Kingsville
The lakeside town of Kingsville is one of Ontario’s southernmost communities. It’s actually the same latitude as northern California and enjoys the warmest climate in Canada. In fact, the area was described as ‘Canada’s Paradise Garden’ in the 19th century. Thanks to its favourable temperatures and proximity to water, it quickly became one of the most agriculturally productive regions in the province.
Today, farms, garden centres, vineyards and greenhouses surround the town and visitors enjoy local produce at Kingsville’s restaurants, cafes, wineries, breweries, markets and farm stands.
To learn more about all there is to see and do in Kingsville, scroll down or visit the town's tourism website.
Where is Kingsville?
Kingsville is located on the north shore of Lake Erie, in Essex County, just under an hour’s drive east from Windsor and a little over three hours west from Toronto. The best way to reach the town of Kingsville is by car, as the nearest bus, train and air service are all located in Windsor. The relatively flat and picturesque landscape is ideal for touring by bike and motorcycle.
Things to Do in Kingsville
Foodies will enjoy the fresh flavours of Essex County, and the town of Kingsville is the perfect spot to serve as your base while visiting the area.
With an extended growing season and great culinary, wine and craft beer scene, Kingsville is a year-round getaway destination. Menus reflect the locally grown seasonal ingredients, and guided or self-guided tasting tours are the best way to explore nearby wineries and breweries. Pick up the EPIC Winery Pass, your guide to over a dozen local vineyards, or the Barrel Bottles and Brew Flight Log to discover which brew speaks to you (there are multiple microbreweries located on Main Street in Kingsville).
It’s not just farmers and foodies who have gravitated to this fertile area. Southwestern Ontario (especially Essex County) has long been a popular pit stop for migrating birds.
The Jack Miner Bird Sanctuary has provided shelter for waterfowl including Canadian Geese for over 100 years. Stroll through wooded trails, view the birds and visit the museum to learn more about their impressive annual journey. Cedar Creek Conservation is another favourite spot for bird watching in the spring and fall.
If you’re looking for kid-approved fun, Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens is a family-friendly attraction featuring a petting zoo, kiddie rides, arcade, mini golf, shopping and garden centre. Find out why guests can’t stop raving about their legendary homemade donuts, ‘broasted’ chicken and apple cider.
Things to Know About Visiting Kingsville
Whether you’re still in the planning stages or you’re already on your trip to Kingsville, you'll appreciate what the locals recommend.
Hidden gem
The Grove Hotel is a small boutique inn that's huge on personality. Located in a building dating back to the mid-1850s, each of the 18 rooms has its own distinct and eclectic decor. Be sure to visit their microbrewery, the Grove Brew House, located next door.
Where to get a great meal
Feast ON certified Jack’s Gastropub’s farm to fork menus are inspired by local farmers and paired with the region’s EPIC wines and Ontario’s craft beers.ann
Where to go for a drink
Banded Goose Brewing Co. offers 12 craft beers on tap, a small plates menu and seasonally features Blackjack Gastrovan serving its StreetEATS on the brewery's Outdoor Alley Patio.
Great farmers market
Lee & Maria’s is a 16 hectare family farm producing and selling a variety of fruits and vegetables in their rustic onsite market. Pick up fine cheeses, cured meats, local preserve and gourmet organic provisions and take a farm tour or a cooking class.
Favourite chocolate shop
At Dutch Boy Chocolates, started by two retired friends, indulge in unique, hand-made flavours in a setting that looks more like an art gallery than your typical chocolate shop.
Where to listen to live music
The annual Kingsville Folk Festival is a three-day event on the Lake Erie shore featuring blues, bluegrass, Celtic, country, roots and indie music.
Last updated: March 29, 2023