Canada

Exploring Canada's past, its historical, and cultural heritage, has always been the best way for my family to discover Canada as our new country.

Living in the GTA, we take every opportunity to visit local museums and art galleries, as well as doing some sightseeing. Every year, except for the current pandemic of 2020, we have enjoyed participating in the ‘Doors Open Toronto’, an event which provides a unique opportunity to get more familiar with the architecture and history of the city.

This year we decided to visit Kinston, the first capital city of the United Province of Canada.

The ride to the city was excellent. The road ran through the most colorful fall landscapes of Southern Ontario. We could still see a lot of green leaves on the trees besides the road, but the yellow and red spots categorically said – ‘the most beautiful Canadian season is coming!’

Kingston welcomed us with wonderful weather. It was just a summer vacation at the end of September. During all three days of our visit, we really enjoyed the sunny and clear skies.

Preparing for the trip, we were surprised at how many attractions this small city has to offer tourists. However, no website can convey the unique atmosphere of this beautiful place!

Established by French explorers in 1673 as Fort Cataraqui, this military outpost passed into the possession of the British Crown in 1760 and was renamed Kingstown. Later, due to the specifics of British pronunciation, the name Kingstown was transformed to Kingston. At least, that is what the urban legend says.

The military outpost started flourishing the when Loyalists began settling in the region in the late 18th century. In 1841, Kingston was named the first capital of the United Province of Canada.

The historic city center vividly illustrates this period of Canadian history, as well as the British influence on it. City Hall remains as the ‘Market Battery’, and ‘Martello Towers’ reflect the practical and restrained style of the early 19th century.

At the same time, a lot of perfectly preserved historical buildings in the downtown area are bright examples of the ‘Second Empire’ urban planning and the architectural style.

Along with the centuries-old history, the city lives its full life. The best local tourist attractions include; The Grand Theatre, Fort Henry, Penitentiary Museum, the Trolley City Tour, cruising the Thousand Islands City Hall, and the downtown waterfront. It’s the perfect place for walking and cycling trips. Beautiful Wolfe Island can be reached by ferry, and it is completely free!

We visited all the major attractions, and we really enjoyed our stay in this hospitable and beautiful place. We would have liked to stay longer, at least for a couple of days, but … reality called us back to the GTA.

Our return ride was a perfect completion of our excellent trip. We visited Glanmore

Mansion, a Victorian style pearl in Belleville and another hidden treasure of our province.

It is amazing how many interesting places Ontarians can find in just an hour's drive!