Located on Lake Ontario's western shore, this industrial city has transformed its waterfront with parks and trails. Home to McMaster University and over 100 waterfalls.
Hamilton, a city in Ontario, Canada, sits on the western shore of Lake Ontario. You can walk among more than 100 waterfalls, learn about aviation history at the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum, hike along the Bruce Trail, or explore the art galleries on James Street North. The city's unique geography, split by the Niagara Escarpment, creates distinct upper and lower urban areas.
Hamilton's Position on Lake Ontario
Hamilton is located about 70 kilometers southwest of Toronto, at the western end of Lake Ontario. The Niagara Escarpment, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, runs through the middle of the urban area. This geological feature divides the city into two parts: the area below the escarpment ("lower city") and the area above it ("mountain").
From Steel to Diverse Industries
Hamilton was once known for its steel production and called the "Steel Capital of Canada." While steel manufacturing continues, the city's economy has expanded into other sectors. Healthcare, education, and research now form key parts of Hamilton's economic landscape. McMaster University and its research facilities contribute to this shift. The Port of Hamilton, the largest on the Canadian Great Lakes, supports various industries through shipping and logistics.
Waterfalls and Green Spaces
You can find more than 100 waterfalls within Hamilton's boundaries. Popular ones include Webster's Falls, Tews Falls, and Albion Falls. The Bruce Trail, which follows the Niagara Escarpment, provides access to many of these natural features. In neighboring Burlington, you can visit the Royal Botanical Gardens, which houses large plant collections and natural lands.
Museums and Historical Sites
Hamilton has several cultural institutions. At the Art Gallery of Hamilton, founded in 1914, you can view over 10,000 artworks. The Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum displays many historic aircraft, including one of only two airworthy Avro Lancaster bombers in the world. Dundurn Castle, a neoclassical mansion from the 1830s, is furnished to represent life in 19th-century Upper Canada.
Culinary Experiences in Hamilton
Hamilton's restaurants reflect its population's varied backgrounds, offering many types of cuisines. James Street North and Locke Street are centers for dining, with many independent establishments. The Hamilton Farmers' Market, operating since 1837, is open year-round. Here, you can buy local produce and artisanal foods directly from farmers and food producers.
