Under $100: Hamilton, Ontario

Ontario’s historic port city of Hamilton boasts a cool industrial vibe alongside a thriving arts community and bustling waterfront. It’s often overlooked as a travel destination, but there’s more than enough to keep you busy for 24 hours. You can even visit on a budget of less than $100!

Start with breakfast at The Egg & I for a hearty meal of Canadian and American faves for just $15. From there, head over to Dundurn Castle. The Neoclassical museum was built in the early 1800s and houses both a beautiful garden and the Hamilton Military History Museum. Admission is $14.

Next, make your way to the Brandford Trail. Just off of the McMaster University campus, the 32-kilometer trail was one a railway roadbed that now serves as a place to get in touch with the beautiful nature surrounding the city. Finish off the morning with a trip to the Royal Botanical Gardens, the largest in Canada. Admission is $18.

Head to Harry’s Fish and Chips for one of the namesake lunches at only $15.

Take an afternoon escapade to the HMCS Haida. This Canadian naval battleship sits in the harbor and was converted into a museum of sorts. You can roam the decks freely or enlist a guide to learn its history. Entrance is just $4.

Next, seek out the Worker’s Arts & Heritage Centre. It features rotating exhibitions of working life throughout the history of Hamilton and Ontario. It’s free to explore.

Finally, make your way to the Spencer Gorge Conservation Area to discover why Hamilton is nicknamed The City of Waterfalls.

End with a delicious dinner at Chuggy’s Tap & Grill for burgers less than $25.