Hamilton’s sports roots run deep.
The city is home to legendary teams like the Hamilton Tiger-Cats football, Forge FC soccer, and Hamilton Cardinals baseball. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just looking for an action-packed day, our guide will help you plan the ultimate game day in Hamilton with everything to do, see, and eat before and after the big game.
Hamilton Tiger-Cats
Football in Hamilton is more than a game – it’s a tradition. Tiger-Cats game days are an iconic Hamilton experience with fans sporting black and gold, “Oskee Wee Wee” chants in the air, and urban tailgates lining the sidewalks on the way to the stadium. With 9 regular season home games, including the iconic Labour Day Classic against historic rivals Toronto Argonauts, there are plenty of chances to cheer on the Cats.
In the heart of East Hamilton, Hamilton Stadium has been home to the Tiger-Cats since 1950. Once known as the legendary Ivor Wynne Stadium, it went through a major rebuild in 2014 and has been a staple in the community ever since.
Here’s how to make the most of a Tiger-Cats game day:
What To Do Before the Game:
- West Harbour is the perfect place to kick-start your day, stretch your legs, and enjoy some scenic views.
- The Tiger-Cat Game Day Experience is something you don’t want to miss, so make sure to get to the stadium early.
Where to Eat & Drink:
- The Cannon serves a great cup of coffee and sweet treats to keep the energy high all day.
- Shorty’s Pizza is a must visit for any pizza lover looking for an iconic Hamilton slice.
- Hotties Smashburgers is a go-to on gameday for delicious handcrafted smash burgers packed full of flavour.
- Collective Arts is a favourite among locals for its craft beer, huge outdoor beer garden and tasty bites.
- The End Zone Bar & Grill is the place to be for anyone looking for an authentic Hamilton tailgate vibe, game day food, and a few “Oskee Wee Wee” chants.
Post-Game Fun:
- Bernie’s Tavern is sure to be filled with fans looking for post-game bites, a few pints, and a great atmosphere.
- Easy Tiger is a cool snack bar serving beer, wine, and cocktails for the perfect end to the day.
- Capitol Bar is a neighbourhood staple with curated cocktails, extensive spirit list, craft beers, and homemade dishes.
Forge FC
Forge FC is Hamilton's professional soccer team, competing in the Canadian Premier League. Since the league’s inception in 2019, the team has quickly become a dominant force. Forge FC has captured four impressive CPL championships and built a reputation for its relentless drive and passionate fan base, most notably the Barton St. Battalion.
Nestled in the heart of Hamilton’s Stipley neighbourhood, home games at Hamilton Stadium are full of energy, making them the perfect way to enjoy top-tier Canadian soccer.
Here’s how to make the most of Forge FC game day:
What To Do Before the Game:
- Confederation Beach Park is a great way to start your day, strolling along the waterfront trail.
- Ottawa Street is lined with shops, antiques, and restaurants to explore.
Where to Eat & Drink:
- Hutch’s on the Beach is a Hamilton classic, serving delicious fish and chips with a waterfront view.
- Wingporium is a must stop for great wings and even better game day vibe.
- Mai Pai brings fun and flavour together in this tropical tiki bar serving delicious Detroit style pizza.
- Tall Tree Sandwich is a favourite among locals, serving freshly made artisan sandwiches.
- Hambrgr is famous for its mouthwatering burgers and out-of-this-world milkshakes.
Post-Game Fun:
- Mosaic Neighbourhood Bar has all the craft beer and cocktails you need to cheers to a great day.
- Wildcat Tavern serves up tasty craft beers, house-made cocktails, and nostalgic vibes.
- Nanny & Bulls is a cozy cocktail bar with cold drinks, good tunes, and great people.
Hamilton Cardinals
The Hamilton Cardinals is the city’s Intercountry Baseball League team, offering fans a mix of competitive baseball action and a fun family-friendly atmosphere. Located on the Hamilton Mountain, Bernie Arbour Stadium has been home field to the Hamilton Cardinals since 1971. Nothing beats a summer day spent at the ballpark and it’s the perfect way to enjoy live sports in the city.
Here’s how to make the most of Hamilton Cardinals game day:
What to Do Before the Game
- Adventure Village is a fun place to warm up for game day with mini-golf, rock climbing, and of course a batting cage.
- Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum is a must-visit if you have an aviation lover in the group, with close to 50 aircraft on display, including the Avro Lancaster.
- Sam Lawrence Park is the perfect spot to explore before the game with panoramic views of the city and some of the best green space on the mountain.
Where to Eat & Drink
- Townhall Social Eatery is a cool food court inspired eatery with something for everyone, including The Dirty South, The Taproom, The Parlour, and Incline Coffee.
- Mountain Burger is the perfect spot to fuel up before the game with freshly made burgers that are packed with big flavour.
- Chicago Style Pizza is a Hamilton icon with its thin, thick, and stuffed pizza.
- Lemon and Ice serves healthy take-away food full of flavour to keep your energy high throughout the day.
Post Game Fun
- Clifford Brewing serves up tasty craft brews in a laid-back atmosphere where you can kick back after a great day.