Kingston

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Kingston's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Kingston's Shores
morning
:

Start your day with a stroll along the waterfront at Confederation Park, enjoying the beautiful views of Lake Ontario. Visit the nearby Princess Street for a coffee at a local café.

afternoon
:

Explore Kingston's historic downtown by visiting the Kingston City Hall and the market square. Stop for lunch at a local eatery and enjoy some shopping in the unique boutiques.

evening
:

Dine at one of Kingston's waterfront restaurants with delicious local cuisine. End your day with a leisurely walk along the beach as the sun sets over the lake.

day 2
Heritage and Culture
morning
:

Begin with a visit to Fort Henry, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and learn about its significant history. Enjoy a guided tour to understand the military heritage of Kingston.

afternoon
:

Visit the Kingston Penitentiary Museum to explore the history of one of Canada's most notorious prisons. Grab lunch at a nearby café and then take a guided tour of the facility.

evening
:

Head to the Grand Theatre for an evening of local performances. Enjoy a nice dinner at a restaurant in the cultural district before heading back.

day 3
Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

Start off with kayaking in the Thousand Islands, renting equipment from a nearby outfitter. The peaceful waters offer a perfect start to your adventure.

afternoon
:

Take a scenic boat tour of the Thousand Islands to get a different perspective of the area. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a riverside restaurant, enjoying fresh ingredients from the region.

evening
:

Unwind at a pub along the waterfront and enjoy live music while having a local craft beer. Feel free to indulge in a hearty dinner to cap off the day.

day 4
Art and Local Flavors
morning
:

Visit the Agnes Etherington Art Centre to appreciate the impressive collection of Canadian and European art. Spend some time immersing yourself in the local art scene.

afternoon
:

Stroll through the local farmer’s market to sample fresh produce and handmade goods from local artisans. Have lunch at one of the market's food stalls.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant, tasting seasonal dishes. Afterwards, explore the local galleries that often stay open late on weekends.

day 5
Historical Walks
morning
:

Join a historical walking tour of Kingston to discover its rich past and notable buildings. Learn about the city’s role in Canadian history.

afternoon
:

Visit Queen's University campus, admiring its beautiful architecture and serene gardens. Stop for lunch at a student-friendly eatery in the area.

evening
:

Watch the sunset from the little-known lookout point at Isolation Island. Finish off with dinner at a Mediterranean restaurant to taste international flavors.

day 6
Music and Festivities
morning
:

Start your day at a local café with live music and fulfilling breakfast. Check schedules for any upcoming local music festivals.

afternoon
:

Visit the Murney Tower and learn about the history of Kingston’s defense systems. Grab lunch at a food truck during summer events or markets that boast local flavors.

evening
:

Head to a local venue for a live show featuring local bands. Have dinner at a casual restaurant known for its vibrant atmosphere.

day 7
Nature Retreats
morning
:

Explore the trails at the Lemoine Point Conservation Area for a refreshing morning hike. Breathe in the fresh air while observing local flora and fauna.

afternoon
:

Pack a lunch to enjoy at a picnic area in the park or visit a nearby café. Spend some time birdwatching or relaxing by the water.

evening
:

Head back downtown for dinner at a cozy bistro that reflects Kingston's flavor. Spend the evening at a lakeside lounge, enjoying a nightcap by the water.

day 8
Beach Day Fun
morning
:

Visit Sandbanks Provincial Park, known for its sandy beaches and warm waters. Pack your beach gear and enjoy a relaxing morning by the shore.

afternoon
:

Have a beach picnic for lunch or sample local cuisine at a nearby restaurant. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, or trying out beach volleyball.

evening
:

Wrap up your beach day with a sunset walk along the shore. Relish dinner at a beachside grill and enjoy the cool evening breezes.

day 9
Adventurous Biking
morning
:

Rent bikes and head out on Kingston's bike paths, enjoying the scenic views of the waterfront. Stop at Fort Henry to explore its grounds.

afternoon
:

Cycle to the nearby Rideau Lakes area for lunch at a lakeside spot. The route is perfect for exploring local landscapes and experiencing nature up close.

evening
:

Return to the city for dinner at a popular eatery that highlights local dishes. Consider visiting a local bar for a relaxed evening ambiance.

day 10
Shopping and Dining Delights
morning
:

Spend your morning at the local artisan shops and boutiques on Princess Street. Enjoy a fresh pastry from a local bakery as you browse.

afternoon
:

Take a break at a café for lunch before continuing your shopping spree. Explore the local craft stores for unique souvenirs.

evening
:

Join a food tour to sample a variety of local dishes. Wrap up your evening with dessert at a renowned bakery, delighting in sweet treats.

Discover Kingston

Read more in our Kingston 2024 Travel Guide.

Kingston Travel Guide