Located in the heart of Eastern Ontario, Kingston is a vibrant city with a rich history and culture. Surrounded by the beautiful St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario, Kingston offers a unique blend of urban and natural attractions. While Kingston itself is a must-visit destination, there are many exciting places to explore near the city that showcase the region’s natural beauty, rich history, and cultural heritage. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey to discover the top places to visit near Kingston, Ontario.
Why Visit Places Near Kingston?
Kingston’s proximity to several major highways and waterways makes it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding region. By venturing out of the city, you can experience the natural beauty of the Canadian wilderness, visit historic sites and museums, and enjoy a range of outdoor activities. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or adventure seeker, there’s something for everyone near Kingston.
Top Places to Visit Near Kingston
In this article, we’ll explore some of the top places to visit near Kingston, including:
- The Thousand Islands National Park
- The Rideau Canal
- The Bay of Quinte
- The Limestone District Museum
- The Bellevue House National Historic Site
From the scenic beauty of the Thousand Islands to the historic charm of the Limestone District Museum, these destinations offer a glimpse into the region’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re looking for a day trip or a longer getaway, we’ll guide you through the best places to visit near Kingston, Ontario.
Places To Visit Near Kingston Ontario
Kingston, Ontario is a charming city with a rich history and a plethora of attractions to explore. Located on the shores of Lake Ontario, Kingston is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. If you’re looking for places to visit near Kingston, you’re in luck! There are plenty of exciting destinations within a short drive or bus ride from the city.
Outdoor Activities
Kingston is surrounded by natural beauty, with numerous parks, beaches, and trails to explore. Here are some of the top outdoor activities to enjoy near Kingston:
• Hiking: Explore the scenic trails at Lemoine Point Provincial Park, which offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding countryside.
• Beachcombing: Spend a day soaking up the sun at one of Kingston’s many beaches, such as Sandbanks Provincial Park or Bath Beach.
• Cycling
: Rent a bike and ride along the scenic waterfront trail or explore the countryside on one of Kingston’s many bike paths.
Historic Sites
Kingston is steeped in history, with numerous historic sites to explore. Here are some of the top historic sites to visit near Kingston:
• Fort Henry: Explore the historic fort and enjoy the evening re-enactments and fireworks displays during the summer months.
• Kingston Penitentiary: Take a guided tour of the former maximum-security prison, which operated from 1835 to 2013.
• Mariners’ Park: Visit the historic park, which features a replica of the HMS Ontario, a British warship that sank in 1780. (See Also: Places To Visit Near Old Parliament House)
Wineries and Breweries
The Kingston area is home to a number of wineries and breweries, offering wine and beer tastings and tours. Here are some of the top wineries and breweries to visit:
• Kingston Mills Winery: Enjoy wine tastings and tours at this family-owned winery, which produces a range of wines including Chardonnay, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc.
• The Kingston Brewing Company: Sample a range of craft beers at this popular brewery, which offers tours and tastings.
• Inniskillin Wines: Visit the winery and enjoy wine tastings and tours, as well as a range of wine-related products.
Other Attractions
There are plenty of other attractions to explore near Kingston, including:
• The Thousand Islands: Take a boat tour or rent a kayak to explore the stunning Thousand Islands, which are located just a short drive from Kingston.
• The Bellevue House National Historic Site: Visit the historic house, which was once the home of Canada’s 12th Prime Minister, Sir John A. Macdonald.
• The Kingston Waterfront: Enjoy the scenic views and shops and restaurants along the waterfront, which offers stunning views of Lake Ontario.
Getting There
Getting to Kingston is easy, with a number of transportation options available:
• By Car: Kingston is located at the intersection of Highway 401 and Highway 2, making it easily accessible by car.
• By Bus: Take the Greyhound bus from Toronto or Ottawa to Kingston, which takes approximately 2-3 hours.
• By Train: Take the VIA Rail train from Toronto or Ottawa to Kingston, which takes approximately 2-3 hours.
Accommodations
Kingston has a range of accommodations to suit all budgets, including:
• Hotels: Choose from a range of hotels, including the historic Delta Hotel and the modern Residence Inn by Marriott.
• B&Bs: Enjoy a home-away-from-home experience at one of Kingston’s many bed and breakfasts.
• Camping: Pitch a tent or rent a campsite at one of Kingston’s many campsites, including the popular Sandbanks Provincial Park. (See Also: Places To Visit Near Dusseldorf Germany)
Conclusion
Kingston, Ontario is a charming city with a rich history and a plethora of attractions to explore. From outdoor activities to historic sites, wineries and breweries, and other attractions, there’s something for everyone in Kingston. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed adventure, Kingston is the perfect destination.
As we conclude our article on “Places to Visit Near Kingston, Ontario,” we hope that you have gained a better understanding of the many exciting attractions and destinations that await you in the surrounding areas.
In this article, we explored some of the top places to visit near Kingston, from the historic city of Gananoque to the scenic beauty of the Thousand Islands. We also highlighted the charming towns of Brockville and Prescott, each with its own unique character and charm.
We discussed the many outdoor activities that can be enjoyed in the area, including hiking, biking, and kayaking, as well as the numerous museums, galleries, and cultural attractions that showcase the region’s rich history and heritage.
We also touched on the many festivals and events that take place throughout the year, from the Kingston Buskers Rendezvous to the Thousand Islands Music Festival. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or simply enjoying the great outdoors, there’s something for everyone in the Kingston area.
We hope that this article has inspired you to plan a trip to Kingston and explore all that the surrounding area has to offer. With its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant cultural scene, Kingston is a destination that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
So why wait? Start planning your trip today and discover the many wonders of Kingston and its surroundings!
Here are five FAQs related to “Places To Visit Near Kingston Ontario”: (See Also: Best Places To Visit Near Sacramento)
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular attractions in Kingston itself?
Kingston is a city with a rich history and plenty of things to see and do. Some popular attractions include the Kingston City Hall, the Kingston Penitentiary, the Royal Military College, and the Bellevue House National Historic Site, which was once the home of Canada’s first prime minister, Sir John A. Macdonald.
Are there any nearby national parks or nature reserves?
Yes, there are several national parks and nature reserves near Kingston. One popular option is the Thousand Islands National Park, which is located just a short drive from the city. The park is made up of 21 islands and offers hiking trails, camping sites, and opportunities for kayaking and canoeing. Another option is the Frontenac Provincial Park, which is located about an hour and a half north of Kingston. The park offers hiking trails, camping sites, and opportunities for fishing and swimming.
What are some good day trip options from Kingston?
There are several great day trip options from Kingston. One popular option is the city of Ottawa, which is located about two and a half hours north of Kingston. Ottawa is the capital of Canada and is home to many national landmarks, including Parliament Hill and the Rideau Canal. Another option is the city of Toronto, which is located about three and a half hours west of Kingston. Toronto is a large and diverse city with many things to see and do, including the CN Tower, the Toronto Islands, and the Royal Ontario Museum.
Are there any nearby wineries or breweries?
Yes, there are several wineries and breweries near Kingston. One popular option is the Niagara-on-the-Lake region, which is located about an hour and a half west of Kingston. The region is home to many wineries and vineyards, and offers wine tastings and tours. Another option is the Prince Edward County region, which is located about an hour and a half east of Kingston. The region is home to many wineries and breweries, and offers wine tastings and tours, as well as opportunities for hiking and cycling.
Can I take a boat tour or rent a boat in the area?
Yes, there are several options for taking a boat tour or renting a boat in the area. One popular option is to take a boat tour of the Thousand Islands, which is located just a short drive from Kingston. The tour will take you through the islands and offer opportunities to see wildlife and learn about the history and geology of the area. Another option is to rent a boat and explore the islands on your own. There are several marinas and boat rental companies in the area that offer a variety of boats for rent, including kayaks, canoes, and powerboats.
