Neighboring City Makes a Comeback
Hamilton celebrates a big anniversary this year—our neighboring city is turning 225. The second largest city in southwestern Ohio, Hamilton has the vibrant feel of a historical downtown, without all of the trappings of a trek into Cincinnati. Like the popular musical that shares its name, Hamilton is taking center stage in the landscape of the northern suburbs.
Take a short, 15-minute drive into Hamilton, the artistic and captivating “girl next door” to our West Chester and Liberty Townships. City leaders have recreated it as a dynamic urban center that will rejuvenate your date nights, family outings and business meetings.
Hamilton spans the Great Miami River, which divides it into two distinct sides: East Side’s High Street and West Side’s Main Street. Explore its shops, eateries and artistic hot spots, all on one walkable strip, complete with plenty of easy-to-find parking.
Shop
There’s nothing big-box about the unique, small businesses here. There’s something for everyone on your list in the sparkling storefronts of this chic downtown.
Find original gifts and locally made goods at Sara’s House, a boutique shopping experience.
Make an impact in the lives of the people of Haiti when you bring home artisan-made jewelry, home décor or metal art works from Made to Love, a volunteer-run store full of heart.
Discover something special for your artistic loved ones at Art OFF Symmes, highlighting fashionable apparel and artistic accessories for the wardrobe and home.
In the spirit of Hamilton’s rebirth, the one-of-a-kind Unsung Salvage Design Company gives new life to objects by re-purposing them. Watch for its new storefront on Main Street to open soon.
Eat
Any vibrant city is only as good as its eats. The many choices in Hamilton will keep your taste buds happy.
When the garage door is up at Municipal Brew Works, the craft beer is flowing. You’ll have to pry yourself from its art deco bar, especially if a visiting food truck is parked nearby.
For the most bang for your buck in Hamilton, hit Neal’s Famous BBQ, just a couple blocks off of High Street. Mike Neal himself often serves food fresh off the grill for perfect ribs and burgers with homemade sides.
Deserve a treat? Follow your nose to The Almond Sisters Bakery—pastries and cookies and artisan breads, oh my!
If it’s caffeine you are jonesing for, True West Coffee has a cup or two for you. With a presence on both banks of the Great Miami, it provides a perfect break from shopping to sit and sip alongside the locals and art students.
Just a few miles from downtown, you can experience exquisite dining from renowned chef Jared Whalen at The Coach House.
Be Inspired
Be inspired by Hamilton’s blossoming art scene.
Enjoy a walking tour of Hamilton’s street art featuring over 25 sculptures, installed at various points through downtown. Don’t miss The American Cape, an iconic sculpture of Alexander Hamilton in the median on High Street.
Mingle with local artists at POP Revolution’s Open House events, offered every First Thursday of each month. POP specializes in custom framing and fine art printing services so that you, like the city of Hamilton, can grow your art collection.
Fitton Center for Creative Arts invites you to get your arts on with its top-notch events featuring dance, theater, music, comedy, art exhibits and even classes for all ages. Take in a show to please the whole family on Fitton Family Fridays.
Long known as a city of pioneers, Hamilton is now experiencing what city leaders deem a “renaissance.” Hamilton is finding new life in its old buildings, artsy residents and progressive businesses. It may take repeated road trips to explore all that Hamilton has to offer, but it’s certainly a 15-minute drive that won’t disappoint.