Romance In Kingston, 1000 Islands Gananoque, and Frontenac County This Winter
South Eastern Ontario heats up in the winter with unique opportunities to keep making memories all year through.
Bundle up and get into the great outdoors to foster a whole new appreciation for winter. Whether it’s flying high in the 1000 Islands Gananoque, skating in Kingston, or spotting snowy owls in their natural habitat on Frontenac’s Wolfe Island, winter is for wonder. Get inspired with itinerary ideas below and plan your own romantic getaway this Winter.
Trip duration
3 days
Stops
15 stops
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Kingston
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Gananoque
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Frontenac County
Day 1: Kingston
This day is all about the beer! Did you know that beer brewing is intertwined with Kingston’s history? The first breweries in the city operated in the 1790s. Rideau Street, in the city’s downtown, was then known as Brewery Street! Further west, Morton’s Brewery and distillery was established in 1832. One of its original buildings is now home to the Tett Centre for Creativity and Learning. You can sample some of Kingston’s local brews at bars, restaurants, and festivals across the city. Several beverage makers also offer take-home and delivery options. Here’s an intimate look at the brewers of Kingston!
You and your beau could also explore unique boutiques and shops with loads of character and style. Look to indie fashion boutique, Agent 99, for forward-thinking fashions, or spin some vinyl from Something Else Records; think Happy Thoughts and explore this darling store full of colourful prints, fun jewellery, and witty stationery, while dreaming of luxurious lathers from the 1000 Islands Soap Company. Next, please your palette with The Kingston Olive Oil Company and be prepared to find the newest must-have for your wardrobe and home at WHIT Kingston. The cure for the winter doldrums is in the bag!
End the day at one of Kingston‘s peaceful hotels or bed and breakfasts, while warming up in a fireplace suite or sauna.
Day 2: 1000 Islands Gananoque
Wake up with the sun and head east! A short drive to 1000 Islands Gananoque will put a remarkable spin on an outdoor adventure trip. Take a flight with 1000 Islands Helicopter Tours to see the stunning winter landscape and St. Lawrence from high above. A personal pilot will point out all the best sights. Witness the stillness and romance of Boldt Castle when it’s dusted with snow.
Get your boots on and go! Meander through the historical town of Gananoque or explore the natural beauty that surrounds the town – even in winter! The Gananoque Trail system is made up of a 12 km perimeter hike that can be divided into three returns to the Trailhead loops, each offering an enjoyable hiking experience.
Take advantage of beautiful views and romantic settings at the many restaurants and accommodations in Gananoque.
Day 3: Frontenc County & Kingston
If bird watching is your jam, head to Wolfe Island in the morning. The island provides habitats for birds like open fields, woodlands, wetlands, bays and open water. But during the winter, it’s a special home for hawks and owls. Snowy owls are in abundance here in winter routinely seen and photographed on fence posts, in fields, and even in flight overhead. Be sure to snap a few photos of these majestic and rare birds!
Head back into Kingston to visit local makers to warm your heart and find one-of-a-kind art. Dive into the process at The Kingston Glass Studio and Gallery, or be impressed by the artistic versatility at Black Dog Pottery. Tour through Martello Alley for European vibes in the heart of the city or visit fine art gallery, Studio22, overlooking historic market square, showcasing emerging and established professional contemporary Canadian artists. Lastly, take a stroll through the Kingston School of Art’s Window Art Gallery which provides affordable exhibition space for culturally diverse local and regional artists.
End your trip with some skating. Located in the heart of downtown Kingston, you can glide hand-in-hand with your darling date around the large oval rink in front of City Hall, and then follow it up with a warm cup of hot chocolate, coffee or cider at one of the many delicious cafes located just across the street. Don’t be too worried about the cold as there are warming and change areas as well as lockers and skate rentals available in the Market Wing of City Hall.
Chase adventure in South Eastern Ontario this winter and make memories in Kingston, 1000 Islands Gananoque, and Frontenac’s County.
Discover delicious options for dinner and cozy accommodations in South Eastern Ontario to make the most of your getaway!
Where to eat in Kingston, 1000 Islands Gananoque, and Frontenac County
Where to stay in Kingston, 1000 Islands Gananoque, and Frontenac County
Upcoming Events
Kingstonlicious
The premier prix fixe culinary experience that took the city by storm! Kingstonlicious returns in late January for its second year. From date night to family night, experience the best of the Kingston region on your plate – from three course dinners to lunch for the family. Kingstonlicious offers themed prix fixe dine-in menus and captivating special events.
Kingston Canadian Film Festival
The Kingston Canadian Film Festival transforms traditional and unconventional venues across Kingston’s historic downtown into a dynamic festival setting from March 3 to 13, 2022. Did you know it’s the largest festival in the world devoted solely to Canadian film? It’s a yearly whirlwind of movies and events that spark curiosity, ignite discussion, and provide a fresh experience of Canadian film. This year, you can attend in-person, digitally – or both!
This is an enchanting, fun, family-friendly, free public art exhibit that embraces winter in a most unique manner. Local artists create artwork on 16” x 32” pieces of Plexiglas which are then sent off to Ice Culture near London, Ontario to be frozen into 300-pound blocks of crystal clear ice.
The Hotel on Wolfe Island Winter Music Series
Head here for some entertainment along the waterfront! The Hotel on Wolfe Island will host winterlong concert series featuring regional artists.
Kingston Punk Concerts (KPP at 20)
This music series will run until the end of March and will host four big-name artists playing in intimate venues in Kingston with private meet and greet opportunities for attendees to bolster the intimate experience.
Looking for someone else to make the travel plans?
Planning a meaningful romantic retreat in South Eastern Ontario is a breeze thanks to the Canadian travel company, Landsby. View their list of different experiences throughout South Eastern Ontario to fit your budget and travel style.