Pier 4 Park is a scenic waterfront park on the southwestern shore of Lake Ontario in Hamilton. It sits just east of Bayfront Park and offers plenty of space for walking, cycling, and relaxing by the harbour. Families, walkers, and cyclists often come here to enjoy the trails, waterfront views, and open green spaces.
Plan Your Visit
Location & Getting There
By Car
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Enter Hamilton via Highway 403 and take the York Boulevard exit toward downtown.
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From York Boulevard, turn north onto Bay Street North.
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Follow Bay Street North all the way down to the waterfront.
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At Leander Drive, turn left—this road leads straight into the Pier 4 Park parking lot.
By Public Transit
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Hamilton Street Railway (HSR) buses run nearby. Routes along York Boulevard or James Street North will get you close.
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From James Street North, it’s about a 10–15 minute walk west along Strachan Street West or Barton Street West to Bay Street North, then down to the park.
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Always check HSR schedules before travelling.
By Bike
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The Waterfront Trail runs directly through Pier 4 Park, making it very bike-friendly.
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SOBI bike-share stations are available at the park if you prefer not to bring your own bike.
By Foot
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If you’re staying nearby, the park is very walkable from downtown Hamilton. From James Street North, it’s about a 15–20 minute walk toward the waterfront.
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Pedestrian ramps connect Bay Street North to the lower park area.
Parking
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A dedicated parking lot is available off Leander Drive.
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Parking is free, but it may fill up quickly on busy weekends.
You can also check the Translink Website for the current train schedules.
Amenities
Pier 4 Park includes several visitor amenities:
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Washroom Building – On-site facilities available.
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Multi-Use Trails / Looped Pathways – Great for walking, jogging, cycling, or rollerblading.
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SOBI Bike Stations – Bike share stations for easy access.
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Spray Pad – A water play area (note: nearing end of lifecycle, scheduled for replacement).
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Playground with Tugboat Play Structure – Includes the iconic tugboat play area (currently closed due to safety concerns; replacement planned).
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Beach Area – Small beach along the water (may be closed at times due to water-quality issues such as blue-green algae).
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Pier / Boardwalk with Gazebo – A curved boardwalk pier with a gazebo and benches overlooking the harbour.
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Breakwater – Provides waterfront protection and beautiful viewing points.
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Drinking Fountain – Available for public use.
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Seating Areas, Lighting, Shade Trees – Plenty of spots for relaxation.
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Large Open Grass Area – Often used for events, picnics, and casual recreation.
Conditions & Notices
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Tugboat Playground Closure: The tugboat play structure and junior playground are closed for safety. Replacement is planned, with construction expected in 2025.
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Spray Pad & Playground Lifecycle: The spray pad and playground equipment are at the end of their lifecycle and will also be replaced as part of the park upgrade.
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Beach Safety: The beach area may be temporarily closed if water quality is unsafe (e.g., algae blooms). Always check the City of Hamilton updates before swimming.
Things to Do
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Walk, jog, or cycle along the multi-use trails and enjoy the lake views.
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Bring kids to the spray pad (if operational) for summer water play.
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Relax on benches or in shaded areas while taking in the waterfront.
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Picnic or play on the large grassy field.
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Stroll the pier and boardwalk for panoramic views of the harbour and marina.
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Watch boats and take in sunsets by the gazebo.
Tips for Visitors
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Playground Update: The tugboat playground is closed. Plan accordingly if visiting with children.
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Check Amenities: Spray pad and playground may be closed for replacement or maintenance—look up city updates before your visit.
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Beach Safety: Swimming may be restricted due to water quality. Check Hamilton Public Health advisories.
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Best Access: Arrive by bike or foot via the Waterfront Trail to avoid parking delays.
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Best Time to Visit: On clear days, the views and atmosphere are most enjoyable.
Getting Back
Leaving Pier 4 Park is simple:
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By Car: Exit the parking lot onto Leander Drive, then turn right onto Bay Street North to head back into downtown Hamilton. From there, York Boulevard reconnects with Highway 403.
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By Transit: Walk back up Bay Street North or James Street North to catch HSR buses toward downtown or Hamilton GO Centre.
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By Bike / Foot: Retrace your path along the Waterfront Trail, which links Pier 4 to Bayfront Park, Princess Point, and beyond.
If you’re visiting from Toronto or Niagara, Hamilton GO Station is just a short bus or taxi ride away from the park.
Final Note
Pier 4 Park is a gem on Hamilton’s waterfront, combining natural beauty with recreational spaces. While the tugboat playground and spray pad are currently awaiting upgrades, the park still offers trails, open lawns, a beach area, and unbeatable lake views. Whether you’re walking, cycling, picnicking, or simply relaxing by the water, Pier 4 Park is a perfect spot to spend time outdoors.