Kingston

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Downtown Kingston City Hall, National Historic Site, circa 1842, Kingston, Ontario, Canada

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Overview

Modern-day Canada's first capital, albeit only for three years, Kingston was stripped of the title when Queen Victoria worried that it was too close to the American border and could not be properly defended. Today, the pretty city finds itself strategically placed as the perfect pit stop between Montréal or Ottawa and Toronto.

Attractions

Must-see attractions

Fort Henry National Historic Site

Kingston

This restored British fortification, dating from 1832, overlooks Kingston from its hilltop perch. The postcard-perfect structure is brought to life by…

Bellevue House

Kingston

In the mid-19th century, this National Historic Site was briefly home to Sir John A Macdonald, Canada's first prime minister and a notorious alcoholic…

Penitentiary Museum

Kingston

The ‘correctional service’ is what Canadian bureaucrats call the nation’s jail system, and this museum is a good way to enter that system without stealing…

City Hall

Kingston

The grandiose City Hall is one of the country's finest classical buildings and a relic from the time when Kingston was capital. Friendly volunteers…

Pump House Steam Museum

Kingston

The one-of-a-kind, completely restored, steam-run pump house was used from 1849 to 1952. Today the warehouse features all things steam-related, including…

Marine Museum of the Great Lakes

Kingston

Despite its smaller space since moving from the dry dock to the Portsmouth Olympic Harbour, this museum still offers a detailed account of Kingston's…

Military Communications & Electronics Museum

Kingston

Despite its dry name, this is a comprehensive and well-designed museum on Kingston's military base, offering chronological displays on communications…

Kingston Public Market

Kingston

Canada's oldest continuous market takes place in the square behind City Hall. Stalls sell food, fresh produce, handicrafts, art and, on Sundays between…

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