The Ancaster center is about 4 miles northwest of Hamilton John C. Munro Hamilton Intl. Airport and 6 miles southwest of Downtown Hamilton.
The hottest and driest months in Ancaster are between June and August, making this the perfect time to explore the local waterfalls and attend outdoor events. As this is peak time for tourists, expect room rates to be higher during the summer months.
For winter sports enthusiasts and those wanting to visit without lines or fully booked hotels, Ancaster is best during the winter. The snow falls thick, and the waterfalls freeze into a magical wonderland of ice and frost. Early November is the time to visit Ancaster to see the splendid changing of the leaves as they turn from a lush green to bright yellows and reds.
In terms of weather, spring and fall are the most mellow months in the region. While tourism is at a lull, you can expect good prices on rooms and the ability to go outside without sunscreen or a jacket.
It's easy to take advantage of discounts near Ancaster. For AAA members, try the Courtyard by Marriott Hamilton in nearby Hamilton, ON. This stylish hotel offers an indoor swimming pool, fitness room, and on-site cafe as well as a hot breakfast, for a small fee. Free high-speed Wi-Fi is available, along with 32-inch flat-screen TVs in each room.
Another hotel with discounts for AAA members is the Admiral Inn Hamilton, which offers a fully licensed restaurant and bar, a fitness center, and free Wi-Fi. Some of the rooms at this budget hotel even have Jacuzzis. Perfect for business or pleasure, the Admiral Inn is located only a five-minute walk from Dundurn Castle and the Hamilton Military Museum.
Staybridge Suites Hamilton has discounts for both AAA members as well as government and military personnel. With a 24-hour fitness center, an indoor pool, free Wi-Fi, and a complimentary buffet breakfast, you can't go wrong with this luxury hotel. For the social or solo travelers, Social Tuesdays and Thursdays offer free food and drinks along with the chance to meet others. Check out the great outdoor spaces for lounging in the sun, shade, or moonlight.
Chic and convenient, the Best Western Premier C Hotel by Carmen's is located just off the highway and is a popular destination for many travelers. This stylish hotel houses an Italian restaurant, and its sleek furnishings have an Italian vibe to complete the tribute to the Italian culture in the area. Check out the rooftop lounge for amazing panoramic views of the Red Hill Valley.
Just 7 miles from Ancaster is the Days Inn in Hamilton. Enjoy free Wi-Fi and complimentary continental breakfast in this conveniently located value hotel. Stay in shape at the fitness center and in-room microwaves and fridges let you snack whenever is convenient for you. The lobby offers a computer station as well as wired internet in case you need to work on the go.
For a hotel with excellent value for your money, try the Sheraton Hotel Hamilton. Expect fast Wi-Fi, modern decor, and a great location in downtown Hamilton. Since you'll be near many restaurants and shops, you won't run out of things to do when you stay at the Sheraton. Work out in the well-stocked fitness center or relax in the whirlpool or pool. Meals are convenient thanks to the on-site restaurant and bar, Chagall's. From low-priced rooms to premium suites, there's a room for every traveler and occasion.
Being located on the Niagara Escarpment, Ancaster is home to many local waterfalls and is only one hour from the famous Niagara Falls. Take your camera on a peaceful two-hour waterfall tour. From Old Dundas Road, walk through beautiful valleys and lush forests to see an impressive series of picturesque falls from a 17-meter-high stream to a tumbling series of shallow falls. One hour to the southeast lies Niagara Falls. This is a popular place to visit, so expect crowds during the warm summer months.
There are also many exciting events held throughout the year in Ancaster. Every September since 1850, the Ancaster Fair has taken place at the fairgrounds in nearby Hamilton. Here you can find four days of midway rides, farm animals, and anything you can imagine on a stick. For lobster lovers, Lobsterfest is a delicious feast for you and your family and friends. Enjoy premium lobster and steak dinners while supporting a good cause. If you're in town during early December, come to the annual tree lighting festival for a cheery array of Christmas lights and family fun.
If haunted history is your thing, be sure to check out the ruins of the Hermitage, a famous house that burned down in the 1930s during a party being held there. Located in the Dundas Valley 2 miles from Ancaster, the Hermitage is a popular destination for hikers and ghost hunters alike. Ghost tours are led daily in the summertime.
Whether you're looking for a hotel with a lakefront view or low-cost accommodations near the airport, Ancaster has you covered. Away from the hustle and bustle of the big cities, Ancaster has something for every type of traveler and activities for all kinds of people. You can't go wrong with choosing to spend your vacation in Ancaster, Ontario — no matter the season.
Below are reviews of the city of Ancaster, ON from an actual visitor's perspective.
Very pretty city especially, the Old Mill.