Hotels in Kingston

Islands of Inspiration: Unveiling Kingston's Cultural Tapestry

Nestled at the confluence of Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River, Kingston, Ontario, is a charming blend of history and natural beauty. Known as the Limestone City, its stunning waterfront is framed by picturesque parks and vibrant marinas. Explore the historic downtown filled with unique shops and museums, like the Canadian Museum of History. Don’t miss the scenic Thousand Islands nearby, perfect for boating and hiking. With its rich cultural heritage, delightful culinary scene, and friendly atmosphere, Kingston offers an enchanting escape for travelers seeking adventure or a romantic getaway. For the best hotel rates in Kingston and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Kingston

Some of the best places to stay in Kingston are Rideau Heights, Gananoque and Bath. Kingston, Ontario, offers diverse attractions for travelers. Rideau Heights is ideal for exploring local culture, while Gananoque is renowned for its stunning Thousand Islands and boat tours. Bath provides a quaint, small-town charm perfect for relaxation. Accommodation in these areas ranges from cozy inns to well-known hotel chains, ensuring options for all budgets and preferences. For first-time visitors, Gananoque is the best choice, offering scenic beauty and easy access to Kingston's attractions. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Kingston:

1. Rideau HeightsOpens in a new window: Rideau Heights is a charming area in Kingston, Ontario, known for its outdoor attractions and proximity to cultural landmarks. It's a great base for exploring Queen's University, Kingston Waterfront, and the historic Kingston Penitentiary. For accommodations, consider Frontenac Club InnOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star Bed & Breakfast offering business amenities, perfect for corporate travelers. Another option is Hochelaga InnOpens in a new window, also a 4.0-star Bed & Breakfast located in the city center, ideal for those wanting to immerse themselves in Kingston's vibrant atmosphere. For a more luxurious experience, 1000 Islands B&B – The Bulloch HouseOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star Bed & Breakfast, provides adventure activities nearby, making it suitable for thrill-seekers.
2. GananoqueOpens in a new window: Known for its outdoor adventures and scenic beauty, Gananoque is a gateway to exploring the Thousand Islands. Visitors can enjoy attractions like the Gananoque Boat Line and the Thousand Islands OLG Charity Casino. For lodging, B & B TekdivOpens in a new window is a 3.0-star Bed & Breakfast that welcomes pets and offers various adventure sports nearby. If you're looking for a romantic getaway, Harlem Stonegate B&BOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star Bed & Breakfast, features romance packages and wellness amenities, perfect for couples. Another great choice is Merlot Sunset B&BOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star Bed & Breakfast with direct beach access and adventure activities, ideal for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
3. BathOpens in a new window: Bath is a quaint area in Kingston, offering a peaceful retreat while still close to city attractions. It's near notable sites like Queen's University and Kingston Waterfront. For accommodation, The CAPEOpens in a new window is a 4.0-star Guesthouse, catering to business travelers with excellent meeting facilities. Picton Harbour InnOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star Hotel, provides dining options including breakfast and entertainment amenities, ensuring a comfortable stay. Lastly, Merrill HouseOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star Hotel, offers a mix of dining and recreational activities, making it a great choice for travelers wanting to explore the local area.

Things to do in Kingston for first time

Three days in Kingston offers travelers a chance to unwind amidst stunning waterfront views, lush parks, and serene lakes. Enjoy activities like boating, hiking, and shopping while embracing the vibrant local culture. The area's natural beauty and recreational options make it a perfect getaway destination. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Kingston:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at the Big Sandy Bay Management Area, where you can enjoy pristine beaches and picturesque hiking trails. After soaking in the natural beauty, head to the Gananoque Municipal Marina to admire the boats and perhaps grab a light lunch at a nearby café. In the afternoon, embark on a scenic cruise with Gananoque Boat Line, which takes you through the stunning Thousand Islands, offering breathtaking views and a unique perspective on the region's rich history.
• Day 2: Start your day at Loughborough Memorial Park, where you can relish a peaceful morning surrounded by nature. Next, make your way to the Portland Conservation Area for a delightful hiking experience, where you can explore beautiful trails and spot local wildlife. In the afternoon, visit the Kingston Frontenac Public Library - Hartington Branch, a cozy spot for some relaxation, where you can catch up on some reading or enjoy the local community vibe.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at the Kingston Frontenac Public Library - Sydenham Branch, where you can browse through books or enjoy the serene environment. Afterward, venture to Frontenac Provincial Park for an exciting day of hiking and exploring the great outdoors, where stunning landscapes await. Wrap up your day at Gould Lake Conservation Area, a perfect spot for some evening relaxation by the water, reflecting on your wonderful Kingston experience.

5 tips to find a great Kingston hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Kingston is during January, February, and December, when hotel rates are more affordable. If you're traveling internationally, it's best to book your flight at least two months in advance to secure the best prices. For a great value experience, consider staying at least 1-2 days to fully appreciate Kingston's main attractions, such as its vibrant museums and stunning islands. This way, you can make the most of your trip while keeping costs down.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Kingston, Hotels.com offers a great opportunity to score discounted hotel rates. To explore these offers, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on Hotels.com, where you could find competitively priced accommodations with refundable options. You’re more likely to enjoy good availability and potentially lower prices as your travel date approaches. Don’t forget to enable email alerts or push notifications for updates on flash sales and special promotions, making sure you don't miss a chance to save.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Kingston.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Kingston is usually more expensive. If you opt for accommodations farther from the city center, you can take advantage of transportation options like buses or taxis to explore the area, which can help you save on expenses.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your hotel in Kingston and join Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program, enabling members to earn and enjoy reward points for hotel reservations. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers and access perks such as room upgrades when available, exclusive discounts, and unique member offers. Join today.

What to eat in Kingston

Here are some famous dishes in Kingston, Ontario, Canada:

• Jerk Chicken: A beloved dish with Caribbean roots, jerk chicken features marinated chicken infused with a flavorful blend of spices, including allspice, thyme, and scotch bonnet peppers. In Kingston, you’ll find local eateries offering this spicy delight, often served with rice and peas, showcasing the region's vibrant culinary culture.
• Curry Goat: This aromatic dish is a staple in Jamaican cuisine, made with tender goat meat simmered in a rich curry sauce, infused with garlic, ginger, and a medley of spices. It's commonly enjoyed at family gatherings and celebrations, reflecting the communal spirit of Kingston's dining scene.
• Ackee and Saltfish: As Jamaica's national dish, ackee and saltfish combines salted cod with the unique ackee fruit, sautéed with onions, peppers, and spices. This dish is typically served with fried dumplings or plantains, offering a taste of the island's culinary heritage and a perfect breakfast option.

Best time to go to Kingston

Kingston experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 22.3°F (-5.4°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 70.3°F (21.3°C). October tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Kingston are June to August, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, January, February, and December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.