"Gananoque" is an Aboriginal name meaning "Town on Two Rivers." The St. Lawrence River runs along the southern border of the tiny town, and the Gananoque River runs right through. The two rivers make for great views. The locals often refer to the summertime visitors as "Islanders" due to the Thousand Islands in the St. Lawrence River. The islands are the biggest tourist attraction in Gananoque.
It is easy to get to the town because it sits on three of the country's busiest transportation routes, Highway 401, the Canadian Railway, and the Saint Lawrence Seaway. It is also the western terminal of the Thousand Islands Parkway and sits a short drive from Thousand Island Bridge, which turns into Interstate 81 and crosses into the United States.
When is the best time of year to visit Gananoque, Ontario?
There is a relatively long period of nice weather in Gananoque, Ontario, so the best time to visit is from mid-May to the end of September. During the spring, summer, and fall, the temperatures are between the low 50s and low 80s. The rainiest months of the year are April, June, and October. If you plan on coming during these months, you should bring your umbrella or raincoat,
In the winter, you need a heavy coat because temperatures are usually below freezing, and there is quite a bit of snow in the area. In fact, it starts snowing in October and continues until April, and it is not uncommon for there to be a fresh layer of powdery snow covering most of Gananoque during the winter months.
On top of that, the high levels of humidity make it feel colder, especially with the wind chill, so you have to bundle up to stay warm. Otherwise, the cold weather is piercing. Given the extremely cold weather and icy conditions, you have to be careful if you are an inexperienced snow driver. You need snow tires in the winter as well as properly working headlights and windshield wiper blades.
If you are driving your own vehicle, you also need to make sure all of your fluids are appropriate for cold weather. If you drive your vehicle with warm weather fluids, it can really do some damage. Either come during the summer when the "Islanders" are in town, or make sure your car is ready.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Gananoque, ON:
Gananoque by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts demonstrating mean price trends by star rating class in Gananoque, ON. You can use these charts to determine the best seasons to book a room in Gananoque for any future trips.
Where are the luxury hotels near Gananoque, Ontario?
4 Star Average Prices: $174.00
Sleepy Hollow Bed and Breakfast is a lovely option in the city. This small, upscale bed and breakfast offers perhaps the best accommodations in the city. Choose between one of several rooms, including the Provence, the Avonlea, the Eden, the Atlantis, the Travancore, and the Tara Suite. Unwind after a day of work by indulging in a game of billiards, and enjoy free breakfast each morning.
If you really want to live it up, the Ambassador Hotel and Conference Centre is calling you. It is a 20-mile drive from Gananoque, but if luxury is what you desire, this hotel is the place to be. Choose from a standard room with a queen bed or indulge in a delightful deluxe room with a king bed and a jetted tub.
You can get your work done quickly in the privacy of your room using the hotel's free high-speed internet, then relax in the tub before getting ready to meet friends or coworkers in the hotel's lobby lounge. You can upgrade to a room with a great fireplace too, and the hotel has on-site childcare and a children's pool, so you can enjoy a stay at the Ambassador's Inn and Convention Center with the whole family. If you prefer to be alone, the hotel is also great for a solo visit.
Best Western Fireside Inn in is a 20-mile drive from the city, and the hotel receives excellent ratings from guests. The 3.0-star downtown hotel has a bar, a fitness facility, an outdoor pool, and beautiful guest rooms. You can select the King Room with a four-post king bed and a cozy fireplace. This is a great room for a writer looking for a comfortable retreat to finish their work uninterrupted. After a long day of work, unwind with a delicious drink at the hotel's bar, which guests love. Plus, you can explore Kingston on your trip, too.
What affordable hotel options are around Gananoque, ON?
3 Star Average Prices: $119.18
Gananoque has plenty of affordable hotels with great guest rooms. For example, the Ramada Gananoque Provincial Inn offers guests rooms with two double beds, a queen bed, or a king bed. Each comes with a 27-inch LED TV with premium cable channels, free Wi-Fi, and a desk. Plus, the rooms all have blackout curtains, plush bedding, and deep soaking tubs, making the Ramada Gananoque Provincial Inn a great place to relax and get some peace and quiet.
Country Squire Inn has a lot for guests to enjoy, as well. You have a choice between several different views, including poolside and terrace views. Pets are allowed, and the hotel has an indoor pool to enjoy when the weather is cold. Plus, you can upgrade your room to add a fireplace and a whirlpool tub that sits in the middle of your room. These features will make your room a cozy place for a romantic getaway. If all of that isn't enough, the Country Squire Inn is just 0.9 miles from downtown Gananoque, making it a convenient place to stay.
The Comfort Inn & Suites Thousand Islands Harbour District is another affordable option. The hotel is clean, the rooms are updated, breakfast is free, and guests can choose from several room options — all with incredible rates.