Summer Shortcuts
Hello summer! From jaw-dropping waterfalls to blockbuster festivals, our guide is packed with close-to-home adventures and things to do in Hamilton this summer.
Let us show you where to look for the best of the city this summer.
See & Do
Outdoor adventure, blockbuster events, and world-class attractions are waiting for you this summer.
Outdoor Summer Adventure
We love to surprise visitors with our stunning nature.
- Chase these breathtaking waterfalls across the city with our Waterfall Guide.
- Hike your heart out along the forest and waterfront trails using our Hiking Guide.
- Check out our Cycling Guide to see the best of the city on two wheels.
- Get back to the land with these agricultural experiences.
Top Summer Attractions
Add some wow to your visit at these world-class attractions and explore our vibrant neighourhoods.
- Come see Royal Botanical Gardens, in full bloom with a side of unforgettable summer events.
- Sky’s the limit to the fun you can have at Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum.
- Explore like a local with our neighbourhood guides.
- Take a self-guided tour of the city's best street art.
Summer Festivals and Events
Mark your calendar for these must-visit summer events.
- Sporting Events: Cheer on our hometown Hamilton Tiger-Cats and Forge FC.
- Farm Crawl: Experience life on the farm and discover these rural destinations.
- Art Crawl: On the second Friday of every month hit up James Street North for a friendly, late night block party.
- Lucky Lion Night Market: Experience a culinary adventure this summer at Bayfront Park.
- Supercrawl: Come experience Hamilton's biggest outdoor music and arts festival!
- Music in the Garden: Enjoy a night of music under the stars at Royal Botanical Gardens.
- Event Calendar: Stay up to date with all the top summer events happening during your visit.
- Boots in the Creek: Get your boots on this two-day country music festival.
- Peach Festival: Don’t miss this iconic summer festival complete with their famous peach sundaes.
Play – Summer Family Fun
Release your wild child with these kid-approved experiences, guaranteed to banish summer boredom.
- Slide into some serious fun at Wild Waterworks on the shores of Lake Ontario.
- Travel through a canopy of trees on ziplines and bridges at Treetop Trekking.
- At African Lion Safari you can get closer than you ever imagined possible to over 1,000 exotic animals.
- Hamilton’s West Harbour has hours of fun with a rollerskating rink, HMCS Haida, Theodore Tugboat, and Pirate Life theatre.
- Soak up summer at Hamilton’s fun-packed beachfront and sandy beaches.
Eat – Food & Drink
Fuel your perfect summer getaway with these delicious food and drink ideas.
- Use our Patio Guide to book your table at one of these destination patios.
- Plan a perfect park hang along with great picnic food nearby.
- Raise a glass at these thirst-quenching go-to’s for locally crafted beer, wine and ciders.
- You’ll find something to satisfy even the pickiest eater with our guide to kid approved eateries.
- Eating on a budget when visiting Hamilton is easy – and delicious – when you know where to go.
Bonus Planning Tips
Make your getaway extra perfect with these insider tips.
- Plan your route, including how to skip the pump with all-day GO Train service into Hamilton.
- Once you’re here, explore on two wheels by renting a SoBi Bike or e-Scooter.
- Use our Accommodations Guide to find the perfect place to spend the night.