Kingston, located in Eastern Ontario, has quite the history, so much so that the top tourism sights are all historical places. Here is a list of things you can do while you visit.
Fort Henry
After the war of 1812 Fort Henry was built over the years from 1832 to 1837. Such a place was used to protect the naval dock yard of Point Frederick.
Now a tourist attraction, stepping into the front gates is like taking a step back into the 19th century. Take a guided tour and learn the fascinating history behind these walls.
Canada’s Penitentiary Museum
Ever wonder what it would be like in prison without breaking the law? Well here is your chance. The notorious Kingston Penitentiary, as kids we called it the Kingston Pen, is now a museum. This penitentiary once housed some of the worst people in Canadian history.
Small crazy fact, the youngest boy inmate was just 8 years old was sentenced to 3 years for pickpocketing. The youngest girl, 9 years old, was sentenced to 7 years for house breaking and larceny. Wow, the law was tough.
Bellevue House
What a stunning home, I could live here. Once the home of Sir John A Macdonald, Canada’s first Prime Minister. Take a guided tour through the home and gardens getting not only a story of Sir John A. Macdonald but also a lesson of Canadian History.
Downtown waterfront
With 8km of pristine waterfront there is much to explore, including paddle boarding, biking, canoeing and so much more. If you are from out of town, Ahoy Rentals has you covered. Winter may not have much to offer but the spring, summer and fall this is a busy area, so best plan ahead.
Wolfe Island
Take a journey on the ferry to the largest of the Thousand Islands. Here you can enjoy a day on the golf course, relax on the beach or take a tour of The limestone Wolfe Island Town Hall a national historical sire for Canada.
Thousand Island Cruise
Lastly, as a child this was my favorite thing to do. The cruise takes you up the river passing Island after Island, stopping at the enchanted Boldt Castle and experiencing amazing sunsets.
Fun fact : Thousand Islands is actually made of 1864 Islands
Places to Eat
The Cove Waterfront Grill
The Cove Waterfront Grill is a great place to stop for lunch or dinner. After a long day exploring the area sit back with some wings and beers.
Dianne’s Fish Shack and Smokehouse
This places is where the East Coast meets Mexico. Just think fish and chips and delicious tacos. There is something for every taste bud at Dianne’s Fish Shack and Smokehouse
Bella’s Bistro
A cute diner located at 4050 Bath Rd, Kingston. Stop here for the chefs burger you will not be disappointed or hungry after eating at Bella’s Bistro. I love stopping at small places that have an area to sit outside where you can smell the amazing food being cooked.
Where to stay
The Rosemount Inn – Circa 1850’s Tuscan style Inn situated in the heart of Kingston.
The Woodview Inn – A boutique hotel with a classic charm. Catering those 12 years and older.
Days Inn – A place for the whole family to stay. After a long day why not take the kids to the indoor pool to burn off the rest of that energy.
