Kingston in winter can feel like the set of a romantic winter movie. Immerse yourself in historical surroundings, picturesque views, and fun winter activities. And if life is anything like a romantic winter movie, maybe there’s a meet-cute in your near future!
Morning
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Grab coffee at the Kingston Coffee House
322 King St. E.
Start your morning with a stroll through Kingston’s historic market square. Across from the square, stop in at the Kingston Coffee House for a seasonal chai-nog (their own spin on eggnog combined with spicy chai) or hot chocolate. Don’t leave without taking a look at the local art displayed on the historic brick walls of the coffee house.
Explore Sydenham Ward
Admire the Victorian-era homes of historic Sydenham Ward, close to downtown. While many of the houses are still private homes, some have been turned into historic inns that balance authentic historic detail outside and in with modern amenities. They look especially beautiful with a fresh dusting of snow.
Afternoon
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Grab lunch at Morrison’s
318 King St. E.
Kingston’s longest running restaurant – family-owned and operated since 1921 – serves retro diner vibes, lightning-fast service, and a huge variety of breakfast and lunch options (from 7 am to 2 pm). Everyone comes to Morrison’s – maybe you’ll run into your high school crush, just like in the movies!
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Find a good book
348 King St. E and 85 Princess St.
Go book-shopping at Kingston’s two downtown used bookstores: Berry & Peterson and the newly reopened Wayfarer Books. These local shops each feature an amazing array of books crammed into every possible space available. You never know what treasures you’ll stumble upon.
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Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing
Various locations (see websites for details)
Find rental skis at Sepp’s or snowshoe rentals at Trailhead. Once you’ve rented your equipment, hop in your car and explore trails including Cataraqui Trail and Little Cataraqui Creek Conservation Area.
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Catch a movie at The Screening Room
120 Princess St.
Grab some popcorn and watch a classic movie or a new release at The Screening Room. When you step into this quaint theatre, you’ll be transported back in time to your favourite movie date scenes. Enjoy the classic movie posters displayed along the walls, rows of soft velvety seats, and a cinematic escape. (See titles and showtimes on their website).
Evening
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Enjoy dinner at Olivea
39 Brock St.
Warm up with a bowl of Andalusian tomato and bread soup or Ligurian seafood stew and enjoy your view of the market square as it comes to life with lights and music.
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Dessert on the go: Beavertails
Save room for that Canadian winter classic, a piping-hot Beavertails pastry. Cross the market square and grab one to take on your next adventure.
Take a picture at the Kingston sign
209 Ontario St.
Walk down the street to the Visitor Information Centre and take a picture in the “I” of the Kingston sign or in the glowing heart sign.
Downtown window shopping
Explore the areas around Princess, Brock, and King streets for window shopping. This is the perfect chance to get inspired for those souvenir gift items or just admire the dazzling window displays.
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Skate in the square
325 King St. E.
When the sun has gone down and market square is glowing, it is the perfect time to go skating in Kingston’s downtown outdoor public rink. (Throughout the winter, the rink is open 8 am – 10 pm, weather permitting).
Fire pits in the square
325 King St. E
After your skate, settle into an Adirondack chair and warm your fingers and toes at a fire pit in Market Square. Finish your night with the warm cozy feeling of a campfire. The winter fire pits will run Thursdays and Fridays 5–9 pm, and Saturdays noon–9 pm throughout the winter.
Stay tuned for more special downtown winter events in January.
Enjoy the best of Kingston in the winter as it melts your heart with its charm.
