Top Activities and Attractions in Kingston, Ontario

Kingston is often overshadowed by the larger Ontario cities of Toronto and Ottawa. However, this vibrant waterfront city has much to offer. Nestled on the shores of the Saint Lawrence River and Lake Ontario, and home to the scenic Rideau Canal, Kingston boasts numerous outdoor experiences, a vibrant nightlife, and a thriving music scene. Therefore, Kingston is one of Ontario’s most exciting destinations.

Whether you’re a long-time resident of the province or visiting for the first time, Kingston deserves a spot on your list of must-visit locations in Canada. Here are the best things to do in Kingston that you shouldn’t miss!

Best Things to Do in Kingston, Ontario

Although Kingston may be overlooked in favor of its more famous neighbors, it is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, rich arts culture, and impressive history grounded in military significance.

1. Visit Fort Henry

For history enthusiasts, one of the most captivating things to do in Kingston, Ontario, is to explore Fort Henry. Established during the War of 1812 to safeguard the naval shipyard, Fort Henry was designated as a National Historic Site in 2007. Visitors can enjoy stunning views from this elevated site overlooking Lake Ontario and the mouth of the Cataraqui River. Additionally, you can witness the rifle firings and artillery demonstrations, partake in a garrison parade, and enjoy self-guided walking tours.

• For detailed information on admission options, visit the Fort Henry ticket page.

2. Tour the Kingston Penitentiary

The country’s oldest maximum-security prison and one of its most infamous sites, the Kingston Penitentiary is a key attraction in the city. Opened in 1835 and closed in 2013, it began offering public tours in 2016. Visitors can choose from a standard 90-minute tour or a more in-depth 2.5-hour extended tour, which includes visits to former inmate cells and insights into prison life.

Advance ticket purchase is recommended, as tours often sell out. Enhance your visit by combining it with a trip to Canada’s Penitentiary Museum located across the street.

• Standard tours are priced at $35, while extended tours cost $80.

3. Pop In to Bellevue House

Not all of Kingston’s historical attractions revolve around dark tales. Bellevue House, the former home of Canada’s first Prime Minister, Sir John A. Macdonald, showcases early Italian architecture from the 1840s. The house features multiple balconies and intricate details, with guides dressed in 1840s costumes to enrich the visitor experience.

• For admission details, please refer to the Bellevue House fees page.

4. Pumphouse Museum

The PumpHouse Museum, located on the Kingston waterfront, provides an intriguing glimpse into Canada’s original waterworks. Visitors can learn how the first steam-powered pumps supplied clean water to residents while enjoying a vast collection of steam engines and model trains, including an extensive O-scale train display. The museum also offers walking tours of the historic buildings along Ontario Street.

• For more information on tours and admission, check the PumpHouse Museum website.

5. Agnes Etherington Art Centre

Positioned on the picturesque campus of Queen’s University, the Agnes Etherington Art Centre houses over 16,000 pieces of Canadian and European art, with works dating back to the 14th century. Opened in 1957, this centre is considered one of the most diverse collections in any university-affiliated gallery in Canada, and best of all, admission is free!

• For complete hours, visit the Agnes Etherington Art Centre website.

6. Martello Towers

Kingston is home to four Martello Towers. Built between 1810 and 1847 by the British for artillery defense, the towers—Murney Tower, Shoal Tower, Cathcart Tower, and Fort Frederick Tower—are significant historical structures. Only Murney Tower and Fort Frederick Tower are accessible to the public, making Kingston the location of four of the eleven remaining Martello Towers in North America.

7. Attend a Festival

Kingston is celebrated for its vibrant festivals and events throughout the year. In any given month, there are a variety of events catering to diverse interests. Music lovers can enjoy numerous festivals during the summer months, featuring performances by local and emerging artists, including Kingston’s own Tragically Hip.

Some notable music festivals include: Home Grown Music Festival, Limestone City Blues Festival, and Wolfe Island Music Festival. Additionally, food enthusiasts can delight in events like Taste of Kingston and Ontario Craft Beer Week during the summer months. Each festival offers a unique experience, making Kingston a hub of cultural celebration year-round.

8. Walking Food Tours

Sampling local cuisine is an excellent way to immerse yourself in Kingston’s culture. With a plethora of locally-owned restaurants, cafes, and breweries, a walking food tour is a great way to savor the flavors while discovering the architectural beauty and historical sites, including Kingston City Hall and Springer Market Square.

9. Trolley Tour

A fun and informative way to explore Kingston is to hop onto the Kingston Trolley tour. This one-hour guided tour travels through Kingston’s historic old town, allowing you to learn about Canada’s first capital city. The hop-on-hop-off nature of the tour enables you to disembark at various attractions, such as Fort Henry.

10. Cruise The Thousand Islands

Featuring over 1,800 islands, the Thousand Islands region spans 80 kilometers along the St. Lawrence River, near the Canada-US border, making it a premier destination when visiting Kingston. These islands vary in size from small islets to expansive parks. A sightseeing or dinner cruise from Kingston offers opportunities to explore this beautiful region, with activities like hiking, wildlife viewing, or simply enjoying the breathtaking scenery along the waterfront.

• For details on available cruises, visit Kingston 1000 Islands Cruises.

11. Cycling Tours

For those who enjoy biking, Kingston offers great opportunities for both road cycling and off-road adventures. The stunning scenery, whether through downtown paths or inland through forested areas, makes cycling an enjoyable way to discover historic sites, including Murney Tower, Kingston City Hall, and the Kingston waterfront.

• For more information, look into cycling tours of Kingston.

12. Lemoine Point Conservation Area

Explore the remarkable hills of the UNESCO-designated Frontenac Arch Biosphere at Lemoine Point Conservation Area. Enjoy biking along the scenic waterfront or take the ferry to Wolfe Island to experience diverse landscapes, from beaches to farmland.

13. Rideau Canal

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Rideau Canal stretches over 200 kilometers from Ottawa to Kingston. Kingston Mills is a notable location, featuring the first mill built in 1784 along the canal, with a set of three locks. Shorter paddling routes along the canal make it ideal for beginners, being less windy than the adjacent Lake Ontario.

14. Go Paddling

With access to three major bodies of water, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) are popular activities in Kingston. The waterfront spans eight kilometers and has several entry points for launching your kayak or SUP. Paddle along the waterfront to enjoy views of iconic landmarks like Kingston City Hall, Fort Henry, and the Kingston Penitentiary.

For an unforgettable overnight adventure, consider camping or renting a houseboat in the Thousand Islands, then opting for a kayak tour with 1000 Islands Kayaking.

15. Kingston City Hall

One of Kingston’s most photographed landmarks is its impressive City Hall, located opposite the Visitor Center and Confederation Park. This Canadian National Historic Site offers guided tours of the building, which dates back to 1844. After your visit, enjoy the scenery at Lake Ontario Park or shop at the public market in Springer Market Square.

16. Martello Alley

If you prefer a leisurely stroll rather than adrenaline-pumping activities, Kingston’s downtown area presents a picturesque experience. Martello Alley is a unique spot modeled after a classic French scene, showcasing local art and supporting the local economy in its quaint courtyard setting.

17. Go Shopping on Princess Street

Princess Street serves as Kingston’s main shopping thoroughfare, once referred to as Store Street. A variety of charming shops line the street, which stretches from downtown to the waterfront, providing a delightful shopping experience. After shopping, head to Ontario Street, home to numerous patios that overlook the Kingston waterfront.

Fun Facts about Kingston

With its geographical diversity and rich history, Kingston boasts many fascinating attributes:

• It was the first capital city of Canada in the mid-1800s.
• Kingston is nicknamed the “Limestone City” due to the extensive use of local limestone in construction, particularly after a devastating fire in 1840 led to a ban on wood building.
• The Tragically Hip, a beloved Canadian rock band, is based in Kingston, and their last performance drew national attention.

How to Get to Kingston

The most convenient way to reach Kingston, Ontario, is by driving. Located three hours east of Toronto via Highway 401 and two hours west of Ottawa, getting to Kingston by car is straightforward. If you do not have a vehicle, you can explore car rental options here.

Alternatively, traveling by train is an option. Via Rail offers services from Toronto, Montreal, and Ottawa.

In conclusion, these are 12 fantastic activities to engage in while visiting Kingston, Ontario! It stands out as one of the most exhilarating destinations in the province. If we’ve missed your favorite attraction, let us know!

Explore more travel insights for Ontario.

• 25 Day Trips from Toronto to Escape the City
• Top Things to do in Ottawa
• 25 Best Places to Camp in Ontario, Canada
• 35 Iconic Places to Visit in Ontario, Canada
• The Best Things to do in Hamilton Ontario

2.3. Illustratedjc, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
4. Paul Mackenzie xxx, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons.

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