places to visit between kingston and montreal

31 Best Stops Between Kingston and Montreal

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How long is the drive from Kingston to Montreal?

The direct drive from Kingston to Montreal is 180 mi (289 km) , and should have a drive time of 3 hrs 6 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Kingston to Montreal, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Alexandria Bay , as well as top places to visit like Frederic Remington Art Museum and Saunders Country Critters Zoo Sanctuary & Garden Center, or the ever-popular Fort Wellington National Historic Site.

Top city between Kingston and Montreal

Alexandria bay, best stops along kingston to montreal drive, fort wellington national historic site.

Frederic Remington Art Museum

Saunders Country Critters Zoo Sanctuary & Garden Center

Mountain orchards, stanley's olde maple lane farm.

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Upper Canada Playhouse

Higley flow state park, prehistoric world, upper canada village, st-albert cheese, robert moses state park - thousand islands, akwesasne mohawk casino resort, glengarry cheesemaking, beau's brewery, titus mountain family ski center.

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Almanzo Wilder Homestead - Almanzo & Laura Ingalls Wilder Association

Voyageur provincial park, kayak safari, finnegan's market, st. timothée islands regional park, oka national park, ecomuseum zoo.

Rockhill Crescent

Parc régional de la rivière-du-nord | chutes wilson (baignade interdite), aventures plein air st-hippolyte.

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Premium Outlets Montréal

Spa le finlandais, st laurent blvd, pl. jacques-cartier, parachutisme adrénaline, top searches in montreal, other popular road trips from kingston, explore nearby places.

• Saint-Lambert
• Cote Saint-Luc
• Saint-Hubert
• Sainte-Catherine
• Sainte Catherine de la Jacques Cartier
• Boucherville
• Saint-Constant
• Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville
• Sainte-Julie
• Dollard-des-Ormeaux
• Pointe Claire
• Saint-Basile-le-Grand
• Chateauguay
• Saint-Mathias-sur-Richelieu

All related maps of Montreal

• Map of Montreal
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• Map of Westmount
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• Map of La Prairie
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• Map of Candiac
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• Map of Kahnawake
• Map of Delson
• Map of Laval
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• Map of Saint-Bruno-de-Montarville
• Map of Sainte-Julie
• Map of Dollard-des-Ormeaux
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• Map of Varennes
• Map of Terrebonne
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Montreal throughout the year

• Montreal in January
• Montreal in February
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• Montreal in April
• Montreal in May
• Montreal in June
• Montreal in July
• Montreal in August
• Montreal in September
• Montreal in October
• Montreal in November
• Montreal in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Montreal?

Get inspired for your trip to Montreal with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Montreal Itinerary
• 2-Day Montreal Itinerary
• 3-Day Montreal Itinerary
• 4-Day Montreal Itinerary
• 5-Day Montreal Itinerary

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i drive from kingston to montreal.

Yes! You can drive from Kingston to Montreal.

How far is Montreal from Kingston by car?

The drive from Kingston to Montreal is 180 miles (289 km).

How long does it take to drive from Kingston to Montreal?

Driving from Kingston to Montreal should take you 3 hrs 6 mins in normal traffic.

How much would gas cost from Kingston to Montreal?

Gas from Kingston to Montreal would cost around $16 to $37 , depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Where should I stop on the way from Kingston to Montreal?

You could check out Frederic Remington Art Museum and Saunders Country Critters Zoo Sanctuary & Garden Center, or the always popular Fort Wellington National Historic Site!

What are the best cities to visit between Kingston and Montreal?

People love visiting Alexandria Bay, among others.

What's the weather like in Kingston?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Kingston in January
• Weather in Kingston in February
• Weather in Kingston in March
• Weather in Kingston in April
• Weather in Kingston in May
• Weather in Kingston in June
• Weather in Kingston in July
• Weather in Kingston in August
• Weather in Kingston in September
• Weather in Kingston in October
• Weather in Kingston in November
• Weather in Kingston in December

What are some other road trips from Kingston?

There are plenty! Below you'll find links to all the road trips we've assembled for Kingston.

• Kingston to New York City drive
• Kingston to Toronto drive
• Kingston to Montreal drive
• Kingston to Washington DC drive
• Kingston to Niagara Falls drive
• Kingston to Boston drive
• Kingston to Chicago drive
• Kingston to Orlando drive
• Kingston to Ottawa drive
• Kingston to Philadelphia drive
• Kingston to Quebec City drive
• Kingston to Baltimore drive
• Kingston to New Orleans drive
• Kingston to Nashville drive
• Kingston to Cleveland drive
• Kingston to Pittsburgh drive
• Kingston to Gatlinburg drive
• Kingston to Atlanta drive
• Kingston to Savannah drive
• Kingston to Williamsburg drive
• Kingston to Gettysburg drive
• Kingston to Saint Louis drive
• Kingston to Branson drive
• Kingston to Charleston drive
• Kingston to St. Augustine drive
• Kingston to Memphis drive
• Kingston to Detroit drive
• Kingston to Newport drive
• Kingston to Louisville drive
• Kingston to Miami Beach drive

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This post has been removed at the author's request.

Since Kingston is around the halfway point between Montreal and Hamilton, I'm not sure why you specifically want to break up the drive before that.

Brockville perhaps, or Prescott ... right on the St. Lawrence. Historical towns/small cities.

If you are traveling in non-winter months, you can take the old #2 highway along the river, stop at Upper Canada Village (closer to Cornwall). Also check out the Long Sault Parkway.

http://www.stlawrenceparks.com/index.cfm/en/camping/campgrounds/long-sault-parkway/

http://www.thegreatwaterway.com/

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This post has been removed at the author's request.

Since Kingston is around the halfway point between Montreal and Hamilton, I'm not sure why you specifically want to break up the drive before that.

Brockville perhaps, or Prescott ... right on the St. Lawrence. Historical towns/small cities.

If you are traveling in non-winter months, you can take the old #2 highway along the river, stop at Upper Canada Village (closer to Cornwall). Also check out the Long Sault Parkway.

http://www.stlawrenceparks.com/index.cfm/en/camping/campgrounds/long-sault-parkway/

http://www.thegreatwaterway.com/

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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• Uber or taxi service 28 May 2023
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Toronto To Montreal Drive: 10 Incredible Things To See Along The Way

Experience a fun-filled road trip on this Toronto to Montreal Drive that passes by some of the region’s most incredible attractions and experiences.

The drive from Toronto Montreal is one of the most fantastic road trips in Ontario. Passing along the shores of Lake Ontario and the magical St. Lawrence River, the Toronto to Montreal drive is one of the greatest ways to experience some of the coolest and most accessible attractions in Ontario .

In fact, this Ontario road trip between Montreal and Toronto passes so many attractions that this 5-hour drive can easily be extended to a week or more if you try to hit all of the sites and things to do along the way.

Sure, you can drive straight up the 401 from Toronto to Montreal , but if you want to turn your drive into a memory-making experience , I’ll show you some of the best stops along the Toronto to Montreal route that will have you rethinking your route and planning another one for next year.

Canadian road trips are one of my favorite ways to see the country. My family has made epic road trips across Ontario, Canada, and even around the world in countries such as Iceland , Greece, and Finland . While we’ve experienced adventures around the world, our Ontario road trips remain in our hearts and souls.

About The Toronto To Montreal Drive

Table of Contents

Toronto and Montreal are two of Canada’s most iconic cities , but in terms of atmosphere, they are worlds apart.

Toronto is Canada’s largest city and the capital of Ontario . This sprawling metropolis is home to the CN Tower, a beautiful stretch of the Lake Ontario waterfront, epic music festivals, and much more. The city is huge, diverse, and full of hidden gems.

If you’re planning a trip to the city and are overwhelmed by the sheer volume of attractions, you can find our complete guide to visiting Toronto with kids here .

Montreal is the largest city in the province of Quebec . Although it’s not the capital, it is the center for much of the province’s culture, business, and foodie culture. Montreal is home to some of the nation’s most incredible music, comedy, and cultural festivals, such as the Montreal Jazz Festival and the Just for Laughs festival.

The province of Quebec is also Canada’s only province where French is the sole official language. Many locals also speak English, although knowing key French words will help make your visit easier.

So, if you are looking for great ideas for a road trip between Toronto and Montreal, check out all of these amazing attractions that I’ve listed below. If you do, you’ll never look at HWY 401 the same way again.

You can also use this as a guide for a road trip between Montreal and Toronto. Just flip the directions and start from the bottom. And if you’re considering extending your journey up to Quebec City , you can find our Toronto to Quebec City driving guide here.

What Is The Distance Between Toronto And Montreal?

The most direct distance between Toronto and Montreal is about 541 km (336 miles). It typically takes about five and a half to six hours to make the complete trip. This depends quite a bit on traffic and the number of stops you make along the way.

Traveling from Toronto to Montreal by car can mean running into some traffic. However, once you get out of the cities, traffic usually moves fairly quickly . If you are planning on exploring what to see between Toronto and Montreal, expect to take longer, up to a few days.

In this Ontario road trip guide, I’ll lay out the best things to see between Toronto and Montreal and give an idea of how long each attraction can take. That way, you can plan the most epic drive between Toronto and Montreal.

You might even have so much fun that you continue on up along the St. Lawrence River to spectacular sites like Quebec City , Rimouski , or even all the way east to Havre St. Pierre and the Mingan Archipelago .

Tips For A Drive From Toronto to Montreal (or Montreal to Toronto)

If you are looking to travel from Montreal to Toronto, here are a few road trip tips to help you stay happy and comfortable along the way. These road trip tips are helpful whether you are looking for a straight bomb between the two cities or if you are looking to check out the best attractions between Montreal and Toronto.

• Before you start out on your road trip between Toronto and Montreal, make a plan. But keep it flexible . You want to be able to stop and see something cool if it catches your eye.
• Pack a backroads map of Ontario . Sure, a GPS is great, but there is something far more intimate about having a physical map. You can mark it up with a Sharpie  and show your friends all the cool places you stopped along the way. Your friends will NOT believe that this trip was in Ontario!
• If you want to escape the traffic near Toronto during rush hour, you can take the HWY 407 toll road. You won’t miss many Ontario attractions by taking this route, but it can save hours if you drive during the Toronto rush hour. The 407 is an electronic toll highway . You won’t need cash, and you will receive the bill in the mail or through your car’s rental service.
• Stay entertained. Long road trips can get tiresome. And although there are plenty of stops between Montreal and Toronto to keep you occupied, you don’t want to get bored on those stretches in between. Check out our epic list of road trip jokes (family-friendly!). Fill your phone with music or audiobooks. My family loves listening to stories on long drives that we download from Audible .
• There are lots of gas stations along the Toronto to Montreal drive. Along HWY 401, there are many On Route stops that combine gas, food, and washroom facilities. However, once you get off the main road, it’s good to keep that gas tank filled up.
• Bring a camera! You are going to see some amazing things on this Toronto to Montreal road trip. Make sure you capture those memories and share them with family and friends. I like this one because it’s super tough and durable. You can even bring it in the water.

The Best Things To See On A Toronto To Montreal Drive

You’re ready to start your Toronto to Montreal road trip, and you want to see the best sites along the way.

Well, the first part is checking out the best things to do in Toronto . Things like Casa Loma, the Distillery District, the Lakefront, CN Tower, and more should be on your list. If you’re visiting Toronto for the Labour Day long weekend , I have a special list for you.

Once you get in the car, it’s time to make some ground and get this Toronto to Montreal drive in gear.

Step 1: Escape the Greater Toronto Area

Getting out of Toronto is the first step on a drive from Toronto to Montreal.

You can either head to the 401 and brave the traffic (it sucks all day, but is especially bad heading East in the afternoon between 3:30 pm and 8:00 pm). Or, you can head further north to HWY 407 ETR.

HWY 407 skirts the worst of the traffic between Toronto and HWY 412 in Whitby. Between Toronto and Whitby there really isn’t much to see, so choose the root that’s best for you, and crank up the tunes (or, in our case, audiobooks ), and get ready to make some ground.

If you are staying in Toronto for a few days, here are some family-friendly hotels in Toronto to enjoy.

Toronto to Montreal Stop 1: Port Hope Transformers, Oddities, And Old Towns

One of the most fascinating and fun stops on the Montreal to Toronto road trip is on HWY 28, a short distance off of HWY 402, shortly after you reach HWY 115 (about 45 minutes East of Toronto with normal traffic).

The gateway to the city of Peterborough and the Kawarthas and the wonders of the region such as Silent Lake Provincial Park , the Kawartha Lakes cottage country, and Petroglyphs Provincial Park , HWY 28 can lead you to an entirely different world of wonder in Ontario.

Exit on HWY 28 and follow the exit to Port Hope , Ontario. From here, hang a right and right again onto HWY 28 towards Peterborough. A short drive down the road and you’ll see one of the coolest shops in Ontario, Primitive Designs. You won’t be able to miss it. Just look for the massive Optimus Prime Transformers and massive metal dinosaur sculptures.

Primitive Designs

Primitive Designs (2762 County Road 28, Port Hope, L1A 3V6) sells some of the coolest stuff I have ever seen for sale in Ontario . From intricate stone sinks to sculptures, to crafts and artwork imported from around the world.

Find a parking spot and explore the store for a while, I’d recommend setting aside 45 minutes to an hour . It’s easy to get lost in here and find that you’ve spent hours examining weird, wonderful, and downright crazy trinkets and designs.

Kids (and adults) will be blown away by the life-size transformers and dinosaurs on display in the parking lot. You can check out the Primitive Designs website here .

Downtown Port Hope

If you prefer a small town feel to gigantic robots, instead of heading right on HWY 28, turn left and head towards downtown Port Hope .

Port Hope is packed with quaint antique shops, great restaurants, and more to explore. Downtown Port Hope is a great place to stop for a coffee and people-watch for an hour or so. If you are visiting during fall in Ontario , you can also try to catch the Port Hope salmon run that makes its way up the salmon ladder at Corbett Dam near McKibbon St.

Where To Stay In Port Hope

If you become so enchanted with the town of Port Hope that you opt to spend the night here, check out The Waddell Hotel . This Heritage District hotel, dating back to 1845 , is a short walk from Port Hope’s Capitol Theatre.

The hotel looks out over the Ganaraska River for pretty sunset views. You can find some more Port Hope accommodation options here .

Toronto to Montreal Stop 2: Apple Pies and Beautiful Beaches

Once you’ve finished exploring Port Hope, hop back on the 401 and make the 40-minute drive towards Presqu’il Provincial Park on the shores of Lake Ontario. But getting to Presqu’ile Provincial Park is half the fun on this Toronto to Montreal drive.

The Big Apple

You can’t miss the exit to reach Presqu’ile. It’s marked by the Big Apple pie factory . And when I say big apple, I really mean HUGE.

This enormous apple-shaped viewing platform is an Ontario icon . But it’s worth stopping into the Big Apple pie factory to snack on some of their famous pies. Browse the gift shop and grab some treats to take with you on your road trip to Montreal. I am a big fan of the caramel apple crumble myself . You can pick your pies ahead of time from their website here .

Presqu’ile Provincial Park

After you exit on HWY 25 for the Big Apple, head south and turn left on HWY2 . After a right on Union Rd and a left on Lakeshore, you won’t be able to miss the entrance to Presqu’ile.

Presqu’ile Provincial Parks i s one of our favorite Provincial Parks in Ontario (I’ve been to over 60 of these gems myself). This small, but beautiful piece of shoreline has excellent swimming, especially if you visit in late summer when the water is warm.

Make the short hike to the Presqu’ile lighthouse , enjoy a stroll along long stretches of beach, or just grab some grass in the scenic picnic area and relax for a while. If you want to do some camping on your road trip between Toronto and Montreal, this is a great stop to enjoy that as well. You can find our complete guide to Presqu’ile Provincial Park here.

Where To Stay Near Presqu’Ile Provincial Park

If you don’t plan on camping in Presqu’ile but want to spend a few days exploring this beautiful park, check out the Motel 6 in Trenton . It’s no luxury accommodation, but the rooms are big and airy , and it’s close enough to the park that you can get back to exploring as quickly as possible.

You can find some more accommodations near Presqu’ile Provincial Park here .

Toronto To Montreal Stop 3: Wineries, Beaches, And Mountain Lakes

About 45 minutes up the road from Presqu’ile is one of Ontario’s prime wine, beer, and foodie regions.

Prince Edward County is really where the Toronto to Montreal drive moves from fun to fascinating and beautiful . There are so many things to do in Prince Edward County that you could end up spending a few days here without seeing it all.

Prince Edward County is also where adventurous drivers will leave the 401 behind and start making their way along the shores of Lake Ontario via HWY 33. Whether you’ve got a few hours or a few days to spend, here are some tips on what to do.

Hit The Beaches Of The County

Prince Edward County has some of the best beaches in Ontario . Whether you’re looking for the scenic tropical feel of North Beach Provincial Park or the epic dunes of Sandbanks Provincial Park , you’ll have no trouble finding a spot to put up your umbrella and soak in the sun.

Just be aware that both North Beach and Sandbanks see huge crowds during the summer months , especially on the weekend. If you want to find a spot to park you’re going to need to book reservations ahead of time. You can do that here .

Wine And Breweries, and Food Tours

Prince Edward County is famous for its wineries and breweries . There are more great places to grab a drink popping up each year. Head to the county and visit the amazing vineyards and awesome craft breweries or taste some of the incredible local cuisine and artisanal cheeses.

If you’re staying in the county for a few days, consider signing up for a Prince Edward County wine tour so that you’re not driving between wineries. You can also sign up for a full-day tour of the peninsula that takes you to some of the most popular stops and a few under-the-radar attractions that you may not have heard of.

Where To Stay in Prince Edward County

Prince Edward County is a big place and you’ll definitely want to spend a little time here .

We love spending the night glamping at Fronterra Farm near North Beach Park Provincial Park. These luxury glamping tents are absolutely gorgeous and you can paddle right across South Lake to North Beach Park.

In the town of Wellington, try to book a room at the beautiful Drake Devonshire. It has amazing food and one of the best waterfronts in the county .

If you prefer to stay close to Picton, then the Waring House Hotel is a classic and much-loved hotel that is close to all of the great Picton attractions. You can check out our guide to the best Prince Edward County hotels here .

Toronto To Montreal Stop 4: Drive Through History Along the Loyalist Parkway

From Prince Edward County you can either head back to the 401 and continue on the big highway towards Montreal, or you can make your way via the Glenora Ferry and along the historic Loyalist Parkway. Either way won’t change the stops along the way, but the route along the Loyalist Parkway is far more scenic .

The Loyalist Parkway, or HWY 33 skirts the coast of Lake Ontario through some of its most scenic and historic towns . Many of the towns were settled by the United Empire Loyalists that settled here as early as 1784.

The Loyalist Parkway is dotted with majestic colonial homes, quaint bed & breakfasts, and cozy diners. There are many places to stop along the route, whether you are looking to take in the views of the lakes and properties, or read the many historical plaques that identify many of the archeological and heritage sites along the way.

Traffic moves slowly along the parkway. But there is so much beautiful scenery, you probably mind. Don’t miss the picturesque town of Bath and Fort Henry National Historic Site . Here you can immerse yourself in 19th-century British military life.

The Loyalist Parkway will take you straight through to the city of Kingston.

Toronto To Montreal Stop 5: The Historic Town Of Kingston, Ontario

The Loyalist Parkway ends just inside the borders of the town of Kingston, Ontario.

This lovely lakeside city has been a hugely important town in Ontario’s history due to its proximity to both Montreal, Toronto, the St. Lawrence River, and Upstate New York . In fact, Kingston was the original capital of Canada from 1841 till 1843.

Kingston is a great spot to spend the night and break up your Toronto to Montreal road trip.

You can explore the town on the classic Kingston Trolley tours , visit the home of Canada’s first Prime Minister, take a tour of the notorious Kingston Penitentiary, and much more. If you’re like me and love spooky stories, check out the Kingston haunted walk guided tour .

Grab a bite at some of the great local eateries like Chez Piggy or Wooden Heads before heading off toward Montreal.

Where To Stay in Kingston Ontario

Kingston is a classic Canadian City. It has been the birthplace of some of the most important historical events, and even some of its most important music such as the legendary Canadian rock band The Tragically Hip .

With all of that history, it’s worth it to pick a great classic hotel in Kingston. The Rosemount Inn fits that bill to a tee. This boutique hotel offers the perfect combination of luxury and history. You can find some more great places to stay in Kingston here .

Toronto To Montreal Stop 6: Gananoque Thousand Islands Visitor Centre

Just half an hour up the 401 from Kingston on your drive to Montreal from Toronto is the small town of Gananoque. Gananoque is home to Thousand Islands National Park , and it’s something that shouldn’t be missed on Montreal to Toronto drive.

While much of the park is situated on the collection of Islands in the St. Lawrence River, there are still some great spots to explore and even camp or enjoy glamping on the mainland.

Gananoque is a picturesque community where thousands of visitors flock each summer to join Thousand Island boat cruises . If you are thinking of joining the 1000 island boat tours, there are a few options available. I recommend doing the longer 5-hour 1000 Islands Cruise that stops at Boldt Castle. Make sure to bring along your passport , as Boldt Castle is actually in New York State.

If you’ve got some more time to spare, you can do some exploring. You’ll find that there are actually several incredible castles in the Thousand Islands that you can visit.

Where To Stay in Gananoque and the Thousand Islands

Although we love staying in the Parks Canada oTENTiks when we are in the Thousand Islands National Park , sometimes you don’t want to haul your own bedding and want to be closer to an amazing breakfast.

Woodview Inn in Gananoque is a great option. It has excellent service and a wonderful on-site restaurant. You can find some more great places to stay in Gananoque here .

Toronto To Montreal Stop 7: Upper Canada Village

The next stop on your road trip between Toronto and Montreal is about an hour down the 401. Exit on Upper Canada Rd. and turn left onto HWY 2 (You can also continue up HWY 2 directly from Kingston if you want to replace the high speeds of the 401 with the serene scenery of the Lakefrtont).

Upper Canada Village

It’s been a long-running joke between Christina and me that re-enactment villages are the backbone of Ontario tourism.

From Fort William in Thunder Bay to Fort Malden in Amherstburg , It seems that every historic fort and town in the province is filled with people in period dress trying to hide their cell phones in the many layers of vintage clothing that they’re wearing. And when I first visited Upper Canada Village I totally expected the same thing.

I was right, but I was also wrong.

Yes, the Upper Canada Village is a reenactment village where staff dress in period attire and act like life centuries ago, But it’s done REALLY well .

From the old town mill where they actually sell the grain and yarn produced on-site to stores in the area, to the horse-drawn boat that rolls through the town, Upper Canada Village is great! It’s so good, that I insisted we bring our children back here so that they could experience it themselves. And they loved it too!

Upper Canada Village is not a quick-visit place either. It’s easy to spend hours, or even a whole day here exploring what truly feels like an 18th-century Ontario town. You can check out their website here .

Toronto To Montreal Stop 8: Brockville

The city of Brockville Ontario is a wonderful stop on the Toronto to Montreal road trip. This city sits on the northern edge of the Thousand islands and offers a great blend of history, scenery, and great restaurants.

With a charming waterfront and an historic downtown, Brockville can offer anywhere from a couple of hours to a few days worth of fun. Whether you’re there for a short time, or if you’ve got some time to spare there are a few things that you shouldn’t miss.

Brockville Rail Tunnel

The iconic Brockville Railway Tunnel is the top stop in the city. This marvel of engineering was the very first rail tunnel in Canada. The tunnel was originally built in 1860 to allow the Canadian rail network access to the harbor.

It’s use as a freight port is long behind it now, but the Brockville Rail Tunnel has been transformed into a engaging tourist experience, and it’s completely free.

Stroll through the LED lit tunnel and enjoy plaques and displays along the way that describe the history and importance of the tunnel.

Brockville Waterfront

The waterfront in Brockville is where all the action takes place. Lined with yachts and tour boats and speckled with lush green spaces, manicured gardens, and shaded picnic areas, this leisurely stop makes a wonderful place to enjoy lunch or just a relaxing break from the car seat.

The marina offers boat rentals, fishing charters and 1000 Islands boat tours allowing travelers to explore the St. Lawrence River through their favorite activity.

Where To Stay in Brockville

Brockvilles place along the Toronto to Montreal driving route makes it a wonderful spot to spend a night or two. The historic waterfront and ample attractions mean that you’ll have lots to do and see nearby.

48 King West is a luxury property in the heart of the city with easy access to great restaurants and the scenic waterfront. Noble Suites is an historic property near the waterfront that offers apartment-style accommodations that are great for those spending more than a night in town.

Brockville hotels can book up quickly, so if you’re thinking of stopping here, I recommend booking early. You can find more places to stay in Brockville here.

Toronto to Montreal Stop 9: Long Sault Parkway

Continue the scenic drive along the St. Lawrence River waterfront and you’ll come across an experience that most people in Ontario don’t even know exists.

Long Sault Parkway

Just a short drive down HWY2 from Upper Canada Village is one of the coolest island chains in the St. Lawrence River.

The Long Sault Parkway is a causeway connecting twelve islands with the mainland . The islands are actually the tops of hills that were flooded when the dams that control the flow of the St. Lawrence River were built. Look closely and you can still find roads that end abruptly beneath the waves.

The islands are managed by the Parks of the St. Lawrence and offer a series of beaches, campgrounds, and picnic areas . At the very least, Long Sault Parkway is worth the scenic drive through the island chain.

It’s also a beautiful place to camp for a night or a weekend. If you happen to drive through Long Sault or nearby Ingleside during the Canada Day long weekend (July 1), make sure to check out the amazing fireworks display launched over the islands.

I absolutely love the area, so much so that I did a three-day cycle route with Ontario by Bike from Cornwall down to Thousand Islands National Park through the Long Sault Parkway.

Where To Stay Near The Long Sault Parkway

You can rent camper cabins and family lodges from Parks of the St. Lawrence within the Long Sault Parkway.

Near the town of Long Sault, you can also stay at the Lion Motel or the Long Sault Motel . Both are nice, clean locations that are close to the town amenities and the parkway itself. You can find more accommodations near Long Sault here .

Toronto to Montreal Stop 10: Cornwall

With a scenic waterfront and an historic city center, one of Ontario’s most commercially-important locks, and miles and miles of cycling trails, Cornwall is a great stop for both history buffs and explorers.

The Cornwall Marina offers bycicle rentals for a great price. I discovered this during my bike trip along the St. Lawrence River when my front tire went kaput and I had to search for a bike to complete my 112 km journey.

There are a great range of cycling trails in the region and most of them are pretty flat and easy. The Waterfront Trail is my personal favorite. This route can take you from Cornwall all the way down past Long Sault to Thousand Islands National Park.

Historic District

There is nearly 240 years of history wrapped up in Cornwall, Ontario, so a visit to the towns historic district is a great way to experience the town.

Enjoy a stroll throughthe charming streets lined with beautifully preserved buildings that showcase architectural styles up to two centuries old. Don’t miss the Cornwall Jail on your tour. This building was built in 1833 and remained in operation for nearly 170 years.

Where To Stay In Cornwall

Cornwall is an historic city and it’s packed with great places to stay. For convenient comfort, the Best Western Parkway Inn & Conference Centre offers beautiful room with an upscale feel. The hotel has great access to all of the best things to do in Cornwall as well.

If you’d prefer a quaint bed and breakfast, Auberge Chelsey’s Inn is a fantastic (and family-friendly) spot not far from the water. The historic inn dates back to 1812 and is one of the most popular places to stay in Cornwall, Ontario.

If you don’t have any luck booking those spots you can check out a complete list of Cornwall accommodations here .

Getting To Montreal

From Cornwall to the Quebec Border is a quick 30-minute drive. Once you pass across the Quebec border, HWY 401 turns into Quebec Provincial HWY 20. and it’s another 40 minutes to Montreal.

Expect traffic to get heavier as you approach Montreal, especially if you are arriving during the morning rush hour. Once you’re there you can explore the old port, take in the views from Mount Royal, or cheer with the crowd at a Montreal Canadiens hockey game.

Where To Stay In Montreal

Montreal is a great city to explore. And now that you’ve made your Toronto to Montreal drive it’s time to enjoy the sights and sounds of the city. Start your trip off right with great accommodations in Montreal.

Montreal is divided up into distinct regions, and each one offers a unique experience. Old Montreal offers the most historic sites and tourist attractions. Le Plateau-Mont-Royal has a modern hipster vibe with loads of great coffee shops. Mile-end has a stylish and artsy vibe that is popular with families.

You can find some great deals on accommodations in Montreal here .

Have you ever done a Toronto to Montreal drive? Drop a note in the comments to tell us about your trip. Or, head over to our Facebook page and share a photo of your trip. We would love to hear about it!

If you love family travel as much as we do, please join our  Family Travel Support Group on Facebook . You can connect with more family travelers just like you who love to explore the world.

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Sunday 12th of March 2023

Hi, this article is fab and made us convinced to do the drive (family of 4 with 2x 8yr olds). Our only issue is that we only have 1 day to drive from Toronto area to Montreal. I assume we will only be able to fit a couple of bits in - what would your key highlights be? Thanks Alison

Monday 13th of March 2023

@Kevin Wagar, Thank you so much :)

Kevin Wagar

Hi Alison, if I were trying to make the most of the Toronto to Montreal drive in one day I would probably stop at Primitive Designs in Port Hope, The Big Apple for some treats, and include a drive through the Long Sault Parkway. Finish it with a walk through the Brockville train tunnel, and you've got a full day with lots of stops for adventure.

Tuesday 3rd of August 2021

Hello, What would you recommend for a 8 year old boy in Montreal itself? It’s just me and my son planing to go on a road trip to Montreal.

Tuesday 10th of August 2021

Check out the Montreal Biodome at the Olympic Stadium for some really cool experiences. Right next door is the Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium, which is also an "out of this world" experience. You can also take a short trip to nearby Laval and visit the very cool Cosmodome (I'll be launching an article about that this weekend) and paddle through the Parc de Riviere des Milles Isles.

Francis Xavier

Tuesday 15th of September 2020

Hi Kevin, Could you advise which area should i book a hotel to avoid driving in Montreal downtown but close enough and with conveninet public transport to tour the sites located in downtown. Thanks Francis

Hi Francis, Because Montreal is a set of islands, it's difficult to avoid the traffic completely. However, if you're looking to miss the worst of it I'd recommend staying in Mile End. This area is still relatively close and has a booming up and coming arts scene. You'll also find some of the best bagels in town. Consider the Bienvenue B&B or the Parc Avenue Residences for something clean, bright, and fitting with the local vibe.

Saturday 1st of August 2020

Hi Kevin, I really like the article and the details you have shared. I am planning a road trip with my family (wife and 2 yr old son) by end of August. We have around 4-7 days before we come back to Toronto. I am thinking of going to Montreal but want to see few places on the way to Montreal and coming back to Toronto. It would be great if you can share some suggestions.

Monday 3rd of August 2020

Thanks for the kind words. This will be a great trip. There are so many nice things to see. We have done this entire route from Toronto to Montreal and back again with young kids, so I'm sure your son will love it. As for what you want to see, that depends a lot of how you hope to plan your trip and what to see along the way. I highly recommend making sure the Thousand Islands make it into your itinerary, it's a wonderful place for parents and children alike. IF you're looking for something a little different, you can also visit a few of the places in this article and then detour through Ottawa on the way back. The Nations capital always makes for a wonderful stop.

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20 Best Things to Do in Montreal

By Todd Plummer

Montreal is one of Canada's most exciting cities, but it's also an incredibly historic place. When French explorer Jacques Cartier visited what is now known as Montreal in 1535, he found a thriving community of St. Lawrence Iroquois, whom are now believed to have inhabited the area for at least 3,000 years. Flash forward to today, and there are centuries of history weaving their way through each and every neighborhood, and a plethora of museums, tours, and architecture that all speak to that. But Montreal hums a modern tune as well, with music and nightlife, and world-class design and technology community, and some of the best food in the world . From Plateau to Verdun, our editor's picks of what to do in Montreal will have you leaving the city enlightened, full, and probably a little bit tired—all marks of a trip well spent.

Read our full Montreal travel guide here .

Mount Royal Arrow

Mount Royal Park, Montreal's unofficial playground north of downtown, was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted (of Central Park fame) and inaugurated in 1876. The park sprawls more than 692 acres and is a favorite destination of Montrealers, who make use of the park year-round, from jogging and enjoying family picnics in summertime, to skiing and tobogganing in winter. Attractions include the Mount Royal Cross (first erected in 1643), Mount Royal Chalet, Beaver Lake, and Sir George Etienne Cartier Monument.

La Grande Roue de Montréal Arrow

Situated on the banks of the St. Lawrence River just steps from Old Montreal, the largest observation wheel in Canada, brings guests nearly 200 feet into the sky, offering panoramic views over the city, tee river, and Mount Royal. It’s touristy, but it’s worth it for those of us who love seeing cities from above. Bringing you high above Old Montréal, each ride is long enough for you to appreciate the sights and start to understand the city’s topography, but not so long that you’re wishing it would be over. For added thrills, upgrade to the “VIP Package” aboard gondola number 42: It’s the only one on the wheel that has a glass floor and Italian leather seats.

Montreal Museum of Fine Arts Arrow

The MMFA was founded in 1860 and has since grown into one of the most visited museums in North America; visitors flock from all corners of the globe to view the outstanding permanent collection: some 43,000 works from antiquity to today, much of it on display throughout five pavilions. The enormous institution also hosts seasonal blockbuster exhibitions. Be sure to visit the breathtaking Napoleon collection.

McGill University Arrow

Canada's leading research university occupies a prime piece of picture perfect real estate in central Montreal, nestled between Mount Royal and the skyscrapers of downtown. Whether you're dropping in for a lecture or just passing through on your points elsewhere, spend a little time getting lost amid the buildings here and you'll be rewarded with some serious Hogwarts vibes. Walking up the main entrance from the front gates, you'll be greeted by the inspiring, iconic tableau of the Arts Building cupola framed by Mount Royal; museums and libraries are to your left, and imposing gothic revival classroom buildings to your right. Guided tours are available and depart from the Welcome Center on rue McTavish, just make sure to sign up online as group sizes are limited.

Olivia Morelli

Gianluca Longo

Charlie Hobbs

Marché Jean-Talon Arrow

In the heart of Little Italy, Jean Talon Market, one of the largest open-air markets in North America, is an unmissable Montreal experience for food lovers. The space, which is full of small shopkeepers, bustles with activity year-round; you'll find local fruit and vegetable growers, butchers, bakers, fishmongers, grocers, and restaurateurs. It's hugely popular with locals and tourists, and if you're looking for old-world charm, there's nothing better.

OASIS Immersion Arrow

There's a deep history of and passion for design and technology in Montreal, and this immersive exhibit held at the Palais des Congres is the largest of its kind in Canada. The show itself is a stunning display of natural landscapes, videos of artists performing and creating, poetry that floats across the screen, and psychedelic designs that transport the audience; the substance of the show itself appeals to adults and children alike. Because you need to book tickets in advance the exhibit never gets too crowded, so you'll be able to keep your distance from others and experience the magic without feeling cramped. Expect to hear lots of "oohs" and "ahs."

Space for Life Arrow

The Montréal Space for Life, home to the Biodôme, Insectarium, Rio Tinto Alcan Planetarium, and Botanical Garden, is the largest natural sciences museum complex in Canada. This is a great place to explore and embrace the natural world; don't miss the “Gardens of Light” lantern festival and the dazzling “Butterflies Go Free” event, both held annually at the Botanical Garden.

Cafe Olimpico Arrow

Founded in 1970, Café Olimpico is a European-style café that serves a wonderful selection of coffee, espresso drinks, and Italian pastries. The Mile End landmark is a favorite among hipsters and artists, including Montreal-raised singer-songwriter Rufus Wainwright.

Bota Bota, spa-sur-l’eau Arrow

There are two volumes of conversation allowed at Bota Bota, a floating spa docked in Montreal's Old Port: “quiet” and "silence." Since opening in 2010, it has become an attraction for locals and tourists drawn to its spa treatments and hydrotherapy circuit. You can soak in a mineral-rich hot tub—and perhaps conquer that jet lag—while gazing upon the Downtown core, Mount Royal, and the historic Old Port, all from the river. While admission is typically limited to guests over the age of 18, the spa recently brought back its popular “Pirates Layover,” where children between 12 and 17 can visit on select dates to learn about and experience the benefits of hydrotherapy.

MURAL Festival Arrow

From Mile-End to Griffintown, Montreal is covered with murals. Public art is a huge part of the city’s cultural landscape, and each summer for about ten days, the annual MURAL Festival offers live painting sessions, workshops, and music performances in celebration of the street artists who keep this city (which can be oppressively grey and cold for much of the year) so colorful. Luckily for those of us who can’t make the trip up north during the festival itself, many of the murals are left up year-round. Boulevard Saint-Laurent is now the largest street art corridor in Canada, with works ranging from figurative representations of historic Montrealers to more abstract designs: The MURAL Festival website has a wonderful dynamic map to help you navigate them all.

Upstairs Jazz Bar & Grill Arrow

Upstairs, located downtown, is home to many Montreal-based acts, such as renowned drummer Jim Doxas, blues queen Dawn Tyler Watson, and jazz legend Ranee Lee. But international musicians often headline at the club too, which was also the first off-site jazz club to be a part of the Montreal International Jazz Festival; it has also been selected by Downbeat Magazine as one of the world’s 150 most important jazz clubs, so you know there'll always be something good on.

Pointe-à-Callière - Museum of Archaeology and History Arrow

Pointe-à-Callière, the largest archaeology museum in Canada, is built atop the historic Old Montreal sites where the city was founded in 1642. There is lots of drama here, from the excavated remains of the original settlement to interactive video installations. Pointe-à-Callière also presents three to four temporary exhibitions every year.

Saint Joseph's Oratory Arrow

The majestic Saint Joseph's Oratory of Mount Royal, one of the world’s great Catholic basilicas, was founded by Saint Brother André, who is credited with thousands of miraculous healings. More than 2 million people visit the pilgrimage site each year (both religious and non-religious), and its dome is the third-largest of its kind in the world after the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace of Yamoussoukro in Côte d'Ivoire and Saint Peter's Basilica in Rome . It's without question one of Montreal's most impressive architectural jewels.

Beyond the Bagel Tour – Museum of Jewish Montreal Arrow

Jewish food historian Kat Romanow knows her bagels, bialys, and rugelachs. Her Beyond the Bagel walking food tour, offered through the Museum of Jewish Montreal, is a highly informative, well-organized romp. The Plateau and Mile End might be known today for their posh hipsters and nightlife hotspots, but this tour pulls back the curtain on the layers of history found in this part of the city. It's a much more fulfilling dive into Montreal cuisine than just grabbing a bagel or smoked meat sandwich on your own. As much of the excursion is outdoors, just note that this one is not generally offered between November and March.

Lachine Canal Arrow

The Lachine Canal flows from the historic buildings of Old Montreal, past the gentrified glass condo buildings of Griffintown, and through the hipster neighborhood of St. Henri before flowing into the industrial areas of Angrignon and Lasalle. Because it cuts through so many residential neighborhoods, you'll get a real glimpse of how Montrealers spend their downtime. On warm summer days, there isn't a better place to go for a jog or walk in the city.

Guidatour's Old Montréal Walking Tour Arrow

Guidatour's professional guides have earned their excellent reputations, and the company's Old Montréal East and Old Montréal West itineraries both stop off at the must-see Notre-Dame Basilica , including an interior visit at no additional charge. Both tours last 90 minutes, and they're best for those looking for a crash course in the history of Montreal. You'll be amazed at how many hidden treasures you stumble upon in such a short time span. As much of Guidatour’s offerings are held outdoors, scheduled tours are generally on hold for the colder months. If you can brave the cold, however, feel free to reach out directly through their website to inquire about setting up a private tour.

Les Tam-Tams du Mont Royal Arrow

Since the mid 1960s, the informal, yet institutionalized, phenomenon known as Tam Tams has been one of the city's quirkiest and most beloved traditions, coming to Mont Royal Park every Sunday during the warmer months. At the base of the George-Étienne Cartier Monument obelisk, groups of friends, strangers, and percussionists from all walks of life gather to form communal drum circles, artisans and craftspeople sell their wares and LARPers (that's, Live Action Role Players) have lightsaber fights and medieval jousting matches.

Cité Mémoire Arrow

Cité Mémoire, the largest outdoor video-projection installation in the world, features 25 tableaux composed of images projected on alley walls, trees and the ground throughout Old Montréal accompanied by narration, and music. The work as a whole tells stories of famous and not-so-famous Montrealers; and they put forward themes and values central to the city's identity. You'll learn about Marguerite Bourgeoys, the French founder of the Congregation of Notre Dame of Montreal, as well as sports icons Jackie Robinson (whose season with the Montreal Royals was important in his breaking of baseball's color barrier) and Maurice Richard. There are also tableaux about The Jewish Children’s Transport train (the orphans who survived Nazi concentration camps and were adopted by Montrealers); the burning of the Parliament in Montreal in 1849; Montreal’s fabled Sin City era (set to the rhythm of Montrealer and jazz icon Oscar Peterson’s piano).

La Banquise Arrow

If you go to just one poutine joint in Montréal, make it la Banquise in the Plateau district a 1968 institution that's known far and wide for its classic and comprehensive poutine menu. You'll find something for everybody here, from meat gravy to vegan sauce. Late night, be prepared for long queues of hungry club-goers.

Cabaret Mado Arrow

Like much of Montreal's Gay Village, Cabaret Mado, a cabaret drag bar, is a little gritty, a little sparkly, and utterly fabulous. Mado, an icon in Quebec's vibrant gay scene who has performed for more than 30 years, often oversees the nightly festivities herself by hosting live drag shows most nights of the week. It's a pretty intimate space, so there isn't a bad seat in the house. Just be warned: Those seated in the front row are most vulnerable to be corralled into the show (willingly or unwillingly).

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Boats dock at Montreal's Old Port near the the city's popular Clock Tower.

A Quebec Road Trip: The Scenic Loop Between Montreal and Quebec City

The trip between Montreal and Quebec City can be a quick drive along a highway or a relaxed ramble through historic towns, lush wineries, and quaint shopping districts. You decide.

Montreal and Quebec City are unforgettable destinations, but they definitely aren't all the province has to offer. So take some time to hit the road between the two cities, and explore the slower pace of Quebec's countryside. Along the way you can wander woods, enjoy farm-to-table fare, see old sites of New France, and savor the uniquely Québécois culture.

Cosmopolitan Montreal is a beguiling blend of old and new, where North America's largest concentration of historic buildings rubs shoulders with a towering modern metropolis. And the whole is infused with a diverse cultural mélange that's reflected in its food and art and expressed through the francophone city's unique joie de vivre. (Dive into the international restaurant scene of Montreal or discover the charm of its many urban parks .)

Heading east from the island of Montreal, the A-10 begins to reveal the fertile farmlands of the Richelieu River Valley , which stretches south to the United States border and Lake Champlain. The river spreads out into an attractive basin in Chambly , a commuter town with historic roots. The banks of Chambly Canal National Historic Site are an excellent choice for a stroll. The waterway was completed in 1843 and still lifts boaters through a system of nine locks—though today it's for fun rather than trade. The old stone citadel at Fort Chambly National Historic Site , built in 1711, hosts interpretive programs and provides a glimpse of what life was like for the soldiers of New France.

A river runs through Richelieu River Valley just south of Montreal.

From Chambly the road runs east into an area perfect for foodie exploration. This is Quebec's wine, maple, and apple country—especially delicious for both the eye and palate during fall foliage season. The well-marked Cider Route offers a tour with taste-tempting diversions, including plenty of visits to local producers of regional drink and foods including cheese and honey. Naturally, the Cider Route visits a dozen cideries offering many varieties, alcoholic and nonalcoholic, sparkling and ice. Michel Jodoin is in Rougemont , about 20 minutes down the Cider Route (Rte. 112) from Chambly. It's among the oldest and most famed producers, but Rougemont is home to at least four others.

The Eastern Townships

From Rougemont, the A-10 leads east into Quebec's beloved Eastern Townships (Les Cantons-de-l'Est), a rolling region of farms, forests, and sparkling lakes that's an all-season escape for many citizens of Montreal. The bustling town of Magog , at the north end of Lake Memphrémagog, is about an hour from Rougemont and a great base from which to begin your adventures in the area—or simply enjoy the many outdoor activities that the lake and nearby Parc National du Mont-Orford have to offer.

But before arriving in Magog consider leaving the A-10 in Eastman for a 15-minute detour down Rte. 245 to Abbaye de Saint-Benoît-du-Lac (St. Benedict Abbey). It’s perched on a spectacular lakeshore site, but the real attraction here is a chance to hear the monks' Gregorian chants, attend a service (plan well in advance), and visit the shop for blocks of the award-winning cheese made on-site. From the abbey, enjoy a 20-minute drive up the lake's west side to reach Magog.

Parc de la Gorge de Coaticook is about 40 minutes east of Lake Memphrémagog via Rte. 141. The park is famous for its suspension footbridge—one of the world's longest—that spans the 164-foot deep gorge and definitely isn't an experience for the faint of heart. But the dramatic views here are well worth a few knocking knees, and they might inspire you to further stretch your legs by exploring the park on foot, mountain bike, or horseback.

From the gorge it's about a 70-minute drive east to Parc National du Mont-Mégantic —but that short journey opens a window to an entirely different world. The park is located in the heart of the world's first International Dark Sky Reserve. That means stargazing doesn't get much better than you'll find here, and the AstroLab astronomy center is a fun way to make sense of all the celestial scenery. From its perch near the park's entrance station, AstroLab buzzes day and night with a wide range of exhibits and activities that explore the cosmos.

Chaudière-Appalaches

From Mont-Mégantic, several roads head north toward Quebec City, some three hours’ distance. Those interested in a look below the Earth's surface after all that sky-watching can stop at Thetford Mines Mineralogy and Mining Museum , which documents the local mining industry, explores regional geology, and showcases minerals from around the world.

Snow covers Mont-Mégantic National Park in Quebec, Canada.

Closer to the Quebec City, this trip runs through Beauce, a lovely region of valleys and forests. These maple-rich woods yield almost 20 percent of all the world's syrup production. If you're lucky (or smart) enough to be here in early spring, the region's many sugar shacks come alive with festivities, fun, and foods of every flavor—especially maple.

Before crossing the St. Lawrence River to Quebec City, pause in Lévis on the south shore to linger at the Terrasse de Lévis (Terrace of Lévis). Inaugurated in 1939 by King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, this riverside park offers stunning views of the old city across the water and of the powerful river itself, which is especially impressive when it's choked with moving ice.

Quebec City

It's clear from first sight that Quebec City offers a touch of Europe that's distinct on this side of the Atlantic. Dominated by the historic Fairmont Le Château Frontenac , it's the only existing walled city north of Mexico, and the city's extraordinary people and attractions—as well as its architecture—will tempt you to linger. (See how to spend three excellent days in Quebec City .)

Shops line a block in the Historic District of Old Quebec in Quebec City, Canada.

Montmorency Falls , via Rte. 440 just a few miles northeast of downtown Quebec City, is a cataract of serious size—at 272 feet it's actually higher than Niagara Falls, though its water volume is far lower. If time allows, consider continuing north of Quebec City for an extended trip along the shores of the St. Lawrence. As the great river widens on its journey to the Atlantic, visitors soon find themselves in one of the world's best whale-watching areas. Visit the enchanting, historic communities of Charlevoix , and venture farther along the St. Lawrence by driving the Whale Route .

Chemin du Roy

The route back toward Montreal is, in some ways, also a trip back in time. The Chemin du Roy (King's Road) is one of the oldest highways in North America and opened to traffic in 1737. Much has changed since then, but some things have not, including some of the picturesque homes that line the route and the wonderful views of the St. Lawrence River at lookouts along the shore.

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Be sure to pause during your drive along the King's Road and discover photogenic villages like Cap-Sant é (Cape Health), with its ancient church. Farther down the river, Trois-Rivières (Three Rivers), dating back to 1634, is among the oldest towns north of Mexico. The historic quarter here can be explored with guided tours , by foot or bus, that showcase notable homes and deliver visitors to the town's many galleries and museums.

North of Trois-Rivières, the region of Lanaudière offers a nature escape not far from Montreal itself. Hiking, biking, fishing, paddling, and all manner of winter sports are on offer here—as are nature-based retreats for relaxation after all that activity. Leave Rte. 138 in Berthierville and drive some 45 minutes on Rte. 345/348 to Rawdon and La Source Bains Nordiques . This indoor/outdoor spa complex, designed in harmony with its natural surroundings, pampers with pools, tubs, and treatments that can restore weary travelers for the next leg of their journey.

Streetlights shine from the ski resort in Mont Tremblant in Quebec, Canada.

Laurentian Mountains

Finally, head for heart of the Laurentian Mountains. The most famous destination here is Mont-Tremblant , some 75 minutes from Rawdon, with its sprawling ski slopes, sparkling lake, and European-style walking village. (Plan the perfect day in the Laurentians .) But the Laurentians are ripe for much wider exploration. One special way to do so is via the P’tit Train du Nord bike path , which follows the abandoned railway that once helped to develop the charming mountain retreats of the Laurentians by whisking Montrealers north. Mont-Tremblant lies near the route's midpoint, so you can explore the many sights in each direction at a slower pace, pausing to climb mountains, wander charming villages, or enjoy Québécois cuisine at a trailside inn.

When your mountain idyll comes to an end, as all things must, Montreal lies less than two hours’ drive down the A-15 from Mont-Tremblant.

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25 Best Road Trips From Montreal, Quebec

If you live in Montreal or just visiting Quebec's largest city, there are some truly outstanding road trip options in virtually every direction whether you want to explore nature, discover historic towns or hop across the border to the USA.

From National Parks either side of the border to some of the most interesting cities in North America and even vineyards and castles, we've got the ultimate list of road trips from Montreal for you to choose your next adventure.

Starting with the shortest, I've listed these in order of how long it will take you to get there. If you're looking for a road trip that will take you further away and have a week or two to spare, feel free to scroll further down!

1. Cross the border to Adirondack Park, NY

1 hour 35 minutes from Montreal (129 km)

The shortest road trip on our list doesn't mess about and heads straight for the border south of Montreal, crossing into the United States. Adirondack Park is a huge Forest Preserve covering much of the northern part of New York State.

The area is home to the Adirondack Mountains, some 10,000 lakes and endless rivers. The vast area covers 9,375 square miles which start almost as soon as you cross the border from Canada - that's only a fraction smaller than the entire neighbor state of Vermont!

If you love nature, Adirondack offers plenty of ways to explore it - the hiking here is second to none and you can explore the waterways by canoe or kayak.

The weather here can get very cold and harsh in the winters with temperatures dipping below -30 °F (-35 °C) but there's lots of winter sports on offer whether you like Nordic or Alpine skiing. Lake Placid is located within the park and is famous for being one of only 3 cities to have hosted the Winter Olympic Games twice.

To get to Adirondack Park, head south along Autoroute 15 that becomes the I-87 once you cross into the United States. The park hugs the shoreline of Lake Champlain and spreads west and south from there.

If you're looking to really escape civilization, head for the High Peaks Wilderness just south of Lake Placid - the drive down from Montreal is a little over 2 hours and you'll find some beautiful scenery that is a great spot for hiking.

2. A weekend road trip to Montebello

1 hour 35 minutes from Montreal (130 km)

The small but charming town of Montebello sits on the Ottawa River about halfway from Montreal to the Canadian Capital and is surrounded by beautiful forests.

The short road trip from Montreal to Montebello will take about 90 minutes - follow Autoroute 50 west out of Montreal towards Gatineau and look for the turn off after about 30km.

A famous politician called Louis-Joseph Papineau made his home here for several decades as he lived at the Manoir Papineau and the town took on the informal name he gave to his estate.

Along with the historic manor building, Montebello boasts the world's largest log cabin - the Hotel Fairmont Le Chateau Montebello . With a spa and a very decent restaurant, this is a great option to stay a night or two if your wallet allows it!

If you are foodie, you're in major luck. The local Fromagerie Montebello has some amazing cheeses that have won major international awards, there's an artesan chocolate shop called Chocomotion and even a local craft brewery - Les Brasseurs de Montebello.

3. Relax in Burlington, VT and Lake Champlain

1 hour 45 minutes from Montreal (154 km)

If you're looking for a destination where you can sit and watch the water of a picturesque lake flow for a few days and do absolutely nothing else, then you need to head across the border from Montreal to Vermont.

Lake Champlain is right in the north of the state and splits Vermont from New York State to the west. Burlington is a pretty town that sits on the water and has a historic downtown with cobbled streets and old buildings dating back to the 18th and early 19th centuries.

It might seem like a small sleepy town (which it is!), but Burlington is by far the largest city (we'll use that word sparingly!) in Vermont with a population of 60,000 if you include its neighbour South Burlington.

There's plenty of nature to explore all around if you want to get out and about to break up life in the slow lane and a short drive away you'll find the capital of Vermont - Montpelier.

Going with the theme of not being very densely populated, this is the smallest capital of any U.S. State with a population of under 8,000 but it's great for a stroll day trip out!

4. Walk the border in Stanstead, QC and Derby Line, VT

1 hour 45 minutes from Montreal (161 km)

For the most part, the border between the United States and Canada runs far away from any towns - it follows lakes and rivers, goes through wild mountain terrain and areas with very sparse populations between northern Montana, North Dakota, Saskatchewan and Manitoba.

The same cannot be said for the border between Quebec and Vermont that cuts right through the towns of Derby Line (VT) and Stanstead (QC), a short road trip from Montreal headed south.

These two sleepy towns either side of the border are worth visiting just to see the hilarity of this border that not only goes right through the middle of the town, splits streets into a Canadian and a U.S. side, but also splits a lot of the buildings including a computer shop and the local Haskell Library which has separate entrances from either country.

Although it is rather amusing that long stetches of road here have houses in different countries on either side, enforcement of the border has stepped up in recent years so be careful not to accidentally cross over as you could get into actual trouble for illegally crossing.

To check out life on the other side, there are 4 official border crossings where you can get between the two countries - it might take a few minutes as your documents and car will be checked, but it's usually a fairly straight-forward process.

5. Road trip to Mont-Tremblant National Park and the town

1 hour 55 minutes from Montreal (142 km)

A perfect weekend road trip from Montreal, Mont-Tremblant is about 90 minutes up Autoroute 15 with the National Park a little further north from the town.

The town is a perfect place to spend a night or two - we're talking charming small cobblestone streets, almost European-looking buildings, 2 local craft breweries, a Scandinavian spa, and even cheese fondue at La Savoie restaurant.

In the winter, Mont Tremblant is a popular ski destination. The ski area is relatively small and it can get busy at weekends with Montreal and Ottawa not far away, but if you're only going for a short stay, it can be a perfect place to relax - just remember that it can get mighty cold during the winter.

In the summer, the National Park has some of the best hiking routes in Quebec - the forests and mountains create for a very picturesque landscape. There's waterfall trails, kayaking and lots of different ways to explore local nature.

For those who like a bit more adrenaline, the Via Ferrata Du Diable course will have you crossing rope bridges and scaling rocks 200 metres above the Devil River flowing below.

6. Road trip to Canada's Capital - Ottawa and Gatineau

2 hours 10 minutes from Montreal (198 km)

The road trip from Montreal to Ottawa will take a little over 2 hours. You can follow Autoroute 50 along the northern bank of Ottawa River, Highway 17 along the southern bank, Ontario 417 or drive along St Lawrence River to Cornwall and head north from there.

There's little difference between the routes in terms of time so you might as well go and come back via different routes with French signs on the way and English ones on the way back.

Ottawa is Canada's capital and the seat of the country's parliament and this is the best place to start your trip around town.

The Centre Block building on Parliament Hill looks very European as does a lot of Ottawa. Not only can you go inside, but there's free tours that will tell you all about the building's history.

Then walk along the Rideau Canal or see it by boat in the summer, pop into the ByWard Market and explore the many museums and art galleries in the city.

Gatineau is just across the river in Quebec and is well worth a visit too. It feels more like a neighborhood of Ottawa than a completely separate city.

Gatineau Park and the Canadian Museum of History should both be on your agenda - the latter is the most visited museum in Canada and has stunning exhibitions as well as an IMAX theatre.

7. Go skiing in Stowe, Vermont

2 hours 25 minutes from Montreal (207 km)

Stowe is a massively popular ski resort in Vermont, located about 45 minutes from Burlington (see #3 above) and half an hour from Montpelier, the state's capital.

Yes, this is another one of the many road trips from Montreal across the border to the United States, but it's worth it!

The fastest and easiest route to Stowe is to cross into the United States at the Highgate Springs–St. Armand/Philipsburg Border Crossing and to follow the route south to Burlington. From there I-89 will take you further into Vermont and you'll see signs for Stowe when you reach Waterbury.

Although Stowe is in the United States, Montreal is the closest big city to the resort. With other ski destinations closer to Boston and New York, this means that Stowe doesn't get as busy as places like Killington.

It's not a big resort - there's only 12 lifts going up the mountain, although these are predominantly big chairlifts and there is a fast gondola going up to Cliff House.

If you want to do more skiing, the smaller Smugglers Notch ski area is only 15 minutes' drive away.

Off the slopes, the town of Stowe is full of charm and history - the buildings clad in timber are home to local shops and restaurants and the hotels are generally very good, if a little on the pricey side.

8. Explore the Thousand Islands National Park and Boldt castle

2 hours 30 minutes from Montreal (226 km)

The Thousand Islands area sits on the border between Canada and the United States at the point where the St Lawrence River flows out of Lake Ontario.

The National Park is on the Canadian side and encompasses a huge number of islands ranging from the biggest one called Wolfe Island to many much smaller islands dotted around.

Some of the islands in the area are privately owned, including the mysterious Deer Island reportedly owned by the Skull and Bones secret society, so you'll need to check which you can visit.

There's lots of boat tours and cruises you can go on from Gananoque and Kingston (see #13 below) or you can hire your own boat to explore the are - just be careful as the international border runs through the river with parts of the island group across in the USA!

Boldt Castle is on one of the islands that is across the border. This castle was originally built by the millionaire George Boldt but the construction halted in 1904 and the castle was never finished. It is open to visitors through the summer months and the castle construction is still ongoing using the proceeds although at the current pace, that's likely to take some time.

9. Road trip from Montreal to Quebec City

2 hours 40 minutes from Montreal (255 km)

Quebec City lies further down the St Lawrence River from Montreal - Autoroute 40 along the north bank of the river will take a little over 3 hours but you can shave 20 minutes off your journey by taking the Trans-Canada Highway along Autoroute 20 instead.

One of the oldest cities in North America, Quebec City and the entire province are named after an old Algonquin word which means "Where the river narrows".

Founded in 1608, Quebec City boasts the only Fortified historic old town in Canada or the United States. You've got cobblestone streets, a Chateau sitting on top of the hill and beautiful stone buildings throughout.

Quebec City is perfect for a city break - it's big enough for some great museums, galleries and restaurants, but small enough to make it very walkable.

You can also use Quebec City as a base or a stopover point for trips further afield - Jacques Cartier National Park (#12 below) is not far from the city and Tadoussac (#18) and Saguenay Fjords (#19) are further along St Lawrence River.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Montreal to Quebec City

10. La Mauricie National Park and Trois-Rivières

3 hours 10 minutes from Montreal (230 km)

It may be a little unfair to put a time of over 3 hours for a trip to the La Mauricie National Park and many people who live in Montreal will tell you it's only about 2 hours away.

However, the road that loops through the park can take some time to drive depending on where in the park you are going.

Sure - the entrance near Shawinigan is just about a 2-hour road trip from Montreal, but popular destinations like Waber Falls or Caribou Lake are another 45 minutes further into the park and Lake Edouard is the place that'll take over 3 hours to get to.

Hiking routes and trails along lakes, streams and waterfalls are all on the menu - head up to Trois-Rivières along Autoroute 40 and then turn north when you get there - the park entrance is not far from Grand-Mère.

Don't forget to stop in Trois-Rivières on your way there or back. This is the second oldest city in Quebec after Quebec City and was founded back in 1634.

The old city is not big but you'll see a lot of pretty historic buildings along Rue des Ursulines with some dating back to the 17th century.

11. White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire

3 hours 10 minutes from Montreal (285 km)

White Mountain National Forest covers a massive 1,200 square miles of New Hampshire. The best way to get here is to avoid the busier crossing at Philipsburg and instead head east along Autoroute 10 to Magog. From there, head south towards the Stanstead - Derby Line crossing (which is worth a stop in its own right! See #4 above).

I-91 followed by I-93 will take you to Connecticut River which acts as the border between the states of Vermont and New Hampshire. Whiet Mountain National Forest starts almost as soon as you get across the river and drive past Littleton.

There's a lot of amazing hiking routes, camping opportunities and every kind of outdoor activity you may want.

The tallest mountain in northeastern United States is also here and if you don't fancy hiking up it, you're in luck. A $31 payment per car plus $9 per passenger let you go all the way up in your car. The views are spectacular but do take care - the road gets twisty and very steep in places.

Winds can be very strong when you get higher up and even if you're coming in the summer, remember that it can feel much much cooler when you get there.

12. Road trip to Jacques Cartier National Park

3 hours 10 minutes from Montreal (301 km)

The entrance to Jacques Cartier National Park is less than 30 minutes from Quebec City (see #9 above) so if you're coming on a road trip from Montreal, you can choose between a base in the old city, a wooden chalet within the park or go wild and camp.

The drive from Montreal is pretty straightforward - follow the Trans-Canada Highway along Autoroute Jean-Lesage to Quebec City and then take Autoroute 73/QC-175 north.

The entrance to Jacques Cartier National Park and small roads coming off the Autoroute that will take into the park will come up in half an hour.

A mix of lakes and hilly forests means you've got jaw-dropping views in every direction and the good news is that the Chemin du Parc-National follows the Sautauriski River right into the heart of the park making a lot of it very accessible.

If you want to spend some time fishing instead of hiking, this is one of the better places to come fish for trout, but remember you'll need to buy the (relatively expensive) licence first.

If you have more time and want to explore more nature, you can keep going northeast to Saguenay Fjords (#19 below) and then to Tadoussac (#18) for some of the best whale watching in the world.

13. An almost European road trip to Gananoque, Kingston and Prince Edward County

4 hours from Montreal (371 km)

The town of Gananoque sits at the point where the Gananoque River flows into St Lawrence River - you'll come across it as you're making your way west past the Thousand Islands National Park (see #8 above).

Many visitors to the town will completely ignore it and head straight for the boats and cruises taking them to one of the Thousand Islands and that's a big mistake.

The name of the town derives from a First Nations language meaning a "Town on Two Rivers", but once you get here, you may notice the distinctly European look and feel - many of the buildings would feel as much at home in a provincial French town.

Kingston also makes a lot of its European roots and is a little further west at the point where St Lawrence River flows out of Lake Ontario. After appreciating the town's charm, make sure you visit Fort Henry which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site just before you cross the river into Downtown.

Prince Edward County is a further 30 minutes' drive along the north shore of Lake Ontario and occupies a large island sticking out into the lake. You can get onto the island along the Quinte Skyway Bridge or try your luck by heading to the ferry at Adolphustown - just beware that this local ferry can only carry 21 cars per crossing so you may have a long wait to get across to Glenora.

If you are a foodie, this may be the best road trip from Montreal you can take. Prince Edward County is known for its amazing restaurants and the area is home to some rather good wineries. Try a few before you scoff at the thought of drinking Canadian wine and you might find yourself very pleasantly surprised.

14. Explore the lakes of the Algonquin Provincial Park

5 hours from Montreal (439 km)

If you want to escape somewhere truly remote that you can get to within a relatively easy one day's drive from Montreal, The Algonquin Provincial Park over in Ontario is the perfect place to come.

Sure - there's National Parks aplenty in Quebec and plenty of nature to explore in almost every direction if you drive 5 hours from Montreal, but Algonquin Provincial Park is somewhere you can really feel that you've got far away from the busy grind of the city and unwind.

Algonquin is a beautiful mix of dense conifer forests and literally thousands of lakes - there's around 2,400 of them within the park's bounds!

The easiest way to get here is to take the Trans-Canada Highway through Ottawa and then follow ON-60 from Renfrew that will take you right into the heart of the park. Small roads head north into the park to your spot of choice looking out to an unspoiled lake surrounded by fir trees.

Hiking is popular here as are canoes which allow you to see some amazing views as you navigate the network of streams, rivers and lakes. Take care as the wilderness is home not only to moose, deer and many beavers but also has a large population of wolves and bears.

15. The ultimate city break in Boston, Massachusetts

5 hours from Montreal (496 km)

If you're looking for the ultimate city break where you can combine history, culture, the feel of the big city and the touch of a cozy local town, then the 5 hour road trip from Montreal to Boston is what you need to do.

The I-89 route through Burlington (#3 above) and the I-91/I-93 route though the White Mountain National Forest (#11) will both take you a touch under 5 hours before taking stops into account so you may want to drive down and back up via different routes - both offer some great scenery along the way.

As one of the most historic cities in the United States, there are endless museums and art galleries - the Museum Of Fine Arts is an absolute must if you're only going to go to one.

To see most of the iconic sights in the city, you can spend a morning or afternoon following the Freedom Trail which is a 2.5 mile walk around the city that you can do yourself without the need to book onto a tour.

If you're a sports fan, then time your trip to make the most of Boston's amazing sports scene - the Patriots (American football), Red Sox (baseball), Celtics (basketball) and Bruins (hockey) are each one of the most decorated teams in their respective sports so take your pick!

READ MORE - Road Trip from Montreal to Boston

16. Discover the New England charm of Portland, Maine

5 hours 10 minutes from Montreal (420 km)

When people think about visiting new England, they often think about Boston (#15 right above), Cape Cod or Providence, Rhode Island (#25 below).

For those who want to see the real soul of New England without the crowds, Portland is the perfect place. That and the fact that the road trip from Montreal here is a lot quicker than the other options.

Don't follow your navigator if it's telling you to follow the "fast" interstate route along the I-89 and I-95 route through Manchester and Portsmouth.

It might take about as long on paper, but you're going to cover an extra 150 km which means you are both more likely to hit some traffic along the way and need an extra stop.

The most scenic route is to head south along the I-91/I-93 to Littleton and then make your way through the White Mountain National Forest before eventually reaching Portland. It might be smaller local roads, but you'll enjoy it a lot more!

The Old Port part of the city is where you want to head. This is the historic downtown that comes with lots of red brick, great local shops and places to eat. You can't visit Portland and not try the lobster roll.

The Portland Head Lighthouse is just outside the city in Fort Williams Park and is the most photographed lighthouse in the United States which is quite a feat.

If you want to extend your trip and see some nature, the Acadia National Park (#22 below) is not too far up the coast and is an absolutely stunning place which will be well worth the detour.

17. Road trip to Toronto

5 hours 20 minutes from Montreal (542 km)

Toronto is Canada's largest city, the place where most of the country's business takes place and the heart of a huge number of cultures and communities.

The road trip from Montreal to Toronto is very straight-forward. ON-401 that starts as you cross from Quebec to Ontario just outside Montreal will take you the entire way, following St Lawrence River past the Thousand Islands (#8 above), Gananoque, Kingston and Prince Edward County (#13) before making it to the hustle and bustle at the western tip of Lake Ontario.

You will notice the towering skyscrapers are you approach the city - Toronto has inherited the US love of tall buildings and the CN Tower is the tallest structure in the western hemisphere - you won't miss it!

A unique thing about Toronto is the huge number of different cultures that mix in the city to create its unique atmosphere. It also means there is a great deal of art, neighborhoods and food for you to explore.

From Chinatown that dates back to the 19th century to the Distillery District where just about everything from roads to buildings is made of red brick, you can spend days exploring different parts of Toronto and not see most of it.

Toronto is also a great stop off point if your road trip will take you further - it's right on the way from Montreal to Niagara Falls (#21 below), Bruce Peninsula National Park (#23) or Manitoulin Island (#24) if you're getting the ferry.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Montreal to Toronto

18. Whale watching in Tadoussac

5 hours 40 minutes from Montreal (472 km)

Tadoussac is a pretty small town downstream St Lawrence River from Montreal at the point where the Saguenay River flows into it.

At this point the river gets as much as 20 km wide as it begins approaching the Gulf of St Lawrence and that means one thing. It's big enough for whales to come in from the North Atlantic.

The currents flowing from the two rivers that join here make a unique environment that makes plankton thrive and as this is what whales love to eat, over a dozen different whale species come to the area from the beluga whale up to the giant blue whales.

You can go on boat tours or simply hire a kayak and paddle out - if you spend a few hours you may well spot a few different whales nearby. Just remember that it can get very cold even on a warm summer's day so wear layers.

To get to Tadoussac, you'll need to make your way to Quebec City (either along the river or the slightly faster Trans-Canada Highway route) and from there keep going along the northern bank of the river.

When you get to Saguenay River, your road trip will have to go over the water in a ferry - the nearest bridge is all the way up in Saguenay. The town of Tadoussac is right next to the ferry terminal on the other side.

19. Saguenay Fjord National Park

5 hours 40 minutes from Montreal (524 km)

Saguenay Fjord is the valley through which the Saguenay River flows from Lake Saint-Jean to St Lawrence River. This is one of the prettiest parts of Quebec and is well worth the long drive from Montreal .

There are two different routes for a road trip from Montreal to the Saguenay Fjord. For both routes you first have to get to Quebec City (see #9 above). From there the slightly faster route is to follow Route 175 up to Saguenay before driving down the Fjord or you can follow St Lawrence River to Saint-Siméon and then drive up Route 170 instead.

The Saguenay Fjord National Park is very remote - Saguenay to the north and Tadoussac to the south are 1 and 2 hours away respectively and both are very small towns. Quebec City is a 3-hour drive so to make the most out of your visit, you'll want to camp.

The Baie-Éternité campsite near the park entrance on Rue Notre Dame is a great option and if you don't have a tent, you can glamp in one that is already set up or go all out and stay in a chalet depending on how close you want to be to nature.

Along with hiking routes, kayaking down the fjord and bike trails, you can try out the Via Ferrata - it is a secure and guided climbing route that will take you high above the valley with stunning views and the opportunity to cross a gorge along an 85-metre-long suspension bridge.

Make sure you book ahead to avoid disappointment!

READ MORE - Road Trip from Montreal to Saguenay Fjord National Park

20. New York, New York

6 hours from Montreal (598 km)

The Big Apple seems a world away from Montreal and before you actually look at the route, you may well think it will take much longer to get there than the 6 hour drive to New York City.

In truth, most people visiting New York will opt to take the plane with frequent flights between the two cities. But if you consider the time it will take you to get to the airport, check in and pass security, wait for your flight, fly over, get out, pass security and collect your bags at the other end before making your way into the city from the airport, you'll probably have as long a journey.

And better still, driving means you can stop at any of the amazing places on the way including Lake Champlain (#3 above), Adirondack Park in upstate New York (#1) or take a detour via Long Island or New England.

Once in New York, however, it's a good idea to park the car for the duration of your stay - the subway and taxis are a much better option for getting about.

The options for things to do don't need much introduction. From the Central Park to taking snaps of Manhattan from Top of the Rock to staring at the bright lights of Times Square, there is a reason why New York draws so many visitors from all over the world.

The selection of restaurants is probably the best in the world, Broadway musicals and theatre productions will make for amazing nights out and the different New York boroughs offer unique neighborhoods that you can spend weeks exploring.

If you'd like to learn more about these areas and what you can see in each, please check our detailed guide below:

READ MORE - Our Area-by-Area Guide to NYC

21. Road trip to Niagara Falls

6 hours 40 minutes from Montreal (535 km)

Niagara Falls may just be the most famous group of waterfalls in the world, sitting on the border between Canada and the United States.

There are three waterfalls in total here - the Horseshoe Falls, American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls and you can easily access them from either the Canadian or The US sides.

Amazing though they are, it's a long drive just to come and see the waterfall, so you will probably want to mix in a stop or two along the way - whether it's roaming the streets of Toronto or relaxing with a glass of wine in Prince Edward County.

It takes almost the same amount of time to get to Niagara Falls whether you drive around the north or the south shore of Lake Ontario but the northern route is not only more scenic, but will offer more good stopping options.

The spectacular waterfalls have a huge amount of water pass through them every day, but surprisingly, as much as three-quarters of the water is diverted to a hydroelectric power plant, which generates a large proportion of the electricity used in both Ontario and New York State.

Don't miss the town of Niagara-On-The-Lake - it's well worth a stop in its own right and is great for an afternoon stroll or an overnight stay if you want to see the falls bright and early before the tourist crowds get here from Toronto and further afield.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Montreal to Niagara Falls

22. Acadia National Park, Maine

6 hours 20 minutes from Montreal (668 km)

It's true - if you're going on a road trip from Montreal and want to spend some time in a National Park, you are spoiled for choice in Quebec and Ontario. There's 4 on this list and plenty of other places you can hike and camp under the stars.

But there is a really compelling reason why you should consider driving all the way to Maine to visit the only National Park in New England - Acadia is seriously stunning and setting off on a road trip from Montreal is the perfect way to visit this park.

The drive will take a whole day with over 6 hours of pure driving to do and although the route is very scenic, you won't pass through any cities or notable places to stop.

You'll cut right across the Appalachian Trail as you drive through the mountainous Bigelow Preserve just before you get to the well known Sugarloaf Mountain ski resort.

Acadia sits on the Mount Desert Island off the Maine Coast - it's the second largest island along the Eastern Seaboard after New York's Long Island and Acadia National Park covers most of it.

This may just be the best National Park for casual exploring - the hiking routes are amazing, the views are stunning, there's gorgeous rocky cliffs protruding into the ocean and there are small towns and great restaurants dotted around so you can stop for lunch.

You can spend a week here and not cover the majority of the amazing hiking routes and on top of that there's boat tours and quirky local museums (the Seal Cove Auto Museum in the western part of the island is a great stop). Please note that, if you are visiting Acadia National Park and plan to drive on the Cadillac Summit Road, vehicle reservations might be required. Please check the national park's website to avoid any disappointment.

If you want to see more of New England on your road trip, you can drive along the coast to Portland, Maine (take it slow along Route 1 instead of the interstates) and keep on going south into Massachusetts to spend some time in Boston.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Montreal to Acadia National Park

23. Bruce Peninsula National Park

8 hours 30 minutes from Montreal (811 km)

Bruce Peninsula is a rocky outcrop that splits Georgian Bay off from the rest of Lake Huron in Ontario, to the northwest of Toronto.

The road trip from Montreal to Bruce Peninsula will take you west along St Lawrence River and then along the length of Lake Ontario's north shore before turning northwest at Missisauga.

It's a long drive if you're thinking of doing it in a day and if you're planning on camping at the other end, you won't be wanting to arrive at your campsite in the dark. Luckily, many of the itineraries above, including the Thousand Islands National Park (#8 above), Gananoque, Kingston and Price Edward County (#13) and Toronto (#17) are all great options for a stopover.

Bruce Peninsula National Park is best known for its nature. From chipmunks to black bears, there's a lot of wildlife around and some really amazing hiking routes.

The best known route is the Bruce Trail which actually runs a mighty 900 km (550 miles) all the way from the Niagara River on the border with the United States to the northern tip of the Bruce Peninsula - parts of it that approach the northern tip offer really amazing views including the well-known Overhanging Point.

Remember that parking and camping can be oversubscribed during the warm months so make sure you book ahead. Think about your itinerary - you'll need to book parking separately if you want to visit places like the Grotto and although it'll set you back the best part of $20, it's well worth the trip.

24. Make the long drive to Manitoulin Island

9 hours 30 minutes from Montreal (855 km)

Manitoulin Island sits north of the Bruce Peninsula splitting Georgian Bay from Lake Huron and is famous for being the largest freshwater island in the world.

It's so big that it has over 100 lakes within it and many of these lakes have islands of their own! Before your mind wanders into an Inception-like never-ending sequence of islands inside islands, let's cover the two ways you can get to Manitoulin.

The fastest route from Montreal to Manitoulin is to follow the Trans-Canada Highway passing through Ottawa (see #6 above), around the Algonquin National Park and past North Bay and Sudbury. Highway 6 south jumps from island to island before landing you right on Manitoulin Island.

The alternative route is to follow the north shore of Lake Ontario all the way into Toronto and then drive north to the Bruce Peninsula before taking a ferry. This option will add about 2 hours to what is already a long journey and be sure to book your ferry spot in advance so your car can get on!

To keep things interesting, you're best off getting to the island and combing back via different routes. This way you can also add the many stops along the way we cover in shorter road trip itineraries above!

As well as the stunning nature on the island, there's some interesting culture to explore with the local Anishinaabe population having dedicated reserves and interesting towns to visit.

A top tip is to get to the Cup and Saucer hiking trail nice and early one day - this route up through the trees will take you to a jaw-dropping rock overlook which might just be the best view on the island but come early to avoid the much busier period later on in the morning.

25. Rhode Island, Cape Cod & Islands

10 hours from Montreal (800+ km)

This one is going to take you some time, but if you have at least a week and want to see some of the most historic parts of the United States and quintessential New England towns, this is an amazing road trip from Montreal through the United States.

Take your pick of the I-89 past Lake Champlain or the I-93 through the White Mountain National Forest to get to Boston (#15 above) - you can easily do the drive in a day with stops along the way.

After spending some time exploring the historic city, you can visit some of the historic towns surrounding it - Salem and Rockport are great options as is Plymouth - the oldest city in New England.

Cape Cod curves around the Cape Cod Bay and has great small towns, relaxing long beaches along the Cape Cod National Seashore and Provincetown at its tip. This is a relaxed seaside town that comes with bucketloads of history - afterall this is where the Mayflower Pilgrims first set foot on American soil.

There are two islands south of the Cape - Martha's vineyard is closer and easier to get to and Nantucket a little further out. You can get a ferry to both but make sure you book ahead - car spaces can be limited and the ferries can be relatively expensive so you may want to pick just one of the islands for your trip.

To complete your exploration of the historic New England, head across into Rhode Island and visit Newport and Providence before completing your road trip and returning back north to Montreal.

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Path of totality: Eastern Canada cities and towns to visit to view the solar eclipse

Parts of five provinces in Central and Eastern Canada will be in the path of a total solar eclipse on April 8.

Major tourist destinations such as Montreal and Niagara Falls are expecting visitors from across the country, but eclipse chasers have a number of cities and towns to choose from.

Kingston: Public places open for eclipse viewing include Lake Ontario Park, Fort Henry, LaSalle Secondary School, Maple Elementary School, Little Cataraqui Creek Conservation Area, Jim Beattie Park, J.R. Henderson Public School and Lion’s Civic Gardens & Isabel Turner Library, among others.

Niagara: Public viewing areas in the Niagara Falls region include Old Fort Erie, Kingsbridge Park, Sandie Bellows Plaza at the Niagara Parks Power Station and Tunnel, Table Rock Centre, Queen Victoria Park, Oakes Garden Theatre, Botanical Gardens, Niagara Glen and Queenston Heights Park.

Port Colborne: The city will offer a number of public viewing points, including Vale Health and Wellness Centre, Lock 8 Gateway Park, Sugarloaf Harbour Marina, Downtown Port Colborne, Nickel Beach, Centennial Cedar Bay Beach and H. H. Knoll Lakeview Park.

Other places in the path of totality include: Burlington, St. Catharines, Belleville, Brockville and Cornwall.

Montreal: People can watch the eclipse at several spots including the Science Centre, Parc Jean-Drapeau, and Old Port. There will be a viewing party at McGill University with activities and other educational demonstrations on campus. Mount Royal Park also falls in the path of totality.

Sherbrooke: The town's nature science museum is inviting visitors to the Maison de l'eau in Lucien-Blanchard Park for a viewing party on the day of the eclipse. Bishop's University is also hosting viewers at the campus.

Other places in the path of totality include Drummondville and Havre-Aubert.

New Brunswick:

Fredericton: The provincial capital is hosting an eclipse fest with multiple activities planned for the day. For the viewing, the city is inviting people to lower Carlton Street where the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada will assist eclipse watchers.

Miramichi: The town is hosting viewers at Miramichi-Chatham Airport which has a capacity of about 1,500 vehicles in the parking lot.

Other places in New Brunswick include Caribou.

Prince Edward Island:

Summerside and Cavendish are among the places on the Island where the full eclipse will be visible.

Mill River Resort, near Woodstock, is hosting a total solar eclipse viewing.

Parts of Prince County and northern parts of Queen's County also fall in the path of totality.

Newfoundland and Labrador:

St. John's: Johnson Geo Centre is hosting a viewing party for people, though the provincial capital will see only a partial eclipse.

The full eclipse will be visible in Gander before the path moves into the Atlantic. Johnson Geo Centre has organized a bus tour to Gander from St. John's with viewing at the College of the North Atlantic campus.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published April 1, 2024.

The Canadian Press

• Travel Planning Guide

A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Kingston vs. Montreal for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

• Which is Cheaper, Kingston or Montreal? (Travel Cost Comparison)

Which is Bigger, Kingston or Montreal?

• When to Visit Kingston or Montreal?

Should you visit Kingston or Montreal?

Which is cheaper to visit which is more expensive for vacation.

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Kingston or Montreal, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Where Should I go: Kingston or Montreal?

Kingston is Jamaica's capital city with a population of about 579,000. For being located on an island, Kingston is a very large city with several different zip codes. Not only is Kingston the cultural capital of the country, but also the commercial one as well.

While Quebec City is the political capital of Quebec Province, Montreal is the economic and cultural capital. It's also the second largest city in Canada, with a population of about 1.9 million and 4 million in the metropolitan area. It's the second largest French speaking city in the world behind Paris. Montreal is a very trendy and vibrant city with an active nightlife and countless activities to enjoy. It's located on an island in the St. Lawrence River and has a humid continental climate. There are four distinct seasons. Summers are warm or hot and humid. Spring and fall are mild and winters are cold and snowy. You can expect about 2 meters of snow every year, but there are also more than 2,000 hours of sunshine annually.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Train & Rail Tours in Canada , and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Canada .

Which place is cheaper, Montreal or Kingston?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

• Kingston Prices Jamaica Prices Montreal Prices Canada Prices
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day Kingston $ 110 Montreal $ 211

The average daily cost (per person) in Kingston is $110, while the average daily cost in Montreal is $211. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Kingston and Montreal in more detail.

Accommodation

• Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person Kingston $ 65 Montreal $ 133
• Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room Kingston $ 130 Montreal $ 266

Compare Hotels in Kingston and Montreal

Looking for a hotel in Kingston or Montreal? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Kingston

Hotels in Montreal

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.

Local Transportation

• Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. Kingston $ 30 Montreal $ 21

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kingston

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Kingston:

• From Montego Bay Airport (MBJ): Private Transfer to Kingston: $388
• Private Arrival or Departure Transfer: Norman Manley Airport to Montego Bay: $289
• Tropical Off-Road ATV Tour with Lunch and Transfer: $280
• Norman Manley Airport Private Round-trip Transfer to Kingston : $257
• Private Transfer Kingston Airport (KIN) To & From Sandals South Coast : $240
• Port Antonio Hotel Private Roundtrip Airport Transfer from Kingston Airport(KIN): $235
• Private Airport Transfer Sangster Airport to Kingston: $232
• NMIA & Kingston transfer to Negril: $225
• Kingston Airport Private Transfer to Moon Palace Jamaica Grande: $200
• Kingston Airport Private Transfer to Riu Ocho Rios: $200
• Private Transfer Kingston Airport to Hilton Rose Hall: $187
• Private Transfer Kingston Airport to Jewel Grande Montego Bay: $187

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Montreal

Also for Montreal, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

• Departure Private Transfer: Montreal to Montreal Airport YUL in Business Car: $118
• Departure Private Transfer: Montreal to Montreal Airport YUL in Luxury SUV: $164
• Departure Transfer Montreal to Montreal Airport by Limos or Bus: $153
• Le Terminal Cruise Port to Québec Airport YQB Departure Transfer: $57
• Montreal Private Transfer to Montreal Airport YUL in Business Car: $118
• Montreal Private Transfer to Montreal Airport YUL in Luxury SUV: $164
• Arrival Transfer from International Airport: $65
• Private Departure Transfer to Montreal Airport YUL: $116
• Private Arrival Transfer from Montreal Airport YUL: $44
• Private Transfer from Montreal hotels to Montréal Airport (YUL): $57
• Private Transfer: Montreal City Center to Pierre E.T. Airport-YUL: $49
• Private Transfer: Montreal to Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau Airport (YUL): $88

Is it cheaper to fly into Kingston or Montreal?

Prices for flights to both Montreal and Kingston change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.

• Food Meals for one day Kingston $ 27 Montreal $ 36

Typical Food Prices in Montreal

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Montreal:

• Tim Hortons breakfast and coffee $ 9.06

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Montreal

For Montreal, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

• Le Bateau-Mouche 3 & 4-course Dinner Cruise: $66
• Montreal Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $75
• Beyond the Market Food Tour by Spade & Palacio: $75
• Mile End Montreal Original Food Tour - by Local Montreal Tours: $90
• Old Montreal Food & Drink Tour by Local Montreal Food Tours: $105
• Cooking Class and Tasting Menu with Michelin Chef: $124
• Jewish Neighborhood Food Tour: $132
• Montréal: 5-Course Dinner Cruise with Music & VIP Option: $161
• Montreal Gourmet Dinner Cruise with music: $165
• Personalized Private Food Tour with a Local Foodie: $209
• Cooking Class in Montreal with a Michelin-Star Trained Chef: $210
• Montreal Private Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $253

Entertainment

• Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc. Kingston $ 13 Montreal $ 21

Tours and Activities in Kingston

Here are a few actual costs in Kingston for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

• Dunn's River Falls Party Cruise, Blue Hole with Snorkeling, free beverages: $174
• 4x4 Jeep Safari & Blue Hole Adventure from Ocho Rios: $158
• Appleton Estate Rum Tour and Tasting from Ocho Rios: $232
• Authentic Jamaican Food Experience: $140
• Blue Hole and Sightseeing Tour from Ocho Rios: $99
• Blue Mountain Bicycle Hike & Bike Tour from Runaway Bay: $178
• Blue Mountain Bicycle Tour from Kingston: $231
• Bob Marley Museum Express Tour from Port Royal Cruise Port: $141
• Bob Marley Museum Tour from Kingston: $83
• Bob Marley Museum Tour from Runaway Bay: $258
• Bob Marley Museum and Devon House Kingston Day Tour: $323
• Bob Marley Museum and Devon House Kingston Day Tour: $374

Typical Entertainment Prices in Montreal

For Montreal, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:

• Botanical Gardens (family of 4) $ 54

Tours and Activities in Montreal

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Montreal.

• First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.25
• Montreal self-guided tour App - multilingual AudioGuide: $4.34
• Montreal Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $4.41
• Montréal's Mile End to Outremont: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.20
• Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $7.59
• Escape Game and Tour: $8.67
• APP Self-Guided Tours Montreal with Audioguide: $8.83
• Montreal Art Center & Museum Audio Guided Tour: $10
• McCord Stewart Museum : Entry Ticket: $15
• Montreal Zipline Adventure: $15
• Self-Guided Old Town Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour: $16
• Montreal Old Port: Urban Zipline Ticket: $16
• Alcohol Drinks for one day Kingston $ 11 Montreal $ 17

Sample the Local Flavors in Kingston

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Kingston:

• Ocho Rios Pub Crawl and Sightseeing Tour from Ocho Rios: $185

Typical Alcohol Prices in Montreal

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Montreal:

Sample the Local Flavors in Montreal

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Montreal:

• Haunted Montreal Pub Crawl: $22
• Guided Bar Crawl with Free Shots and Club Entry: $43

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Kingston and Montreal, we can see that Montreal is more expensive. And not only is Kingston much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Kingston is in Caribbean Islands and Montreal is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Kingston would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Kingston and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Montreal would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Montreal than you might in Kingston.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Kingston Expensive? and Is Montreal Expensive? .

Montreal has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Kingston. When comparing the sizes of Kingston and Montreal, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Kingston or Montreal?

Montreal has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Kingston experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Kingston or Montreal in the Summer?

Both Montreal and Kingston during the summer are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Kingston because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

Kingston is a little warmer than Montreal in the summer. The daily temperature in Kingston averages around 29°C (83°F) in July, and Montreal fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

In Montreal, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Kingston. In the summer, Kingston often gets less sunshine than Montreal. Kingston gets 254 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montreal receives 276 hours of full sun.

Kingston usually gets less rain in July than Montreal. Kingston gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Montreal receives 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

• Summer Average Temperatures July Kingston 29°C (83°F)   Montreal   21°C (69°F)

Should I visit Kingston or Montreal in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Kingston and Montreal. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Kingston year-round.

In the autumn, Kingston is much warmer than Montreal. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Kingston in October average around 28°C (82°F), and Montreal averages at about 8°C (47°F).

In Kingston, it's very sunny this time of the year. Kingston usually receives more sunshine than Montreal during autumn. Kingston gets 229 hours of sunny skies, while Montreal receives 141 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Kingston gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Kingston usually receives more rain than Montreal. Kingston gets 167 mm (6.6 in) of rain, while Montreal receives 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

• Autumn Average Temperatures October Kingston 28°C (82°F)   Montreal   8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Kingston or Montreal in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Kingston as well as Montreal. Kingston attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Montreal. In January, Kingston is generally much warmer than Montreal. Daily temperatures in Kingston average around 26°C (79°F), and Montreal fluctuates around -10°C (14°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kingston this time of the year. In the winter, Kingston often gets more sunshine than Montreal. Kingston gets 257 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Montreal receives 103 hours of full sun.

Kingston usually gets less rain in January than Montreal. Kingston gets 18 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Montreal receives 74 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.

• Winter Average Temperatures January Kingston 26°C (79°F)   Montreal   -10°C (14°F)

Should I visit Kingston or Montreal in the Spring?

Both Montreal and Kingston are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Kingston throughout the year.

Kingston is much warmer than Montreal in the spring. The daily temperature in Kingston averages around 26°C (80°F) in April, and Montreal fluctuates around 6°C (43°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Kingston. Kingston usually receives more sunshine than Montreal during spring. Kingston gets 251 hours of sunny skies, while Montreal receives 183 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Kingston usually receives less rain than Montreal. Kingston gets 27 mm (1.1 in) of rain, while Montreal receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.

• Spring Average Temperatures April Kingston 26°C (80°F)   Montreal   6°C (43°F)

Typical Weather for Montreal and Kingston

Related articles for kingston, related articles for montreal.

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Man stabbed and dumped at a Montreal hospital, police investigating

Montreal police (SPVM) are investigating after a man with stab wounds was dropped off at a hospital on Sunday morning.

• READ MORE: CTVNewsMontreal.ca's continued coverage of crime and policing in the Greater Montreal Area

Police responded to a 911 call at 6:20 a.m. and found a 30-year-old man with "a serious injury to his upper body caused by an edged weapon," according to SPVM spokesperson Jean-Pierre Brabant.

Authorities no longer fear for his life.

Officers located a crime scene later on Sunday on Metropolitain Boulevard near Langelier Boulevard and have set up a perimeter.

SPVM Investigators and crime scene technicians are now trying to determine the causes and circumstances that led to the assault.

Police confirmed that the victim does not have a criminal record.

"As soon as his condition is better, investigators will meet with him," said Brabant.

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Total solar eclipse April 8, 2024 facts: Path, time and the best places to view

In the U.S., 31 million people already live inside the path of totality.

Scroll down to see the list of U.S. cities where the April 8 total solar eclipse will be visible, the duration of the eclipse in those locations and what time totality will begin, according to GreatAmericanEclipse.com .

"Eclipse Across America," will air live Monday, April 8, beginning at 2 p.m. ET on ABC, ABC News Live, National Geographic Channel, Nat Geo WILD, Disney+ and Hulu as well as network social media platforms.

On April 8, 2024, a historic total solar eclipse will cast a shadow over parts of the United States, prompting a mass travel event to the path of totality -- from Texas to Maine and several states and cities in between.

A total solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the sun and the Earth and, for a short time, completely blocks the face of the sun, according to NASA .

The track of the moon's shadow across Earth's surface is called the path of totality, and to witness the April 8 total solar eclipse, viewers must be within the 115-mile-wide path. To discover when to see the solar eclipse in totality or the partial eclipse in locations across the U.S. outside of the path, check out NASA's Eclipse Explorer tool .

Eclipse travel

In the U.S., 31 million people already live inside the path of totality, bringing the celestial phenomenon to their doorsteps, Michael Zeiler, expert solar eclipse cartographer at GreatAmericanEclipse.com told ABC News.

MORE: Eclipse glasses: What to know to keep your eyes safe

But for individuals outside of the path, investing time and money are needed to experience the event in totality.

Eclipse chasers, or umbraphiles, are individuals who will do almost anything, and travel almost anywhere, to see totality, according to the American Astronomical Society .

"There's a very active community of solar eclipse chasers and we will go to any reasonable lengths to see solar eclipses anywhere in the world," Zeiler said. "All of us are united in pursuing the unimaginable beauty of a total solar eclipse."

MORE: The surprising reason why a Texas county issued a disaster declaration ahead of April total solar eclipse

Bringing together both eclipse experts and novice sky watchers, the total solar eclipse on April 8 is projected to be the U.S.'s largest mass travel event in 2024, according to Zeiler, who likened it to "50 simultaneous Super Bowls across the nation."

"When you look at the number of people expected to come to the path of totality for the solar eclipse, we estimate those numbers are roughly the equivalent of 50 simultaneous Super Bowls across the nation, from Texas to Maine," he said.

Eclipse map, path of totality

In the U.S., the path of totality begins in Texas and will travel through Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan will also experience the total solar eclipse, according to NASA.

Best times, places to view eclipse

Below is a list of some American cities where the April 8 total solar eclipse will be most visible -- pending weather forecasts -- the duration of the eclipse in those locations and what time totality will begin, according to GreatAmericanEclipse.com.

• Eagle Pass, Texas, 1:27 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 23 seconds
• Uvalde, Texas, 1:29 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 16 seconds
• Kerrville, Texas, 1:32 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 23 seconds
• Austin, Texas, 1:36 p.m. CDT: 1 minute, 53 seconds
• Killeen, Texas, 1:36 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 17 seconds
• Fort Worth, Texas, 1:40 p.m. CDT: 2 minutes, 34 seconds
• Dallas, Texas, 1:40 p.m. CDT: 3 minutes, 47 seconds
• Little Rock, Arkansas, 1:51 p.m. CDT: 2 minutes, 33 seconds
• Jonesboro, Arkansas, 1:55 p.m. CDT: 2 minutes, 24 seconds
• Poplar Bluff, Arkansas, 1:56 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 8 seconds
• Cape Girardeau, Missouri, 1:58 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 6 seconds
• Carbondale, Illinois, 1:59 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 8 seconds
• Mount Vernon, Illinois, 2:00 p.m. CDT: 3 minutes, 40 seconds
• Evansville, Indiana, 2:02 p.m. CDT: 3 minutes, 2 seconds
• Terre Haute, Indiana, 3:04 p.m. EDT: 2 minutes, 57 seconds
• Indianapolis, Indiana, 3:06 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 46 seconds
• Dayton, Ohio, 3:09 p.m. EDT: 2 minutes, 46 seconds
• Wapakoneta, Ohio, 3:09 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 55 seconds
• Toledo, Ohio, 3:12 p.m. EDT: 1 minute, 54 seconds
• Cleveland, Ohio, 3:13 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 50 seconds

Pennsylvania

• Erie, Pennsylvania, 3:16 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 43 seconds
• Buffalo, New York, 3:18 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 45 seconds
• Rochester, New York, 3:20 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 40 seconds
• Syracuse, New York, 3:23 p.m. EDT: 1 minute, 26 seconds
• Burlington, Vermont, 3:26 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 14 seconds
• Island Falls, Maine, 3:31 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 20 seconds
• Presque Island, Maine, 3:32 p.m. EDT: 2 minutes, 47 seconds

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People in Baltimore , Philadelphia , New Jersey, Connecticut, Boston and other areas of the Northeast reported shaking. Tremors lasting for several seconds were felt over 200 miles away near the Massachusetts-New Hampshire border.

The map below shows the seismic intensity of the earthquake. The map, which is mostly a lighter shade of blue, shows that the intensity was light to weak, depending on the distance from the epicenter. 

Another map released by the European-Mediterranean Seismological Centre on X, formerly Twitter, highlights the eyewitness reports of shaking and possible damage levels during the seismic event. 

#Earthquake 18 mi W of #Plainfield (New Jersey) 23 min ago (local time 10:23:20). Updated map - Colored dots represent local shaking & damage level reported by eyewitnesses. Share your experience via: 📱 https://t.co/IbUfG7TFOL 🌐 https://t.co/wErQf69jIn pic.twitter.com/jBjVw1ngAD — EMSC (@LastQuake) April 5, 2024

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul and New York City Mayor Eric Adams have been briefed on the quake. 

"We're taking this extremely seriously and here's why: There's always the possibility of aftershocks. We have not felt a magnitude of this earthquake since about 2011," Hochul said. 

People across the region were startled by the rumbling of the quake. One New York City resident told CBS New York's Elijah Westbrook, "I was laying in my bed, and my whole apartment building started shaking. I started freaking out," 

It's not the first time the East Coast and New York City have been hit by an earthquake. 

A 5.0 quake was measured in New York City in 1884. 

The shaking stirred memories of the Aug. 23, 2011, earthquake that jolted tens of millions of people from Georgia to Canada. Registering magnitude 5.8, it was the strongest quake to hit the East Coast since World War II. The epicenter was in Virginia.

That earthquake left cracks in the Washington Monument, spurred the evacuation of the White House and Capitol and rattled New Yorkers three weeks before the 10th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terror attacks.

• New England
• Connecticut
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• United States Geological Survey
• Philadelphia

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Your last-minute guide to Monday's total solar eclipse

A total solar eclipse will cross North America on Monday , offering millions a rare opportunity to see afternoon skies temporarily darken as the moon blocks the face of the sun.

Tune into NBC News NOW as Lester Holt hosts a two-hour special at 2 p.m. ET Monday from Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

The eclipse's path fortuitously cuts across Mexico, 15 U.S. states and a small part of eastern Canada. In all other states in the continental U.S., viewers will be treated to a partial solar eclipse, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun and obscuring part of its light.

Here’s everything you need to know about the rare celestial event.

What is a solar eclipse?

Solar eclipses occur when the sun, moon and Earth align. The moon passes between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light and casting a shadow on Earth.

A total solar eclipse is when the moon fully obscures the sun, whereas a partial solar eclipse means it blocks just a portion of the sun’s face.

Solar eclipses occur only with the new moon. Because the moon’s orbit around Earth is tilted, the three bodies don’t always line up in a way that creates an eclipse.

“Imagine if the moon’s orbit were in the plane of Earth’s orbit around the sun — if that were the case, then every new moon, you’d have a total solar eclipse and every full moon, you’d have a lunar eclipse,” Neil DeGrasse Tyson, director of the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History, told NBC News. “So, because things don’t always align, it lends to the rarity of the event and the specialness of the event.”

Where and when will the eclipse be visible?

This year’s eclipse will follow a slightly wider path over more populated areas of the continental U.S. than other total solar eclipses have in the recent past.

NASA estimates that 31.6 million people live within what’s known as the path of totality, where the total solar eclipse will be visible. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path, according to the agency.

The path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Tiny parts of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

After the eclipse crosses into Canada, it will pass over southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

Those outside the path of totality can still take part in the astronomical event by viewing a partial solar eclipse — visible throughout all 48 states of the contiguous U.S. — or a NASA livestream.

The timing, including how long totality lasts, depends on the location, but some spots will see the moon fully cover the sun for up to 4 minutes and 28 seconds.

Below is a list of timings for some cities along the path of totality, as  provided by NASA . A number of other resources, including NationalEclipse.com  and  TimeandDate.com , can also help people plan.

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.

How to safely view a solar eclipse

It is never safe to gaze directly at the sun, even when it is partly or mostly covered by the moon. Special eclipse glasses or  pinhole projectors  are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent eye damage. Failing to take the proper precautions can result in severe eye injury,  according to NASA .

Eclipse glasses are thousands of times darker than normal sunglasses and specially made to enable wearers to look at the sun during these kinds of celestial events.

Sky-watchers should also never view any part of the sun through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses unless they have specific solar filters attached. Eclipse glasses should not be used with these devices, as they will not provide adequate protection.

However, during the few minutes of totality, when the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to look with the naked eye.

Beware of fake eclipse glasses. On legitimate pairs, the lenses should have a silver appearance on the front and be black on the inside. The manufacturer’s name and address should be clearly labeled, and they should not be torn or punctured. Check, as well, for the ISO logo and the code “IS 12312-2” printed on the inside.

If you don’t have eclipse glasses, you can make a homemade pinhole projector, which lets sunlight in through a small hole, focuses it and projects it onto a piece of paper, wall or other surface to create an image of the sun that is safe to look at. 

All you need is two pieces of white cardboard or plain white paper, aluminum foil and a pin or thumbtack. Cut a 1- to 2-inch square or rectangle out of the center of a piece of white paper or cardboard. Tape aluminum foil over that cut-out shape, then use a pin or thumbtack to poke a tiny hole in the foil.

During the eclipse, place a second piece of white paper or cardboard on the ground as a screen and hold the projector with the foil facing up and your back to the sun. Adjusting how far you hold the projector from the second piece of paper will alter the size of the image on the makeshift screen.

What to look for while viewing the total solar eclipse

For people along the path of totality, there are some fun milestones to keep track of as the total solar eclipse unfolds.

As the eclipse progresses and the sun gets thinner in the sky, it will start to get eerily dark, according to Tyson.

When the last beams of sunlight are about to become obscured, look out for the “diamond ring effect”: The sun’s atmosphere will appear as an illuminated halo, and the last light still visible will look like the diamond of a giant ring.

As the sunlight decreases even further, an effect known as Baily’s beads will be created by the moon’s rugged terrain. Tiny “beads” of light will be visible for only a few seconds around the dark moon, as the last bits of sunlight peer through the moon’s mountains and valleys.

When the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to remove eclipse glasses and look at the total solar eclipse with the naked eye.

Some lucky sky-watchers may even catch a glimpse of a comet .

Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks — nicknamed the “ devil comet ” because an eruption last year left it with two distinct trails of gas and ice in the shape of devil horns — is currently visible from the Northern Hemisphere as it swings through the inner solar system.

The comet can be seen in the early evenings by gazing toward the west-northwest horizon. During the eclipse, when skies darken during totality, it may be possible to see the comet near Jupiter, but its visibility will depend on whether it’s in the middle of an outburst and thus brighter than normal.

Most likely, all eyes will be on the alignment of the moon and sun.

“Most people won’t even notice,” Tyson said. “But if you know to look, it’s there.”

When is the next solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse will be in 2026, but it will mostly pass over the Arctic Ocean, with some visibility in Greenland, Iceland, Portugal and northern Spain. In 2027, a total solar eclipse will be visible in Spain and a swath of northern Africa.

The next total solar eclipse visible from North America will be in 2033, but only over Alaska. Then in 2044, a total solar eclipse will cross Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, parts of Canada and Greenland.

The next total solar eclipse to cross the continental U.S. coast-to-coast in will occur in 2045. The path of totality for that eclipse will cut through California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia and Florida.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

Lucas Thompson is a content producer for the NBC News Climate Unit.