Written by Areeba, MSA Student Copywriter. March 12th, 2024.
Starting college comes with its challenges for every student. Whether you are a local, shifting to Hamilton for college or are an international student; making a new home when starting college is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and we want to make it memorable for you.
There is so much to enjoy in Hamilton, from year-round festivals to nature walks, to cozy coffee shops, it can be hard to decide where to start your adventure. We at the Mohawk Students’ Association want to make your decision simple so we created this bucket list of hidden treasures to visit around the city.
Royal Botanical Gardens via Wikimedia Commons
I bet you did not know that Hamilton houses Canada's most extensive botanical garden. Stretching over 2400 acres of wetland, field, forest, and escarpment ecosystem, it is the only Garden in Canada honoured to be entitled "Royal" permitted by King George V of England.
RBG has several trails, gardens, and paid activities you can register for. The rock garden is definitely worth visiting, with a bonus – it's free!
If you get hungry during your visit, stop by to dine in the garden, surrounded by the fresh air, and enjoy ingredients grown from the garden.
Make sure you research the path to take and how to explore RBG as it can consume an entire day. We suggest planning your day based on what you want to see during your visit, and taking the nearest entry point so you don’t get lost.
Whitehern Historic House and Garden via Flickr
Are you a fan of the Victorian era? Do you want to feel the Bridgeton vibe? Then Whitehern Historic House and Garden is the right spot for you. Whitehern is a well-maintained historian's house and garden of the McQuesten family, and you can taste the Victorian era through a guided tour of the property. If you are a person who likes to listen to stories and cherish vintage culture, this place is for you. Learn more about this historic spot by take the virtual tour of the Whitehern House and decide for yourself.
Art Gallery of Hamilton via Flickr
For those seeking to kindle their passion for art, Hamilton's Art Gallery is the place to go. The gallery is not just about the art it holds; the building itself is a piece of art. Don't miss the sculpture garden outside the art gallery building.
Here's a secret- the art gallery is FREE every Thursday and on the first Friday of each month.
Person ziplining via Flickr
Trails are fun, but zip-lining and treehouse adventures are on another level. If you find yourself bored on a sunny spring day, book a tour with friends to the Treetop Trekking site in Hamilton. Ariel Game Trek is best for team play and muscle building, and the finest selection for spring fun. You can also choose a park based on your location or activities of choice. We hosted a trip to Treetop Trekking last summer and tickets for the event sold out within the first week of sales. So, trust us when we say this is an experience you won’t want to miss!
Sam Lawrence Park via Flickr
Sam Lawrence Park
So, you live in Hamilton but haven't seen a view of the city from the mountaintop? Situated atop the mountain, Sam Lawrence Park provides a picturesque view of the city landscape, surrounded by lush greenery, offering a glimpse of the urban and wildlife.
Interested?
TIP: pack your photography gear or your phone for some beautiful pictures!
Agricultural Train via The Heart of Ontario
Puddicombe Farms, Winery & Cider
Puddicombe Farms, Winery & Cider is the place to go. Puddicombe is a family-run fruit, winery, and cider farm, which will serve as a fresh-air experience. Enjoy the countryside scenery while picking the fresh delicacies of nature. Visitors can pick their own fruits, like cherries, strawberries, and plums according to when they are in season. You can even buy wine and cider that’s made on the farm to enjoy at home.
via Pexels
GritLIT has an incredible festival planned, bringing over 400 writers together under one roof. Ever since it started in 2004, gritLIT has provided one platform for all reading and writing enthusiasts. Whether you are a fan of fiction, non-fiction, novellas, plays, or poetry, gritLIT is one place to interact with new voices and share perspectives. There are multiple workshops and contests planned this year. Guess what! You can also have a seat in the discussions and writer interviews and learn how writers build an immersive experience. Sound fascinating eh? So, mark your calendars from April 17th to the 21st. And visit gritLit.ca to purchase your tickets to attend online or in person. Note: Costs may vary based on the event you’re attending, and workshops have limited seating available.
via Pexels
Lakeland Kartway
Do you feel the need for speed? Does "Canada's longest-running go-kart track" fancy you? If your answer is YES, then you need to plan a day with some friends to visit Lakeland Kartway. It's the perfect way to enjoy a sunny day in a friendly, competitive setting. Remember - This is an outdoor track, so make sure to dress appropriately and don't forget your sunscreen!
Now that you have some options lined up, call your friends and make a warm-weather plan!