Welcome to Tim Hortons Store No. 1, the birthplace of Canada’s most beloved coffee chain. On May 17, 1964, NHL legend Miles Gilbert “Tim” Horton opened the very first Tim Hortons at this historic location on 65 Ottawa Street North in Hamilton, Ontario. What began as a modest donut shop serving simply coffee and donuts has grown into an iconic symbol of Canadian culture, with thousands of locations worldwide.
In 2014, to commemorate the chain’s 50th anniversary, this original location was completely rebuilt and transformed into both a functioning restaurant and a tribute to Tim Hortons’ remarkable legacy. The building now houses a unique second-floor museum featuring six rooms that chronicle different decades of the company’s history, complete with vintage furnishings, memorabilia, and a faithful reproduction of the original 1964 dining room with its classic Formica counters and vintage cash register.
Outside, visitors are greeted by a larger-than-life bronze sculpture of Tim Horton in full hockey gear, while the building’s signage proudly declares “First Restaurant Opened Here May 17, 1964.” The museum entrance is free, and guests can enjoy exploring the exhibits while savouring fresh donuts and coffee—making this the only museum where you can indulge in Tim Hortons favourites while learning about Canadian history.
This location stands as a testament to how a simple idea from a hockey player became synonymous with Canada itself, representing not just coffee and donuts, but the very essence of Canadian hospitality and community.
