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Hitting the Road for Kingston Summer Culture
One of Canada’s most historic and natural city’s, Kingston is the perfect blend of nature, arts, outdoor adventure, and kicking back to enjoy the season. Everything you’re looking for in a summer getaway.
Itinerary created by Gabi Sandler
Getting to call Kingston my home for four years was such an incredible experience, especially in the summer. Not only is there so much to see and do, but the overall excitement you feel around town that everyone’s favorite season is here makes you want to get out there and enjoy it, too.
What you need to know
Learn more about the Kingston community
Why people love Kingston What you can do in Kingston Visit Tourism Kingston
Who is it for
Families
Solo travellers
Groups
When to visit
Summer
Time needed
A week
For a better experience
What to bring
Bathing suit
walking shoes
sunscreen
a sweater
(it can get cool at night)
Distance to major centres
# km from Victoria
Travel times from Downtown Vancouver
# km from Victoria
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Hitting the Road for Kingston Summer Culture
The Perfect Spot for a Summer Swim
Is there anything better than a hot summer day swimming in the lake? I agree, it’s the best! One of my favourite spots in town to go swimming is Glass Creek Park, just a ten-minute drive from downtown. It’s incredibly beautiful, boasting Kingston’s magnificent natural beauty of the water and surrounded by what feels like an infinite number of trees. Plus, it’s definitely a lot less busy than Gord Downie Pier, which tends to get packed quite quickly. And even if you’re not swimming, just lying by the water, soaking in the sun, listening to the subtle waves of the lake crash against the shore is enough to make you wish that summer in Kinston could last forever.
Read moreThe Perfect Spot for a Summer Swim
Spend time at the beachHosted by Glass Creek Park
Get to Know the Theatre Scene at Storefront Fringe Fest
As a former Queen’s drama student I may be biased, but the Kingston theatre scene might just be one of the best in Canada and highlights such untapped potential. Storefront Fringe Fest offers the chance to see so many up-and-coming playwrights, actors, directors, and many other creative types that are eager to share their craft. The festival runs for about a week towards the end of July and all of the venues are close together. Tickets are just $12 a show, which is insanely reasonable for theatre tickets compared to some of the larger cities and is equally as impressive. You can also buy passes for four, nine, 18, and 19 shows, but if you’re new to the festival, s
Read moreGet to Know the Theatre Scene at Storefront Fringe Fest
Buy your tickets at:Hosted by Storefront Fringe Fest
Movies Under the Stars at Springer Square Market
Thursdays may not be the weekend just yet, but you can still get excited for when they roll around, especially with movies in the square. All summer long, you can come to the famous Springer Market Square for free movie nights. All you have to do is bring a chair (not a blanket since it’s on concrete) and whatever movie snacks you want. Don’t worry if you forgot your munchies. There are lots near the square that make for the best movie treats, like my favorite ice cream shop in Kingston, Mio Gelato, where you should definitely try the tiramisu or chocolate peanut butter. And don’t worry if you’re looking for something dairy-free
Read moreMovies Under the Stars at Springer Square Market
Get your ticket atHosted by Springer Market Square
Island Living on Wolfe Island
Thursdays may not be the weekend just yet, but you can still get excited for when they roll around, especially with movies in the square. All summer long, you can come to the famous Springer Market Square for free movie nights. All you have to do is bring a chair (not a blanket since it’s on concrete) and whatever movie snacks you want. Don’t worry if you forgot your munchies. There’s lots near the square that make for the best movie treats, like my favourite ice cream shop in Kingston, Mio Gelato, where you should definitely try the tiramisu or chocolate peanut butter. And don’t worry if you’re looking for something dairy-free
Read moreIsland Living on Wolfe Island
Check what`s in the store:Hosted by Tara’s Natural Foods
How a-Boat That?
Part of what makes Kingston so special is the fact that it’s a town on the water. And that’s exactly how you should explore it. Andrew and his team at Ahoy Rentals are honestly some of the friendliest people who you’ll ever meet. So accommodating to any and all of your needs and they genuinely just want you to get out there and enjoy the beautiful city. Canoes are a great option for groups, especially those with kids. But if you’re really up for it, you should definitely give kayaking a try. It’s a great activity to do first thing in the morning – The best way to spend a few hours
Read moreHow a-Boat That?
Rent a boat at:Hosted by Ahoy Rentals
Summer is Patio Season
Summer season is patio season and Kingston takes the season very seriously. There are so many amazing spots to sit outside and enjoy not only the gorgeous summer weather, but the beautiful, historic city all around you. One of the best spots for sundowners is the Jack Astor’s patio, which looks over City Hall, Springer Square and the water, which all become totally illuminated by the setting sun. Now, it may sound weird to recommend the chicken fingers, but they honestly are famous at Jack’s. They’re totally fresh, never frozen and you can get them either plain or in a sauce, including buffalo, honey garlic or coconut curry if you’re feeling like something diffe
Read moreSummer is Patio Season
Reserve a Table at :Hosted by Jack Astor’s
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