If you’re planning a cultural getaway or just a day trip, the region east of Kingston, Ontario, offers a rich collection of museums that showcase the area’s vibrant history and heritage. Whether you’re a fan of military history, education, or maritime adventures, these five must-visit museums promise something for everyone.
Explore Early Education at the Frontenac County Schools Museum
Step back in time at the Frontenac County Schools Museum, where visitors can explore a restored 1900s-era classroom and learn about early rural education in Ontario. Located in Kingston across from Lake Ontario, this museum offers hands-on exhibits and educational programs for all ages. It’s an ideal stop for families and history enthusiasts alike.
Fun Fact! You can sit at authentic antique desks, write with slate pencils, and even try your hand at old-fashioned penmanship!
The museum is free to visit and is open to the public from Tuesday to Friday, 10:00am – 4:00pm.
Military Communications & Electronics – The Largest Museum in Kingston
Just minutes from downtown, the Military Communications & Electronics Museum tells the story of Canada’s military signal corps from the early 20th century to the digital age. With interactive exhibits, military artifacts, and multimedia displays, this museum is both educational and deeply engaging.
Unique Feature! The museum houses a Cold War-era communications truck that visitors can enter and explore—perfect for curious kids and military enthusiasts alike.
General admission pricing varies by age and pricing breakdown can by found on their website. The museum is open year-round, Monday to Friday from 10:00am to 3:30pm.
Step Into History at Fort Henry National Historic Site
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Fort Henry is not just a museum but an immersive historic experience. Learn about 19th-century military life, watch live demonstrations, and explore the massive stone fortifications that once defended the Kingston harbour. It’s a must-see landmark for anyone interested in Canada’s colonial and military past.
Fun Fact: During summer months, you can witness the Fort Henry Guard perform precision drills and firing demonstrations in full period uniform—like stepping into a live-action time machine!
Admission for the main season varies by age. Open daily from 100:00am to 5:00pm from Saturday May 17th to September 1st 2025.
More information about Admission and Hours can be found on their website.
Thousand Islands Boat Museum– A Nautical Gem Among Museums East of Kingston Ontario
Head a bit further east to Gananoque and you’ll find the Thousand Islands Boat Museum. This waterfront museum is a tribute to the rich boating and shipbuilding traditions of the Thousand Islands region. Featuring vintage boats, hands-on exhibits, and even a working boat-building shop. This museum is perfect for nautical buffs and families alike.
Unique Feature! Kids can climb aboard kid-sized wooden boats in the hands-on play area or take part in summer boatbuilding camps.
Discover Local Heritage at the Brockville Museum – A Cultural Highlight East of Kingston Ontario
Located in the heart of downtown Brockville, the Brockville Museum tells the story of the city’s evolution from a riverfront settlement to a modern community. Permanent and rotating exhibits highlight local industry, historic figures, and everyday life. It’s a charming stop filled with local character and community pride.
Fun Fact! The museum features a fascinating exhibit called “Brockville’s Rail Story,” which explores how the railway transformed the town’s economy and connected it to the rest of Canada—perfect context before or after visiting Canada’s first railway tunnel, located just a short walk away!
Plan Your Museum Tour Today
Whether you’re a history buff, a boating enthusiast, or just looking for a meaningful way to spend a weekend, the museums east of Kingston, Ontario offer a rich blend of educational and cultural experiences. From the classrooms of the past to the decks of historic boats, each museum offers a unique perspective on the region’s heritage.
Start your journey today and discover the stories that shaped Eastern Ontario.
Coming Soon: Museums West of Kingston You Won’t Want to Miss
Love discovering local history? Stay tuned for our next post where we’ll head west of Kingston to spotlight more amazing museums—from small-town gems to cultural powerhouses in Loyalist Township and Belleville. You won’t want to miss it!
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!