Visitors are always surprised by the tree-lined streets and historic buildings in the downtown neighbourhoods of Hamilton. But it shouldn’t come as a surprise. This is a city, after all, where the newly wealthy merchants and captains of industry built elegant houses in the downtown core to reflect their growing prosperity. Some of those homes, like Rutherford House and The Macnab Terrace Guest House, have been transformed into comfortable bed and breakfasts that have retained the historic elements and blended them with modern comfort. Bedrooms are private and ample, and breakfast is always a generous beginning for the day. Just a short walk away from the centre of the city, these small establishments give tourists the chance to connect with the cloistered neighbourhoods that have survived the rush to modernism. Or there is Rose Arden on the mountain, with easy access to the downtown and with panoramic views of the city. Others can be found a bit further out of the city centre, like the Shavers B&B in Ancaster or the Glenwood B&B in Dundas.

If modern suits your taste, Hamilton has several choices, and more on the way. The Sheraton Hamilton Hotel, which is directly connected to Copps Coliseum, the Hamilton Convention Centre, the Art Gallery of Hamilton and Jackson Square by an enclosed walkway, is a modern newly renovated hotel that places you close to many of Hamilton’s downtown attractions. Staybridge Suites has fully equipped kitchens for visitors who like to cook their own meals – though downtown restaurants will tempt you to reconsider! The brand spanking new Courtyard by Marriott is conveniently located close to the John C Munro Airport and perfect for the business traveler. And the iconic Royal Conaught Hotel is set to reopen as an upscale new hotel in the near future.

Whatever your style, there will be a perfect place to lay your head in Hamilton.