Hamilton City Guide

Food is diverse, with Canadian classics like poutine and many international options (Italian, Vietnamese, Mexican). Many spots cater well to vegetarians and vegans. Late-night choices drop after 11 PM.

Nightlife centers on James Street North, Augusta Street, and Locke Street. You’ll find craft breweries, pubs, live music, and clubs.

More than 50 independent cafes thrive here with third-wave coffee culture. Local roasters supply many shops. Community-focused scene.

Tipping is common and expected in most services. Restaurants: 15-20%, taxis: 10-15%, personal services: 15-20%. Small tips or rounding up at coffee shops is optional.

Buy SIM cards at Rogers, Bell, Telus, Freedom Mobile stores at the airport or malls. Rogers, Bell, and Telus offer best coverage and speed; Freedom Mobile is cheaper in the city. eSIMs are available. You need valid ID to activate.

Streets are generally clean, with regular waste and recycling services. Few sanitation issues.

Some pharmacies and convenience stores operate 24/7. Emergency rooms open all the time but few night clinics. Late-night food mostly fast food.

Supermarkets like Fortinos, Metro, Sobeys, and No Frills are common and open till 9 or 10 PM. Hamilton Farmers’ Market offers local produce. Stores are open Sundays and holidays but may close earlier. Bargaining is not done.

Credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere. Cash is rarely needed but useful for small purchases or some vendors.

ATMs are common at banks like RBC, TD, and Scotiabank, plus grocery and convenience stores. Non-bank ATM fees can be $1.50 to $3.00 per use.

Hamilton-Wentworth District and Catholic School Boards run most schools. Instruction is mainly in English. Contact schools for admission details.

Nomad community is small but growing. Some coworking spaces and tech meetups exist. Good cafes and innovation hubs support remote work.

Excellent parks like Gage and Bayfront plus trails along the Niagara Escarpment. Plenty of shaded walking and running options.

Popular routes include Bayfront Park and trails along the Escarpment. Safe in populated areas with local running clubs and annual races.

Gyms include large chains and specialized studios like climbing and CrossFit.

Many public courts in parks, mostly hard surfaces. Private clubs and coaching available.

Padel is not common in Hamilton.

Many studios offer various yoga styles with drop-in and memberships. All instructors speak English.

Numerous schools offer BJJ, Muay Thai, Boxing, Karate, Taekwondo, and Judo. Classes for all levels with English-speaking instructors.

Ski resorts like Glen Eden are about 30-40 minutes away. Season runs late December to March with rentals available. Terrain fits all levels.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing are possible on Lake Ontario and local lakes. Rentals and guided tours are available seasonally.

Surfing on Lake Ontario is rare and inconsistent, mostly during strong wind events in fall and winter.

Limited freshwater wreck diving in Lake Ontario. Water clarity varies, mainly for experienced divers.

Hamilton Health Sciences hospitals and clinics have English-speaking staff. Public and private care quality is good. Pharmacies like Shoppers Drug Mart are common. Emergency number is 911.

Tap water is safe to drink and meets all provincial standards.

Many playgrounds in parks like Gage and Bayfront. Kid-friendly cafés and baby supplies are easy to find. Attractions include Children’s Discovery Centre and Royal Botanical Gardens.

Hamilton is generally accepting with community groups, inclusive venues, and annual Pride events. Legal protections are strong.

Many parks allow leashed dogs; off-leash dog parks are common. Pet services, vets, and supply stores are widely available. A decent pet-friendly city.