Getting to Kingston is easier than ever thanks to Air Canada's partnership with Landline. Connect seamlessly between Toronto Pearson Airport and Kingston Norman Rogers Airport as part of a single itinerary, then sit back and relax with complimentary Wi-Fi aboard the luxury motorcoach while the drive is taken care of.
Once you arrive in Kingston, you'll find historic limestone buildings, walkable neighbourhoods, waterfront patios, independent shops and experiences that showcase the city's rich history and vibrant culture. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or extending a larger Ontario adventure, Kingston offers plenty of opportunities to explore at your own pace.
Quick guide
Stay in a boutique inn
Start with a classic Kingston breakfast
Cruise the 1000 Islands or sail Lake Ontario
Explore historic sites and attractions
Experience Kingston's culinary scene
Browse independent shops and markets
Enjoy waterfront dining and homemade ice cream
Sample local craft beer and Ontario wines
Stay Somewhere with a Story
Every memorable getaway starts with the perfect place to stay.
For boutique luxury downtown, Frontenac Club blends beautifully restored 19th-century architecture with contemporary design, offering a stay that's distinctly Kingston. Just a short walk away, Belvedere Hotel delivers thoughtfully designed suites, a thermal spa and an intimate atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for couples looking for a stylish escape.
If historic charm is what you're after, Rosemount Inn welcomes guests into a beautifully restored Victorian home complete with elegant guest rooms, peaceful gardens and gourmet breakfasts.
For a longer visit, The Smith Hotel offers spacious apartment-style suites with full kitchens, giving you the flexibility to settle in and experience the city like a local.
Prefer a quieter retreat? Green Acres Inn provides a peaceful escape in Kingston's west end, surrounded by mature trees and overlooking Little Cataraqui Creek. It's a relaxing home base while remaining a short drive from Kingston's restaurants, attractions and waterfront.
Breakfast worth waking up for
Start your day at Pan Chancho Bakery, a Kingston institution for decades. The scent of freshly baked bread greets you before you walk through the door, where an ever-changing menu showcases the best of the season. Complete your meal with a cappuccino and be sure to grab one of their signature pain au chocolat before you go.
If you're craving classic comfort food, head to Tommy's. This retro diner has earned a loyal following thanks to its all-day breakfast menu and thick old-fashioned milkshakes that pair surprisingly well with pancakes.
In the west end, Toast & Jam showcases locally sourced ingredients in dishes like their signature apple caramel French toast, fluffy lemon ricotta pancakes and perfectly crafted eggs Benedict. It's a popular brunch spot known for its locally sourced menu and house-made baked goods. Don't forget to grab a treat from their sister bakery, Bread & Butter, before heading out for the day.
Discover Kingston's history
Kingston was Canada's first capital, and its stories are woven into every street, building and waterfront view.
A great place to begin is on the Kingston Trolley Tours. This fully narrated tour introduces visitors to the city's most iconic landmarks while sharing stories spanning more than three centuries.
For an even deeper dive into Kingston's military history, spend time exploring Fort Henry National Historic Site. Watch precision military demonstrations performed by the Fort Henry Guard, tour the historic fortifications and enjoy sweeping views overlooking Lake Ontario.
Just across the harbour, step aboard the SS Keewatin at the Great Lakes Museum, the last remaining Edwardian passenger steamship in the world. Touring its original dining rooms, cabins and grand staircases offers a glimpse into the golden age of travel, making it one of Kingston's most unique experiences.
Tour Kingston Pen, Canada's oldest and most notorious maximum-security prison, where former correctional staff share stories from nearly 180 years behind its walls. Most recently, the historic site was featured in Netflix's I Will Find You.
Kingston's stories extend beyond its historic sites. As the hometown of The Tragically Hip, music is part of the fabric of the city. Discover the band's Kingston roots through Forever Hip, a multi-month celebration of the places, memories and moments that continue to inspire fans from near and far.
Experience Kingston on the water
A cruise through the 1000 Islands is a must for visitors. Whether you choose a sightseeing cruise, lunch on the water, a sunset sail or an evening dinner cruise with Kingston 1000 Islands Cruises, you'll experience one of Canada's most beautiful waterways while passing historic islands, grand cottages and beautiful scenery.
Looking for something more active? Ahoy Rentals makes it easy to explore at your own pace with kayak, paddleboard, canoe, bicycle and sailboat rentals available right from the waterfront. Their guided sunset sails are especially popular, offering views of Kingston's skyline as the sun sets over Lake Ontario.
Alternatively, create your own scenic tour and stroll along the waterfront pathway, watch sailboats pass by as you head towards Gord Edgar Downie Pier at Breakwater Park and finish at Juniper Café on King Street for a coffee and snack break.
Lunch with local flavours
Kingston's culinary scene showcases local ingredients, talented chefs and a growing collection of FeastOn® certified restaurants celebrating the best of Ontario.
Enjoy seasonal Canadian cuisine overlooking the waterfront at AquaTerra, settle in for global dishes with a modern twist and creative cocktails at Atomica, or explore the west end's Otter Creek Kitchen, known for its farm-to-table approach and seasonal menu.
Want to explore Kingston through its food? Kingston Food Tours offers guided culinary walking tours that introduce visitors to local chefs, hidden gems and beloved neighbourhood restaurants. Their Tapas Tour is a fantastic way to experience Kingston, pairing creative small plates with local stories and a leisurely evening stroll through the city.
Don't miss the opportunity to dine outdoors. From bustling downtown patios to waterfront terraces and hidden courtyards, Kingston's patio scene is made for long lunches and relaxed evenings. See more local favourites in our Guide to Patio Season in Downtown Kingston.
Explore shops and markets
Kingston's independent businesses help define the character of the city.
Spend an afternoon browsing the curated fashion at WHIT, discover your next favourite read at Novel Idea or tasting locally made products at Kingston Olive Oil Co.
If your visit falls on Tuesday, Thursday or Saturday, be sure to stop by the Kingston Public Market, Ontario's oldest continuously operating public market. Local farmers, bakers, artists and makers fill Springer Market Square with fresh produce, flowers, artisan goods, preserves and handcrafted gifts.
Visiting on a Sunday? Head to the Memorial Centre Farmers' Market, Kingston's year-round producer-run farmers' market, where you'll find fresh local food, seasonal produce, baked goods, artisan products and delicious treats direct from the people who grow and make them.
Something sweet
Every great getaway deserves dessert.
Cool off with authentic Italian gelato from Mio Gelato, indulge in generous scoops from White Mountain Ice Cream, or try The Tragically Chip, Kawartha Dairy's special flavour created in collaboration with The Tragically Hip, available at General Brock's Commissary.
See how many you can check off with The Ultimate Kingston Ice Cream Bucket List.
Local craft beer and curated wine
After a day out on the town, there's no better way to unwind than with a local pint or a thoughtfully selected Ontario wine.
Settle in for an evening at Bobbi Pecorino's Italian Wine Bar, where you can enjoy a curated selection of wines, classic aperitivo-style bites and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for lingering over a glass or two.
Kingston is also home to a thriving craft beer scene. Visit local breweries to sample everything from crisp lagers and hop-forward IPAs to rich stouts and seasonal brews, often paired with menus highlighting regional ingredients. Taste some of the city's best combinations in 6 Irresistible Kingston Beer and Bites Pairings You Need to Try.
Before heading home, browse Kingston's independent bottle shops, which showcase excellent wines from Prince Edward County, Niagara and emerging Ontario producers. It's the perfect opportunity to discover a new favourite bottle to enjoy later or take home as a souvenir. Find local recommendations in Kingston's Local Wine Guide: Shops, Bottles & Ontario Finds.
Plan your Kingston getaway
From limestone architecture and waterfront adventures to local food, independent shops and stories that span centuries, Kingston offers a rewarding mix of history, culture and outdoor experiences.
With Air Canada's Landline service, your trip begins before you arrive. Travel comfortably from Toronto Pearson Airport, explore the city at your own pace and discover what makes Kingston a preferred destination for visitors from across Canada and beyond.
