There are countless exceptional venues to enjoy during a night out in Kingston.
Instead of choosing one, why not hit a number of them up in a pub crawl? Join us as we tour our favourite bars in Kingston’s downtown core and experience what each unique location has to offer.
506 Princess Street
Upon arrival at The Mansion, you are immediately greeted by warm and busy staff, riding the final waves of the dinner rush. That atmosphere here is casual and relaxed—with most tables seating friends sharing pitchers of beer.
The Mansion boasts a massive patio. On warm summer evenings you will find this garden patio filled with Kingston locals looking for somewhere to kick back and enjoy a pint.
The patio is home to a tiki bar and beach volleyball court—meeting all the demands of summer. The Mansion also has nightly live music with a venue space upstairs for larger crowds, featuring local Kingston bands as well as out-of-towners.
76 Princess Street
While participating in a Kingston pub crawl, it’s imperative to make a stop at The Toucan, a favourite local pub.
It’s the ideal place to gather with friends over traditional pub fare and a Guinness. We ran into a couple of regulars who gave us some insight into why they love the Toucan.
“This is the most authentically local pub in Kingston. It has an inexplicable charm to it. We don’t know why everyone comes here, but we have been coming here for years, and we don’t want to stop,” says Kingston local, Cody.
After hanging out in the cozy, dimly lit space, it becomes clear that the customers feel at home here. The atmosphere is light and casual, and if you get lucky you can usually catch live music.
6 Princess Street
A great addition to the YGK nightlife is The Merchant. This bar is another local favourite and has enough space to house large, fun crowds.
The exposed brick and cozy couches encourage ease and comfort among customers. While mingling with some fellow bar-hoppers, you’ll quickly discover your new friends are from out of town. Visitor Rob keeps coming back to see the friendly bartenders.
The service is always efficient and friendly, and they have a massive bar that allows for optimal socializing and beverage enjoying experience. The typically mature crowd will often be seen mid dance party, enjoying great live bands that keep the party going all night long.
162 Barrie Street
The unique little bar is nestled in a repurposed house in a neighbourhood near Queen’s University.
Established in 1963, the club radiates tradition and community spirit. Most evenings you will find the bar is packed with Queen’s grad students and locals alike, enjoying some remarkable live music. Dan, a faithful customer of over 10 years tells us why he keeps going back.
“Great food at reasonable prices, craft beer and they get some of the biggest names in the indie music industry,” says Dan.
The Grad Club has hosted several renowned Canadian bands like Winter Sleep and Rural Alberta Advantage, while also celebrating local talent.
369 King Street East
End your night at Red House.
The exposed brick-lined establishment has two large wooden high-top tables adjacent to the bar, constructing the perfect set up for socializing.
“The Red House is a tried and tested hot spot for the local year-round Kingston drinkers. It’s a really laid-back spot and always seems to be a good way to cap off a night,” says Sarah, a frequent Red House customer.
Owned by three local brothers, the vibe here is trendy, without being pretentious.
