The Best Things to Do in Hamilton this Summer

Steeltown, The Hammer, and City of Waterfalls are just a few nicknames given to Hamilton, Ontario. Just a short GO Transit ride from Toronto, why not discover your Hamilton this summer without breaking the bank?

Hamilton offers a lively atmosphere for creating unforgettable summer memories while embracing local culture. Celebrate Canadian spirit by exploring unique shops and artisan markets that support local artists. Enjoy vibrant festivals showcasing music, art, and delicious cuisine, highlighting the talents of this dynamic, diverse community along the shores of Lake Ontario.

Take GO Transit to Hamilton

Skip the stress with a relaxing ride into downtown Hamilton with GO Transit. Instead, your day can begin with free music, eBooks, videos, and more on the GO Wi-Fi Plus entertainment portal alongside the views of Lake Ontario outside your window as you zoom past traffic into either Hamilton GO Centre or West Harbour GO.

Relax your wallet while you ride with a One-Day Weekend Pass for just $10 on a Saturday or Sunday (or statutory holiday) journey or Weekday Group Passes starting at just $30 if you plan a midweek day trip with friends or family. 

Kids 12 and under always ride free on GO Transit. You can also sign up for Kids on the GO to get news and insider ideas to make each trip an exciting family adventure, and you'll never miss out on the latest PRESTO Perks discounts for the whole family. 

Summer fun in Hamilton

Roller Skating at Pier 8 

Enjoy a fun-filled summer day at Pier 8 while kicking it old-school roller skating! This scenic waterfront location offers stunning views of Lake Ontario, making it an ideal spot for skating enthusiasts of all ages.

Easily accessible via GO Transit, the nearest station is West Harbour GO, so getting there is a breeze. Roller skating is a great way to stay active, soak up the sun, and meet new friends. After some laps around the rink, take a break to enjoy snacks from nearby vendors. Grab your skates and get ready for a blast from the past at Pier 8!

Waterfront Trolley

We hope you're not tired of the train yet! Experience the fun of summer aboard the historic Waterfront Trolley! This charming ride takes you along Hamilton's scenic waterfront, stopping at popular spots like Pier 8 and the arts district. Enjoy beautiful views of Lake Ontario while hopping on and off at various attractions, from dining to outdoor activities.

With West Harbour GO as the closest transit stop, it's an easy and delightful way to explore the city, make the most of your summer adventures, and explore all Hamilton has to offer!

Copps Pier Park  

A visit to Copps Pier Park is a must during the summer in Hamilton. It offers a fantastic blend of relaxation and recreation right along the waterfront. Conveniently located near the West Harbour GO station, it's easy to access using GO Transit.

The park features ample green space for picnicking, lounging, or playing outdoor games while enjoying stunning Lake Ontario views. Whether taking a stroll, cycling or jogging along the scenic pathways, it's the perfect spot to soak up the sun and fresh air.

With nearby food vendors, you can grab a snack and relax with friends and family. Copps Pier Park is an excellent summer outing, allowing you to experience Hamilton's vibrant community and natural beauty while beating the city's stress.

HMCS Haida National Historic Site 

Dive into maritime history at HMCS Haida, a historic naval destroyer docked along Hamilton's waterfront. Open for the season starting in May, this iconic ship offers visitors a rare opportunity to step inside the hull of a former Royal Canadian Navy warship and learn about its storied military past. Exploring the decks and various compartments, you'll gain insights into life aboard during its operational years. It is a fascinating experience for all ages, including youth 17 and under, who enter for free for fun events and activations on the ship this summer.

West Harbour GO is the closest GO Transit station, making visiting the HMCS Haida a breeze. Plus, with PRESTO Perks, you can save 20% on guided walking tours of the HMCS Haida, enhancing your adventure with informative insights from staff. The HMCS Haida is an experience that combines education and exploration with this unique floating museum. Support Canadian military history while appreciating its importance in Hamilton!

Hamilton Art Crawl 

On the second Friday of each month, the Hamilton Art Crawl transforms the downtown core into a vibrant celebration of creativity and artistic expression. This lively car-free event offers a unique glimpse into the hipster side of the city, attracting a diverse crowd of creative young people who are leaving Toronto for Hamilton's burgeoning art scene. Stroll along the streets lined with art galleries, studios, and pop-up exhibitions showcasing the works of local artists.

Even on those rainy days, the Art Crawl is still a fantastic outing. Along the route, you'll find an array of tents and street vendors, providing a mix of art, food, and entertainment. This eclectic atmosphere makes exploring the city's creative pulse easy while sampling delicious treats and engaging with artists. The Hamilton Art Crawl is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the local culture and discover the talent that defines this dynamic community.

Dine at some of Hamilton's Best Restaurants

After a day of exploring Hamilton's parks, museums, and waterfront, finding a cool place to relax is essential. Restaurant Row on King William Street is a vibrant destination with diverse eateries ranging from cozy cafes to upscale dining. Indulge in everything from gourmet burgers to traditional Italian dishes on inviting outdoor patios to soak up all that summer has to offer.

A short walk away, St. James Street North offers a variety of local gems featuring fresh, farm-to-table cuisine. Whether you are craving brunch or an intimate dinner, this area provides plenty of delicious options. Both Restaurant Row and St. James Street North truly enhance Hamilton's culinary scene, making them perfect spots to unwind and recharge after a day of adventure. Check out these guides for some of the best restaurants and patios in the city.

Sports in Hamilton

Hamilton Tiger Cats 

No summer in Hamilton is complete without experiencing the electrifying atmosphere of a Hamilton Tiger-Cats football game at Hamilton Stadium! This iconic venue is home to the city's beloved Canadian Football (CFL) team and offers a thrilling blend of sports and community spirit. The closest GO Transit station to Hamilton Stadium is Hamilton GO Centre, making it easy to get to and from the game without the hassle of driving and parking.

With Lakeshore West trains operating all day, attending a game is a fantastic option for an evening out. You can enjoy a delicious dinner or refreshing drinks at one of the many nearby restaurants before heading to the field to cheer on the Tiger-Cats. Even if you aren't a fan, the excitement of a live match and the vibrant pre-game atmosphere is unlike anything before.

Save on your game experience with PRESTO Perks! You can receive a 20% discount on tickets to home games by purchasing your tickets using the promo code. It's a great way to enjoy the game while keeping your budget in check. So, gather your friends or family and make a night of it while cheering on the Tiger-Cats!

Forge FC

Hamilton has been excitedly buzzing since the arrival of Forge FC, the city's professional soccer team. As founding members of  the Canadian Premier League (CPL), Forge FC has quickly captured the hearts of local sports fans, igniting a soccer fever that sweeps across the city. The energy at Hamilton Stadium during match days is electric, with fans clad in the team's colours coming together to cheer on their players.

Attending a Forge FC game offers a thrilling, communal experience showcasing Hamilton's passion and spirit. Get 33% off home game tickets with PRESTO Perks. With Hamilton GO Centre station being the closest GO Transit station, it's easy for fans to travel to and from games without any hassle. Grab your friends and family, bang the drum, and join in on the fun as you cheer on Forge FC to victory!

Looking to grab a bite before the game? Check out some places to eat around Hamilton Stadium.

There's so much to discover in Hamilton! With reliable service on the Lakeshore West Line and bus connections throughout Southern Ontario, exploring the vibrant city has never been easier. This summer, not only can you experience all that Hamilton has to offer, but you can also support Canadian travel while saving money on your trip. With countless events bringing you to the city and the affordability of GO Transit, why go south when you can stay in Canada? In Hamilton, you can create unforgettable memories without breaking the bank. So, do you think you can do it all in the summer? GO Transit is here to make it happen!

Must attend events in Hamilton

It's Your Festival 

Dates: June 28, 29, 30, July 1, 2025

Location: Gage Park

Don't miss the "It's Your Festival" celebration this summer. This vibrant discovery of Hamilton's diverse culture is held yearly at Gage Park. The event features live music, dance performances, delicious food from around the world, and local artisan vendors, creating a lively atmosphere perfect for all ages.

To make the most of your festival experience, take GO Transit! Enjoy a stress-free ride directly to downtown Hamilton, with the Hamilton GO Centre station just a short walk from the festival. Affordable fares like the One-Day Weekend Pass make it easy to bring the whole family—kids ride free on GO Transit!  

Because Beer Festival  

Dates: July 11-12, 2025

Location: Pier 4 Park

Summer is not complete without a cold beer. Don't miss the Because Beer Festival in Hamilton, where beer enthusiasts can enjoy craft brews, delicious food trucks, and live entertainment! Sample local beers while soaking up the vibrant atmosphere.

Getting there is easy with GO Transit when you travel to West Harbour GO station in Hamilton! Skip the hassle of parking and travel stress-free with a One-Day Weekend Pass. You can arrive relaxed and ready to have fun with stations near the festival venue. Gather your friends and make the most of your summer at the Because Beer Festival—cheers to great memories!

For more details and other upcoming events, check out the event calendar.

Get onboard!   

There's so much to discover in Hamilton! With reliable service on the Lakeshore West Line and bus connections throughout Southern Ontario, exploring the vibrant city has never been easier. This summer, not only can you experience all that Hamilton has to offer, but you can also support Canadian travel while saving money on your trip. With countless events bringing you to the city and the affordability of GO Transit, why go south when you can stay in Canada? In Hamilton, you can create unforgettable memories without breaking the bank. So, do you think you can do it all in the summer? GO Transit is here to make it happen!