Gananoque Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Gananoque, Ontario with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best attractions, things to do, food and drink scene, local customs, and nearby destinations.


Located in the Seaway Region of Eastern Ontario, Gananoque is a small, picturesque town surrounded by majestic waterfront scenery. Its name means “town on two rivers” in the First Nations language, and this is a reflection of the town’s unique position between the St. Lawrence River and the Gananoque River. The town is a popular destination for both Canadians and international visitors, thanks to its natural attractions, historic landmarks, and vibrant cultural scene.

Introduction to Gananoque

Gananoque is a town that caters to travelers of all tastes. Whether you’re interested in exploring the outdoors, learning about history and culture, trying local food, or simply relaxing by the water, you’ll find plenty of things to do here. In this guide, we’ll take you through the best attractions, activities, and food options in town, as well as the local customs and culture.

List of Places to Visit in Gananoque

Here are some of the top places to visit in Gananoque:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Thousand Islands Playhouse
  • Arthur Child Heritage Museum
  • The Gananoque Clock Tower
  • The Firehall Theatre
  • Joel Stone Heritage Park and Splash Pad

Natural Attractions of Gananoque: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Thousand Islands
  • Joel Stone Beach
  • St. Lawrence Islands National Park
  • Skywood Eco Adventure Park
  • The Thousand Islands Parkway

Hiking/Biking Routes of Gananoque

Exploring Gananoque on foot or by bike is a great way to see the town’s natural beauty up close. Some of the top hiking and biking routes in the area include:

  • Thousand Islands Parkway Trail
  • Thousand Island Frontenac Arch Biosphere Reserve Trail
  • Landon Bay Centre Trail
  • St. Lawrence Recreation Trail

Best Things to Do in Gananoque: Activities and Tours

Gananoque has plenty of activities and tours to offer visitors. Here are some of the best things to do in the area:

  • Take a boat tour of the Thousand Islands
  • Go kayaking or canoeing on the St. Lawrence River
  • Rent a bike and explore the town and surrounding countryside
  • Embark on a fishing trip
  • Go ziplining at the Skywood Eco Adventure Park
  • Try your luck at the Shorelines Casino Thousand Islands

Week-Long Itinerary for Gananoque

A week-long trip to Gananoque allows for plenty of time to see the town and surrounding area. Here’s a sample itinerary to help you plan your trip:

Day 1: Explore Gananoque’s downtown and waterfront area. Take a stroll along the Gananoque River and visit the Arthur Child Heritage Museum.

Day 2: Take a boat tour of the Thousand Islands. You can choose from a variety of excursions ranging from short one-hour trips to full-day adventures.

Day 3: Visit St. Lawrence Islands National Park and hike the trails. You can also camp in the park overnight.

Day 4: Rent a bike and explore the Thousand Islands Parkway Trail. Stop at Landon Bay Centre along the way.

Day 5: Experience the Skywood Eco Adventure Park. Try the ziplines, aerial courses, and treetop walkways.

Day 6: Take a day trip to Kingston, just a short drive away. Explore the historic downtown area and visit Kingston’s museums and galleries.

Day 7: Relax on Joel Stone Beach and take a swim in the waters of the St. Lawrence River.

Food and Drink Scene of Gananoque

Gananoque’s food and drink scene is a reflection of the town’s diverse cultural heritage. Local restaurants and bars offer everything from classic Canadian cuisine to fusion dishes and craft cocktails.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Beaver Tails (a Canadian pastry)
  • Poutine (french fries topped with gravy and cheese curds)
  • Bacon-Wrapped Pickerel (a local fish)

Local Beverages

  • Canadian beer and ale
  • Ontario’s VQA wines
  • Maple syrup-flavored whiskey

Where to Stay in Gananoque: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Gananoque has plenty of options for overnight stays, ranging from quaint bed and breakfasts to luxury hotels. Here are some of the best options:

  • Gananoque Inn & Spa
  • The Woodview Inn
  • Trinity House Inn
  • Turtle Island Bed and Breakfast
  • Sleepy Hollow Bed and Breakfast

What to Buy in Gananoque: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Bringing home a souvenir from your trip is a great way to remember your time in Gananoque. Here are some ideas for local products and souvenirs:

  • Handmade pottery and ceramics
  • Niagara Icewine
  • Maple syrup and maple syrup products
  • Canadian wildlife art and photography

Local Culture and Customs of Gananoque

Gananoque’s rich First Nations history is an important part of its local culture. Visitors to the town will find a welcoming community that celebrates its heritage while embracing diverse cultures from around the world. In Gananoque, it’s customary to be respectful of the town’s natural surroundings and to take part in outdoor activities like hiking and canoeing.

Best Time to Visit Gananoque

The best time to visit Gananoque is during the summer months, from June through August. This is when the weather is warm and sunny, and the town’s outdoor attractions are at their peak.

Do’s and Don’ts of Gananoque

Here are some do’s and don’ts to help you enjoy your trip to Gananoque:

Do:

  • Respect the local environment and wildlife
  • Take part in outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking
  • Try the local food and drink
  • Learn about the town’s history and culture

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage natural areas
  • Trespass on private property
  • Ignore safety warnings while on excursions

Safety and Health

Gananoque is a safe and clean destination for travelers. Here are some tips for staying safe and healthy during your visit:

Safety in Gananoque

  • Always wear a life vest when boating or kayaking
  • Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen while outdoors
  • Watch for wildlife like bears and snakes
  • Respect private property and follow trail markers

Health in Gananoque

  • Bring insect repellent to avoid tick bites
  • Drink bottled water if you have a sensitive stomach
  • Wear sturdy shoes while hiking to avoid injuries

Getting to Gananoque: Transportation Options and Logistics

Gananoque is easily accessible by car, bus, or plane. Here are some transportation options for getting to and around the town:

Airports Near Gananoque

  • Kingston Airport (YGK): 60 km away
  • Ottawa International Airport (YOW): 200 km away

Bus Stations Near Gananoque

  • Kingston Bus Terminal: 30 km away

Other Options

  • Rent a car from Kingston or Ottawa
  • Take a taxi from the airport or bus station

How to Get Around in Gananoque

Gananoque is a walkable town, with most attractions within easy walking distance of each other. Biking is also a popular way to get around the town, and many local companies offer bike rentals. Taxis and car rentals are also available.

Where to Go Next from Gananoque: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time to spend in Ontario, there are plenty of nearby destinations and excursions to explore. Here are some options:

  • Kingston: Just a short drive from Gananoque, Kingston is a historic city with a vibrant arts and culture scene.

  • Ottawa: The capital city of Canada is located about 200 km from Gananoque and is known for its stunning architecture and rich history.

  • Prince Edward County: This wine country region located on Lake Ontario offers beautiful countryside scenery and delicious locally produced wines.

Conclusion

Gananoque is a beautiful town located in Ontario’s Seaway Region. Its natural beauty, historic landmarks, and vibrant cultural scene make it a popular destination for travelers from around the world. Whether you want to explore the outdoors, learn about local history and culture, or simply relax by the water, there’s something for everyone in Gananoque. We hope this guide has helped you plan your trip and discover the best of this beautiful town.

1000 Islands Playhouse 1000 Islands Playhouse Former 1000 Islands Railway car Former 1000 Islands Railway car Thousand Islands tourist cruse boat Thousand Islands tourist cruse boat