From outdoor yoga to public skating, the city is full of affordable activities. Here are a few budget-friendly ways to make the most of your trip to Kingston.
Get outdoors
Kingston’s waterfront trail offers beautiful lake views, perfect for a cost-free afternoon walk or bike ride. For those craving more nature, head to Little Cataraqui Creek Conservation Area in the north end of the city. It’s a peaceful retreat for birdwatching, hiking, and guided walks. Looking ahead to winter, you can also rent snowshoes and cross-country skis here and take your trekking across the snow.
Go on a Creative Kingston Walking Tour
Immerse yourself in Kingston’s literary, music, and film scenes with these free self-guided walking tours. Learn about all the Kingston connections as you pass by local landmarks, and enjoy special archival photos and video clips.
Free activities at City Hall
The City of Kingston offers a number of free activities for history buffs and art-lovers...and skaters! The Market Wing Cultural Space in Kingston City Hall holds free rotating exhibitions. Currently (until October 10) it hosts a Kingston Artists' Showcase.
Every three months, the City of Kingston hosts Heritage Hour, with guest speakers from across the community who discuss Kingston’s past and living heritage. The next one takes place October 2 at noon in Memorial Hall (in Kingston City Hall). You’ll learn about the history of The Spire, a vibrant community hub in the centre of Kingston. You can also take a self-guided Arts Walk tour of all the public art locations in downtown Kingston.
Take a tour of Kingston City Hall, either with a knowledgeable local guide or on your own.
Looking ahead to winter, enjoy free public skating at the rink in Springer Market Square, adjacent to Kingston City Hall. When in season, the rink is open daily from 8 am to 10 pm.
Enjoy games and crafts at Minotaur
Head to Minotaur Games & Gifts downtown and challenge your friends to an outdoor board game. Minotaur staff set up tables during warm weather where you can try classic games for free. Minotaur also has regular games nights and craft nights indoors, so you can try out a board or strategy game or knit or craft with new friends. (The store also has a huge variety of games and crafting supplies for sale.)
Explore the Memorial Centre Farmers’ Market
The market is outdoors every Sunday until the end of October. Take a free yoga class on the grass (the last one this year is October 12) or enjoy performances from a variety of local musicians. The music continues when the market moves indoors starting in November. Check out their website for more special events and to learn about the local vendors.
Explore the Tett Centre for Creativity and Learning
This arts hub overlooking the waterfront is home to galleries, studios, and workshops. Entry to the Tett Centre is free, and you can enjoy a coffee or tea at the Juniper Cafe on site while exploring the creative hub. Keep an eye out for free community events and open studios.
