Kingston, with its funky and laid back vibe, is a must see city. Beautifully situated on the shore of Lake Ontario, Kingston is a city steeped in history where culture, cuisine and artistry collide.

Currently with a population of over 115, 000, Kingston was in 1841 the first capital of Canada. Sir John A. MacDonald, Canada's First Prime Minister, called Kingston home and his former residence, Bellevue House, is a National Historic Site. Numerous other museums and historic buildings are located in the 'Limestone City' so named for the variety of buildings constructed from this local rock. Some of these attractive buildings belong to Queen's University. It is the Queen's students who lend Kingston some of its energy.

Stroll the lovely Princess Street in the heart of downtown and make your way to Confederation Park to enjoy a festival, visit the Farmer's Market and take the ferry to nearby Wolfe Island. In the evening visit one of Kingston's many fine restaurants and then enjoy the entertainment as clubs and pubs abound.

If water is your thing you will love Kingston. Known for some of the best fresh-water sailing in the world, you can take in the action at the international sailing races known as CORK (Canadian Olympic Training Regatta) that are held every August.

Take a scenic boat ride through the 1000 Islands. Enjoy the Rideau Canal; designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this scenic waterway stretches from Kingston to the nation's capital, Ottawa. You may want to start your tour of the Rideau with a visit to Fort Henry. Built in the 1830's, Fort Henry played a major role in defending the Canal.

Kingston is easily accessible from both Toronto and Ottawa. Take highway 401 and near about the mid point you will find this gem. Visit once and you will want to come back again!