Between tuition and textbooks, every dollar counts. Whether you're at Queen's, St. Lawrence College, or RMC, here are 11 ways to make your student budget stretch further in Kingston.
Here is your guide to student discounts in Kingston:
1. 20% Off Fort Henry, Kingston Pen Tours, and Fort Fright
The St. Lawrence Parks Commission is giving Queen's, SLC, and RMC students 20% off Fort Henry's main season and fall programming, Kingston Pen Tours, and Fort Fright. Just select the student concession when you buy your tickets. Valid August 19 to October 31, 2026, while supplies last.
2. Thrift Your Wardrobe at Kingston's Local Shops
Talize offers a 10% student discount every day with valid ID, an easy way to build out your closet without breaking the bank. For something more local, Kingston has a great independent thrift scene along and around Princess Street.
YGK Thrift (165 Princess St.) sells vintage and modern clothing with all proceeds going to Almost Home, a local charity supporting families of kids in hospital, and footwear drops to 50% off on Fridays. Montreal St. Collective (39 Montreal St.) is more like three thrift shops in one, with a rotating mix of vintage and modern pieces from multiple curators. Thrifty Girl (95 Clarence St.) is a newer addition known for cozy sweaters and going-out pieces. And Reid's Clothing (72 Princess St.) rounds out the downtown lineup for more great secondhand finds.
3. Grocery Discounts Around Town
Several grocery stores offer student savings with valid ID, though it's worth confirming details at checkout since offers shift:
- Metro (310 Barrie St.): 10% off Tuesday to Thursday
- Loblaws (1100 Princess St.): 10% back in PC Optimum points on Tuesdays
- Food Basics (33 Barrack St.): 10% off on Tuesdays
4. 15% Off at Black Dog Hospitality
Students get 15% off with valid ID across all four Black Dog Hospitality Group locations: Atomica, Black Dog, Dianne's, and Harper's. Some exclusions apply on promotional offers.
Show your student ID at American Eagle on Thursdays for 15% off.
Queen's Alma Mater Society has partnered with VIA Rail to give students 15% off tickets using code 820105 at booking. The discount covers up to three additional tickets, so it's easy to bring friends along, just remember to bring your student ID on board. It doesn't apply to Escape Fare or Prestige Sleeper Class.
JOE's M.I.L.L. is a free musical instrument lending library, perfect if you want to pick up guitar or keep playing without buying gear.
Anyone living or studying in the City of Kingston or the townships of Frontenac can get a free Kingston Frontenac Public Library card, giving you access to books, video games, DVDs, and more.
One of the easiest ways to see the water: hop the free ferry to Wolfe Island for an afternoon out of the city.
10. Hit the Trails
Kingston has some great hiking close to campus. Check out our roundup of the top hiking spots in and around Kingston for where to go.
Queen’s students can access free tickets to performances at the Isabel with their new Free Student Ticket program, which is applicable to all shows in their 2026-27 season. Students can claim free tickets for performances by selecting the “Queen’s Student” ticket type when booking on their website.
