If you think Hamilton is all steel and smokestacks — think again. This city has major main character energy, and I spent the weekend proving it.

I kicked things off at Detour Coffee Roasters, because caffeine first, always. Their lattes are dreamy, and there’s something so comforting about sitting among locals chatting about their weekend plans. From there, I laced up my hiking boots and headed for Tew Falls — tall, dramatic, and totally worth the uphill trail to Dundas Peak (hello, postcard views).

After all that fresh air, brunch was mandatory. Saint James Eatery came through with the fluffiest waffles I’ve ever had — crispy edges, soft inside, and topped with fruit that looked almost too pretty to eat (almost).

Saturday night, I found myself in the James Street North district — aka Hamilton’s heartbeat. It’s all murals, twinkle lights, and that cool creative energy that makes you want to linger. We grabbed dinner at Earth to Table: Bread Bar(their pizzas are next-level), then wandered to Relay Coffee Roasters for dessert and a cozy nightcap.

Sunday was slow and sweet — a walk along Bayfront Park, a stop at VintageSoulGeek for a little treasure hunting, and one last coffee before heading home.

Hamilton, you’ve got layers — waterfalls and waffles, grit and charm — and honestly, I’m already planning my next trip back.