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OHL Priority Selection weekend: 10 things to do in Kingston

By Visit Kingston

Published

The OHL Priority Selection is coming to Kingston on June 12 and 13, bringing future hockey stars, their families, and fans from across Ontario to Slush Puppie Place. Returning to an in-person format for the first time since 2000, the OHL draft is one of the most significant events in junior hockey, with 303 players set to hear their names called as they take the next step toward their hockey dreams. 

While you're in town for the excitement, make time to experience everything Kingston has to offer, from waterfront cruises and food tours to a craft beer fest and historic attractions like Kingston Penitentiary. Here are 10 things to do in Kingston during OHL Priority Selection weekend.

 

Backonhomeice

1. Back on home ice: Matt's hockey homecoming

  • Sessions available for young athletes and coaches as part of the Back on Home Ice programming
  • Features the first time the Four Nations Cup has been in Kingston, courtesy of the Hockey Hall of Fame
  • Includes a meet and greet and autograph session with Winnipeg Jets forward #13 Gabe Vilardi as he returns home to Kingston
Craft Beer Fest

2. YGK craft beer fest

  • A waterfront festival at Fort Henry featuring craft beer, cider, food vendors, live music, and local makers
  • Book tickets online
23 and Co

3. Get cookies at 23 & Co.

  • Stop in for fresh-baked cookies
  • Co-owner Todd Gill was drafted in the 1982 OHL Priority Selection and played for the Toronto Maple Leafs
  • A great place to say hello, hear hockey stories, and connect with Kingston’s hockey history
1000islandscruise

4. Kingston 1000 Islands Cruise

Dimly lit interior of the Belvedere hotel's underground Bathhouse spa.

5. Bathhouse at the Belvedere

  • Wellness experience featuring sauna, cold plunge, and relaxation spaces
  • A scenic way to unwind during a busy weekend
  • Advance booking recommended
VIC cover

6. Visitor Information Centre for draft souvenir

  • Pick up Kingston souvenirs and local keepsakes
  • Get maps, directions, and insider tips for exploring the city
  • A helpful first stop for visitors during event weekend
23 Food Tours

7. Kingston Food Tours

  • A walking tour of Kingston’s hip and historic downtown that blends tastings at top local restaurants with an insider’s perspective on the city’s history and culture

  • Book tickets online

07 kayak rentals

8. Rent a bike, kayak or SUP

  • Rent bikes, kayaks, or stand up paddleboards and explore Kingston’s waterfront
  • A flexible way to experience the harbour between events
  • Walk-up and reservation rental options
13 Kingston Pen Tours

9. Kingston Pen Tours

  • Guided tours inside the historic Kingston Penitentiary
  • Explore one of Canada’s most iconic and storied historic sites
  • Book tickets online
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10. Go for ice cream

  • Stop by White Mountain for a classic local ice cream experience
  • A delicious pre or post draft celebration treat
07 trolley tour

Visiting for an extended weekend?

Check out the Attraction Pass (K-Pass), one city pass sold at one price that allows you to take Kingston 1000 Islands Cruises, Kingston Trolley Tours, and explore 15 plus museums—including Fort Henry and the Kingston Penitentiary—attractions and restaurants. Explore hotel packages to help plan your trip to Kingston. 

K-Pass Packages

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