Tips on Hamilton Warnings or Dangers – Stay Safe!

Hamilton Warnings and Dangers

Ontario, Canada is known as a generally safe destination. However, there are still potential dangers you need to know about before heading out to Hamilton, Ontario.

Whether you drove up from Detroit or landed in Toronto and have decided to venture out, Hamilton, Ontario provides plenty of fun. There are also some potential warnings, so it is best if you know what to expect ahead of time.

Not as Wealthy as Nearby Cities

Hamilton doesn’t have the same kind of money influx as nearby cities. Windsor receives a good amount of money from American tourists coming over for the night (the drinking age in Windsor is 19, so many Americans between the ages of 19 and 21 head out here for a weekend). Toronto is a massive city on its own and a major business hub. However, Hamilton doesn’t have the same kinds of advantages, and it has a slightly higher crime rate. Nothing out of the ordinary, but due to it you should practice caution whenever out at night. Walk in a group and avoid dark alleys. In general though, this is not a dangerous city by any means.

Sometimes There Is a Smell

Hamilton, like much of the region (both north and south of the border) are industrial cities. Hamilton is home to the Hamilton Steel Mill. This means that, from time to time, there is kind of an odd smell in the air. This is from the steel production. Locals likely won’t even realize it is there while visitors will smell it but it isn’t enough to be completely off putting. While not a danger, it is just something to understand, in case you visit and there is an odd smell floating through the air.

Be Aware

There are small pockets where more crime is common. These usually are in the eastern portions of the city (around Gage Ave). The spots aren’t drastically bad but you can run into problems here or there. You shouldn’t have an issue driving through here at night and there isn’t a ton to do around here in terms of clubs, bars or restaurants, so you won’t have much of a reason to head out this way.

Parking

Parking is just fine in and out of the city. You don’t need to worry about parking in a garage as your vehicle will be fine. Just make sure to take all your valuables with you. As is the case with any other city, if you leave valuables visible and out in the open, you increase your chances of experiencing a smash and grab.

Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about possible dangers and warnings in Hamilton.