10 reasons to visit Kingston

Located where Lake Ontario, the St. Lawrence River and the UNESCO World Heritage-designated Rideau Canal meet, Kingston is a dynamic waterfront city and a gateway to the Thousand Islands. Shaped for centuries by its strategic location, the city blends rich heritage with natural beauty and adventure. Visitors can experience Kingston through trails, sailing, cruises, paddling, snorkeling, fishing, diving and more, with the waterfront serving as both a backdrop and a gateway to discovery.  

With more than 200 remarkably preserved shipwrecks beneath the surface of Lake Ontario, Kingston offers some of North America’s best freshwater diving. Well-preserved schooners and steamers such as the George A. Marsh and Comet speak to Canada’s maritime past, while the S.S. Keewatin and the Great Lakes Museum bring that history to life above water.  

As Canada’s first capital, Kingston offers a concentrated and walkable introduction to the country’s early story. Known as the “Limestone City,” its 19th-century architecture frames lively streets of independent shops and cafés, while UNESCO sites sit minutes from downtown. Visitors can explore 20+ museums, 22 National Historic Sites in a single afternoon or explore walking tours that showcase milestones and architectural charm.   

Music is central to Kingston’s cultural identity, with a lively and diverse scene shaped by local talent and a strong sense of place. As the 10th anniversary of The Tragically Hip’s final concert approaches this August, Kingston offers the most meaningful place to reflect on the band’s legacy, where their story began and where they took their final bow. From jazz, blues and pop in intimate venues to experiences like the Creative Kingston Music Walking Tour, the city invites visitors to connect with the sounds and stories that continue to define its music scene.  

Experience Kingston’s blend of old and new through its historic inns and storied buildings, many located in Sydenham Ward, a neighbourhood shaped by more than 200 years of history and some of Canada’s finest 19th-century architecture. New to the lineup is The Belvedere Hotel (c. 1880), a former private home reimagined as a 19-room boutique stay with heritage character and modern comfort. Kingston’s history extends beyond its inns, with heritage buildings across the city thoughtfully adapted into shops, restaurants, cafés and more.  

Kingston consistently overdelivers for its size when it comes to food. The food scene blends deep culinary roots with modern creativity, shaped by a strong sense of community and close ties between local producers and independent restaurants. Home to Ontario’s oldest public market and longest-running brewpub, the city is known for seasonal menus, Feast On®-certified establishments and collaborative culinary events that showcase locally grown ingredients and a shared commitment to sustainable dining.  

Kingston is proud to be an inclusive and 2SLGBTQl+ friendly destination, with over 15 Rainbow Registered businesses and events like ReelOUT Queer Film Festival anchoring year-round programming. A welcoming and community-minded destination where inclusive experiences are woven into the city’s tourism and everyday life. 

The city is home to the Kingston Canadian Film Festival, the largest festival in the world dedicated exclusively to Canadian film, which transforms downtown each year with screenings and special events. Kingston’s creative energy continues on stage this fall with It’s a Good Life If You Don’t Weaken, a new jukebox musical built around the timeless hits of The Tragically Hip. Kingston’s historic charm and landmarks have also made it a popular filming location for productions.  

With deep roots in hockey and sailing, and growing momentum around soccer, Kingston is a natural stop on the Canada Celebrates the FIFA World Cup 2026™ Caravan route this June. The launch of the Kingston Sentinels adds an even greater meaning to “the summer of soccer,” building on a sports legacy that includes Olympic history, homegrown talent and a long-standing culture of competition. Together, these threads reinforce Kingston’s identity as a city where sport is deeply woven into community life.  

In Kingston, wellness comes naturally, whether it is found on waterfront paths, nearby trails or in quieter moments by the water. New additions like The Bathhouse Spa at The Belvedere Hotel and favourites like Glow Spa give visitors space to slow down, reset and recharge, adding a restorative layer to a visit shaped by nature, fresh air and a slower pace.