. Originally built in the 1830s; an old castle full of memories from the past. You will be impressed with how they have preserved its condition.
Dundurn Castle
Address: 610 York Blvd, Hamilton, ON L8R 3E7, Canada
Website: Dundurn National Historic Site
3. Treetop Trekking Hamilton
This amusement park is the perfect place to get your little ones out in the lap of nature. While the main aerial park is closed during the winter, the kids will have a blast traveling from one treehouse to the other along wood bridges and net walkaways.
The park also offers various activities for all ages, where you can zipline, treetop trekking, and more. For thrill-seekers, opt for the night trek, where you can discover the treetops with only a headlamp!
Sign up for the forest bathing program if you are here to escape the daily grind temporarily. A Forest Therapy Guide will lead you through a series of activities to help you relieve stress and balance your mood.
Treetop Trekking Hamilton
Address: 5050 Harrison Rd, Binbrook, ON L0R 1C0, Canada
Website: Treetop Trekking Hamilton
Opening hours: Fri: 11am - 2pm; Sat - Sun: 10am - 4pm (closed on Mon, Tue, Wed & Thu)
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4. The North Fork
Located in a prime location, The North Fork teams up with local farmers, craft breweries, and Niagara wineries to produce the most delectable spreads and drinks that make the tourists feel local.
The bruschetta served here is a must-try. Made from locally sourced fresh baguette, tomatoes, and spices marinated in Woolwich goat cheese, it will make you want to come back for more. The fish and chips and the creamy chicken penne also serve as some must-haves here. For dessert, opt for the chocolate brownies or the New york-style cheesecake, which makes for a perfect pairing with freshly brewed coffee.
The North Fork
Address: 215 King St E, Hamilton, ON L8N 1B6, Canada
Website: The North Fork
Opening hours: Mon: 6pm - 9pm; Tue - Thu: 4pm - 10pm; Fri: 3pm - 11pm; Sat: 3pm - 8pm (closed on Sun)
5. Six-hour VIP supercar experience (from USD 622.0)
If driving a supercar worth millions of dollars for hours on end is included in your bucket list, then you should check out this activity.
When you book this excursion, you’ll first have performance, handling, and safety training from a professional instructor. Then, you’ll get to choose from the selection of Ferrari, Audi, Lamborghini, Audi, Tesla, or Nissan cars and drive your selected vehicle along the back roads of Niagara’s wine country. If you want to try the other choices, you’re free to do so — in fact, you’re allowed to pick up to five vehicles to drive.
After long hours of driving, head to Keg Steakhouse and Bar in Hamilton, where you’ll be served lunch at no extra charge.
6 HR VIP Supercar Experience including Lunch
Duration 6 hours 30 minutes
6. Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum
Entertain yourself with Canada’s military history by visiting this heritage museum which is one of the best places to visit in Hamilton. You will be awed by the 40 aircraft now available for public viewing. Some of these planes are still being restored though, but a good number are available for viewing. These are the airplanes used during World War II, and it includes the Avro Lancaster. You’ll also find other interesting artifacts that will remind you of Canada’s war history. Take your grandfather and your kids with you. The old guys will appreciate this place, and the kids will enjoy the free Flight Simulation that will allow them to control an easy flight for about 10 minutes. This place should be the first on your list.
Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum
Address: 9280 Airport Rd, Mount Hope, ON L0R 1W0, Canada
Website: Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum
7. Tews Falls
Tews Falls is Hamilton’s version of Niagara Falls. It’s the tallest waterfall – about 41 meters (135 feet). Best to visit Tews in the spring; it can dry up in the summer months. T
Tews Falls is located near Dundurn and it’s also near Hermitage Ruins and the Hamilton Farmer’s Market. So, while you put up your feet with your fur babies in one of the pet-friendly hotels in Hamilton, you can also visit this stunning waterscape with your pet and have a memorable time.
Tews Falls
Address: Harvest Rd, Dundas, ON L9H 5K7, Canada
8. Bayfront Park
You can’t imagine how an industrial site can turn into a beautiful recreational area. This used to be a landfill before it was converted to Bayfront Park. They planted more trees to enhance it and created a fish habitat. Now it’s a beautiful park perfect for families. This tourist attraction in Hamilton was opened in 1993 and has received many awards.
Bayfront Park
Address: 200 Harbour Front Dr, Hamilton, ON L8L 1C8, Canada
9. HMCS Haida National Historic Site
The famous warship, the last of the tribal class, has served in the WWII and the Cold War. It was built in 1942 for the Royal Canadian Navy and was converted to a destroyer in 1952. It was then decommissioned in 1963. And 15 years ago, it was finally opened for public viewing. Now you can get a chance to explore this legendary ship while imagining the scenes of the war. You get to see the officers’ cabins and the historic decks. Also, listen intently to the veterans who will serve as your volunteer guides. They will give you a better picture about what really happened in the war. They’re a lot better than the history books as they had first-hand accounts of the war.
Haida National Historic Site
Address: Pier 9, 658 Catharine St N, Hamilton, ON L8L 8K4, Canada
Website: Haida National Historic Site
10. Royal Botanical Gardens
One of the largest gardens in the world and in Canada, it aims to bring plants, nature and people together. The Royal Botanical Gardens has a collection of over 40,000 plants displayed in different exhibition gardens. They include Hendrie Park, Rock Garden, Arboretum, RBG Centre, and Laking Garden. These areas are open all-year except Rock Garden and Laking Garden. The best time to visit is during the springtime and fall. The plants are remarkably beautiful during these two seasons.
Royal Botanical Gardens
Address: 680 Plains Rd W, Burlington, ON L7T 4H4, Canada
Website: Royal Botanical Gardens
11. Art Gallery of Hamilton
This is the 3rd largest gallery in the country and it has a collection of over 10,000 artworks. The Art Gallery of Hamilton features different exhibits every six months, and have programs for families and kids. Examples are summer workshops and the Summer Family Fun Holiday. And of course, they offer art classes too. If you want to visit them, do it on the first Friday of every month. They offer free admission in the Gallery on level 1.
Art Gallery of Hamilton
Address: 123 King St W, Hamilton, ON L8P 4S8, Canada
Website: Art Gallery of Hamilton
12. Devil's Punchbowl Falls
One of Niagara Escarpment’s beautiful sites has two waterfalls, the lower falls and the upper falls. It’s called The Devil’s Punchbowl. The Silurian rock is also found here, and if you’re taking the trail through Stoney Creek, you would have to start at this location. The falls look stunning and extraordinary. It’s definitely a must-visit if you’re looking for interesting things to do!
Devil's Punchbowl Falls
Address: Ridge Rd, Stoney Creek, ON L8J2X4, Canada
Website: Devil’s Punchbowl Falls
13. Spencer Gorge Conservation Area
This tiered waterfall also called Webster Falls is one of the most beautiful places in Ontario. Its geological formations are one reason why you need to visit this place. It will never disappoint you. It’s best to take a hike from here to Dundas Peak to give you a spectacular view of the city of Hamilton. Tews Falls is nearby but there’s no hiking trail to get there. You would need to take a shuttle.
Spencer Gorge Conservation Area
Address: 367 Highway 5 West, Dundas
Website: Spencer Gorge Conservation Area
14. Sam Lawrence Park For Stunning City And Ocean Views
The Sam Lawrence Park sits on the high ground overlooking Hamilton and the coast. The attractive park is easily accessible as it’s only a short drive from downtown. Parking is free, but if you don’t have a car, public transport is available to get to the destination. The park has winding paths, trails, rock gardens, and walkways. Benches are provided to sit and relax on and on clear days you may even see Toronto in the distance. The profusion of flowers in summer provides a fairyland setting with photo opportunities all around. The lush gardens make for a cool spot as you meander around. Interpretation signs help you to understand the history and the geological formations in the area. A visit just before sunset will let you see the beauty of the town, harbor, and the escarpment as the last light of day bathes the town below in glorious light.
Sam Lawrence Park
Address: Address: 255 Concession Street, Hamilton, Ontario L9A 1B2, Canada
15. Whitehern Historic House And Garden Museum
Whitehern was built in the late 1840s and today it’s been preserved as a house museum. The classical Victorian home belonged to the family of Thomas McQueston and was willed to the city in 1968. The house is open to the public every day except Mondays and Civic holidays, from 12.00 pm to 4.00 pm. History buffs will have a thoroughly interesting time and there’s enough fun provided in the kids’ area to keep the family entertained for an afternoon. As it’s close to a shopping area, it’s an ideal place to visit after treating yourself to lunch. The gardens are lush and beautiful and if you don’t go inside, you can enjoy them for free. The historic site often advertises concerts where you can get all-you can-drink-tea or lemonade. Admission rates are 7 CAD (5.4 USD) for adults and 5 CAD (3.9 USD) for children aged six to 12. Family tickets are also available.
Whitehern Historic House And Garden Museum
Address: 41 Jackson Street West, Hamilton, Ontario L8P 1L3
Hamilton is worth a visit
Sometime in 2006, Hamilton was in the news as numerous TV shows and films were shot there. Today, it is still one of the few places in Canada that value art. Hamilton may be nicknamed the City of Waterfalls, yet it definitely has a lot more to offer.
Be sure to book your stay in one of the vacation rentals or hotels with pool to make your vacation more memorable. If you are one who likes the idea of accommodations with a pool, you might want to look into some stunning hotels with a hot tub in the city.