Are you researching what to do in Kingston Ontario? Excellent, you’ve come to the right place!
I recently had the fortune of visiting Kingston for the first time and have put together my heartfelt recommendations after falling in love with this beautiful city. We were fortunate to visit during the fall foliage season when the streets were lit up in bright colours of crimson red, marigold yellow, and pumpkin orange. The oak and maple trees were dressed to impress and the century-old houses displayed an array of ivy and foliage that had this photographer swooning (at one point I was taking 400 photos per hour!).
But no matter what season you explore Kingston, Ontario, you can be guaranteed that there is something for everyone in this historic university town. From incredible food to history to arts and culture, Kingston has it all.
Here are 25 adventures worth seeking in Kingston, including recommendations on where to stay and where to eat while exploring this riverside town.
Kingston, Ontario
Kingston is a charming historic town that sits on the shores of beautiful Lake Ontario. This walkable city is welcoming to visitors with its small-town vibe showcasing a mix of local artisans, and historical sites (and stories), all set on a backdrop of a vibrant restaurant and music scene. Visitors are encouraged to come for 2+ nights as there’s so much to see and do, but this isn’t a city to rush through and check items off a list.
Kingston is a place to be explored at a savouring pace, with 40+ museums, art galleries, archives, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, be sure to allow yourself ample time to explore it all. I know two days weren’t enough for us and I look forward to returning. The city is vibrant and dynamic, where the modern culture of Queen’s University sits at the center of the city and is set upon a historic backdrop with stories dating back 300+ years.
If you’re a photographer like me or just appreciate architecture, Kingston is a city worth exploring through your lens. From century-old houses to large cathedral churches, to the beautiful castle-like buildings on the campus of Queen’s University, the city’s historic charm draws in its visitors.
Where is Kingston, Ontario?
Kingston, Ontario is located on the ancestral homelands of the Huron-Wendat, Anishinaabe, and Haudenosaunee Confederacy. It is located at the confluence of the St. Lawrence River, Rideau Canal, and Lake Ontario.
How to Get To Kingston Ontario
Car / Train
For visitors, Kingston is approximately a three-hour drive (or 2.5-3 hour Via Rail train ride) from both Toronto and Montreal, making Kingston a perfect weekend getaway.
Plane
Kingston’s airport is great for those visiting from further away and offers amenities including car rental for visitors to access when they land.
What To Do In Kingston Ontario – 25+ Adventures Await!
1. Kingston Visitor Information Centre
One of the first stops I like to make when visiting a new city is its visitor information centre. Some could consider it old school with all of the information that’s available online, however, there’s nothing like talking to someone who lives in the city and who is passionate about sharing knowledge and helping you plan a great trip. I tested out my theory when visiting Kingston and was met by two lovely hosts who were quick to share local information and expertise. I also like stopping at local visitor centres as they often have event info and insights into what’s happening that may not have been updated on local websites.
Location: 209 Ontario Street
Hours: 10 am – 5 pm (every day!)
Website: www.visitkingston.com
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 613-548-4415
Kingston Sustainability Plan
Visitors to Kingston are invited to take part in the “Visitor Sustainability Pledge” helping Tourism Kingston reach their sustainability goals and helping you be a more responsible traveler. This is easily achievable with only a few easy steps:
- Support local businesses: Kingston is full of unique, locally owned stores.
- Enjoy local food and beverages at Kingston restaurants and markets.
- Walk, ride a bike, or use local transit. Take advantage of Kingston’s walkable downtown and waterfront trail.
- Bring your own refillable water bottle.
- Bring your own tote bag for your purchases.
- Support local artisans and makers.
- Use the recycling depots and waste bins
- Use the water and energy reduction options at your accommodation
2. Visit Canada’s Oldest Public Market
Kingston is home to the oldest public market in Ontario and has been “providing good and a sense of community to residents of Kingston since 1801.”* At the market, you can find a mix of agriculture and food items as well as beautiful items crafted by local artisans. While the market is designed and hosted for locals, visitors are welcome to join and this is a great way where you can collect a souvenir from a local artisan. Purchasing items directly from artisans helps keep more money in the local economy and is a great way to be a responsible traveler. *Kingston Public Market Website
Location: Springer Market Square, 216 Ontario Street (right behind Kingston City Hall)
Website: www.kingstonpublicmarket.ca
Market Hours: April 1 to October 31: 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. / November 1 to March 31: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
3. Kingston Trolley Tour
A great way to orient yourself and see the city highlights is with a trolley tour through downtown Kingston. Their guided tour is hosted by the driver who provides real-time insight and stories about Kingston, its rich history, and entertaining stories. The tour rolls through downtown Kingston visiting the city’s historic old town and downtown shopping district. During the summer the trolley functions as a hop-on hop-off bus tour allowing you to stop at key points of interest and visit.
Fun Fact: Did you know that Kingston was Canada’s first capital?
You’ll learn this and several other fun facts, insights, and stories sharing over 300 years of Kingston’s history. Plus being able to see it all from the historic red trolly makes for a unique experience. Be sure to check out their other tours while you are visiting as they offer seasonal tours like Christmas Light tours during the holidays and haunted tours at Halloween.
Boarding Location: 209 Ontario Street (in front of the Visitor Information Centre)
Website: www.kingstontrolley.ca
Tickets: $39.50 – Adults, $32.50 – Children (2-15)
4. Stroll The Streets Of Sydenham Ward
Sydenham Ward is a beautiful neighbourhood with 19th-century architecture that is worth spending at least an hour roaming around (conveniently this is the neighbourhood that I recommend you stay in, at the Secret Garden, read more in the “where to stay” section below).
With over 200 years of history and wonderfully preserved houses, it’s a feast for the eyes and a history lesson all in one neighbourhood.
Photography Tip: Be sure to check out the Spire, The Frontenac Courthouse, and the Pumphouse.
5. Tour Memorial Centre Farmers’ Market
Memorial Centre Farmer’s Market is another great way to connect with the locals, as everything that is on display at the market is sourced within a 100 km radius. The market was founded in 2012 when a group of local farmers partnered with the Williamsville Community Association with the goal of increasing access to local food and revitalizing the Memorial Centre grounds. Visitors to the market will find locally sourced baked goods, produce, dairy, meat, eggs, and prepared foods.
Some of the vendors of note according to Tourism Kingston include:
Cocoa Bistro – “A dizzying array of handmade chocolates”
Generations Apiary – “Delicious, unpasteurized, wildflower honey collected from local bees”
Butternut Creek Flowers – “Fresh cut seasonal flowers”
Location: 303 York Street
Website: www.memorialcentrefarmersmarket.ca
Hours: Sundays – November to April: 9 am – 1 pm / Sundays – May to October: 9 am – 2 pm
6. Check Canada’s Hippest Live Music Scene
The play-on-words in the title may have been missed if you’re not a Tragically Hip fan. Considered Canadian royalty, The Tragically Hip is one of Canada’s most famous bands and proudly calls Kingston home. Not only do their roots come from this beautiful city but many artists have made their start in what is touted as Canada’s hippest live music scene. Connecting with the Tourism Department they shared various recommendations for places to start your music tour, and know that it’s fun to hop from scene to scene, checking out different artists and locations as you stroll.
- Musiikki Café: 73 Brock Street
- Tir Nan Og: 200 Ontario Street
- The Merchant Tap House: 6 Princess Street
- HEIST Restaurant + Wine Club: 168 Wellington Street – Suite 101
- The Everly Restaurant and Lounge: 171 Wellington Street, Unit #103
- Bobbi Pecorino’s Italian Wine Bar: 326 King Street East
- And more!
7. Creative Kingston Literary Walking Tour
Okay, I’m going to be honest and transparent here. When I first heard about a Literary Walking Tour narrated by audio you listen to on your phone I thought, “That’ll be boring.” I’m here to declare to the world that not only was I WRONG, but this was one of my FAVOURITE parts of our whole trip!
After plugging into the story we were introduced to our host who took us on a self-guided walking tour through Kingston. Our first stop was at a red telephone booth outside the visitor information centre, where had I not been on tour I would have completely missed the literary piece that was right in front of my eyes. A short poem on the glass window of the telephone booth!
The overall message of this first stop was that poetry was for everyone and should be an accessible resource to all. I was hooked, and the rest of the tour continued to open up surprises. From introducing me to the oldest bookstore in Kingston to sharing historical stories about literary authors that have called Kingston home, it was the power of storytelling as I walked through the streets that had me hooked.
There are three tours to choose from:
- Downtown Tour: 7 stops – 3km – 75 minutes
- West Tour: 7 Stops – 5km – 90 minutes
- Extended Tour: 14 Stops – 9km – 2.5 hours
Location: Around Kingston
Website: www.visitkingston.ca/walking-tours/literary/
8. 1000 Islands Lunch Cruise On the Heart Of The Islands Cruise
Set sail on The Island Queen, a triple-decked Mississippi Paddlewheeler, that has called Lake Ontario home for years (I met the Captain who’s been sailing on this ship for over 40 years!). Heading out from Kingston’s downtown waterfront you’ll make your way to the heart of the Admiralty Islands, where picture-perfect cottages start to pop on the landscape.
We all had our cameras out the windows as these cute cabins were surrounded by the changing fall foliage. I can only imagine in the summer that they are filled with families, jumping into the water, sipping drinks on the docks, and making family memories.
Many of these cabins have been passed down from generation to generation and we had a storyteller on board to share a plethora of fun stories, historical facts, and insights to the region.
If you do this tour I highly recommend you book a premium table for dining and enjoy the onboard lunch service. We had a window seat and were spoiled with incredible food including a 3-course meal, starting with a charcuterie platter, then a seasonal greens salad, a savoury chicken entree with roasted potatoes and asparagus, and ending with one of the best vegan desserts I’ve ever had. Also onboard, you’ll enjoy live musical entertainment, a full-service bar, and an onboard canteen.
I enjoyed moving back and forth from my table to the outside top deck to soak in the sun and the beautiful scenery. This is one of the “must-do” adventures when visiting Kingston!
Location: 248 Ontario Street
Website: www.1000islandscruises.ca
9. Bike The Scenic Waterfront Trust Trail
Rent a cruiser bike from Ahoy Rentals and ride down the waterfront Trust Trail. The Trust Trail is a total of 45 kilometers so you can choose to ride a small section like we did in an hour or plan a whole day trip around it. The trail consists of a combination of roads, bike lanes, and bike paths that will take you through industrial and residential areas. I’d recommend getting a map or using Google Maps to navigate as some of the paths zig and zag around neighbourhoods that can be a bit difficult to navigate on the fly. In some places, King Street is narrow and busy.
Fun tips to take your bike ride to the next level:
- Pick up a picnic from a local restaurant and head to one of the beaches for the perfect picnic spot.
- There are lots of beaches and piers to explore including:
- Lemoine Point Conservation Area–Stone and pebble beach
- Lake Ontario Park–Cobble Beach and Boat Launch Beach
- Gord Downie Memorial Pier
- Breakwater Park Beach
- Richardson’s Beach
- Grass Creek Park
- Washrooms are available at Grass Creek Park and Beach and McLachlan Woodworking Museum.
Ahoy Rentals is a great company to visit as not only do they offer bike rentals but during the summer season, you can also get paddling and sailing gear and head out onto Lake Ontario. This grassroots business was started by Andrew Kelm in 1997 and his fleet has grown to over 50 watercraft and bicycles in the past 25+ years.
Location: 21 Ontario Street
Website: www.ahoyrentals.com
10. Stoked Sauna Co.
I always love finding a good spa experience when I’m on holiday, especially in regions that are new to me as I find innovative and different indulgences than I’m traditionally used to. So if you like the hot cold plunge experience check out Stoked Sauna Co. For 75 minutes you can alternate between the hot and cold therapy and unwind by the fire when you want a moment to rest and relax. Appointments are recommended so be sure to book ahead and plan a Stoked Sauna Co. visit to your Kingston itinerary.
Location: 225 King Street East
Website: www.stokedsaunaco.com
11. Kingston Food Tours
I’ve never considered myself a foodie but after having some of the most diverse and incredible meals of my travel career in Kingston I think that I’m evolving into one. So that you too can learn more about the Kingston food scene and visit some of the best restaurants in Kingston, I have to recommend that you check out the Kingston Food Tour!
Kingston Food Tours is locally owned and operated and run by passionate entrepreneurs who are excited to share their love of good food, the culinary community, and stories, all over a delight filled table. This walking tour will introduce you to local chefs, hidden gems, and most importantly, great food!
Location: Around Kingston
Website: www.kingstonfoodtours.ca
12. Ghost Tours by The Haunted Walk
Kingston has a reputation for being Canada’s most haunted city, so if you’re into thrills and chills of haunted stories, a Ghost Tour with The Haunted Walk may be the perfect fit. I’ll be honest though, I’m WAY too much of a chicken to attempt one of these tours, so I politely had to decline the invite for this tour on our recent trip.
“Since 1995 Kingston Ghost Tours have been welcoming locals and visitors to Kingston to take part in captivating storytelling 75-minute tour. Dressed in dark cloaks talented storytellers will take you on a chilling adventure through some of Kingston’s most haunted spots. Some of the tour low lights (pun intended) include haunted hotels, hidden burial grounds, grave robbings, hangings at the old courthouse, and Kingston’s famous courtyard. They say “This tour will forever change your perception of the city and its historic buildings.”
They also offer a variety of other tours including the Ghost of Queen’s University, The Haunting Home, a Paranormal Adventure, Ghosts of the SS Keewatin: Tales from the Great Lakes, and several more!
Location: 200 Ontario Street
Prices: Adults – $29.99, Youth (up to 14) – $21.99. Save $5 on tours from Monday to Wednesday.
Website: www.hauntedwalk.com/kingston-tours
13. “The Pen” Tours
When I was telling family and friends that I was going to Kingston everyone asked, “Are you going to The Pen? I had no idea what they were talking about which was uneducated of me, as “The Pen” stands for “The Penitentiary.” The Kingston Penitentiary is one of Canada’s most famous jails because of its rich and lengthy history combined with the fact that it has housed some of Canada’s most notorious criminals.
The Pen was built between 1833 and 1834 and closed in 2013 after 178 years in operation. Some of Canada’s most dangerous criminals have been housed at The Pen. The site has a reputation for its brutal conditions such as rules that required inmates to remain silent and march in single lines to the mess hall.
Today, the Kingston Pen is a National Historic Site and tours to The Pen are one of the top attractions in Kingston. Kingston Pen Tours is operated by the St. Lawrence Parks Commission and they offer three different types of tours: Express (45 minutes), Standard (1.5 Hours), and Extended (2.5 Hours.) The Pen is popular with visitors, historians, and photographers who love the beautiful architecture.
Location: 560 King Street West
Hours: Open Seasonally (check the website for available tour dates)
Website: www.kingstonpentour.com
14. Visit A Museum
Kingston has over 40 museums meaning there’s essentially a museum for every interest. Here are three of the most popular ones to visit:
PumpHouse Museum –
As one of only 6 preserved pump houses in North America, the Kingston PumpHouse Museum invites you to come and explore the significant history that the PumpHouse played in Kingston. In 1851 the site powered steam-driven pumps that brought running water to the residents of Kingston.
Address: 23 Ontario Street
Website: www.kingstonpumphouse.ca
Great Lakes Museum –
This is the “museum that got away” as we rode past it on our bike ride but didn’t get a chance to go in and visit. With the SS Keewatin anchored in the bay, you can take a guided tour (seasonally) and see what life was like on this Edwardian ship. The museum hosts evolving exhibits not only will you learn about the marine life in Kingston but also life on the land including steam engines, rivet guns, artist work, and more.
Address: 55 Ontario Street
Website: www.greatlakesmuseum.ca
St. George’s Cathedral –
Built in 1825, St. George’s Cathedral is a mix of Georgian and Neoclassical architecture that features stunning stained glass windows, Tuscan columns, limestone masonry, and more. This Cathedral is beautiful from the outside and worth taking time to visit.
Address: 270 King Street East
Website: www.stgeorgescathedral.ca
15. Make A Day Trip To Wolfe Island
Wolf Island is the largest of the world-famous Thousand Islands. Accessible by a free 20-minute ferry ride, both locals and visitors like heading over to Wolfe Island for a full or half day. With a variety of shops and restaurants, and sandy beaches to explore, it’s a small town with a charming village and a whole lot of serenity all in one destination.
Locals recommend that you walk (and take the shuttle) or bike onto the ferry so that you can cover as much ground as possible on the other side, checking out the unique shops and restaurants that await. You can drive onto the ferry but it is recommended that you arrive early to secure your spot. Note: There is no public transit on the island so if you walk over, don’t rely on Uber or a taxi service as they don’t exist.
There is so much to do on Wolfe Island so I recommend checking out their website and using their planning guide to map out your day trip.
Website: www.visitfrontenac.ca
16. Visit a National Historic Site
As Canada’s first capital, it’s no surprise to hear that Kingston is home to several National Historic Sites, 16 in fact to explore! You can start at the City Hall which is located right in the middle of Kingston and then choose your adventure based on your interests.
Fort Frontenac dates back to 1673 and is one of the most popular sites to visit as is the Kingston General Hospital which is the oldest public hospital in Canada that is still in operation. The Old Kingston Post Office was completed in 1859 and features a two-story building in the Neoclassical style built of limestone. History. Architecture. Stories. All waiting to be discovered in Kingston!
Address: Various locations around Kingston
Website: www.parks.canada.ca
17. Visit A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Similar to National Historic Sites, there are many UNESCO World Heritage Sites to explore in Kingston. There are six worth visiting with some of the most popular ones being Fort Henry (1840), Rideau Canal (1925) and Munrey Tower (1930).
Fort Henry is one of specific note, as it offers you beautiful structures, live shows, and even a cannon firing! Fort Henry was built from 1832 to 1837 (and restored in 1938) as a replacement for an existing fortification from the War of 1812. Today Fort Henry welcomes guests through large wooden gates and once you’re in you’re transformed into 19th-century military life. You can take part in guided tours, scenic views, musical performances, and precision military demonstrations by the Fort Henry Guard.
18. Indulge In High Tea At Delightfully Different Tea Room
Grab your crown, tiara, or fascinator and enjoy a high tea filled with freshly baked scones, in-house-made Kingstonshire cream, assorted finger sandwiches, and mini desserts, all served with a bottomless pot of tea. The Delightfully Different Tea Room also serves their famous French Onion soup, freshly-made sandwiches, salads, and homemade desserts. Enjoy inside the tea room or out on the garden patio during the nicer weather. The perfect place to relax and refuel before your next adventure.
Address: 197 Wellington Street
19. Become a Detective At Sherlock Escapes
If you’re with a group and want some indoor mystery fun check out one of Kingston’s many escape rooms, with Sherlock Escapes being the top recommendation. Detective-themed rooms await you and your crew and you have to choose which one you want to enter. The Inspector’s Golden Gambit, Behind Closed Doors, and A Scandal in Kingston.
Address: 298 Bagot Street
Website: www.sherlocksescapes.com
20. Go Bowling
If you’re looking for an active indoor way to play, go Bowling in Kingston. Splitsville and appropriately named Limestone Lanes are local favourites and there’s also 5-pin bowling available at Garrison 5-Pin Bowling Lanes.
21. Jump Around at Xtreme Trampoline Park
If the kids are looking to burn off some energy and have fun check out the Xtreme Trampoline Park in Kingston. They have been in operation since 2019 and say, they are, “Kingston’s #1 destination for Wicked Wall to Wall Fun”. Okay, they’ve got me hooked. Play areas include the Main Court, Slam Jam, Kiddie Court, and my personal favourite, the Dodgeball Court.
Address: 3-1525 Robinson Court Kingston
Website: www.kingston.xtpark.com
22. Get Outside and Explore Little Cataraqui Creek Conservation Area
A four-season destination, Little Cataraqui Creek Conservation Area is a dedicated space for outdoor recreation enthusiasts and those pursuing time and connection with Mother Earth. There are 394 hectares to explore with a variety of ecosystems including marsh, field, and forest.
There are a variety of activities to explore including hiking, snowshoeing, dog walking, cross-country skiing, nature appreciation, native plant nursery, and outdoor centre. If you have time to plan before you go I’d check out their website for special programming and events.
Address: 1641 Perth Road
Admission: $5-Adults, $3.50-Children (max $15 per car). Pay online ahead of time, at the entrance with exact change, or with the gate attendance (9-4 weekdays)
Website: www.cataraquiconservation.ca/pages/little-cataraqui-creek
23. Explore the Downtown Shops
Take the time to wander downtown and explore all of the shops filled with locally curated goods. It is a great way to support local and take home local items.
24. Where to Stay in Kingston Ontario – Secret Garden Inn
If there was a quintessential Kingston place to stay, this is it. Originally built in 1888 by Furrier and leather merchant, John McKay, The Secret Garden Inn is an enchanting Bed and Breakfast that is as picture-perfect as it is welcoming.
Owner Natasha met us at the door of the Syndenham neighbourhood home with the biggest smile, perfectly framed by her Queen Anne-style Victorian home.
After our welcome and selecting our breakfasts for the next morning we were shown to our rooms, delicately ornate in design and luxurious in their finishes. As beautiful as Kingston is and I wanted to explore I also yearned to spend time in the bay windows just soaking in the Secret Garden Experience.
And the breakfast! As the saying goes, a picture says a thousand words. Hands down, THE place to stay in Kingston.
Address: 73 Sydenham Street
Website: www.thesecretgardeninn.com
Book your stay at The Secret Garden Inn here!
25. Where to Eat In Kingston Ontario
Atomica
Feast On® certified restaurant, Atomica is a hip restaurant in the hub of downtown Kingston. Feast On® certified restaurants are verified for having sourced their goods and ingredients with a purpose, the kind of business I want to support. Atomica serves up delicious foods with a modern twist (like pizzas from their stone oven) and has a lot of plant-based and gluten-free options as well.
Good fuel for our body and a business that supports local farmers and makers in ethical and sustainable ways make this a win-win restaurant experience for me! (and you… Go!)
Address: 71 Brock Street
Website: www.atomica.ca
Miss Bāo Restaurant + Cocktail Bar – A ZERO Waste Restaurant
Everyone says it can’t be done, and those that figure out how to do it are real industry leaders. This is what Miss Bāo Restaurant has achieved, Kingston’s first zero-waste restaurant (and hopefully with their leadership won’t be the last). Inspired by the 7Rs (Rethink, Refuse, Reduce, Repurpose, Reuse, Recycle, and Rot) they have redefined how waste needs to be viewed and created a movement towards a greener future in the difficult industry of restaurants and hospitality.
So check them off as being inspiring and innovative, and leaving the world a better place but they also put on an unforgettable show on my plate! An Asian fusion restaurant I am still salivating over the incredible meal that I had that was tantalizing for the tastebud as it was for my camera. Combine this with inspiring interior design and you have a magical dining experience in the soul of the Kingston city streets.
Address: 286 Princess Street
Website: www.missbao.ca
AquaTerra
Another Feast On® Certified restaurant, AquaTerra offers an upscale dining experience with front-row waterfront views out over Lake Ontario and Confederation Harbour. With a passion for offering the freshest and locally sourced ingredients (as much as possible), AquaTerra was the perfect place for us to finish up our trip to Kingston, reminiscing about all of our adventures and brainstorming all the ways we could help others have an incredible experience visiting one of Canada’s most treasured cities.
Address: 1 Johnson Street
Website: www.aquaterrakingston.com
In conclusion, Kingston Ontario is a beautiful and historic town that is also modern and hip, all in one setting. The Victorian architecture and waterfront are the perfect backdrop for an evolving landscape of food and music scene. With so much to explore you need to take at least 2 days for it all, although we didn’t feel like it was long enough and easily could have stayed for 3 or 4! As incredible as Kingston was in the Fall foliage season, I think it would sparkle under a snowy sky, or be incredible in the summer sun.
There’s one thing for sure, it’s easy to fall in love with Kingston. I know you will too.
