If you haven’t visited the city of Hamilton, Ohio in awhile (or ever) you’re in for a treat of a trip. Hamilton has crafted a new identity that’s inspiring and imaginative. A mix of urban revitalization meets a thriving arts community meets unique boutique shopping. It's a cool place to be.
We thought it would be fun to see different ways we could spend some Hamiltons in Hamilton. Grab a few from your wallet, mix and match a combination of paid and free and spend some time exploring! We’ll even throw in a few free tips on ways to stretch those Hamiltons.
To Hamilton, Ohio we go!
Around One Hamilton ($10ish)
Anyone else have fond of childhood cupcakes? The Luke's Custom Cakes has recreated that magic in their downtown Hamilton bakery. The bakery also has a variety of other goods that are all worth a try.
After chowing down and getting your fill of cinnamon-y goodness, walk briefly down the street and around the corner to the Make Way for McCloskey Mural. This mural pays homage to Hamilton author, Robert McCloskey, and was designed by a Hamilton artist, Stephen Smith. With a donut machine, baby ducklings and foraging bears, you’re guaranteed a great selfie. If you walk around the corner to Heritage Hall you can see the McCloskey Donut Machine in person.
Hop in the car and drive just a little way down the road to the second mural of the day, Alexander Hamilton. This bold color block depiction of Hamilton’s namesake is just too cool to miss. Free fun is always a win.
This adventure wraps up with a visit to a park that's Hamilton adjacent, Rentschler Forest MetroPark. This 400-acre park has hiking trails, access to the Great Miami River Recreation Trail and frontage along the Great Miami River. This park is a great place to escape and connect with nature and get a Zen like feeling.
Not to mention, you could be lucky enough to spot one of Butler County's favorite couples along the Great Miami River! Ralph and Alice have built their home along the river in Hamilton for the past six years. They are easiest to spot from January—April while they prepare their nest, catch fish in the river, and guard their Eaglets.
Photo Credit : David Downie
Around Three Hamiltons ($30ish)
Start the day at True West Coffee where the flavored lattes reign supreme. With a tasty list including Milky Way, Zebra, Pumpkin Spice, Raspberry Truffle etc, this may be the most difficult decision you have to make all day. Two flavored lattes will ring up around $8.
Photo Credit : True West Coffee
Next up, head up the hill to Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum. A family of four including two kids ages 6-12 will run you only $22. Explore this gorgeous monumental sculpture park, the Ancient Sculpture Museum and use your phone to grab a new family photo. We’re sure another park-goer will help you capture the moment. If you’re feeling inclined pack a picnic, there’s plenty of places to enjoy a scenic lunch.
Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum Ticket Prices
Adults - $8
Children (6-12) - $3
Children (5 and under) - Free
Want to skip the lattes in favor of libations? Stop by and check out the awesome atmosphere of Fretboard Brewing & Public House. The brewery has three floors with a different atmosphere to fit whatever you're looking for. Relax on he first floor with lounge-like seating and a bar that is comfortable and laid back. Looking for more traditional dining? Get seated at one of their tables on the second floor, or cozy up on their rooftop patio on the third floor with a full bar and patio seating. Head over for live music on weekend nights or stop in to taste their Fretboard beers on tap, the Pub Burger, or the must-try BBQ Pork Mac & Cheese!
Around Ten Hamiltons ($100ish)
Shopping and a show are on the docket for this adventure. With awesome, one-of-a-kind shops like Sara’s House, InsideOut Studio, Made to Love and Wildfire there’s a bounty of ways to spend your Hamiltons. Many of these shops are in walking distance of each other. Stroll, shop hop and explore everything downtown Hamilton has to offer!
Made To Love
A nonprofit that sells handmade Haitian artisan goods. All profits go directly back to Haiti to send children to school!
Sara's House
A truly unique shop specializing in original, unique and repurposed gifts.
InsideOut Studio
An art gallery that provides an opportunity for artists with disabilities to produce, market, and receive an income from their art.
After you've shopped the unique boutiques of Hamilton, a show at the Fitton Center makes for a memorable grand finale.
Photo Credit : Fitton Center
Ways to stretch your Hamiltons:
Check out RiversEdge's concert lineup, they often host free concerts. The Fitton Center also offers free art exhibitions that rotate throughout the year. If you opt for a free show/exhibition.
Total Adventure Cost:
With anything from $10-$100 you can get creative, have a great time and choose your own Hamilton adventure!