Fall drive from Toronto to Kingston and The County
Take a scenic fall road trip east of Toronto to explore the rural-chic charm of Prince Edward County and the hip, historic allure of Kingston.
Glenora Ferry, Glenora
Stop 1: Northumberland County
Approximate distance and drive time from Toronto: 85 miles (140 kilometres), 2 hours, 15 minutes
The most direct route from Toronto to Prince Edward County is along Highway 401 East. Along the way, make a detour in Northumberland County, known for rolling hills, apple farms and famous butter tarts.
Attractions and activities
Butter Tart Tour
Butter tarts are popular Canadian pastries with a tasty, sweet filling. This self-guided tour of various eateries is a great way to admire fall foliage while enjoying some of the nation’s best butter tarts. A delicious highlight, the bakery at Ste. Anne’s Spa in Grafton specializes in gluten-free treats.
Location:
Butter Tart Tour, various locations
Ste. Anne’s Bakery, 252 Academy Hill Road, Grafton
The Big Apple
A road trip east of Toronto isn’t complete without a stop at this quirky roadside attraction. The enormous apple in front of the store is impossible to miss. Shop for apple-themed products, including apple pie, apple crisp and apple cider.
Location: 262 Orchard Road, Colborne
Presqu’ile Provincial Park
Perched on the northern shore of Lake Ontario near Brighton, this park features sandy beaches, coastal marshes, trails, boardwalks and one of the oldest operating lighthouses on the Great Lakes. In the fall, birdwatchers and photographers are drawn to the vibrant foliage and migration of shorebirds and monarch butterflies.
Location: 328 Presqu'Ile Parkway, Brighton
Stop 2: Prince Edward County
Approximate distance and drive time from Northumberland County: 42 miles (70 kilometres), 1 hour
With a proud farming tradition and artisanal spirit, Prince Edward County is a feast for the senses. Hike scenic trails, visit working farms and acclaimed vineyards and explore the charming towns of Wellington, Bloomfield and Picton—where every bite and sip reflects a deep pride of place.
Attractions and activities
Lake on the Mountain
As its name suggests, this is an elevated body of fresh water with a mysterious source. Take in views of the Bay of Quinte and watch the Glenora Ferry cruising back and forth from Adolphustown. For more great views, visit Lake on the Mountain Resort and dine on the patio at The Miller House.
Locations:
Lake on the Mountain, 296 County Road 7, Picton
Lake on the Mountain Resort, 264 County Road 7, Prince Edward
Glenora Ferry, 11369 Loyalist Parkway #33, Picton
The Miller House, 275 County Road 7, Prince Edward
Millennium Trail
Explore all, or some of the 28 miles (46 kilometres) of multi-use trail that extends across The County.
Prince Edward Point National Wildlife Area
Catch the fall migration of various bird species and enjoy a brisk walk to admire the fall colours.
Location: 6056 Long Point Road, Milford
County Bike Rentals
Travel across The County on two wheels with bicycle rentals, helmets, locks and route suggestions, as well as free delivery and pick-up.
Base 31
A multi-functional destination on the site of a former WWII air training base with a variety of galleries, art installations, retailers and food and drink options.
Location: 26-343, County Road 22, Picton
Prince Edward County Arts Trail
The PEC Arts Trail is a year-round celebration of creativity in The County. Explore the regional arts scene on a self-guided tour of art studios and galleries. From September 19 to 21, 2025, the PEC Studio Tour invites you to meet local artists, curators and creators.
Hayloft Dancehall
From lively drag shows to down-home county hoe-downs, there’s an eclectic mix of live music and entertainment on the schedule at this beautifully restored historic barn.
Location: 344 Salmon Point Road, Cherry Valley
Food and drink
Winery tours and tastings
Prince Edward County is home to over 35 wineries that offer a range of experiences, including wine tasting and tours, fine dining, culinary classes and more. Highlights include sparkling wines at Hinterland Wine Company, Chardonnay at Closson Chase, Riesling at Sugarbush Vineyards, Baco Noir at Waupoos Estates, Prince Edward County’s original winery and vegan wine options at Karlo Estate Winery. Use the free PEC Wine Explorer app to discover a wine that perfectly suits your unique preferences.
Location:
Hinterland Wine Company, 1258 Closson Road, Hillier
Closson Chase Vineyard, 629 Closson Road, Hillier
Sugarbush Vineyards, 1286 Wilson Road, Hillier
Waupoos Estates, 3016 County Road 8, Picton
Karlo Estate Winery, 561 Danforth Road, Wellington
Guided winery and vineyard tours
Experience scenic fall colours and wine tastings on a fun bicycle winery tour or customize a private itinerary with door-to-door service and a designated driver in a minivan or car.
Stella’s Eatery
This farm-to-table menu is rooted in simplicity and seasonality, showcasing fresh, sustainably sourced local and foraged ingredients.
Location: 2470 County Road 8, Waupoos, Prince Edward
La Condesa
Serving up authentic Mexican cuisine along with tasty tequila and mezcal cocktails.
Location: 298 Wellington Main Street, Wellington
Bocado Restaurant
Blending Spanish-inspired food with regional ingredients and local wines.
Location: 252 Main Street, Picton
Flame + Smith
Savour woodfired cooking using local farm-to-table ingredients on the patio.
Location: 106 Main Street, Bloomfield
Slake Brewing
Take stunning panoramic fall colour views from atop a limestone hill while enjoying the latest selections of craft beer on tap.
Location: 181 Mowbray Road, Prince Edward County
The County Cider Company
Award-winning cider made with over a dozen varieties of apples, along with some of the best lake views in The County. Delicious honey products from Honey Pie, Hives and Herbals can also be purchased.
Location: 657 Bongards Crossroad, Waupoos
Bar Duchesss
Whether it’s a classic, signature or a new, innovative mix, explore the extensive list of handcrafted drinks and bar snacks at this cozy cocktail lounge.
Location: 287 Main Street, Wellington
Accommodations
The Royal Hotel
Beautifully restored historic hotel with restaurant, spa and a great patio that has the distinction of being featured in Condé Nast's list of the best new hotels.
Location: 247 Picton Main Street, Picton
Drake Devonshire
Trendy waterfront hotel and restaurant offering extras, such as yoga classes and bike tours.
Location: 24 Wharf Street, Wellington
Wander The Resort
Nordic-inspired design meets laidback lakefront luxury with stylish cabins, private beaches and a serene spa in the heart of wine country.
Location: 15841 Loyalist Parkway, Bloomfield
Jackson Falls Country Inn
Embrace the tranquillity of the countryside at this elegant accommodation, which features carefully curated suites and on-site dining at The Schoolhouse Restaurant.
Location: 1768 Prince Edward County Road 17, Milford
Huff Estate’s Inn
This deluxe accommodation includes fireplaces and private gardens on an operating winery.
Stop 3: Kingston
Approximate distance and drive time from Picton: 40 miles (64 kilometres), 1.5 hours
The scenic route from Prince Edward County to Kingston begins with the Glenora Ferry, a free vehicle ferry to Adolphustown on the mainland. It continues east along the shoreline on the Loyalist Parkway.
Located on the northeastern shore of Lake Ontario, the historic city of Kingston was once the capital of Upper Canada and is home to significant 19th-century limestone architecture. Cruise the Thousand Islands, explore a historic military fort and enjoy delicious craft beer, farm-to-table cuisine and rich culture.
Attractions
Fort Henry National Historic Site
A 19th-century military fortress overlooking Kingston’s waterfront offers an immersive glimpse into Canada’s colonial past with costumed interpreters and military drills.
In the fall, it transforms into the spine-tingling Fort Fright, a haunted experience featuring eerie passages, animatronics and live actors.
Location: 1 Fort Henry Drive, Kingston
Kingston I000 Islands Cruises
Embark on a sightseeing cruise through the famed 1000 Islands of the St. Lawrence River aboard the Island Queen, a flagship triple-deck vessel.
Location: 1 Brock Street, Kingston
Kingston Pen Tours
Guided tours provide a glimpse into the storied past of this famed maximum-security prison, which operated from 1830 to 2013.
Location: 560 King Street West, Kingston
Kingston Public Market
Nestled in the heart of historic downtown at Springer Market Square, this vibrant market dates back to 1801, making it Ontario’s oldest public market.
Location: 1 Market Street, Kingston
Great Lakes Museum
Delve into the maritime heritage of Kingston and the Great Lakes and tour the S.S. Keewatin, the last of the Edwardian steamship passenger liners.
Location: 55 Ontario Street, Kingston
Food and drink
Kingston Food Tours
Join local food lovers on an exciting food and drink tour that combines regional history and culture.
Chez Piggy Restaurant and Bar
The eclectic menu and inviting atmosphere make Chez Piggy a local favourite.
Location: 68 Princess Street, Kingston
Mayla Concept
Bar Mayla serves small plates, tapas, brunch and cocktails. Alternatively, head upstairs to Le Jardin for globally inspired cuisine and a stellar wine selection.
Location: 343 King Street East, Kingston
Wooden Heads
From gourmet, wood-fired pizza to Mediterranean-inspired dishes, the menu here is sure to please.
Location: 192 Ontario Street, Kingston
Miss Bao
Modern Asian fusion fare and inspired cocktails are the highlight at this revolutionary zero-waste restaurant.
Location: 286 Princess Street, Kingston
Accommodations
Belvedere Hotel
Old world charm meets modern luxury at this former chateau, a landmark downtown building.
Location: 141 King Street East, Kingston
Frontenac Club
From the rooftop views to the superior amenities, every aspect of this intimate hotel is sleek and stylish. That includes the wines, hand-crafted cocktails, whiskeys and tasting menu at the Bank Gastrobar.
Location: 225 King Street East, Kingston
Delta Waterfront Kingston
This waterfront property offers unparalleled lake and harbour views from the rooms, suites, dining area and indoor rooftop pool.
Location: 1 Johnson Street, Kingston
Getting here and around
Customs documentation
Travellers to Canada must present a valid passport or NEXUS card. Get more information on customs, passports and requirements.
By air
Most flights into Toronto land at Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ), approximately 30 kilometres (18 miles) northwest of the city centre.
UP Express is a swift and convenient way to travel to and from the airport in just 25 minutes. Alternative ways to travel downtown include Toronto transit, taxi, Uber or Lyft.
Several major car rental companies also operate at Terminal 1.
Additionally, Billy Bishop Airport (YTZ) is conveniently located along Toronto’s waterfront just minutes from downtown. Porter Airlines provides flight service between major US cities, including New York City, Boston, Chicago, Washington D.C. and Las Vegas.
By land
There are 14 road border crossings into Ontario from the United States. Check border wait times and find out what you’ll need to know to cross the border into Canada.
Getting around
While this itinerary is best followed by car, VIA Rail provides train service between Kingston and Toronto. Kingston’s waterfront is a walkable downtown. Prince Edward County is a 405-square-mile (1,050-square-kilometre) peninsula; visiting wineries and getting from town to town is best done by car, motorcycle or bicycle.
In Toronto, the city’s Transit Commission (TTC) includes an extensive city streetcar, subway and bus network. Purchase a TTC Day Pass to travel at your leisure.
Bike Share Toronto provides bicycle rental kiosks across downtown Toronto.
Know before you go
Visit The County, Visit Kingston and Destination Toronto are great resources to help plan your trip.
Weather
Ontario is a four-season destination. Temperatures and weather change dramatically throughout the year. Learn more about the weather in Ontario and get suggestions on what to pack and how to prepare for a fall road trip.
Currency, measurements and holidays
Find helpful things to know about Ontario, including Canadian currency, measurements and public holidays acknowledged in the province.
Safety information
Emergencies aren’t always the first thing we consider when planning a vacation, but knowing who to contact in an emergency is essential.
Land acknowledgement
Toronto is on the traditional territory of various Indigenous nations, including the Mississaugas of the Credit, the Anishnabeg, the Chippewa, the Haudenosaunee and the Wendat peoples. Toronto is covered by Treaty 13 with the Mississaugas of the Credit.
Prince Edward County is situated on the traditional territories of the Huron-Wendat, Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee Peoples.
Kingston is on the traditional territory of the Anishinaabe, Haudenosaunee and Huron-Wendat First Nations, covered by the Two Row Wampum and the Dish With One Spoon Wampum Belt Covenant and is also part of the Crawford Purchase.
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Last updated: July 1, 2025