Kingston
Kingston, the “Limestone City” is strategically located where 3 significant bodies of water meet; the Rideau Canal, the St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario, it was the centre of a vital supply route and ship building industry. Kingston was the first capital of the united Upper and Lower Canadas until the National Seat of Government was moved to Montreal in 1844 and finally to Ottawa in 1867. Kingston boasts a vibrant and historic downtown core that is best appreciated on foot. Time is easily passed at local theatres, festivals and the vibrant downtown where you can enjoy scenic waterfront strolls, gallery gazing and antique browsing. An added treat is free music in the park – every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday at 12:30 pm in Confederation Park, along the waterfront – it coincides with the Farmers’ Market schedule.
Kingston 1000 Islands Cruises
Kingston’s classic riverboats offer the broadest range of cruises in the 1000 Islands, from sightseeing to fine dining.
Minimum Time Required: 1.5 - 3.5 hours
The Confederation Tour Trolley
Hop aboard for a 50-minute exploration into Kingston’s historic past! View Kingston’s beautiful waterfront, and witness its charming limestone heritage, including highlights such Fort Henry, the Penitentiaries, Olympic Harbour, and Bellevue House - the home of Sir John A. MacDonald.
Minimum Time Required: 50 minutes
St. Lawrence Cruise Lines
Cruise the St. Lawrence and Ottawa Rivers on a classically designed riverboat. There are five cruise choices of 3, 5 and 6 nights. Some Highlights include: The 1000 Islands, International Seaway Locks, Ottawa and Quebec City.
Haunted Walk of Kingston
This walking tour at dusk is a tried and true favourite for all ages and even the skeptics in the group will be thoroughly spooked. Featuring the hangings at the old courthouse, haunted hotels and hidden burial grounds. Offering Haunted tours of Fort Henry in addition to the downtown tours.
Minimum Time Required: 1 hour
Fort Henry National Historic Site
A UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enter Fort Henry’s wooden gates and experience 19th century military life during the year of Canada’s confederation. The site offers guided tours, scenic views and musical performances from a military band as well as military and marching demonstrations by the Fort Henry Guard. Throughout the tourist season Fort Henry also plays host to numerous special ceremonies
and events.
Minimum Time Required: 1 hour
Agnes Etherington Art Centre
The Art Centre presents a dynamic range of contemporary and historical exhibitions, offers public programs, and is dedicated to collections-building. Additional features include the Gallery Shop and Art Rental & Sales, trips and tours.
Minimum Time Required: 40 minutes
Penitentiary Museum
The popular Penitentiary Museum explores the history of Canada’s correctional system including the infamous Kingston Penitentiary. It presents a fascinating collection housed within an architecturally significant building constructed by inmate labour during the 1870s.
Minimum Time Required: 30-40 minutes
The Grand Theatre
With an amazing history of famous performers and travelling celebrities, the Grand Theatre is Kingston’s premier performing arts facility. Enjoy a variety of performances from theatre to dance, variety to music.
Tour MacLachlan Woodworking Museum – for traditional woodworking tool displays and hands-on experiences in the Cabinetmaker’s Workshop. Galleries also include “Wood Fences,” “Logging and Lumbering,” and “Canadian Planemakers – great school programs also available.
Minimum Time Required: 40 minutes
Tour the Marine Museum of the Great Lakes and the Pump House Steam Museum – the first for the marine enthusiasts, and the second for child in all of us - enjoy the model trains and magnificent Victorian era steam pumps.
Minimum Time Required: 40 minutes
