Eastern Ontario Travel Guide

Discover the natural beauty, cultural significance, outdoor adventures, local food, and customs of Eastern Ontario with our comprehensive guide.


Introduction to Eastern Ontario

Eastern Ontario in Canada is a destination that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty. Located in Ontario, in North America, the region is home to some of the most vibrant cities, quaint towns, and fascinating natural attractions. From the stunning Thousand Islands to the Rideau Canal, Eastern Ontario boasts with an abundance of tourist attractions that lure visitors from all over the world.

List of Places to Visit in Eastern Ontario

If you’re planning your trip to Eastern Ontario, you’ll want to check out the following must-visit destinations:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Canadian Museum of Nature, Ottawa: A well-known museum featuring fascinating exhibits on natural history.
  • Canadian War Museum, Ottawa: Displays artifacts and memorabilia from the major wars and conflicts involving Canada.
  • National Gallery of Canada, Ottawa: Houses a vast collection of artworks from local and international artists.
  • Upper Canada Village, Morrisburg: A living museum showcasing life in a rural 19th-century community.
  • Fort Henry National Historic Site, Kingston: A UNESCO World Heritage Site that provides an opportunity to learn about the military history of Canada.

Natural Attractions of Eastern Ontario: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Thousand Islands: This stunning area of the St. Lawrence River boasts over 1,800 islands with various outdoor activities, including kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and hiking.
  • Sandbanks Provincial Park, Picton: A popular spot for beach lovers, Sandbanks Provincial Park has three beautiful beaches and several opportunities for water sports.
  • Algonquin Provincial Park: Known for its diverse wildlife, including moose, black bears, and beavers, Algonquin Provincial Park is a natural lover’s paradise.
  • Rideau Canal: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Rideau Canal offers a picturesque canal system which runs through several towns and cities in Eastern Ontario.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Eastern Ontario

Eastern Ontario has plenty of incredible hiking and biking trails that allow visitors to experience the region’s stunning scenery firsthand. Some of the popular routes include:

  • The Cataraqui Trail: A 104 kilometer-long trail in Eastern Ontario, perfect for hiking and biking.
  • Frontenac Provincial Park: Contains over 100 kilometers of hiking trails through dense woodlands, lakes, and marshes.
  • K&P Trail: The K&P Trail covers about 15 kilometers of multi-use biking and hiking trails, from Kingston to Westport.

Best Things to Do in Eastern Ontario: Activities and Tours

  • Visit the Parliament Hill, Ottawa: You can take a guided tour of the Centre Block that houses the Senate, the House of Commons, and the Library of Parliament.
  • Kingston Food Tour: Take a guided food tour to taste local delicacies like maple syrup, smoked salmon, and artisanal cheese.
  • Flying Experience Over the Thousand Islands, Gananoque: Get a unique bird’s eye view of the Thousand Islands by taking a chartered plane or helicopter ride.
  • White Water Rafting in the Ottawa River: Experience the thrill of white water rapids while taking a guided tour on the Ottawa River.
  • Explore the Caves and Lighthouses of the Thousand Islands: Discover the hidden gems of the Thousand Islands by taking a riverboat tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Eastern Ontario

Here’s a week-long itinerary that covers some of the best attractions in Eastern Ontario:

Day Destination
Day 1 Ottawa
Day 2 Thousand Islands
Day 3 Frontenac Provincial Park
Day 4 Kingston
Day 5 Algonquin Provincial Park
Day 6 Westport and Rideau Canal
Day 7 Gananoque

Food and Drink Scene of Eastern Ontario

Eastern Ontario is a food lover’s paradise. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Poutine: A Canadian classic consisting of gravy, melted cheese curds, and french fries.
  • BeaverTails: A Canadian pastry flattened and shaped like a beaver’s tail and served with various toppings.
  • Maple Syrup: Tastes better in Canada. Try it in various dishes, including pancakes, waffles, and oatmeal.

Local Beverages

  • Ice Wine: A sweet dessert wine made from grapes that have been frozen while still on the vine.
  • Craft Beer: With several microbreweries in the region, Eastern Ontario has a vibrant craft beer scene.
  • Local Cider: Made from handpicked apples that grow in Eastern Ontario.

Where to Stay in Eastern Ontario: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Eastern Ontario offers a wide range of accommodation options suitable for all budgets. Some of the best options include:

  • Fairmont Château Laurier, Ottawa: A historic hotel in the downtown Ottawa area, offering luxurious accommodation.
  • Delta Kingston Waterfront Hotel, Kingston: A four-star hotel offering waterfront views and easy access to the city’s main attractions.
  • Sir Sam’s Inn and Water Spa, Haliburton: A romantic getaway location offering luxurious suites with private hot tubs.
  • HI Ottawa Jail Hostel, Ottawa: A unique hostel in a jailhouse setting, providing budget accommodation.
  • The Ferg B&B, Perth: A cozy bed and breakfast providing a unique heritage home atmosphere.

What to Buy in Eastern Ontario: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Maple Syrup products: Bring home maple syrup, maple liqueur, or maple candy made from Ontario’s sugar maple trees.
  • Artisanal Cheese: From soft goat and sheep milk cheese to cheddar and mozzarella, Ontario offers a wide range of unique local cheese.
  • Local Crafts: Visit art studios and galleries in various towns, including Perth, Kingston, and Ottawa, which offer locally made pottery, textiles, and other crafts.

Local Culture and Customs of Eastern Ontario

Eastern Ontario has a diverse population with varied cultures and customs. These are a few of the local customs and etiquette that you may encounter:

  • It is considered polite to hold the door open for the person behind you.
  • People in Eastern Ontario generally dress conservatively for formal occasions.
  • French is the second official language in Eastern Ontario, and it is spoken by many people.

Best Time to Visit Eastern Ontario

Eastern Ontario is a year-round destination, and the best time to visit depends on your interests. Here is a general summary of each season:

  • Summer: Offers warm weather, outdoor festivals, and plenty of water activities.
  • Fall: Offers cooler weather, stunning fall foliage, and apple-picking season.
  • Winter: Offers opportunities for winter sports, such as skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing.
  • Spring: Offers mild weather, maple syrup festivals, and early outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Eastern Ontario

Do:

  • Do carry some cash in case some places do not accept cards.
  • Do take a guided tour of the parliament building in Ottawa.
  • Do try some local beverages and dishes.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or harm the environment.
  • Don’t try to pet or approach wild animals in Algonquin Provincial Park.
  • Don’t forget to tip at restaurants and bars as it is customary in Canada.

Safety and Health

Safety in Eastern Ontario

Eastern Ontario is a safe destination to visit; however, some general safety tips include:

  • Always lock your car and avoid leaving valuable items in it.
  • Avoid walking alone in a deserted area or alleys after dark.
  • Wear proper gear when participating in any outdoor activities.

Health in Eastern Ontario

The healthcare facilities in Eastern Ontario are well-equipped, and in case of an emergency, you can dial 911. It is always advisable to have travel insurance before traveling to any foreign destination.

Getting to Eastern Ontario: Transportation Options and Logistics

Eastern Ontario is accessible via several modes of transportation, including:

Airports Near Eastern Ontario

  • Ottawa International Airport (YOW): The largest airport near Eastern Ontario, located in Ottawa.
  • Kingston/Norman Rogers Airport (YGK): A smaller airport located in Kingston.

Bus Stations Near Eastern Ontario

  • City Hall, Ottawa: Served by Greyhound and Megabus.
  • John Counter Blvd Terminal, Kingston: Served by Greyhound and Megabus.

Other Options

  • Train: VIA Rail Canada connects Ottawa and Kingston to other major cities in Canada.
  • Car Rental: Several car rental companies operate at major airports and cities, making it easy to explore the region at leisure.

How to Get Around in Eastern Ontario

Eastern Ontario is best explored by car, but there are other options as well:

  • Bus: OC Transpo operates in Ottawa, and Kingston Transit offers services in Kingston.
  • Train: VIA Rail Canada connects Eastern Ontario to major cities in Canada.
  • Taxi and Ride-sharing Services: Uber and other ride-sharing services offer affordable transportation options.
  • Bike Rentals: Several bike rental companies offer cycling tours and bicycle rentals in various towns in Eastern Ontario.

Where to Go Next from Eastern Ontario: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Eastern Ontario is a gateway to several destinations in Canada, including:

  • Montreal: A vibrant city in Quebec province, just a short drive or train ride from Eastern Ontario.
  • Toronto: The largest city in Canada, located a few hours away from Eastern Ontario.
  • Quebec City: A historic city in Quebec that offers a glimpse into French Canadian heritage.
  • Prince Edward County: A nearby destination that offers stunning vineyards, boutique shops, and stunning beaches.

Conclusion

Eastern Ontario is a destination that offers something for everyone, with its natural beauty, cultural significance, outdoor adventures, local food, and customs. From the vibrant city of Ottawa, the quaint town of Kingston, and the stunning natural attractions like the Thousand Islands, this region in Canada should be on every traveler’s bucket list.

Ottawa above the Ottawa River Ottawa above the Ottawa River Upper Canada Village Upper Canada Village Kingston City Hall Kingston City Hall Skating on the Rideau Canal in Ottawa Skating on the Rideau Canal in Ottawa


    Ottawa Valley
    Ottawa-Rideau
    Prescott-Russell
    Quinte-Northumberland
    Seaway Region