Situated on the shore of Lake Ontario not far from Niagara Falls, Toronto, and Buffalo, Hamilton is a bustling city in the Canadian province of Ontario that’s known for its manufacturing, museums, education, and outdoor recreation. It may not be as famous as nearby Toronto, but Hamilton is a great place to visit. Learn what you need to know for your trip to Hamilton, and the travel medical insurance you should shop for first.
Travel Medical Insurance for Travelers visiting Hamilton – FAQs
Getting the flu or breaking your arm while at home is terrible enough. Having it happen when you’re visiting another country adds a whole new layer to the misery. Where can you get treated, and how will you pay for it? Luckily, you can travel abroad with less worry when you have travel medical insurance.
Do I need travel medical insurance for Hamilton?
It’s not a legal requirement to have travel medical insurance to visit Canada. Coverage is totally optional. You just have to keep in mind that it’s unlikely that your regular health insurance will be accepted outside your home country, and Canadian hospitals – while excellent – are also expensive. You don’t want to have to pay for treatment all on your own. Get travel medical insurance instead.
Why buy travel medical insurance before visiting Hamilton?
Going without travel medical insurance can put your finances at serious risk. A single accident or other unexpected medical issue could require treatment that costs more than you have. Without insurance that’s valid in the country you’re visiting, you could risk going into major debt. With travel medical insurance, you can get the care you need for a price you can predict so you have peace of mind.
Hamilton’s Most Popular Activities
Whether it’s culture or nature, you’ll find it in Hamilton. Peruse these five attractions to help you plan your itinerary.
Explore Dundurn Castle
Built in 1835, this 18,000-square-foot mansion was constructed in stunning neoclassical style, and was once home to prominent Canadian military and business figures. These days, the castle operates as a civic museum. Visitors can take tours operated by costumed interpreters and see upper-class life as it was in the 1850s. Also on the grounds is the Hamilton Military Museum, with displays detailing the wars Canada has been involved in dating back to 1812.
Tour the African Lion Safari
You may not think of finding African wildlife in Canada, but this safari park is a popular attraction. You can take a driving tour or drive your own car to see free-roaming lions, baboons, cheetahs, elephants, and much more from a safe distance. There is also a North American section where you can view bison, elk, and deer.
See the Art Gallery of Hamilton
With over 10,000 permanent works on display and covering some 75,000 square feet, the Art Gallery of Hamilton is impressive to say the least. The largest art gallery in southwest Ontario has been in operation since 1914, and features Canadian art, contemporary art, and international art with works from the Baroque to the Post-Impressionism periods.
Catch a Tiger-Cats Game
The Hamilton Tiger-Cats are a Canadian Football League team, a type of gridiron football that’s similar to the NFL in the United States. The team was started back in 1869, and has won eight national titles so far. Head over to their home stadium, Tim Hortons Field, and have a unique sports experience.
Take Off at the Canadian Warplane Heritage Museum
If you’re an aviation or history buff, this museum is a must-visit for you. It features dozens of vintage warplanes on display from throughout Canada’s military history, including an F-104 Starfighter, a Supermarine Spitfire, and a de Havilland Chipmunk. Visitors can even book rides on some the classic planes at the museum, and airshows are held periodically.
Key Guidelines for Travelers visiting Hamilton
Is Hamilton Safe to Visit?
Absolutely. Crime rates here are lower than most major Canadian cities. The most common crimes are property-related acts such as car theft. Keep your doors locked, secure your valuables, and you should have little to worry about other than the basic precautions.
Getting Around Hamilton
The most popular methods of local transport in Hamilton are renting a car and using rideshare services. Taxis and bus service can also be available, but are not as popular. For ultimate flexibility, renting a car is usually the way to go.
Best Time to Visit
The most popular time to visit Hamilton is from late spring to early fall, when the high temperature is still pleasantly warm. Typical of Canada, those temperatures start dropping quickly by November, and winters are bitterly cold.
Snowy Roads
Though Hamilton is not an especially snowy city by Canadian standards, it does average about four feet of snow annually. If you’re from a warm climate and you aren’t used to it, be sure to take extra time when driving, and always wear insulated boots that are waterproof and offer plenty of grip.
Remember the Metric System
If you’re visiting from the United States or another country that uses imperial measurements, remember that Canada employs the metric system for speed limits when driving. Don’t get caught speeding!
Before You Visit Hamilton – Do This
- Pack boots, a hat, and gloves if you plan to visit during the winter.
- Consider planning a side trip to Niagara Falls while you’re here.
- Purchase travel medical insurance .