Welcome to your ultimate guide for things to do in Kingston, Ontario! Whether you're a visitor or a local, this bucket list will help you discover the best experiences, attractions, and hidden gems the city has to offer.
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| A view of Kingston City Hall and Market Square, one of the top spots for things to do in Kingston. |
Nestled on the shores of Lake Ontario, Kingston is a vibrant city full of history, culture, and unique experiences. From its charming downtown to scenic waterfronts and lively festivals, there’s always something new to explore. Whether you’re wondering what to do in Kingston or looking for the top events in Kingston, this guide has you covered.
Hi, I’m Heather, an Ontario travel blogger excited to share my adventures exploring Kingston and the surrounding areas. This post includes both tried-and-true favourites and new spots I’m eager to check out, all designed to inspire your own Kingston adventures.
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| Hop on Kingston Trolley Tours for a fun way to explore downtown Kingston and learn about the city’s history. |
Things to Do in Kingston
Kingston is full of things to do for every kind of explorer. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, or adventure seeker, there’s something for everyone!
History lovers will enjoy the city’s rich past, with plenty of tours, museums, and historic sites to explore.
You can also wander through charming shops, local galleries, and bustling markets, or dive into fun activities around the city.
Throughout the year, Kingston comes alive with festivals, seasonal markets, and celebrations that showcase its vibrant culture and community spirit.
Here are a few must-try experiences to get you started:
- Trolley Tour: Hop on for an in-depth tour of Kingston’s historic downtown and waterfront, with options like hop-on hop-off, ghost, and mystery tours past the city’s top attractions.
- Lake Ontario Park: Enjoy picnics, scenic waterfront walks, and fun features like a splash pad, sand play areas, and accessible pathways at Kingston’s largest urban park.
- Downtown Kingston Shops, Galleries, and Markets – Wander charming streets filled with local shops, art galleries, and bustling markets, perfect for discovering something unique.
- Improbable Escapes: Challenge yourself with award-winning, fully immersive indoor escape rooms inspired by movies, games, storybooks, and fairytales, available at two locations.
- Kingston Buskers Rendezvous: Experience the excitement of this annual summer street performer festival, taking over Springer Market Square and streets throughout downtown.
Looking for more ideas? I’ll be sharing detailed activity guides soon!
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| Enjoy a delicious meal on Juniper Cafe’s waterfront patio, one of the best places to eat in Kingston. |
Places to Eat in Kingston
Kingston’s food scene is pretty amazing — there’s something for everyone, and the city has earned a reputation as a Canadian culinary hotspot.
Many restaurants celebrate fresh, locally sourced produce, meats, and cheeses from nearby farms.
With more restaurants per capita than anywhere else in the country, you’ll find everything from fancy dinners to cozy cafés.
No matter where you go, Kingston’s creative chefs make sure every meal feels fresh, local, and totally delicious.
Here are a few of my favourite spots to get you started:
- Juniper Cafe: Warm up with a decadent hot chocolate at this cozy spot with a waterfront patio and inviting interior.
- Mio Gelato: Cool off with handcrafted gelato at this downtown favourite, where small-batch flavours make it a must-visit treat spot.
- Chez Piggy: Dine on globally inspired dishes at this family-run downtown favourite with a courtyard patio and fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
- Mesa Fresca: Taste bold Latin-inspired flavours at this modern Mexican fusion spot in Kingston’s west end using fresh, local ingredients.
Want even more tasty options? Check out my full guides to Kingston cafés and the best treats in Kingston (coming soon)!
Places to Stay in Kingston
Whether you’re looking for a cozy boutique hotel, a charming bed & breakfast, or a scenic waterfront inn, Kingston has a spot for every style and budget.
Many historic Victorian and limestone buildings have been converted into unique inns that blend old-world charm with modern comforts.
You’ll also find modern hotels with waterfront views, plus options for nature lovers, including campgrounds, cottage rentals, and places with easy access to lakes and trails just outside the city.
Here are a few standout places that showcase the variety of accommodations Kingston has to offer:
- The Belvedere: A chic boutique hotel in a beautifully restored 1880 chateau, offering 29 rooms that blend historic charm with modern comfort.
- Ste. Anne’s Spa: A luxurious overnight spa retreat just outside Kingston, with relaxing spa treatments and packages perfect for a country escape.
- Loughborough Inn: A high-quality glamping and cottage experience on 200 acres of scenic land, featuring log cabins, lakefront cottages, hiking trails, wildlife, and an on-site restaurant.
- Kingston’s Courtyard Marriott: Enjoy a fun stay at this family-friendly hotel, complete with a pool and waterslide perfect for kids.
Keep an eye out for future posts where I’ll dive deeper into Kingston’s boutique hotels, spas, and more unique stays!
Your Turn: Share Your Kingston Favourites
I’d love to hear your Kingston bucket list ideas! Share your favourite spots, hidden gems, or must-do experiences in the comments below.
If you’re a local business or organization interested in partnering or collaborating, please reach out to me directly via my Contact Page or find more details on my Media & Press page — I’d love to connect!
Don’t forget to bookmark this post and follow @KingstonBucketList on Instagram for more Kingston inspiration, updates, and detailed guides coming soon!
Let’s explore Kingston together — one adventure at a time.
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