The Perfect Itinerary
🇨🇦 Kingston & 1000 Islands Day Trip Guide | The Perfect Itinerary 🚗⛴️🏰 🌅 Morning: Exploring Kingston's Historic Charm 🚗 Getting There & Parking • From Toronto: ~2.5-hour drive via Highway 401 (scenic lakeside views) • Parking in Kingston: • Queen’s University: Public lot beside campus (~$4/hour) • Downtown: Street parking or lots near City Hall (similar rates) 📍 Must-Visit Spots 1. Queen’s University 🏛️ • Stroll through the limestone-clad campus (30-60 mins) • Don’t miss the Harry Potter-esque Douglas Library 2. Kingston City Hall & Waterfront 📸 • Iconic photo ops: Kingston sign, vintage Engine 1095 locomotive, and Lake Ontario views • Pro tip: Visit the Visitor Centre for free maps and souvenirs 3. Quick Lunch 🍔 • Harper’s Burger Bar: Try their poutine or "Kingstonian" burger (15-min walk from City Hall) ⛴️ Afternoon: 1000 Islands Cruise to Boldt Castle 🚢 Choosing Your Cruise Option Departure Point Duration Highlights Price (Adult) 1-Hour Tour Ivy Lea (95 Ivy Lea Rd) 1 hour Boldt Castle (exterior), border views ~$37 3-Hour Tour Gananoque or Rockport 3 hours Boldt Castle + 100+ islands ~$50 5-Hour Tour Kingston 5 hours Full archipelago experience ~$80 🔍 Why We Chose Ivy Lea (1-Hour Tour) • Best for time-crunched travelers: Fits neatly into a day trip • Free parking: No stress about meters or lots • Castlock focus: Gets you straight to Boldt Castle’s photogenic exterior • Border thrill: Sails along the US-Canada boundary (keep phones on airplane mode!) 📸 Cruise Highlights • Boldt Castle: The fairytale-like mansion built for a love story (circa 1900) • Millionaire’s Row: Tiny islands with one-house estates (peak #LifeGoals) • Shortest Int’l Bridge: Connects Zavikon Island (US) to Little Zavikon (Canada) 💡 Pro Tips • Dress in layers: The top deck is windy even in summer! • Book online: Guarantees spots (though walk-ups often work at Ivy Lea) • Sunset slots: The 3:30 PM cruise offers golden-hour lighting 🌇 Evening: Return & Optional Stops • Kingston Waterfront: Grab gelato at Mio Gelato before driving back • Highway 401 Pitstop: • Big Apple (Colborne): Stretch your legs with fresh pie (~1 hr from Kingston) 📌 Key Takeaways ✅ Kingston = Quick & Historic (2-3 hrs is enough for highlights) ✅ Ivy Lea = Best Short Cruise (Saves time without missing castle views) ✅ Boldt Castle = Must-See (Even from outside!) #KingstonDayTrip #1000Islands #BoldtCastle #CanadaRoadTrip