West Hamilton is home to well-established neighbourhoods that sprang up for their proximity to downtown and to McMaster University. Picture tree-lined streets, plenty of independent businesses, and lots of green space.

Some top attractions here include Canada's largest botanical gardens Royal Botanical Gardens and Hamilton's iconic Dundurn Castle.

Also here is historic Westdale Village packed with eateries and independent shops, and steps from the stunning nature trails and shoreline of Cootes Paradise.

Eat

RESTAURANTS

Bean Bar

No shortage of options here with pizzas, pastas, pub favorites, and burgers, just make sure to save room for dessert. Their cake selection alone is epic!

Delirious Burger

These smash-style patties highlight the meat as the main ingredient in these delicious and flavourful burgers.

Chung Chun

These popular Korean-style hot dogs are deep-fried and then covered in toppings like diced potatoes, bread crumbs, and crushed ramen.

Valentino's Restaurant

Serving up Italian dishes for over 40 years, pizza, pasta, and gelato are fan favourites on the menu.

Nannaa

This Persian eatery offers authentic dishes for a mouthwatering and unforgettable dining experience.

The Coop Wicked Chicken

Enjoy deliciously wicked chicken with a side of '80s and '90s nostalgia at this cool eatery.

The Burnt Tounge

This iconic soup bar features rotating menus of fresh house-made soup, salads, and delicious sides like grilled cheese and fries.

Aberdeen Tavern

Step into a beautiful transformed bank and experience comfort food like no other at this must-try restaurant.

COFFEESHOPS & TREATS

Paisley Coffeehouse & Eatery

Enjoy organic free-trade coffee with a side of homemade baked goods at this eclectic coffeehouse.

Phin Coffee Bar

Step into the cutest coffee bar serving up everything from your favourite latte to deliciously flavoured iced coffee.

Mikel Coffee

Experience a taste of Greece at this coffee shop in the heart of Westdale serving up freshly brewed coffee, baked goods, and sandwiches.

Weil's Bakery

With everything from cupcakes, donuts, cream puffs, and cinnamon buns, sweets lovers can't go wrong at this local favourite.

Walker's Chocolate

With more than 50 types of different chocolates and candies, including truffles, caramel corn, or their famous mint meltaways, it might be hard to pick just one.

Ark & Anchor

Escape your routine and enjoy delicious coffee and tea beverages or healthy food options at this espresso bar.

BREWERIES

Fairweather Brewing

You can sip on flavourful pints of beer in this craft brewery whether you hang in their revitalized warehouse or cool patio.

Grain & Grit

Sip your way through uniquely craft brews, check out on their patio, or make it out to a fun event.

SEE & DO

ATTRACTIONS

Royal Botanical Gardens

Spend a day strolling through the world's largest lilac collection, explore beautiful gardens or head to an event at the restored Rock Garden at Canada's largest botanical gardens.

The Westdale

Check out an independent film, art exhibition, or performance at the beautifully restored historic Westdale Cinema.

Dundurn Castle

Explore one of the city’s most iconic attractions and tour the historic home, roam through the kitchen garden, or take in the beautiful views of the bay.

McMaster Museum of Art

You can immerse yourself in the arts at this campus gallery, showcasing everything from American and Indigenous works to Asian and Canadian pieces.

OUTDOOR

Hiking Trails
There are plenty of trails to explore in this neck of the woods, including Cootes Paradise Trails which winds through a vast RBG wildlife sanctuary, and Sassafras Trail.

Cycling
Explore the area on two wheels and pedal through forest trails, waterfront paths, and urban routes, along the Hamilton-Brantford Rail Trail.

STREET ART


Harmony: It's hard to miss the vibrant strokes of pink, purple, and blue of this piece on the corner of Queen Street Southand Charlton Avenue, expressing how animals, humans, and nature can co-exist within the urban landscape of the city.

Check out the bright reds, yellows, and blues of this eye-catching bird piece on Dundurn Street North by artist birdO.

Inspired by the housing crisis, this breathtaking piece by local artist Kyle Joedicke in Churchill Park encourages us to not turn a blind eye and remember there is a story behind every person you may pass on the street.

Check out our Guide to Hamilton Street Art for where to find art pieces throughout the city.

SHOP

Mixed Media

The "corner store of art" has everything you need to fuel your creativity from art supplies to frames, and an amazing selection of books and unique cards.

King West Books

Roam through this inviting bookstore with friendly staff that has everything from the classics to children's books.

The Casual Gourmet

With cooking classes for kids and adults as well as an impressive selection of kitchen staples, this is a must-stop for foodies of all ages.

Dundurn Market

Grab a coffee, pick up some local produce, or wander through the craft brew selection at this hip and cool local market.

Visit Westdale Village for more shopping and food destinations.

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