Kingston
· CA

Kingston

Kingston, Ontario, Canada

Discover Kingston: Where History Meets Hip in the Heart of the 1000 Islands Nestled on the shores of Lake Ontario, where the St. Lawrence River begins its majestic flow, lies Kingston, Ontario – a city that effortlessly …

#Historic city#Waterfront#University town#Tourist destination#Cultural hub
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Kingston.

Top Hotels in Kingston

Top Flights to Kingston

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Kingston.

Tours

Explore the Kingston Waterfront

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the scenic Kingston waterfront, with beautiful views of Lake Ontario.

Historic Fort Henry

Visit this 19th-century British military fortification, offering tours and military demonstrations.

Shopping

Shopping at Cataraqui Centre

Discover a variety of shops and boutiques in one of Kingston's largest shopping malls.

Shop Antiques at Barriefield Village

Explore the historic Barriefield Village and browse through antique shops.

Outdoor

Thousand Islands Boat Tour

Experience the beauty of the Thousand Islands with a guided boat tour from Kingston.

Wolfe Island Adventure

Take a ferry to Wolfe Island for cycling and exploring the charming natural landscapes.

Leon's Centre Sports Event

Catch an exciting hockey game or a live concert at the Leon's Centre.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers
Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Kingston.

Currency
$ | CAD | Canadian Dollar
Population
The approximate estimated total population of Kingston, Ontario, Canada is '0.2 million'.
Languages
English, English, Jamaican Patois
Average weather
Kingston
Jan
sun
30°22°
Feb
sun
30°22°
Mar
sun
30°23°
Apr
sun
31°24°
May
rain
32°25°
Jun
rain
32°26°
Jul
sun
33°26°
Aug
sun
33°26°
Sep
rain
32°26°
Oct
rain
32°25°
Nov
sun
31°24°
Dec
sun
30°23°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Kingston.

What people love

Kingston, located in Ontario, Canada, is a charming city with a rich history and plenty to offer travelers. Here are some of the pros of traveling to Kingston:

  1. Historical Significance: Kingston is known as the "Limestone City" due to its many beautiful historic limestone buildings. It was the first capital of the Province of Canada and has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. Visitors can explore historic sites such as Fort Henry, Kingston City Hall, and the Kingston Penitentiary.

  2. Waterfront Location: Kingston is situated on the shores of Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River, offering stunning waterfront views and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities like boating, kayaking, and sailing. The waterfront area is also home to parks, walking trails, and charming marinas.

  3. Vibrant Arts and Culture Scene: Kingston has a thriving arts and culture scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and music venues to explore. The city is also home to Queen's University, which brings a youthful energy and vibrant arts community to the area.

  4. Culinary Delights: Kingston boasts a diverse culinary scene, with a wide range of restaurants offering everything from casual pub fare to fine dining. Visitors can sample local specialties like poutine, maple syrup, and fresh seafood sourced from nearby waters.

  5. Outdoor Recreation: Kingston is surrounded by natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can hike or bike along scenic trails, explore nearby parks like Frontenac Provincial Park, or take a leisurely cruise on the St. Lawrence River.

Overall, Kingston offers a perfect blend of history, culture, outdoor activities, and culinary delights, making it a great destination for travelers looking to experience the best of Ontario.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Kingston, Ontario, Canada, could include:

  1. Weather: Kingston experiences cold winters with heavy snowfall, which may not be ideal for travelers who dislike winter weather or snow-related activities. The summers can also be hot and humid, which may be uncomfortable for some visitors.

  2. Limited Public Transportation: While Kingston does have a public transportation system, it may not be as extensive or convenient as in larger cities. This could make getting around the city more challenging for visitors who do not have access to a car.

  3. Limited Nightlife: While Kingston does have a variety of restaurants, bars, and pubs, the nightlife scene may not be as vibrant or diverse as in larger cities. This could be a drawback for travelers looking for a lively nightlife experience.

  4. Limited Cultural Attractions: While Kingston has a rich history and some cultural attractions, it may not offer as many museums, galleries, or cultural events as larger cities. Visitors who are looking for a wide range of cultural experiences may find Kingston lacking in this regard.

  5. Tourist Crowds: During peak tourist seasons, Kingston can get crowded with visitors, especially around popular attractions and events. This may lead to longer wait times, crowded spaces, and a less peaceful travel experience for some visitors.

Overall, while Kingston has many positives as a travel destination, these potential cons should be considered when planning a trip to the city.

Kingston, Ontario, Canada, has a rich history that dates back several centuries. Here is a detailed account of its historical development, significant events, notable figures, and landmarks:

Early History

  • Indigenous Peoples: The area around Kingston was originally inhabited by Indigenous peoples, including the Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee. It was a strategic meeting place due to its location at the eastern end of Lake Ontario, where the lake flows into the St. Lawrence River.

  • French Exploration: The first European known to have visited the area was French explorer Samuel de Champlain in 1615. The French later established Fort Frontenac in 1673, named after Governor Louis de Buade de Frontenac. This fort was a strategic military and trading post.

British Rule and Growth

  • British Takeover: After the British conquest of New France in 1763, Fort Frontenac was abandoned. The British later rebuilt it in 1783, renaming it Fort Cataraqui.

  • Loyalist Settlement: Following the American Revolutionary War, Loyalists who remained loyal to the British Crown settled in the area. The British government granted land in Kingston to these Loyalists as a reward for their loyalty.

  • City Development: Kingston was officially incorporated as a city in 1846. It served as the first capital of the Province of Canada from 1841 to 1844 before the capital was moved to Montreal.

Significant Events and Figures

  • Military Significance: Kingston has long been a strategic military location. During the War of 1812, it was a key naval base for the British. The construction of the Rideau Canal, completed in 1832, further solidified its military importance by providing a secure supply route connecting Kingston and Ottawa.

  • Sir John A. Macdonald: One of Kingston's most notable figures is Sir John A. Macdonald, Canada's first Prime Minister. He practiced law in Kingston and represented the city in the Legislative Assembly.

Important Landmarks

  • Fort Henry: A National Historic Site of Canada, Fort Henry was built during the War of 1812 to protect the naval dockyard. It is now a living museum and a popular tourist attraction.

  • Kingston Penitentiary: Opened in 1835, it was one of the oldest operating prisons in the world until its closure in 2013. It is now a historic site offering tours.

  • Queen’s University: Founded in 1841, Queen’s University is one of Canada's leading universities, known for its beautiful campus and historic buildings.

  • Rideau Canal: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the canal stretches from Kingston to Ottawa and is a testament to early 19th-century Canadian engineering.

  • City Hall: Kingston City Hall, completed in 1844, is a prominent landmark and an example of 19th-century neoclassical architecture.

Economic and Cultural Development

  • Industries: Throughout its history, Kingston has been a hub for various industries, including shipbuilding, brewing, and locomotive manufacturing.

  • Cultural Life: Kingston is known for its vibrant cultural scene, with numerous festivals, museums, and theatres. It has a thriving arts community and is often referred to as the "Limestone City" due to its many historic limestone buildings.

Kingston remains an important cultural and historical center in Canada, offering a blend of historical significance and modern-day vibrancy.