Kingston & Thousand Islands

Canada's first capital and the start of the Rideau Canal, with Fort Henry, a limestone old town and Thousand Islands cruises offering views of Boldt Castle across the US border.

Kingston sits in eastern Ontario, Canada, where Lake Ontario drains into the St. Lawrence River. From 1841 to 1844 it was the capital of the Province of Canada, and its many grey-white limestone buildings have earned it the nickname "the Limestone City". It marks the southern end of the Rideau Canal World Heritage Site, which also includes Fort Henry east of the city, the Martello towers on the waterfront and the Kingston Mills locks. East of the city, more than 1,800 islands are scattered across the St. Lawrence River: these are the Thousand Islands. Key areas: the old town (City Hall and Market Square, Princess Street, Queen's University and the former penitentiary) makes for a full day on foot; allow half a day for Fort Henry and the Royal Military College peninsula. For the Thousand Islands, head east along the Thousand Islands Parkway to Gananoque to take a cruise and climb the 1000 Islands Tower; with a passport you can visit Boldt Castle on the US side. To the southwest, Prince Edward County has Sandbanks Provincial Park and wineries, while to the north are the Jones Falls locks and Frontenac Provincial Park. June–September is the liveliest time, and most attractions open only in summer; the October fall colours are equally lovely, but winters are cold and many sights close. Getting there: Kingston lies between Toronto and Montreal, about 2.5 hours by VIA Rail, or by car via Highway 401. Plan to stay 2–3 days; visiting the US side requires a US visa or ESTA.

Top sights

Where to eat

Itineraries