Lakeside boardwalk and a lively historic market square downtown.
What to Expect
Kingston's limestone downtown fronts a working harbour, where a boardwalk links Confederation Basin to the shops and cafés of Princess Street. Springer Market Square hosts Canada's oldest continuing farmers' market.
Nearby City Hall (1844) and the historic courthouse are fine examples of Kingston's 19th-century civic architecture. It's a pleasant area for a walking tour — most attractions are within a few blocks.
Best Time to Visit
May–October for the outdoor market and waterfront strolling; year-round for the shops and cafés.
Practical Tips
The market runs Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday mornings in Springer Market Square. City Hall and most attractions are within a few flat, walkable blocks — ideal for a self-guided walking tour.
Where to Stay
Downtown waterfront hotels sit within walking distance of Springer Market Square, boutiques and the ferry docks.
Book this experience
Tickets, tours and stays for your Kingston trip — all in one place.
2 hours · Free
History lovers, sailors & families
More things to do in Kingston
Fort Henry National Historic Site
19th-century British fortress with guard drills and panoramic lake views.
Thousand Islands Cruise
Boat tour past island castles and cottages on the St. Lawrence.
Bellevue House
Italianate villa home of Canada's first prime minister, Sir John A. Macdonald.
Kingston Penitentiary Tours
Guided tours of Canada's oldest maximum-security prison, decommissioned in 2013.
Queen's University Campus
Limestone campus and National Historic Site on the Lake Ontario waterfront.
Murney Tower National Historic Site
1846 Martello tower museum of 19th-century military life on the lakefront.
Kingston Trolley Tour
Hop-on trolley tour past Kingston's historic sites and waterfront landmarks.