Dundas, Ontario, is a charming town close to Hamilton and the Niagara Escarpment – but it has so much more to offer than just convenience. What is Dundas, Ontario, known for? Plan your next day trip with this guide to local natural beauty, history, food, arts, and culture.
Dundas, Ontario, is on the Niagara Escarpment, so we’re fortunate to enjoy many of the same unique perks of the area, like beautiful waterfalls and great hiking spots. It’s close to Hamilton, which is handy, but Dundas is so much more than just a suburb of Steeltown.
Dundas has a small-town feel with some seriously impressive nature and a surprisingly good food scene.
At The Barracks Inn in Ancaster, we’re fortunate to have Dundas located just a few minutes away. We created this guide to cover all the bases as you plan your next day trip, from the must-see spots to some local favorites – there’s no shortage of great things to do in Dundas, Ontario.
#1: Chasing Waterfalls
Dundas is known for its waterfalls, primarily due to its location on the Niagara Escarpment. Spencer Gorge is a popular destination because it offers access to multiple waterfalls, but it’s important to be prepared for crowds during the busy summer months – especially if you plan to trek on Saturdays and Sundays.
- Tews Falls. This ribbon waterfall plunges 40+ meters over the Niagara Escarpment, making it one of the tallest in the Dundas and Hamilton area. Its slender cascade makes it a pretty popular spot for photographers and family photo shoots.
- Dundas Peak. This viewpoint provides wide-ranging views of the Dundas Valley, but it’s a moderate climb made more difficult in the summer heat. Is Dundas Peak worth it? The hike up is popular, and the view from the top is a great photo opp!
- Webster Falls. This is the largest waterfall in the region and Hamilton’s most iconic. Of course, that also makes it one of the most popular spots for day trippers to enjoy.
Do you have to pay to go to Dundas Peak?
- Spencer Gorge Parking. The area parking lots are no longer available for reservation, so arrive early – they’re on a first-come, first-served basis.
Alternative Waterfalls for a Quieter Visit
- Sherman Falls. If you’re looking for free things to do on a day trip to Dundas, Sherman Falls is a much less crowded option compared to Webster’s, without the parking costs. It’s also called Fairy or Angel Falls, offering a similar experience with year-round flows.
- Borer’s Falls. Located within the Royal Botanical Gardens (RBG), getting to the Borer’s Falls requires a moderate hike but also more solitude. The RBG charges for parking, so check their website for details. The trail to Borer’s Falls can be uneven, so appropriate footwear is advised.
- Tiffany Falls. Another waterfall within the RBG; it’s a less dramatic but still enjoyable option. It’s a great detour if you’re already visiting the gardens.
#2: Exploring Downtown Dundas
- King Street West. This is the heart of downtown Dundas, lined with fantastic independent boutiques, antique shops, and local art galleries. Enjoy some shopping in Dundas, Ontario, or simply take in the sights of downtown.
- The Printed Word. An independent bookstore with a great selection that’s perfect for book lovers! It’s one of our favourite things to do in Dundas square.
- Carnegie Gallery. Located in a beautiful 1910 building in the heart of Dundas, this gallery showcases contemporary Canadian art and craft. With rotating exhibitions and a shop featuring regional artists, it’s a must-visit spot that attracts a lot of visitors.
- Dundas Farmers’ Market. This local market is held on Thursdays from June to October, offering a great place to find local produce, artisanal goods, and a true small-town vibe. With a variety of Dundas vendors offering everything from fresh produce and baked goods to handcrafted items, it’s a perfect spot to experience Rudy’s, Plan B Organic Farm produce, Grain & Grit Beer Co., and so much more.
- Dundas Museum & Archives. Dive into the history of Dundas at the Museum & Archives, located on Park Street West. You’ll see the history of the Dundas Valley, from its Indigenous roots to full industrial development. With a collection of over 16,000 artifacts and extensive archives, the museum provides exhibits, programs, and research resources for locals and visitors of all ages.
- Detour Cafe or Cafe Domestique. Grab a coffee and pastry at one of Dundas’s popular cafes with indoor and outdoor seating available seasonally. Good for people-watching and a quick recharge.
- Dundas Chocolate: The Dundas Chocolate Shop offers unique, stone-ground dark chocolate made with ethically sourced cacao. They also feature a selection of Mexican coffee and drinking chocolate, along with other locally made goodies.
#3: A Food Scene Worth Tasting
Dundas has a surprisingly diverse and seriously delicious food scene, offering everything from casual bites to fine dining experiences. Here are some of our local favorites:
- Shawn & Ed Brewing Co. This popular spot has a great craft beer selection brewed on-site, along with a menu of elevated pub fare. Try their signature “Beer Pie” pizza or explore their rotating selection of seasonal brews.
- The Collins Brewhouse. Located in a historic building, this brewhouse provides a traditional pub atmosphere. They have various of beers on tap, burger days, and many classic pub dishes.
- Quatrefoil Restaurant. For a truly special occasion, Quatrefoil is a Michelin-recommended restaurant serving contemporary French cuisine in an elegant setting.
- Red Door Cucina. If you’re craving Italian, Red Door Cucina offers authentic pizzas made with fresh, local ingredients. Their pasta dishes are also highly regarded.
- Namu Restaurant. Explore Korean-inspired cuisine with a modern twist at Namu Restaurant. Their menu features unique dishes that blend traditional flavors with contemporary techniques.
- Betula. This restaurant features a seasonally inspired menu with fresh, local ingredients, all served in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Making Your Day Trip an Overnight Stay
How far is Dundas, Ontario, from Toronto?
Dundas is conveniently located around 70 kilometers southwest of Toronto, making it a quick and easy day trip or weekend getaway. The drive is usually around an hour, though highway traffic builds up during peak travel times.
While you’re thinking about things to do on a day trip to Dundas from Toronto, you might want some more time to soak it all in. When you turn your day trip into an overnight stay you can slow down the pace and enjoy all the things to do in Dundas this weekend.
At The Barracks Inn, our luxurious suites offer the perfect blend of history, charm, and modern hotel amenities, providing a comfortable and convenient base for further exploration of the region. We’re a 12-minute ride to the downtown core for quick access to Dundas, Hamilton, and the surrounding area.
The Barracks Inn—Boutique Hotel Near Dundas, ON
Whether you’re into chasing waterfalls, browsing cool shops, or just trying some delicious food, Dundas has so much to offer for a day trip. It’s got that small-town feel, but there’s plenty to see and do to keep you busy. And if you decide you want to stick around longer, it’s a great spot for a weekend getaway, too.
Book your stay today and start planning your next getaway to Dundas, Ancaster, and beyond!