Confession time: I thought Hamilton was going to be industrial, grey, and maybe a little grumpy. I mean, they do call it the Steel City. But guess what? Hamilton is electric — in the messy, creative, totally-alive kind of way that catches you off guard and keeps you coming back.

This city is like that quiet girl in high school who turns out to be an underground DJ on weekends. Between the natural beauty, artsy vibes, and killer food scene, Hamilton had me in a chokehold from the minute I laced up my boots and hit the trails.

So let me give you the rundown on how to do HamOnt right — waterfalls, brunch, art, and all.

Start with the Waterfalls — It’s What We’re Famous For

Let’s just get this out of the way: Hamilton has over 100 waterfalls, and yes, you read that right.

They’re all tucked along the Niagara Escarpment, which cuts right through the city like some kind of prehistoric flex. Some are hidden deep in the woods, others are literally just off the road, but all of them make you feel like you’ve stepped into another world — and maybe a shampoo commercial.

My first stop was Webster’s Falls in Dundas, and I’m not being dramatic when I say I gasped. It’s massive, powerful, and surrounded by lush greenery that makes you forget you’re minutes from downtown. Just around the corner, Tew Fallsoffers a taller, more vertical drop and a little less foot traffic. It’s like the introvert sibling to Webster’s dramatic older sister.

If you’re short on time but still want magic, hit Albion Falls — it’s one of the most photogenic, especially after a good rain.

Pro tip: bring sturdy shoes, lots of water, and your best Instagram captions.

Downtown Hamilton: Grit, Galleries & Good Coffee

After rinsing off my hiking sweat and reclaiming some level of cuteness, I headed downtown. And let me tell you — James Street North is the move.

It’s packed with art galleries, indie cafés, tattoo shops, vintage stores, and street art that basically screams take my picture. There’s this raw, creative energy pulsing through the sidewalks that makes you want to start a zine or buy a sketchbook, even if you’ve never drawn a day in your life.

I stopped into Mulberry Coffeehouse for a flat white and a vegan brownie that I still think about at night. The place is equal parts cozy and cool — mismatched chairs, local art on the walls, people writing poetry next to laptop warriors deep in spreadsheets.

Oh, and the Hamilton Farmers’ Market? You have to go. It’s been around since 1837, and today it’s a mix of fresh produce, handmade dumplings, baked goods, and more local character than most cities manage in a whole downtown core.

Let’s Talk Brunch (Because Obviously)

You know by now that I judge cities based on their brunch game, and Hamilton delivers.

I ended up at The Cannon, a little east-end café with the most heavenly waffle creations on the planet. I ordered one with fried chicken, maple syrup, and pickled jalapeños, and I am not okay. Every bite was a chaotic, sweet-salty-spicy masterpiece.

If waffles aren’t your vibe (who even are you?), there’s Saint James Espresso Bar for a more minimalist coffee + avo toast fix, or Electric Diner, which feels like a neon-lit time warp with retro booths and major Grease vibes.

Honestly, just show up hungry. Hamilton will take care of the rest.

Dundas & Ancaster: Leafy, Lovely, and Worth the Drive

If you’ve got a car (or a really fit pair of legs), do yourself a favor and drive west toward Dundas and Ancaster. These towns are technically part of greater Hamilton but have a totally different feel — quieter, greener, and very “I could live here and start a pottery business” energy.

Dundas Valley Conservation Area has miles of trails and lookout points, and in the fall? Absolute fire. Meanwhile, Ancaster is full of charming houses, bakeries, and little artisan shops. I bought homemade lavender soap and locally milled flour, because apparently, I’m a pioneer woman now.

Final Thoughts: Steel City? More Like Steal-Your-Heart City

Hamilton has this unapologetic, slightly scruffy, fiercely authentic personality — and I’m obsessed. It’s got waterfalls for days, an art scene that feels like it was built by rebels and dreamers, and food that punches way above its weight.

But what really got me? The energy. It’s not trying to be Toronto. It’s not trying to impress you. It’s just being itself — loud, proud, creative, and real. And honestly? That’s the kind of city I want to be around.

So if you’re heading through southern Ontario and thinking of skipping Hamilton… don’t. You’d be missing out on one of the province’s coolest, most underrated adventures.

Pack your boots. Charge your phone. And come see what the hype’s about.