Things To Do
in Kingston
Kingston, Ontario sits at the eastern tip of Lake Ontario where the Cataraqui River flows into the water. It is nicknamed Limestone City for its abundant 19th-century limestone architecture and historic limestone streets. The compact downtown blends a waterfront vibe with museums, Queen's University, and a thriving dining scene.
A convenient base for outdoor adventures and cultural experiences, Kingston offers easy day trips to nearby parks and historic sites along the Great Lakes region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying freshly brewed coffee and delicious pastries. After breakfast, take a stroll through Market Square, where you can admire the historic architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Visit the Kingston City Hall, an iconic landmark that offers a glimpse into the city's rich history.
After exploring the square, head to the nearby Agnes Etherington Art Centre to appreciate its impressive collection of Canadian art. For lunch, enjoy a meal at a waterfront restaurant, savoring the beautiful view of Lake Ontario. Spend the afternoon wandering through the charming streets of the historic district, stopping at unique shops and boutiques.
As the sun sets, make your way to the waterfront to catch a stunning view of the harbor. Dine at a local bistro specializing in farm-to-table cuisine, where you can taste the flavors of the region. End your evening with a leisurely walk along the waterfront path, soaking in the calm ambiance of the lake.
Begin your morning with a visit to Fort Henry, a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a fascinating insight into Canada's military history. Join a guided tour to learn about its strategic importance during the War of 1812, while exploring the fort's impressive architecture and exhibits. Take in panoramic views of the city and the St. Lawrence River from the fort's ramparts.
After your fort visit, enjoy lunch at a nearby café that offers traditional Canadian fare. Spend the afternoon at the Canadian Military Museum, where you can delve deeper into the history of the Canadian Armed Forces through various artifacts and displays. Don’t forget to explore the surrounding gardens and parkland for a relaxing post-lunch stroll.
For dinner, head to a restaurant that offers a mix of international and local dishes, providing a unique culinary experience. After dinner, attend a historical reenactment at Fort Henry if it coincides with your visit, where you can witness the past come alive. Wind down your evening with a drink at a local pub, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere and live music.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🥗Meal at mid-range restaurant | $15-30 |
| 🚌Public transit ticket (one ride) | $3-4 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $120-200 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable downtown with a rich historic vibe
- Strong mix of culture, university energy, and waterfront recreation
- Smaller city feel may mean fewer big-city amenities
- Seasonal tourism can affect crowd levels and pricing
Places to Visit in Kingston
Visit one of these nice places.
Hilltop views over the city and lake, dramatic stonework, and expansive 19th-century fortifications ideal for sunrise or golden-hour shots.
Iconic limestone architecture and the bustling square provide classic urban photography opportunities, especially during events or markets.
Waterfront walks and long vistas along Lake Ontario—great for sunset silhouettes and seascapes.
Historic canal infrastructure with water reflections and grassy banks; ideal for architectural and landscape shots.
Food in Kingston
Kingston Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential Canadian dessert with a flaky shell and gooey maple-syrup filling, widely available at bakeries across the city.
Must-Try!
Fresh salmon brushed with a maple glaze, commonly featured in waterfront and seafood-focused restaurants.
Also known as Canadian bacon on a sandwich bun, a popular choice at cafés and delis around downtown Kingston.
Crispy battered fish with fries, a staple at pubs near the waterfront or harbor area.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A historic market in the city centre where locals buy fresh produce, baked goods, and prepared foods on weekend mornings.
Classic Canadian pastry on or near Market Street locations, great for a sweet bite while exploring.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Canadian courtesy is valued: say please and thank you, and wait your turn in lines and transit queues.
English is the primary language; French is also understood in many venues, especially in tourist areas. Be respectful if conversing in either language.
When visiting historic sites or military forts, follow signage and guidelines to preserve the sites for future visitors.
Safety
Tipping in Kingston
Ensure a smooth experience
In dining, a tip of 15-20% is customary for good service; for special services or guided tours, 10-15% is common. Some larger groups may have a service charge; cash or card tips are both accepted.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days mixed with showers; flowers begin to bloom around Market Square and along the waterfront; good for walking tours before the crowds.
Warm to hot days with humidity; ideal for waterfront activities, outdoor markets, and al fresco dining; occasional thunderstorms are possible.
Colorful foliage and comfortable temperatures; perfect for city walks, bike rides along the waterfront, and early-sunset photography.
Cold with snow and icy conditions; great for riverside views, cozy cafés, and festivals, but plan for winter gear and shorter daylight hours.
Kingston at Night
Hiking in Kingston
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular hiking destination with rugged trails, scenic overlooks, and wildlife viewing, located a short drive from Kingston.
Extensive rail-trail suitable for walking, cycling, and snowshoeing—excellent for long, scenic day trips.
Connecting segments along the Rideau system offer varied hiking routes with forested landscapes and lakeside views.
Airports
How to reach Kingston by plane.
Small regional airport just north of downtown Kingston with limited domestic flights and services; convenient for quick trips to major hubs.
Major international airport about 2.5–3 hours by car; frequent flights to national and international destinations.
Large international hub roughly 2.5–3 hours by car; extensive domestic and international connections.
Major airport about 3 hours away by car; good option for flights to Europe and North America.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A sizable student population contributes to a lively arts, dining, and nightlife scene, especially in the fall and winter terms.
Kingston’s mix of culture, waterfront parks, and slower pace appeals to families and older residents seeking a high quality of life.
Public sector, healthcare, education, and service industries provide employment and steady year-round activity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple of the region; Kingston Frontenacs play in the OHL and draw local crowds during hockey season.
Kingston’s lakes and rivers foster club rowing and sailing opportunities, especially near Queen’s University and the waterfront.
Active municipal leagues and university programs contribute to a dynamic urban sports scene.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kingston.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Kingston's restaurants commonly offer meat-free mains and veggie sides; ask about specials and dairy-free options; many menus feature vegetarian bowls and pasta dishes.
Most places can accommodate gluten-free requests with careful sourcing of bread, pastas, and batter; communicate dietary needs to staff.
Dairy-free options are available in many menus; request dairy-free dishes or substitutions where helpful.