The best museums west of Kingston bring Ontario’s rich history to life in the charming towns and villages beyond the city. From Loyalist settlements in Lennox and Addington to Victorian elegance in Hastings county, the many museums west of the city offer a treasure trove insight to the province’s diverse heritage. Whether you’re a history buff, a family on a road trip, or a curious traveller, these museums provide a fascinating glimpse into Ontario’s past.
Loyalist Township, Lennox and Addington
Fairfield House and Park in Amherstview
Built in 1793, Fairfield House is one of the oldest surviving Loyalist homes in Ontario. Visitors can explore the beautifully restored rooms and learn about the early settlers who shaped the region. The house offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the living quarters of six generations of Fairfields until 1973.
Located in Amherstview near the shores of Lake Ontario, this beautifully preserved home offers guided tours and period furnishings that bring early settler history to life. It’s a must-visit for heritage lovers and anyone curious about Ontario’s colonial past.
Why Visit? The18th century dwelling still has many of its original interior features, from the limestone cellar to the raftered attic!
The Fairfield House is open seasonally, so please check their hours of operation before visiting. Admission to the House is $3 person and cash only, but you can enjoy the views from the park for free!
Bath Museum and Visitor Centre in Bath
Discover the hidden stories of a small town with a big history at the Bath Museum and Visitor Centre, located in the heart of picturesque Bath, Ontario. The foundations of the museum began in 1936 as a display of artifacts during Canada Day celebrations created by local history enthusiasts. Since then, it has grown into a beloved seasonal museum. Set inside the town’s original 1861 Town Hall, this engaging museum takes visitors on a journey through time—from First Nations artifacts and pre-colonial life to Bath’s bustling 19th-century port days and the impact of World War II.
Open from May 15th to August 24th, 2025, with admission by donation, the museum offers self-guided exploration as well as an option for guided tours from Thursday to Sunday.
Fun Fact! Just across the road on the waterfront you can also find the Fairfield-Gutzeit House which is currently under a major restoration project and closed to the public.
Babcock Mill in Odessa
Step into the past at the beautifully preserved Babcock Mill, a striking 19th-century stone mill nestled along the scenic Millhaven Creek in the village of Odessa. Originally built in 1856, this historic site was once part of the Booth family’s woolen mill operation before being adapted for other uses—including a surprising stint as a local power source. In 1926, the mill was redesigned to harness waterpower, generating enough electricity to light up the entire village of Odessa!
Today, the Babcock Mill operates as a seasonal museum, open in 2025 from May 15th to August 24th, with admission by donation. Guided tours are available Thursday through Sunday, where visitors can explore the mill’s fascinating history and even see demonstrations of traditional milling techniques. Make a day of it by strolling the creek-side footpath, relaxing with a view of the water, or letting the kids enjoy the natural play structure.
Restored and reopened to the public in 1985, then again in 2023, Babcock Mill is more than just a museum—it’s a hands-on experience of Ontario’s rural heritage.
Neilson Store Museum and Cultural Centre in Stella (Amherst Island)
Tucked away on the scenic shores of Amherst Island, the Neilson Store Museum and Cultural Centre offers a charming and insightful look into the island’s rich heritage. Housed in the historic general store first opened in 1873 by grain merchant James S. Neilson, the museum has been welcoming visitors since 2004. Step inside to explore thoughtfully curated exhibits showcasing the island’s past—from early schools and family life to local industry, natural history, and traditional transportation.
More than just a museum, the Neilson Store is a vibrant community hub. The building also houses an internet café and the Weasel and Easel, a fine arts and crafts shop featuring the work of local artisans. The museum is free to visit, but donations are gratefully accepted. Find the hours of operation on their website.
Make a full day of your visit! Hop on the Amherst Island Ferry, cycle the quiet country roads, stroll along walking trails, relax on the beach, or paddle the calm shoreline waters. With its unique perspective on rural Ontario life and its warm, welcoming atmosphere, the Neilson Store Museum is a must-see gem for anyone exploring this beautiful island.
Museum of Lennox and Addington in Napanee
Located in the heart of Napanee, the Museum of Lennox and Addington is a vibrant hub where history, culture, art, and music come together to tell the rich story of Lennox and Addington County. With over 12,000 artifacts in its collection, the museum offers a fascinating journey through time—from everyday life in the late 1700s to the present day. Whether you’re curious about local industries, military history, or the roots of the community, there’s something for everyone to discover.
The museum is also a fantastic resource for budding genealogists, offering access to Ancestry.ca and an extensive genealogy collection to help trace family histories. With dynamic exhibits, engaging programs, and events for all ages, there’s always something happening—from hands-on kids’ activities to adult workshops and cultural performances. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, the Museum of Lennox and Addington is the perfect place to explore the stories that shaped this remarkable corner of Ontario.
Hastings County
Glanmore National Historic Site in Belleville
Experience the grandeur of Victorian-era Belleville at Glanmore National Historic Site, a beautifully restored mansion that showcases the lavish lifestyle of the late 19th century. Built between 1882 and 1883 for banker J.P.C. Phillips and his wife Harriet Dougall Phillips, Glanmore is a stunning example of Second Empire architecture, featuring ornate woodwork, hand-painted ceilings, and period furnishings that bring its history to life. Designated a National Historic Site in 1969, Glanmore has operated as a museum since 1973.
Unique Feature! Legend says Harriet never left—visitors still whisper about ghostly encounters and an exorcism said to have taken place in the 1960s.
Wander through the stately rooms once home to four generations of women from the Phillips, Burrows, and Faulkner families, and discover what everyday life looked like over a century ago. The museum’s extensive collection includes original artwork, décor, and personal belongings that offer a vivid window into the past.
Whether you’re a history lover, architecture enthusiast, or ghost story fan, Glanmore promises a fascinating visit.
Plan Your Heritage Road Trip!
These museums offer a fascinating journey through Ontario’s past, each with its own unique story to tell. Whether you’re interested in architecture, local history, or cultural heritage, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore these hidden gems west of Kingston.
Make this summer a season of discovery by visiting as many of these museums as you can. Each one offers a unique glimpse into Ontario’s rich history. For more regional highlights, check out our other blogs featuring museums to discover east of Kingston and 7 fascinating museums to visit in Kingston!
Written by: Kingston & Area Association of Museums
If you would like to learn more about the Museums, Art Galleries and Historic Sites of Kingston and the Area start by exploring the spaces around you!