Astronomical Tourist Attractions in the Kingston, Ontario Canada Area

Page Created: 2005 March 06
Page last updated: 2025 May 15

Churchill Park Sundial * City Park * Ellis Hall Observatory * Holleford Crater * Miller Hall Geology Museum * Radio Telescope Ruins * Stirling Hall
We have been asked by numerous visitors, "What is there to see in the Kingston Ontario area that is a person with an Astronomy interest might like to see?"

The answer is this web page with links, photos and some background information about anything that we can think of with astronomical links in the area.

Lennox and Addington Dark Sky Viewing Area

https://naturallyla.ca/explore/dark-sky-viewing-area-lennox-addington/
These days, it's not an easy task to find a patch of clear night sky that's not obstructed by light pollution. But, just 37 kilometres north of Napanee, the L&A Dark Sky Viewing Area is ready to wow you with incredible, clear views. This spot is the most southerly point in Ontario that offers a night sky experience very similar to what was available more than 100 years ago.

With ample parking and a large concrete pad for camera or telescope setup, Dark Sky is perfect for anyone looking to observe the natural wonder of the stars. The viewing area is open from dusk until dawn – admission is free!

North Frontenac Dark Sky Preserve

https://www.visitfrontenac.ca/en/explore-and-do/dark-sky-preserve.aspx
North Frontenac is home to the North Frontenac Astronomy Park, which is one of the best places for stargazing in Ontario. On August 3rd of 2013 the Township of North Frontenac became the first municipality in Canada to receive Dark Sky Preserve status from the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada.
The observation pad is a public space with amenities, including parking, accessible washrooms and electrical service. Anyone can setup their telescope and enjoy the darkest skies in southern Ontario. Additionally, there are frequent organized events, where amateur astronomers are available to provide context and assist in viewing the skies.
Location dark sky preserve
The North Frontenac Astronomy Park is adjacent to the helipad at 5816 Road 506. It is located about thirty minutes away from Bon Echo Park, and about a twenty minute drive off Highway 41 in Cloyne.


Churchill Park Sundial

marking Kingston's 300th year and the 500th anniversary of the birth of Copernicus. Located in Kingston bounded by Brock, Napier and Mack Streets.


City Park

Marks the location of the original Kingston Observatory site. Bounded by Bagot, Barrie, West and King Streets.


Queen's Ellis Hall Observatory

Home of the 16" telescope. Located on Queen's Campus on University Avenue.


Holleford Crater

Kingston's own 500 million year old meteor impact crater. Located about 30 minutes north of Kingston along highway #38, and east of the town of Hartington.


Miller Hall

Geology Museum with a Holleford Crater display and meteorites. Located on Queen's Campus on Union at Division Streets.


Queen's Old Radio Telescope

Marking the now demolished Queen's Radio Telescope site. Located in Kingston at the western end of Woodbine Road.


Queen's Stirling Hall

Home of the Physics and Astronomy Department and a mini-museum. Located on Queens Campus on Bader Lane.

If you know of any other astronomically related site (artwork, sundials, historic sites, etc) please contact us.
Unless otherwise noted, all photos by Kevin Kell & Kim Hay
URL: https://starlightcascade.ca/tourism/
Created by Kevin Kell & Kim Hay