Kingston is a city rich in history and culture. Get to know what the Kingston community has to offer by checking out local events and attractions!
Kingston Attractions
Kingston has many more attractions. Be sure to check out Visit Kingston for more information about Kingston events, restaurants, and entertainment.
For a completely immersive (and accessible) experience, check out the Joseph Dominik Sensory Garden. Not only is it free and open to the public, but it is Kingston’s first fully accessible sensory garden. Look at their website for more information and volunteering opportunities.
Wolfe Island: Currently, you can take the ferry to Dawson Point Dock. It is best to take a car to Wolfe Island in the winter, as this dock is not within walking distance of Marysville. In the future you will be able to take a ferry directly to Marysville, check the Wolfe Island website for construction updates.
Kingston Penitentiary Tours are a great opportunity to learn about Kingston’s history. This historical site is only a short walk from campus. Check out their website for prices and more information.
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The Kingston Arts Council is the information hub for all things art in Kingston, including film, literature, music, craft, performing and visual arts.
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The Tett Centre for Creativity and Learning, is home to various arts organizations and events.
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The Grand Theatre is a community based cultural venue that hosts a variety of performances and events. Check out their websites for upcoming events
- The library is a great resource that you have access to for free as a resident of Kingston! Just a 5 minute walk from campus, the central branch of the library is located at 130 Johnson street.
- There are many other library locations around Kingston, so find the one that is closest to you!
- There is plenty more than books at the public library, you have access to sewing machines, a 3D printer, audiobooks and more! Visit their website for more information about getting started
Groceries
Student discounts are available with presentation of a valid Queen’s University student card at many grocery stores in Kingston. Please confirm that the below discounts are accurate at the time of your shopping.
- Metro, 310 Barrie St. - 10% discounts on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays
- Loblaws, 1100 Princess St. - 10% back in PC Optimum points every Tuesday with the PC Optimum App
- The Grocery Basket, 260 Princess St. - 15% discount on all items in store (excluding alcohol) from September 1 2023 - December 31, 2023
- Food Basics, 33 Barrack St. - 10% discount on Tuesdays
- Bulk Barn, 145 Princess St,1201 Division St. and 830 Norwest Rd. - 10% discount on Wednesdays
Outdoors
Lots of parks surround the University District and are also available via public transit, including:
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The Waterfront Path and Battery Park (10-minute walk)
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McBurney Park (Skeleton Park) (15-minute walk)
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Doug Fluhrer Park and Molly Brant Point (30-minute walk)
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Lake Ontario Park (45-minute walk)
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Belle Island (1 hour walk)
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Lemoine’s Point (a 12-minute drive or a 50-minute bus ride via the 501 route)
All walking distances are approximations from campus
Parks and TrailsWinter Activities
There are many activities to keep you entertained and warm in the winter months!
- Go for a free skate at Market Square downtown.
- See a Kingston Frontenac's hockey game at the Leon's Centre.
- Support Queen's varsity teams and watch a free game at the ARC.
- Volunteer at a local organization with SCR to give back to your community!
- Attend the indoor Farmers market at the Memorial Centre!
Transit
Popular Bus Routes
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The 2 runs down Division Street, through downtown and Queen’s campus, down Union Street and up to Bath Road and back (the 2 will get you to the Megabus station).
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The 501 is an express route that follows Concession Street down Princess through downtown, past Queen’s campus and up Bayridge back to Concession.
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The 4 runs up and down Princess Street.
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The 18 will take you to the VIA rail train station.
- Bus passes are usually included in tuition for eligible students. If a bus pass is not included with your annual student fees, you can purchase a bus pass from the City of Kingston for a reduced student rate. There may also be options for financial assistance through the AMS; you can check if a bus bursary is available on the AMS website.
- It costs $3.25 to ride the bus in Kingston and passengers can transfer for free between routes. Transfers are only valid for going in one continuous direction from original destination and must be used within 60 minutes from the time of issue.