The 8 Top Tours & Things To Do In Kingston: Which Is Best?

Kingston, Ontario, is a city that balances history, vibrant neighborhoods, and scenic beauty. Its compact downtown makes it perfect for exploring on foot or bicycle, but what really sets Kingston apart are its unique tours that combine storytelling, history, and fun.

Whether you’re interested in uncovering ghost stories from the city’s past or cruising through the stunning 1000 Islands, Kingston offers activities that appeal to all kinds of travelers.

For example, the Original Haunted Walk of Kingston is perfect for history lovers with a taste for the supernatural, while the Kingston Bike Tours offer a more active way to absorb Kingston’s sights and stories.

If you’re looking for a relaxing experience, the Trolley City Tour of Kingston provides a leisurely overview of the city’s top spots, and for something outdoorsy, the Heart of the 1000 Islands Sightseeing Cruise takes you sailing through the famous archipelago. For a more interactive day, you might enjoy the Self-Guided Walking Tour & Scavenger Hunt, which mixes sightseeing with fun challenges.

And if spooky stories are your thing, the Ghost Tour of Fort Henry is a must. Whatever your interests and energy level, Kingston’s tour offerings have something to keep you engaged.

1. Orignal Haunted Walk of Kingston 75-Minute Ghost Tour

At number one, the Original Haunted Walk of Kingston is a standout for fans of stories with a supernatural twist. This 75-minute walking tour takes you through Kingston’s evening streets, where your guide—dressed in period costume—shares spooky tales linked to key landmarks like Kingston City Hall, the Kingston Public Market, and the Hochelaga Inn.

The guide’s storytelling skills shine, and reviews praise guides like Mya and Rebecca for their engaging narratives, making history come alive with eerie details.

What makes this tour special is its mix of local lore and historic buildings, which are even more atmospheric after dark. The tour is well-paced and includes stops at the haunted Chalmers United Church and the cathedral, adding layers of ghostly stories to Kingston’s past.

Priced at $25.12, it offers excellent value for a fun, immersive experience that’s perfect for history buffs and ghost story enthusiasts alike. The multiple evening start times give flexibility for most schedules.

Bottom Line: If you enjoy spooky tales and lively storytelling in a historic setting, this tour offers a memorable evening. It’s a favorite among visitors, with consistent 5-star reviews, and provides a lively, slightly spooky way to explore Kingston’s history.

2. Kingston Bike Tours

Number two on our list is the Kingston Bike Tours, perfect for those who prefer to explore on two wheels. This 2.5-hour guided ride covers Kingston’s highlights, including City Hall, Murney Tower, Queen’s University, and the waterfront. It’s a great way to cover more ground than a walking tour while staying active.

The ride is suitable for most fitness levels, and the guide Jeff is praised for his storytelling and deep knowledge of Kingston’s history.

The tour includes visits to notable sites like Cooke’s Fine Foods, where you can imagine a bygone era, and the Kingston Penitentiary Museum, giving insight into the city’s past as a former prison site. The ride is weather-dependent but is designed to be accessible and enjoyable regardless of rain (they don’t cancel for weather).

The $55.60 price reflects the two-and-a-half-hour experience, making it a good deal when considering the comprehensive coverage and engaging narration.

Bottom Line: This bike tour is perfect for active travelers who want an in-depth, energetic overview of Kingston. It’s praised for storytelling and the chance to see the city’s military, educational, and cultural sites in a relaxed pace.

3. Trolley City Tour of Kingston

For those who prefer a relaxed way to see Kingston, the Trolley City Tour offers an hour of sightseeing via a comfortable trolley. This tour covers the city’s main attractions, including Fort Henry, the Kingston City Hall, and the historic PumpHouse. The GPS-triggered narration is available in four languages, making it accessible for diverse visitors.

The trolley’s open-air design allows for easy photo opportunities and a good overview of Kingston’s architecture and historic spots.

The guided narration, combined with live commentary, keeps the tour lively, and the small group size ensures you get attention from the host. It’s a quick, easy way to familiarize yourself with Kingston if you’re short on time or traveling with family. The $33.09 ticket includes all the sights and a relaxing hour on the move.

Bottom Line: Ideal for a casual, family-friendly introduction to Kingston, this trolley tour offers a comfortable and informative overview, especially suitable for those who prefer not to walk or bike.

4. Ghost Tour of Fort Henry National Historic Site

Number four is the Ghost Tour of Fort Henry, perfect for fans of haunted places and military history. This 75-minute guided walk explores the 19th-century fortress with a focus on its spectral secrets. The tour includes wandering through tunnels, exploring the fort’s dark corners, and hearing about the tragic stories that supposedly still linger.

The guide’s storytelling skills help bring out the spooky atmosphere, and visitors often comment on how well the tour balances history and ghost stories.

The tour’s highlights include a panoramic view of Lake Ontario and the eerie tales associated with the site’s past. Priced at $25.12, it offers a good value for a themed evening out.

Reviewers appreciate the engaging guides and the creepy ambiance, with some calling it “a spine-tingling experience.” The tour is suitable for those interested in paranormal stories or military history with a supernatural twist.

Bottom Line: For a spooky, atmospheric experience at one of Kingston’s most haunted locations, this tour delivers a mix of history, ghost stories, and scenic views. It’s a must for those who enjoy a little chill and thrill.

5. Ghost Tour of Queen’s University

Number five focuses on the Ghost Tour of Queen’s University, which offers an eerie look into one of Canada’s most historic campuses. This 75-minute walk takes you through the campus buildings, including Fleming Hall and the Gothic Revival Queen’s University itself, sharing stories of student grave robbers, professors reaching from the beyond, and campus legends.

This tour stands out for its blend of academic charm and ghostly tales, making it perfect for history buffs who enjoy a supernatural story or two.

Reviewers note the guide’s passionate storytelling and mention how the stories “give you chills.” Priced at $25.16, it’s an intimate experience that adds a spooky edge to a campus visit. The stories are particularly engaging for those interested in the campus architecture and history.

Bottom Line: If you’re visiting Kingston’s university, this tour is a fun, spooky way to learn about its past with tales that are both creepy and fascinating. It’s especially suited for students of history or architecture.

6. Heart of the 1000 Islands Sightseeing Cruise

Number six is the Heart of the 1000 Islands Sightseeing Cruise. This three-hour cruise departs from downtown Kingston and sails through the famous archipelago on the St. Lawrence River. The cruise provides a relaxing way to see the scenic islands, with guided narration highlighting historic sites like Napoleon’s Hat and Wanderer’s Channel.

You’ll also get a chance to spot the opulent Mandalay Mansion and other notable landmarks. Snacks and beverages are available onboard, making it a leisurely way to spend an afternoon.

While some reviews mention that the cruise could be more condensed, most travelers appreciate the opportunity to see the islands from the water and learn about their stories. The cruise is priced at $48.58, offering a good balance of comfort, scenery, and information. It appeals to travelers looking for a scenic, laid-back experience with photo opportunities.

Bottom Line: Perfect for nature lovers and those interested in maritime scenery, this cruise offers a scenic, informative escape into the iconic 1000 Islands region.

7. Kingston Self-Guided Walking Tour & Scavenger Hunt

Number seven gives you a self-guided walking tour combined with a scavenger hunt. This innovative experience lets you explore Kingston at your own pace, with over 20 challenges to solve along the route. Using your smartphone, you’ll follow a path along the waterfront, through museums, parks, and historic landmarks, all while completing games and riddles.

The tour is flexible, allowing you to start when you want and pause as needed. It’s ideal for families or groups who prefer an interactive, playful approach to sightseeing. The price of $25.61 per group is quite reasonable, especially considering the entertainment value. The reviews mention that it’s a “super fun activity,” though some noted minor technical hiccups with the challenge website.

Bottom Line: If you’re a curious traveler who enjoys a combination of sightseeing and games, this tour offers a fun, engaging way to discover Kingston on your own terms.

8. Unique Scavenger Hunt in Kingston

Finally, the Unique Scavenger Hunt provides a zombie apocalypse theme, turning Kingston into a scene of survival. Using an app, you explore the city, searching for items needed to survive, completing zombie-themed challenges, and earning points. It’s an interactive, playful experience perfect for groups looking for something a little different.

Though there are no reviews yet, this activity is ideal for younger travelers, groups of friends, or families wanting a lively, game-based adventure. The $20.58 price makes it an accessible option for a quick, energetic activity that combines exploration with fun.

Bottom Line: For a light-hearted, inventive twist on sightseeing, this zombie-themed scavenger hunt offers a memorable and lively experience, especially suited for groups that enjoy playful challenges.

How to Choose Your Perfect Kingston Tour

When deciding between these options, consider your interests and energy level. If spooky stories and history are your thing, the Haunted Walk or Fort Henry Ghost Tour are excellent choices. For active explorers, the Bike Tour provides a comprehensive, energetic overview, perfect for those who want to cover a lot in a few hours.

Relaxed visitors or families may prefer the Trolley Tour, which is easy and informative without much physical effort. If scenic water views appeal, the 1000 Islands Cruise offers a peaceful, picturesque escape. And for a playful, customizable experience, the Self-Guided Walking & Scavenger Hunt or the zombie hunt bring interactive fun into your day.

Booking early is advisable, especially for popular tours like the bike and ghost walks, which tend to fill up during peak seasons. Think about your interests, fitness level, and whether you prefer walking, biking, or relaxing on a boat to decide the best fit.

Final Thoughts

Kingston offers a diverse range of tours that cater to history enthusiasts, outdoor lovers, and families alike. The ghost walks and haunted tours provide atmospheric stories that make history come alive, especially in the evening.

Adventure seekers can opt for biking or boat cruises to see more of the area in a fun, active way. And the interactive scavenger hunts turn sightseeing into a game, perfect for groups wanting a memorable experience.

If you’re visiting Kingston, consider booking a few tours to get the most out of your stay. The city’s compact size makes it easy to combine a walking or bike tour with a scenic cruise, creating a well-rounded visit. Whether you’re after spine-tingling tales or scenic water views, Kingston’s variety of activities guarantees a memorable trip.

Remember to reserve your spots early, especially during the busy summer months, and enjoy discovering this historic Canadian city.