According to Statistics Canada, Hamilton received 3.3 million visitors in 2004. Seventy-five per cent of visits were day trips and the remaining 25 per cent were overnight visits. Visitor spending reaches $186 million annually. The local economic impact of tourism is $132 million and municipal taxes collected as a result are up to $4.2 million. The tourism industry employs 2,382 people.

The city’s wealth of heritage is authentically preserved and displayed in museums including Dundurn Castle, and the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum. The newly renovated Art Gallery of Hamilton and vibrant performing arts companies like the Hamilton Philharmonic Orchestra, Opera Hamilton and Theatre Aquarius quench the cultural thirst of audiences. The Bruce Trail and other footpaths weave through the city’s lush surroundings and along the waterfront, showcasing wildlife and waterfalls. Sports action occurs at Ivor Wynne Stadium in Hamilton’s east end, home to the city’s CFL franchise, the Hamilton Tiger-Cats. The Hamilton Bulldogs play at downtown’s Copps Coliseum against the aggressive challengers of the AHL.

The city is easily accessible via plane, train and automobile. Through the John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport, Air Canada and WestJet Airlines connect Hamilton to every province in Canada, and beginning in May, 2007, flyglobespan.com will be offering flights to and from the United Kingdom.  Amtrak and VIA Rail both reach the nearby Aldershot Station. Hamilton is also conveniently accessible via the QEW, 401 and 407 Highways. To extend your visit, consider our accommodations ranging from luxurious hotels to romantic bed and breakfasts to a host of family-priced inns and motels.