by Turo
posted on April 9, 2025
Kingston is more than a pit stop between Toronto and Montreal – it’s a destination in its own right. With its limestone buildings, breezy waterfront, and deep ties to Canadian history, this small city packs a lot into a walkable footprint.
Whether you’re spending the weekend or just passing through, there’s no shortage of places to eat, explore, and enjoy the view. Here’s a list of the top five things to do in Kingston to help you make the most of your time in Limestone City!
In this guide, we’ll be covering:
- Kingston Waterfront and Breakwater Park
- Fort Henry National Historic Site
- Exploring downtown Kingston
- Hop on a Thousand Islands cruise
- Kingston Penitentiary tours
- What to do in Kingston: FAQs
- Hit the road and see the top attractions in Kingston
What to do in Kingston: must-see attractions and activities
If you’re looking for what to do in Kingston, this city offers a mix of fun and fascinating activities you won’t find anywhere else in Ontario!
Kingston Waterfront and Breakwater Park
Stretching along Lake Ontario, exploring Kingston’s waterfront is one of the best ways to soak up the city’s laid-back vibe. Breakwater Park is the highlight – visitors and locals alike come here to relax, swim, or just sit and take in the view.
Why it’s great
Breakwater Park gives you direct lake access in the middle of the city. There’s space to swim, a wide path for biking or walking, and plenty of room to spread out. It’s the perfect place to pause and recharge between other stops.
Practical tips
Food trucks are often set up nearby during the summer, and there are shaded areas for picnics. Be sure to pack a towel if it’s warm out!
How to get there
The waterfront is a five-minute drive from downtown. Book an SUV or a truck for all the space you need to bring your bikes, paddleboards, or extra gear. It’s easy to find a spot for your Kingston rental car along the lake, and most lots are just steps from the park.
Fort Henry National Historic Site
Set high above the water, Fort Henry is one of Kingston’s most iconic landmarks. The site offers a look into military life during the 19th century — complete with cannon demonstrations, guided tours, and costumed interpreters who bring the past to life.
Why it’s great
The fort sits on a bluff with sweeping views of the city and the river, and the live demonstrations make it feel extra immersive. The grounds are big, open, and full of hidden corners to explore at your own pace.
Practical tips
The fort is open seasonally, with extra programming in summer. Guided tours run regularly, but you can also explore on your own.
How to get there
Fort Henry is about a 10-minute drive east of downtown, just across the causeway on Highway 2. On a clear day, this is the kind of drive that’s made for cruising with the top down. Book a convertible, classic car, or exotic car rental to make the short trip as just special as your destination!
Exploring downtown Kingston
You’ll find cobblestone streets, waterfront patios, indie shops, and heritage buildings all within a few blocks in downtown Kingston. It’s the kind of place where you can park once, wander at your own pace, and always discover something new.
Why it’s great
Downtown Kingston is super walkable, with plenty of spots to eat, drink, and browse. The waterfront is just a block or two away from the main strip, and you can hop on one of many Kingston trolley tours to get a lay of the land.
Practical tips
Weekends are lively, especially around Market Square, Ontario’s oldest public market. Most shops are open late during the summer, and there are washrooms and shaded benches throughout the area.
How to get there
A compact car rental is a great choice for navigating narrow downtown streets and finding parking. Look for smart, city-sized options from makers like Toyota, Nissan, or Ford. If you’re flying in, Turo’s Kingston airport rental car delivery lets you skip the counter and get right to exploring right away!
Hop on a Thousand Islands cruise
Cruises around the gorgeous Thousand Islands set out from downtown Kingston. These guided boat tours take you through one of the most unique landscapes in Ontario, with tiny forested islands, summer homes, and historic shipwrecks scattered throughout the St. Lawrence River.
Why it’s great
Some cruises focus on natural views and wildlife, while others add live music and dining. It’s a great way to see the area from a new angle without needing to plan a full-day trip.
Practical tips
Tours run spring through fall, with several options based on time and price. Booking online is the best way to guarantee a spot. Bring layers — it can get breezy out on the water.
How to get there
Cruises depart right from downtown. For a fun and smooth family outing, load up a minivan with snacks, strollers, and extra layers. Make your Kingston rental car a Chrysler, Honda, or Chevrolet model that fits your crew and keeps everyone comfy.
Kingston Penitentiary tours
Canada’s oldest maximum-security prison is now open for tours! You’ll walk through cell blocks, solitary units, and exercise yards while learning about the people who lived and worked behind the walls of this historic facility.
Why it’s great
It’s a rare chance to check out a piece of Canadian history from the inside. Your time exploring Kingston Penitentiary will be led by an experienced tour guide, and the stories are as compelling as the architecture itself.
Practical tips
Tours run spring through fall and often sell out, so book in advance online. The tour involves a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather.
How to get there
The penitentiary is five minutes west of downtown. If you’re looking for an eco-friendly option, a Tesla rental is a smart and stylish way to explore. There’s electric vehicle charging available at nearby hotels and public lots, so you can top up while you tour.
What to do in Kingston: FAQs
Where is Kingston?
Kingston is right where Lake Ontario meets the St. Lawrence River and the Rideau Canal in southeastern Ontario. It’s about 200 km (125 miles) east of Toronto and roughly 150 km (90 miles) southwest of Ottawa.
Most visitors arrive by car, but Kingston Airport also offers connections to Toronto Pearson International Airport and other hubs in Ontario. Booking a car on Turo gives you flexible pickup options, including delivery to the airport, so you can start your Ontario road trip right away.
What is Kingston known for?
Kingston is known for its waterfront, limestone architecture, and deep historic roots. It was also named our first capital city in 1841 when the country was known as the United Province of Canada.
How to spend a day in Kingston?
Start with a walk along the waterfront, grab lunch downtown, and take an afternoon cruise through the Thousand Islands. Wrap it up by catching a sunset over the St. Lawrence from Fort Henry.
What’s the best time of year to visit Kingston?
Late spring through early fall is the best time, especially if you want to enjoy the waterfront, patios, and boat tours. July and August are the busiest months, while September still has great weather but with fewer crowds.
Is Kingston, Ontario, worth visiting?
Absolutely! It’s compact, scenic, and, as we’ve learned, is packed with interesting things to do. It’s a great weekend trip with something for every kind of traveller.
Hit the road and see the top attractions in Kingston
Kingston packs a lot into a small footprint. Whether you’re in town for the day or making it part of a longer road trip, booking the right car rental in Kingston gives you the freedom to do it your way.
With Turo, you can skip the rental counter and book the exact vehicle you want to drive – delivered right where you want it. From compact city cars to road trip-ready SUVs, it’s the easiest way to experience Kingston your way!
Feeling inspired? Pitch a Trip and let Turo sponsor your vehicle rental to turn this adventure into a reality! Whether you’re a storyteller, photographer, or just love to travel, this could be your chance to share your experience with the world.
