Amazing Things to See, Eat and Do in Kingston, Ontario

Hours: Daily from 9:30 am – 5 pm from May to September and daily from 10 am – 4 pm from September to May

Fort Henry is a military fort located on an elevated point across the St. Lawrence River from downtown Kingston. It was originally constructed during the War of 1812 and was then reconstructed between 1832 and 1837 in order to protect the city of Kingston. Fort Henry is Ontario’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit during the day for a guided tour and the chance to experience military life in the 19th-century; or during special events for 1860’s military music, drills and artillery manoeuvres including a simulated battle. 

Wheelchair Accessible: Partial

1 Fort Henry Drive, Kingston, ON

613-542-7388

Hours: The RMC Museum is open during the summer months when the Cadets are not in residence, however, visitors are always at Point Frederick for self-guided walking tours.

Located on Point Frederick, Fort Frederick was built in 1846 as part of the Kingston Fortifications. Today, it is the campus of the Royal Military College of Canada and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Royal Military College Museum is housed in the Fort Frederick Martello Tower and contains more than 7,000 artifacts, some of which date back to WWI.

Wheelchair Accessible: Partial

9-15 Passchendaele Dr., Kingston, ON

613-541-6000 ext. 3555

Hours: Daily from 10 am – 5 pm mid-May to Labour Day

Built in 1846, the Murney Tower National Historic Site was one of the four original towers built to defend Kingston and the Rideau Canal. Today the tower houses a museum that displays a collection of unique military artifacts.

Wheelchair Accessible: No

1421 King St W, Kingston, ON

613-507-5181

Hours: vary seasonally

The PumpHouse Museum in Kingston is one of the six remaining similarly preserved water pumping stations in North America. Located in one of Canada’s oldest original waterworks, it houses an incredible display of original steam machinery as well as an impressive collection of model railway trains. Along with both guided and self-guided tours, the PumpHouse Museum offers drop-in programming for families, lectures and programs for adults, and a number of free admission days.

Wheelchair Accessible: Yes

23 Ontario St., Kingston, ON

613-544-7867

Hours: Tuesday – Friday from 10 am – 4 pm during the fall, winter and spring, and Tuesday – Sunday from 10 am – 4 pm during the summer

The Museum of Health Care is one of the most unique places on our list of things to do in Kingston. It is also the only museum in Canada that is dedicated to the history of health and medicine. Containing an impressive collection of over 30,000 pieces of surgical, medical and laboratory equipment dating back to the 18th century, this museum is truly one of a kind.

Wheelchair Accessible: Yes

Ann Baillie Building National Historic Site, 32 George St., Kingston, ON

613-548-2419

Hours: Monday – Friday from 8:30 am – 4:30 pm from September through June. Open daily in July and August.

Kingston City Hall is a remarkable 19th-century neoclassical style building that features an iconic dome. It operates as the city’s administrative centre and is also a National Historic Site of Canada. The first two floors are open to the public year-round and guided tours are available from May to October.

Wheelchair Accessible: Yes

216 Ontario Street, Kingston, ON

613-546-4291

Hours: Click here for the current tour schedule

The Haunted Walk has been one of the top-rated things to do in Kingston for the past 20 years. This hair-raising tour leads you through Kingston’s old Sydenham Ward at night and features haunted hotels, hidden burial grounds as well as stories of grave robbers and hangings at the old courthouse. For even more spine-tingling adventures, sign up for the Haunted Walk Experience at Fort Henry where you will hear about the many supernatural encounters that occurred around the nearly 200-year old fortress.

Wheelchair Accessible: the Original Haunted Walk of Kingston is wheelchair accessible with assistance.

200 Ontario St., Kingston, ON

613-549-6366

Hours: Monday – Friday from 11 am – 5 pm

Located on base at CFB Kingston is one of the city’s largest and most underrated museums, the Military Communications and Electronics Museum. Paying homage to the troops, the times, and the technologies used in military communications and peace-keeping missions, this museum is highly recommended for visitors of all ages.

Wheelchair Accessible: Yes

95 Craftsman Blvd., Kingston, ON

613-541-4675

Hours: Seasonal

Bellevue House was once the home of Canada’s first Prime Minister, Sir John A MacDonald, from 1848 until 1849. Completely restored to its Italian Villa style, the house provides a glimpse into what life was like for our country’s first leader. Dressed in costume, the knowledgeable staff at Bellevue House will guide you through the property explaining all there is to know about the artifacts and exhibits on display.

Wheelchair Accessible: Yes

35 Centre Street, Kingston, ON

613-545-8666

In the Cataraqui cemetery rests Sir John A. Macdonald, the country’s first Prime Minister and one of the founding fathers of Canada. Buried in his family plot which has been designated as a National Historic Site of Canada, his grave is marked by a simple stone cross. A visit to his grave is ideal after visiting Bellevue House, his former residence.

Wheelchair Accessible: Partial, uneven terrain

Cataraqui Cemetery, 927 Purdy’s Mill Rd., Kingston, ON

613-546-6545

Hours: Monday – Friday from 9 am – 5 pm. Closed from 12 pm – 1 pm.

The Cathedral of St Mary is a stunning Gothic-style Roman Catholic cathedral dating back to the mid-19th century. Said to be the tallest structure in the city of Kingston, the spire of the cathedral reaches an impressive height of 242 feet.

Wheelchair Accessible: Yes

279 Johnson Street, Kingston, ON

613-546-5521

Hours: Tours run from May to the end of October. Click here for details. 

Opened in 1835, Kingston Penitentiary was the oldest and the most famous maximum-security prison in Canada. Since its closure in 2013 tours of the facility have become the most popular of all the things to do in Kingston. Tours range from 90 minutes to 2.5 hours and provide an up-close look at the main dome, the prison yard, the metal shop, the segregation/dissociation wing solitary confinement, and more. Along the way, former Kingston Penitentiary guards share stories and insight into what life was like working amongst Canada’s most notorious criminals.

Wheelchair Accessible: Yes

560 King Street West, Kingston, ON

613-542-7388

Hours: Monday – Friday from 9 am – 4 pm and Saturday – Sunday from 10 am – 4 pm from May to October and by appointment on weekdays from November to April.

More commonly known as Canada’s Penitentiary Museum, the Correctional Service of Canada Museum is located across the road from Kingston Penitentiary in the former home of the warden. Exhibiting the city’s role in Canadian correctional history, the museum displays hundreds of contraband items, uniforms and inmate hobby crafts. There is also a collection of punishment and restraint devices used by Canadian Correctional Officers over the years. If possible, coordinate your visit along with a tour of Kingston Penitentiary for the complete prison experience. 

Wheelchair Accessible: The main floor of the Correctional Service of Canada Museum is accessible, as are the washrooms. 

555 King Street West, Kingston, ON

613-530-3122

Hours: Monday – Tuesday from 9 am – 5 pm and Wednesday – Sunday from 9 am  – 6:30 pm 

The 1000 Islands are a group of islands that run between Northern New York State and Southeastern Ontario. They boast stunning shorelines, charming towns, and unique attractions. The best way to experience these islands is on a boat trip run by 1000 Island Cruises. Visitors have the choice between 90-minute sightseeing cruises, three-hour excursions, dining cruises or private charter tours, all of which offer unparalleled views of the local scenery.

1 Brock Street, Kingston, ON

613-549-5544

Hours: Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 9 am – 6 pm April through November

The Kingston Public Market has been in operating at Springer Market Square since 1801. Open every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from April to November, it is the oldest market in Ontario where vendors sell fresh local produce, flowers, baked goods and other artisanal products. On Saturdays, there is also a sprawling antique market.

Wheelchair Accessible: Yes

Springer Market Square, 216 Ontario St., Kingston, ON

613 217 9647

Hours: Daily from 7:30 am to dusk

With close to 1000 acres, the Little Cataraqui Creek Conservation Area is one of the best places to enjoy nature in Kingston. The area is popular no matter year-round with many recreational activities available including hiking, birdwatching, kayaking and canoeing. Winter is the busiest time of year with opportunities for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and skating on the largest natural ice rink in Kingston.

Wheelchair Accessible: Partial, uneven terrain

1641 Perth Road, Glenburnie, ON

613-546-4228

Kingston Mills is the site of the King’s Mill, which was the first mill constructed on the Rideau Canal back in 1784. Today, the site features three locks, a turning basin, a detached upper lock, a hydro-electric station, a blockhouse (one of four on the Rideau), a lock station office, and a visitor’s centre. There is also a swimming hole, a fishing spot and rocks for climbing, all of which are popular amongst outdoor lovers and city slickers alike. 

Wheelchair Accessible: Partial, uneven terrain 

563 Kingston Mills Road, Kingston, ON

613-283-5170

Hours: Daily 30-minute service from 6 am – 1:15 am

Wolfe Island is the largest of the 1000 Islands and is a short ferry ride from Kingston. Visit during the summer months to cycle around the island, explore the popular town of Marysville and swim in the crystal clear waters at the Big Sandy Bay beach. 

Wheelchair Accessible: Yes

Barrack St., Kingston, ON

613-548-7227

Hours: Daily from 7:30 am – 8 pm

Bordered by Lake Ontario and Collins Bay, Lemoine Point Conservation Area is one of the best places in Kingston to appreciate nature. Encompassing 136 hectares, this area boasts more than 2,500 metres of shoreline on Lake Ontario, 11 km of scenic trails and a lovely stone beach ideal for swimming.

Wheelchair Accessible: Yes

1441 Coverdale Drive, Kingston, ON

+1 877-956-2722

Confederation Park is a small park in downtown Kingston which separates City Hall from the waterfront. A hub of activity, the park features a ceremonial arch and fountain along with a restored historic locomotive known as Engine 1095. Confederation Park is also host to many events, festivals and concerts throughout the year.

Wheelchair Accessible: Yes

Laurier Ave W. & Elgin St., Kingston, ON

1-800-465-1867

Just 10 short minutes away from City Hall in Kingston is City Park, one of the best green spaces in the city. Ideal for families with children, there are huge shade trees, two playgrounds, a splash pad and two rinks in wintertime. There are also two baseball diamonds and a Cricket Field located to the north of the park. 

Wheelchair Accessible: Yes

King Street East, Kingston, ON

613-544-4442

Lake Ontario Park is Kingston’s largest waterfront park and a relaxing place for the whole family. Complete with a playground, splash pad, beach volleyball courts, cobble beach and an abundance of picnic tables, this park is the perfect place for kids to burn off some energy.

Wheelchair Accessible: Yes

988 King Street West, Kingston, ON

613-546-0000

Formerly known as the Rogers K-Rock Centre, the Leon’s Centre is home to the city’s OHL team, the Kingston Frontenacs. Other events hosted at the centre include big-name music concerts and other live entertainment.

Wheelchair Accessible: Yes

1 Tragically Hip Way, Kingston, ON

613-650-5000

Hours: Click here for the performance schedule  

The Isabel Bader Centre for the Performing Arts is one of the most recent additions to Kingston’s artistic community. Part of Queen’s University, this world-class facility features a concert hall, black box studio theatre, art gallery, rehearsal space and film screening room. There is also an amazing Art and Media Lab which is accessible to community members, students, as well as both professional and emerging artists.

Wheelchair Accessible: Yes

390 King Street West, Kingston, ON

1-855-533-2424

Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 10 am – 4:30 pm, Thursday from 10 am – 9 pm, Saturday – Sunday from 1 – 5 pm, and Holiday Mondays from 1 – 5 pm May through September

At the heart of Queen’s University sits Kingston’s public art gallery, the Agnes Etherington Art Centre. It houses over 17,000 works including contemporary art, Indigenous art and artifacts, Canadian historical art, as well as 4 paintings by the famous Dutch painter, Rembrandt. Special programs at the Agnes Etherington Art Centre include drop-in creative events for young adults, weekly crafts for children and their families, and day camps to name a few. 

Wheelchair Accessible: Yes

36 University Ave., Kingston, ON

613-533-2190

Hours: Daily from 10 am – 5 pm

Martello Alley is a historic alley in downtown Kingston which also serves as an art gallery. If you’re looking for a unique gift or memorable keepsake, this is the perfect spot. With a fun and friendly atmosphere one doesn’t necessarily expect in a gallery, this artist collective aims to bring great art at a reasonable price to the residents and visitors of Kingston.

Wheelchair Accessible: Yes

203B Wellington St., Kingston, ON

613-767-2966

Hours: Wednesday to Friday at 8:30 pm and Saturday at 8 pm

If you’re in the mood for a few laughs, check out the Absolute Comedy Club. Showcasing both amateur Kingston comedians and professional performers, you’re nearly guaranteed to bust a gut. They also offer pre-show dinner and drinks at an extremely reasonable price.  

Wheelchair Accessible: Yes

1187 Princess St., Kingston, ON

613-900-5400

Hours: Departs every 30 minutes from 9:30 am – 4:30 pm every day between May and October

If it’s your first time visiting Kingston, hop aboard one of the Kingston Trolley Tours to see the city’s historic downtown and waterfront. Operating on a hop-on hop-off system, the tour route takes a total of 75 minutes to complete. Tickets for Kingston Trolley Tours can be purchased at 1 Brock Street or 248 Ontario St. at least 15 mins before departure.

209 Ontario St., Kingston, ON

613-549-5544

The best way to decide where you will want to eat is by taking a culinary tour with Kingston Food Tours. Led by a knowledgeable guide, this 2.5-hour walking tour covers a 1.6km distance in the city’s historic downtown. They stop in at the best local restaurants, shops and artisans in Kingston, allowing you to indulge in some of the city’s finest cuisine. 

Wheelchair Accessible: Yes

136 Ontario St., Kingston, ON

613-704-0006

Hours: Monday – Saturday from 11:30 am and Sunday from 10 am 

Known for their internationally inspired menu and friendly service, Chez Piggy is one of the best restaurants in Kingston. Located along a charming cobblestone lane reminiscent of Europe, it’s the ideal place to grab a bite to eat after a day of sightseeing.  

Wheelchair Accessible: Yes

68 Princess St., Kingston, ON

613-549-7673

Box Office Hours: Monday – Saturday from 12 pm – 6 pm; open until at least showtime when there are performances and two hours prior to a performance on Sundays and holidays.

Located in the hip and trendy downtown strip is The Grand Theatre, one of the main cultural venues in Kingston. Since its opening in 1902, it has hosted thousands of performances including Bruce Cockburn, Red Green and Eddie Palmieri. The theatre has also been the home of the Kingston Symphony Orchestra since 1964.

Wheelchair Accessible: Yes

218 Princess St., Kingston, ON

613-530-2050

Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday from 1 pm – 10:30 pm, Thursday from 3 pm -10:30 pm, and Saturday – Sunday from 10 am – 7 pm

One of the most popular places to go to in Kingston for those with an adventurous streak is The Boiler Room. Known as Kingston’s premier climbing gym, it is home to Canada’s highest indoor climb. Welcoming beginners, groups and families, they offer adult programs, youth programs and individual lessons.

Wheelchair Accessible: No

4 Cataraqui St., Ste 103, Kingston, ON

613-549-0520