Free and Cheap Things To Do With Kids In Hamilton

Having fun with kids in tow doesn’t have to cost a lot with these free and cheap things to do in Hamilton.

Hamilton is such an excellent place to explore with kids. The best part is that you can have weeks of fun in the Steel Town without spending any (or much) money at all. Read on to find our best ideas for free and fun things to do in Hamilton with kids.

Ice Skate The Loop in Waterdown

The free ice skating loop at Waterdown Memorial Park makes ice skating so much more enjoyable. It is open all winter as long as the ice is frozen and is free to use. There’s a heated building with restrooms to warm up and change into your skates. Parking is great, too. Located at 200 Hamilton St N, Waterdown.

Cost: Free!

Chase Waterfalls in Hamilton

There are SO many beautiful waterfalls to see in Hamilton, 100 in fact! And most of them are extremely accessible even with little kids. Here are some of the ones we love the most. Read a little about each waterfall at the link above and plan a great outing. The Hamilton Tourism site has a great resource on local waterfalls.

Cost: Free, with some paid parking lots.

Play All Day At Bayfront park

Bayfront Park is located at the base of Harbourfront Drive near Hamilton’s downtown core. A beautiful scenic walk along the waterfront along the paved paths makes for a great stroller-friendly walk with friends and kids. In the warm weather, you can dip your toes into the lake, and in winter you can watch the local birds or enjoy the paved path. It is linked to Pier 4 Park, a great spot to play, by Macassa Bay Walkway. Address: 200 Harbour Front Dr, Hamilton, ON.

Cost: Free!

Walk, Run or Stroll Chedoke Radial Trail

We love this walk in any season. It’s packed gravel so easy to push a stroller along and easy to walk for our family of 4. The incline is enough that you notice it but not enough that it wipes you out. Plus, the views from the top are gorgeous, and the scenery on the way keeps the kids engaged and moving forward. Did I mention the waterfall?! We park at the Chedoke Golf Course (563 Aberdeen Ave).

Cost: Free!

Gage Park – Play In The Heart of Hamilton

This is a classic Hamilton park and popular destination for so many families, events and more. A HUGE park with lots to see including outdoor gardens and beautiful water fountains. It also has a large parking lot and a huge walking path all along the outside of the park. Weaving through the park are gravel paths that my kids love biking on. The playground was recently renovated and includes some unique play pieces. Bring your swimsuit in the summer and kids will spend hours in the splash pad.

Cost: Free!

Don’t Miss The Gage Park Greenhouse

The Gage Park Greenhouse is open year-round and is a beautiful 14,000 square foot indoor spot to check out some pretty amazing tropical plants. Their variety will surprise you and your kids will see plants they’ve never seen before! It’s a free and tropical escape. Be sure to look in the pond for fish and turtles. Stroller-friendly.

Cost: Free!

Visit The First Tim Horton’s Store

DYK that Tim Horton’s opened their very first coffee shop on Ottawa St. in Hamilton? It’s been standing in the same place since May 17, 1964, and is home to some authentic Timmie’s artifacts and nostalgia. 65 Ottawa Street, Hamilton. Photo courtesy of Bruce Forsyth.

Cost: Free! But get a few Timbits while you’re here.

Eat Your Way Around The Hamilton Farmers Market

Your senses will be delighted when you wander the stalls at the Hamilton Farmer’s Market. Kids will love seeing real bakers, makers and farmers. Treat yourselves to some fresh cheese, locally-grown products and baked goods fresh from the oven. Photo courtesy of Hamilton Farmers Market. Located at 35 York Blvd, Hamilton, ON.

Cost: Free! But you’ll definitely find a treat or two.

Have You Seen The Rail Trail Rock Art?

If you didn’t already know, there is a guy along the Rail Trail by the Kennilworth stairs who started doing rock art to give us hope during COVID times. He has some pretty incredible pieces that he’s done. He only uses items he finds in nature and brings them to life. Your kids will definitely be inspired to make their own nature art when they get home. Address: 20 Kimberly Dr, Hamilton, ON.

Cost: Free!