A Week-Long Road Trip Around Lake Ontario
Aren’t road trips THE BEST? Hop in and let’s go explore Lake Ontario!
Day 1: Toronto, Ontario
Morning: CN Tower and Ripley's Aquarium
Start your adventure in Toronto, the bustling metropolis on the northern shore of Lake Ontario. Begin your day with a visit to the iconic CN Tower, where you can take in panoramic views of the city and the lake from the observation deck. For the brave-hearted, the EdgeWalk offers an exhilarating experience on the tower’s exterior ledge.
Next, head to Ripley's Aquarium, located at the base of the CN Tower. The aquarium boasts a wide variety of marine life and features a mesmerizing underwater tunnel.
Afternoon: Distillery District and St. Lawrence Market
After lunch, explore the historic Distillery District, known for its charming cobblestone streets, art galleries, boutique shops, and restaurants. This pedestrian-only village is perfect for a leisurely stroll and some souvenir shopping.
Later, visit St. Lawrence Market, a food lover’s paradise. Sample local delicacies, pick up some fresh produce, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of one of the world's great markets.
Evening: Toronto Islands
Take a ferry to the Toronto Islands for a peaceful evening. Enjoy a bike ride or a walk along the scenic trails, relax on the beaches, and take in the stunning skyline views. As the sun sets, return to the mainland and enjoy a delicious dinner at one of Toronto’s many excellent restaurants.
Day 2: Toronto to Niagara Falls, Ontario
Morning: Drive to Niagara Falls
Leave Toronto in the morning and drive about 1.5 hours to Niagara Falls. The drive is scenic, with views of vineyards and the Niagara Escarpment along the way.
Afternoon: Niagara Falls Attractions
Upon arrival, head straight to the falls. Experience the powerful Horseshoe Falls from various viewpoints, and don’t miss the Journey Behind the Falls for a unique perspective. For a closer look, take the Hornblower Niagara Cruise to get up close to the thundering waters.
Evening: Clifton Hill and Niagara-on-the-Lake
Spend the evening exploring Clifton Hill, known as the “Street of Fun,” with its numerous attractions, restaurants, and entertainment options. If time permits, drive to the charming town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, known for its wineries and historic sites. Enjoy a wine tasting and a quiet dinner before returning to Niagara Falls for the night.
Day 3: Niagara Falls to Rochester, New York
Morning: Cross the Border and Drive to Rochester
Cross the Rainbow Bridge into the United States. Ensure you have all necessary documents for border crossing, such as a valid passport or an enhanced driver’s license. The drive to Rochester takes about 1.5 hours.
Afternoon: Strong National Museum of Play
Upon reaching Rochester, visit the Strong National Museum of Play. This interactive museum is great for families and anyone young at heart, featuring a vast collection of toys, games, and exhibits about the history of play.
Evening: High Falls District
In the evening, head to the High Falls District, a historic area known for its beautiful waterfall and scenic views of the Genesee River. Enjoy dinner at one of the nearby restaurants and take a leisurely walk along the riverfront.
Day 4: Rochester to Syracuse, New York
Morning: George Eastman Museum
Start your day with a visit to the George Eastman Museum, housed in the former home of the Kodak founder. The museum features extensive collections of photography and film, as well as beautifully maintained gardens.
Afternoon: Drive to Syracuse and Visit the Erie Canal Museum
After lunch, drive to Syracuse, about an hour and a half away. Upon arrival, visit the Erie Canal Museum to learn about the history of this crucial waterway and its impact on New York State.
Evening: Armory Square
Spend the evening exploring Armory Square, a vibrant area filled with shops, restaurants, and nightlife. Enjoy a delicious dinner and maybe catch some live music or entertainment.
Day 5: Syracuse to Kingston, Ontario
Morning: Drive to Kingston and Cross the Thousand Islands Bridge
Leave Syracuse in the morning and drive north to Kingston, Ontario, crossing the Thousand Islands Bridge. The bridge offers stunning views of the Thousand Islands region, and you can stop at the visitor center for more information about the area.
Afternoon: Kingston Penitentiary Tour and Fort Henry
In Kingston, take a guided tour of the historic Kingston Penitentiary, one of the oldest prisons in Canada. Then, visit Fort Henry, a 19th-century British fortification where you can witness military reenactments and explore the fort’s museums.
Evening: Kingston Waterfront
Spend the evening strolling along Kingston’s picturesque waterfront. Enjoy dinner at one of the many waterfront restaurants and take in the views of Lake Ontario.
Day 6: Kingston to Prince Edward County, Ontario
Morning: Drive to Prince Edward County
Drive to Prince Edward County, a region known for its wineries, charming towns, and beautiful beaches. The drive takes about an hour and a half.
Afternoon: Wine Tasting and Sandbanks Provincial Park
Spend the afternoon visiting some of the county’s renowned wineries. Participate in wine tastings and learn about the local wine production. Afterward, head to Sandbanks Provincial Park, known for its expansive sandy beaches and clear waters. Relax on the beach or take a swim in Lake Ontario.
Evening: Picton
In the evening, explore the town of Picton, the largest community in Prince Edward County. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and perhaps catch a show at the Regent Theatre, a historic venue offering a variety of performances.
Day 7: Prince Edward County to Toronto, Ontario
Morning: Drive Back to Toronto
After breakfast, begin your drive back to Toronto. The drive takes about two and a half hours.
Afternoon: Royal Ontario Museum and Shopping
In Toronto, visit the Royal Ontario Museum, one of the largest museums in North America, featuring exhibits on natural history, world cultures, and art. Afterward, indulge in some shopping in the trendy Yorkville neighborhood or along Queen Street West.
Evening: Farewell Dinner
Conclude your road trip with a farewell dinner at one of Toronto’s top restaurants. Reflect on the incredible journey around Lake Ontario and the diverse experiences on both sides of the border.
Travel Tips and Border Crossing Information
Documents and Requirements
When crossing the border between the United States and Canada, ensure you have the necessary travel documents. A valid passport is required for most travelers. U.S. citizens can also use an enhanced driver’s license or a NEXUS card. Check the specific entry requirements for your nationality before traveling.
Border Crossing Points
There are several border crossing points around Lake Ontario, including the Rainbow Bridge at Niagara Falls, the Thousand Islands Bridge, and the Lewiston-Queenston Bridge. Be prepared for potential wait times, especially during peak travel periods.
Currency and Mobile Service
In Canada, the currency is the Canadian dollar (CAD), while in the United States, it’s the U.S. dollar (USD). It's a good idea to have some local currency on hand, although credit and debit cards are widely accepted. For mobile service, check with your provider about international roaming plans or consider getting a local SIM card if you plan to use your phone frequently.
Driving Tips
Both Canada and the United States drive on the right-hand side of the road. Speed limits are posted in kilometers per hour (km/h) in Canada and miles per hour (mph) in the United States. Be mindful of these differences when driving. Additionally, make sure your car insurance covers cross-border travel.
A road trip around Lake Ontario offers a unique blend of natural beauty, vibrant cities, and historic attractions on both the Canadian and American sides. From the cosmopolitan charm of Toronto and the natural wonder of Niagara Falls to the cultural richness of Rochester and the historic sites of Kingston, this week-long journey promises unforgettable experiences and scenic vistas. So pack your bags, grab your passport, and embark on an adventure around one of North America's Great Lakes.
