Along Eastern Ontario, forged of limestone architecture and coastal shores, is Kingston. This tourist favorite has an abundance of history and style to offer; but waiting not quite 3 hours from it is Toronto. BBOnline recommends allowing yourself a day away from your Kingston b&b to seek out the many attractions found beyond. Diversity is what makes every vacation worthwhile.
Toronto Zoo
361A Old Finch Avenue
Scarborough, Ontario
M1B 5K7
(416) 392-5929
http://www.torontozoo.com/
All trips to Toronto must include a visit to Canada's largest zoo. Housing over 500 species across 710 acres, this massive reservation will please the young and the young at heart. 5000 animals await as you stroll through 6 unique regions: Eurasia, Africa, Australia, Indo-Mayala, the Americas and Canada itself. Each features sprawling exhibits and unique breeds, facts and fun. It's the perfect destination. Though hours are subject to change, most days begin at 9 a.m. and end at 7 p.m.. The zoo is handicap accessible and even allows service dogs on-site (papers must be provided). General admission is $20.00.
Ontario Science Center
770 Don Mills Road
Toronto, Ontario
M3C 1T3
(416) 696-1000
http://www.ontariosciencecentre.ca/
Drive from your Kingston Inn to the forever popular Ontario Science Center. Over 800,000 guests come each year to explore the many exhibits and interactive appeal. Newly restored, this contemporary structure allows children and adults to discover the world. Astronomy, anatomy, conservation and more are all explained. Earth is examined with playful intent. Families will enjoy it. And, with the museum open all year from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., scheduling a visit is a simple thing. You'll always find the time. Advanced reservations are recommended, however. This is one of the city's top destinations. Plan ahead.
Royal Ontario Museum
100 Queens Park
Toronto, Ontario
M5S 2C6
(416) 586-5549
www.rom.on.ca
With an astounding 6 million artifacts contained within 40 galleries, the Royal Ontario Museum stands as one of the most impressive of its kind. Travel from your Kingston b&b to this internationally acclaimed complex. With dynamic exhibits and modern design, it is certain to thrill. View the largest collection of fossils in the world. Explore Canadian history. Discover replicas of famed caves and natural wonders. It's an educational experience unlike any other. The museum is open 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. on Friday and 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. again on Saturday through Sunday. Reservations are suggested and group discounts are available.
The Bata Shoe Museum
327 Bloor Street West
Toronto, Ontario
M5S 1W7
(416) 979-7799
http://www.batashoemuseum.ca/
For a truly unexpected delight, visit the Bata Shoe Museum. Begun in 1979 with the rare purpose to preserve footwear, this unusual structure now contains over 10,000 pairs. And, while some may scoff at the notion, there is much history to be found here. The traditions and geographic profiles of the world are shown. Tribes are explained through the necessities of their shoes. It's an unconventional lesson that will satisfy. The museum is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. again on Friday through Saturday and 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. No reservations are needed.
Your Kingston b&b will lead you to the whimsical and the wonderful. Enjoy.