Unique Things to Do in Kingston Ontario

By Natalie Wednesday, April 15, 2026

Exploring Kingston feels like stepping into a living piece of Ontario history. Known as the “Limestone City,” Kingston blends historic architecture, waterfront views, and one-of-a-kind experiences you won’t find anywhere else.

Its walkable downtown makes it easy to explore, but if you want a guided overview, hop on the Kingston Trolley Tour to connect with major landmarks and neighbourhoods.

If you’re wondering what to do in Kingston Ontario, this guide highlights the most unique experiences, from historic prisons to scenic cruises and hidden art spots.

Key Takeaways: Unique Things to Do in Kingston Ontario

• Kingston offers a mix of history, waterfront experiences, and hidden gems
• Top highlights include Kingston Pen tours, 1000 Islands cruises, and Fort Henry
• Unique experiences range from shipwreck viewing to art alleys and haunted walks
• The city is walkable and perfect for weekend getaways or day trips

Explore Kingston Penitentiary Tours

The former Kingston Penitentiary (Also known as the Kingston Pen) is one of Canada’s most compelling historic sites. Stepping through its gates takes visitors on a guided tour inside the country’s oldest maximum-security prison, a place that held inmates for nearly 150 years. 

The jail cells and corridors still bear the marks of daily life, from graffiti scratched into the walls to the worn paths that show how the incarcerated men, women, and even children moved through the space. Touring this site offers a rare glimpse into a world once hidden from the public, making it one of the most unique things to do in Kingston, Ontario.

It’s an eye-opening experience and easily one of the most memorable things to do in Kingston Ontario.

Take a 1000 Islands Cruise from Kingston

One of the best ways to experience Kingston’s waterfront is by getting out on the water.

1000 Islands Cruises Kingston offers sightseeing tours that take you through the stunning islands of the St. Lawrence River, with views of historic castles, cottages, and shipwrecks.

For a longer, more relaxed experience, St. Lawrence Cruise Lines offers 4 to 7-night small ship cruises through calm inland waterways. These cruises are perfect if you’re looking for a slower, scenic way to explore Eastern Ontario.

This is a must-do for anyone searching for unique waterfront experiences in Kingston.

👉 Planning a summer getaway? Check out more Boat Excusions in Ontario Here

Go Shipwreck Diving in the St. Lawrence River 

Kingston is known around the world for its clear waters and well-preserved shipwrecks resting just offshore. The cold freshwater has kept these vessels in striking condition, offering divers a rare chance to explore history below the surface. If you prefer to stay dry, glass-bottom boat tours provide an equally fascinating view. It’s one of Kingston’s most unique features and a big reason why it’s a top destination for adventure seekers.

👉 Love unique outdoor adventures? See our full list of
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Visit Fort Henry National Historic Site

Overlooking Lake Ontario, Fort Henry is one of Kingston’s most iconic landmarks with stone walls that have stood since the early 1800s.

This UNESCO world heritage site brings history to life with:

• Interactive exhibits
• Military drills performed by the Fort Henry guard 
• Evening ghost tours

It’s not just a museum, it’s an immersive experience that makes history feel alive.

👉 Looking for more historic attractions? Explore
historic sites and attractions in Ontario

Discover Local Art at Martello Alley

Tucked away in downtown Kingston, Martello Alley is a hidden gem that many visitors miss.

This outdoor art space features:

• Colourful murals
• Sculptures and installations
• Work by local Kingston artists

It’s small but incredibly vibrant, making it a perfect quick stop while exploring downtown.

Experience Kingston’s Haunted Walk

Kingston is often called one of the most haunted cities in Ontario.

The Haunted Walk of Kingston takes you through the historic narrow streets of Old Sydenham Ward by lantern light, sharing eerie stories of hangings, hidden graves, and unexplained events.

The setting of these walking tours adds to the experience, with historic stone buildings and shadowed alleyways amplifying the atmosphere. Many participants describe the walk as both entertaining and unsettling, a mix that lingers long after the tour ends. It’s a chance to see Kingston’s history through a different lens, one that blends folklore with the past and one of the most unique ways to explore the city after dark.

Paddle the Waterfront with Ahoy Rentals

For a more active way to explore Kingston, head out on the water with Ahoy Rentals.

You can rent:

• Kayaks
• Paddleboards
• Canoes

It’s a fun and relaxing way to see the city from a different perspective, especially on a warm summer day.

Plan Your Trip to Kingston Ontario

Kingston offers a rare mix of history, waterfront adventure, and unique local experiences all in one destination.

Whether you’re:

• Touring a historic prison
• Cruising through the 1000 Islands
• Exploring hidden art alleys
• Or walking through haunted streets

There’s no shortage of unforgettable things to do.

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FAQ: Things to Do in Kingston Ontario

What is Kingston Ontario best known for?

Kingston is known for its limestone architecture, historic sites like Fort Henry and Kingston Penitentiary, and its location at the gateway to the 1000 Islands.

Is Kingston worth visiting?

Yes, Kingston is one of Ontario’s best destinations for a mix of history, waterfront views, and unique experiences, perfect for weekend trips.

What are unique things to do in Kingston Ontario?

Top unique experiences include Kingston Pen tours, 1000 Islands cruises, shipwreck diving, haunted walks, and visiting Martello Alley.

👉 Looking for more trip ideas across the province? Browse our full guide to
things to do in Ontario