Well, December has finally arrived and we’re coming to the end of a year that has been anything but normal. We’re going to finish off 2020 by sharing a community that is rapidly expanding, plays host to some amazing businesses and has an incredible history behind it. Stoney Creek is an area that shouldn’t be missed right now; with its close proximity to neighbouring locales, easy access to Hamilton’s arts & culture scene and strong growth potential, this might be the perfect place to call home. There’s never been a better time to get out of the city and check out The Creek!
Enjoy Some Time Outdoors
If you’re looking for a space to settle down that provides lots of outdoor activity options, you’re in luck. Stoney Creek – located along both Lake Ontario and the escarpment – has many different opportunities when it comes to getting outside.
One of Stoney Creek’s best attractions is the Devil’s Punchbowl. This deep gorge is home to two waterfalls, Upper and Lower Punch Bowl Falls, and features layers of colourful rock formations. From the lookout, you’ll have an incredible view of Stoney Creek and Hamilton Harbour. You’ll also find the beginning of The Dofasco 2000 Trail, a beautiful 11.5 km hiking route. Afterwards, visit the Punch Bowl Market & Bakery and pick up something fresh to bring home!
If you enjoy spending time by the lake, you’ll take solace in the many beautiful lakeside parks and will quickly become familiar with 50 Point Conservation Area. This 80-hectare park is the perfect place to spend time with the family, explore with your spouse or to enjoy some alone time with nature. With picnic, camping, fishing + boating options available, along with a beautiful, clean beach and a 3.4 km recreational trail loop for hiking, you’ll have no trouble filling up a day of fun.
Those who really want to get their blood pumping will enjoy use of the Heritage Green Community Sports Park. This new 80.5 acre park includes 2 baseball diamonds, 4 natural + 1 artificial turf soccer pitches, a playground, and a spray pad for you and the family to enjoy. It’s also located next to the Heritage Green Community Trust Dog Park so even your furry friends can join in on the fun!
Take a Trip to Downtown Stoney Creek
Though the Stoney Creek community is rapidly growing, the downtown area, or Olde Town Stoney Creek, still has the same charm it always has! Take a stroll downtown and you’ll come across a wide variety of boutiques and personal services to enjoy along with a selection of delicious spots to grab a bite to eat.
Though currently on hold, the downtown area is also home to some great special events that the whole family will enjoy. Annual events like Art in the Parking Lot, the Strawberry Fold Festival, the Apple Festival, Jazz in the Creek, Pumpkinfest and the Stoney Creek Santa Claus Parade are great ways to get out and about while enjoying the community spirit. The Downtown Stoney Creek Market is always a hit as well, bringing fresh local produce, food trucks and baked goods to the downtown core.
Take a walk further down the street to enjoy a little bit of Stoney Creek history – pop by the Amica Stoney Creek Dairy, which is serving up memories of the old Stoney Creek Dairy. When the dairy closed in 2012, it signified the end of an era after 83 years of business as one of the largest ice cream retailers in North America. Now Amica, which was built on the land that the dairy used to occupy, is keeping those memories alive with their ice cream parlour.
Grab a Bite
Stoney Creek is home to some incredible restaurants – there’s no shortage when it comes to dining options! If you’re in the mood for something casual, become familiar with some of the community’s favourite spots, like The Powerhouse (which takes up residence in an historic power station), The Attic Pizza Parlour (give their appropriately-local “Devil’s Punchbowl Pizza” a try!), Mustangs Big Ol’ Grill, The Innsville and Memphis Fire Barbeque Company. Of course, you’ll also have to stop by the legendary Roma Bakery & Deli to try the original slab pizza – it’s their claim to fame!
If you’re in the mood for something more upscale, Edgewater Manor might be more your speed. The restaurant, located inside a stunning 1920’s castle, has incredible views thanks to its beautiful lakeside setting. It’s a popular destination for private events and has an incredible menu which features local ingredients. It’s no surprise that this restaurant is a popular date night spot, too!
Have Some Fun
Looking to stay entertained? Stoney Creek always has something fun to check out! For an easy date night or family outing, a visit to the Starlite Drive-In is sure to please! Load up the car, stock up on snacks and enjoy a couple of movies in the open air.
If you’re in the mood to imbibe a little, one of the area’s wineries will be a worthwhile stop! Enjoy a glass of locally made wine at stops like Leaning Post, Ridge Road and Puddicombe Farms. The latter is a great place to visit with the family, too; onsite, you’ll also find pick-your-own fruits/veggies, farm animals and a train ride to tour around the property.
Learn Something New (or Should We Say Old?)
You can’t visit The Creek without learning a little bit about its history; did you know that Stoney Creek was the site of a major battle during the War of 1812? Plan a visit to Battlefield House + Monument, located at the intersections of Centennial Parkway and King Street West, to learn more about the Battle of Stoney Creek. This historic defense (June 6, 1813) was a major turning point in the war between British and American forces. Stop by Battlefield House & Museum for a tour of the early 19th century house and experience history first-hand during the yearly re-enactment of the Battle of Stoney Creek (held in June, though held off this year due to COVID).
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Stoney Creek has something for everyone to enjoy – young or old, whether you’re single or have a family, you’ll love getting to know this area. Full of community spirit, outdoor experiences, dining options and recreational opportunities, you just might fall in love with an area that locals have been enjoying for years.
Learn more about our current listings in Stoney Creek here – your forever-home could be waiting for you in this beautiful community.