This two-day road trip around Hamilton Halton Brant is ideal for couples with a strong sense of wanderlust and a short amount of time. Connect as a couple as you wander markets and galleries, explore Canada’s largest botanical garden, enjoy fabulous meals, catch a live show, and unwind at incredible boutique hotels. Pack a bag, hop in the car with your plus one, and set out on a worldly adventure in your own backyard!
DAY 1
MORNING: HAMILTON
Begin your day in downtown Hamilton checking out the diverse assortment of vendors at the Hamilton Farmer’s Market. Browse through the dozens of stalls filled with fresh produce, local goods, and artisanal products. Chat with local food producers, enjoy the friendly atmosphere and grab some tasty treats to snack on later in your hotel room.
Then, head over to The French for brunch. This cozy bistro offers a mouth-watering selection of French-inspired dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. As you bite into a toasty Croque Monsieur and sip on freshly brewed coffee, you’ll feel like you’ve escaped to France!
AFTERNOON: HAMILTON & PARIS
Walk off brunch exploring the renowned collection at the Art Gallery of Hamilton. Take your time strolling through the galleries admiring contemporary and historical paintings, sculptures, and installations.
Grab some caffeine for the road at nearby RedChurch Café+Gallery, a charming coffee shop known for its specialty brews that is also home to a free art gallery that promotes the works of local artists.
Hit the highway, and in under an hour, you’ll arrive in the historic town of Paris. Stop by The Paris Wincey Mills Co. to explore this restored historic building filled with boutique shops, local artisans, and interesting treasures.
EVENING: PARIS
Check into The Arlington Hotel, a historic boutique hotel in the heart of Paris. Unwind in one of the hotel’s 23 themed rooms and soak in the history that comes with staying at a hotel that’s older than Canada!
For dinner with a pretty view of the Grand River, head to Stillwaters Plate & Pour. This cozy restaurant offers a menu filled with farm-to-table dishes prepared with fresh, local ingredients. If it’s a warm fall evening, be sure to request a table on the rooftop patio and enjoy the perfect surroundings with your meal.
DAY 2
MORNING: PARIS & BURLINGTON
Return to The Paris Wincey Mills to start your day with a caffeine kick at Detour Coffee. Sip on their expertly brewed coffee while savouring a delectable breakfast or grab some pastries to enjoy as you drive the next leg of your adventure.
A short 40-minute drive will get you to Burlington to catch the Royal Botanical Gardens in its gorgeous fall colours. Walk on the trails that wind through the 300 acres of display gardens, or, if a fall paddle appeals, visit Cootes Paradise to explore this tranquil nature reserve by canoe on the Paddling in Paradise guided tour.
AFTERNOON: BURLINGTON
Follow the Lake Ontario shoreline to another scenic meal. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Burlington’s Spencer’s at The Waterfront. The glass-walled dining room offers a picture-perfect view of the waterfront.
After lunch, explore the shops of Downtown Burlington. Whether you’re into books, vintage clothing, hand-made jewellery, designer fashion, or home décor, you’ll have no problem finding a few mementos to take home to remember your trip!
Check into The Pearle Hotel and Spa, a luxurious boutique hotel in Burlington. If you have time, consider a spa treatment at the on-site spa or a pre-dinner cocktail or mocktail at Isabelle.
EVENING: BURLINGTON
Pepperwood, just a short stroll from your hotel, is an ideal choice for dinner. As you share a steaming pot of mussels or enjoy the restaurant’s many other delicious bistro-style favourites, the staff will go out of their way to ensure you’re comfortable and relaxed.
If you’ve timed your trip to coincide with one of the fantastic performances in The Burlington Performing Arts Centre’s diverse lineup, make the quick walk from the restaurant to wrap up your evening with a show before returning to your hotel.
