Kingston, Ontario, is a city that wears its history on every brick and every waterfront view. Its compact downtown makes it perfect for exploring on foot or by a quirky trolley, and its proximity to natural and historic sites adds extra appeal. We love how Kingston offers a variety of ways to see its highlights—whether you prefer a leisurely ride through its streets, a walk with a humorous twist, or even a bird’s-eye view from above. For example, the Kingston: Trolley City Tour provides an easy, nostalgic way to see Queen’s University and Fort Henry, while the Kingston City Tour offers spectacular aerial views of key landmarks. These options cater to different interests and energy levels, making Kingston a city that truly invites exploration.
Kingston is perfect for those who want an immersive experience of its history, architecture, and scenic beauty. The variety of tours means you can pick what suits your style—whether that’s a quick ride, a quirky walk, or a full-day adventure with a cruise. Below, we’ll explore each of these top tours in detail to help you decide which one will make the most of your visit.
1. Kingston: Trolley City Tour
Rating: 4.6/5 (96 reviews)
Price: $32 per person
Duration: 1 hour
Location: Ontario, Canada
This nostalgic trolley ride is a delightful way to cover Kingston’s key sights in just an hour. The red trolley whisks you through the historic downtown and shopping districts, offering a relaxed, fun atmosphere. Your guide, who shares tales of Kingston’s past stretching back over 300 years, makes history come alive with engaging stories. It’s an easy option for travelers who want a quick yet informative overview of the city’s most iconic spots.
One of the best features is the view of Fort Henry from Point Henry, where you’ll want to have your camera ready. The trolley also passes by Queen’s University and Kingston Penitentiary, allowing you to admire classic architecture and learn about these historic institutions. The centrally-located boarding point makes this tour accessible and convenient.
This tour is well-suited for visitors short on time but eager to grasp Kingston’s character quickly. The high rating of 4.6/5 reflects its popularity and the quality of storytelling. For families or first-timers, this offers a fun, comfortable introduction.
Bottom line: A lively, entertaining way to get your bearings and see Kingston’s highlights in a relaxed setting.
2. Hidden Kingston City Walking Tours
Rating: 5/5 (4 reviews)
Price: $28 per person
Duration: 1.5 hours
Location: Ontario, Canada
If you enjoy stories that reveal Kingston’s quirkier side, this walking tour is the choice for you. It’s a quirky, humorous exploration of the city, with your guide sharing tales of duels, tricky tenants, sea monsters, and musical mischief. This tour is unique because it combines history with entertainment, making the city’s lesser-known stories come alive.
Starting and ending conveniently, the tour takes you past historic buildings and prestigious sites while uncovering the hidden stories behind them. You’ll snap photos of interesting architecture and learn about Kingston’s more playful and odd history. The small size of the group and the enthusiastic tone of the guide make it an engaging experience.
What makes this tour special is its focus on hidden gems and amusing anecdotes that you’re unlikely to find in standard guides. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a light-hearted but informative walk, especially those who enjoy a good story.
Bottom line: A fun, offbeat way to see Kingston through a humorous lens, ideal for curious minds and history lovers alike.
3. From Montreal: Kingston City Day Trip & 1000 Island Cruise
Rating: 4.4/5 (5 reviews)
Price: $122 per person
Duration: 1 day
Location: Quebec, Canada
For those coming from Montreal, this full-day trip combines history, architecture, and scenic beauty. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Montreal, making it very convenient. Once in Kingston, you’ll explore landmarks like Kingston City Hall—an impressive 1844 building—and visit the Royal Military College and Queen’s University.
The highlight is a Thousand Islands sightseeing cruise on the Saint Lawrence River, where you’ll see historic mansions and natural wonders. This cruise is a fantastic way to enjoy Kingston’s natural setting and learn about the region’s maritime history. The guided city tour and free time to explore downtown add flexibility.
The value for money is notable, as it combines transportation, guided sightseeing, and a cruise in one package. It’s best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive day out, combining city sights with a relaxing boat ride. The main drawback is the price, but the convenience and variety of experiences justify it for most visitors.
Bottom line: A well-rounded day trip for those looking to combine Kingston’s heritage with a scenic cruise, especially beneficial for first-time visitors.
4. Kingston City Tour
Rating: N/A (reviews not provided)
Price: $236 per person
Duration: 30 minutes
Location: Ontario, Canada
This aerial tour of Kingston offers a bird’s-eye view of the city’s most iconic sites. It’s the shortest tour on our list but packs a visual punch, with views of Kingston Harbour, Fort Henry, and the Kingston Penitentiary from above. The highlight is observing sunken ships around Garden Island, which adds a unique natural element rarely seen from the ground.
Jumping in a small aircraft or helicopter (depending on the operator), you’ll glide over Kingston to get a different perspective on its historic and natural landmarks. This tour is perfect for photographers or aviation enthusiasts who want an unforgettable view.
While the price is higher than other options, the experience of seeing Kingston from the sky justifies the cost for many. It’s a quick, exhilarating way to round out your visit and offers excellent photo opportunities. However, it’s less suited for travelers uncomfortable with flying or those on a tight budget.
Bottom line: An exciting option for a unique perspective on Kingston, best for those wanting a memorable aerial experience.
$236 per person
How to Choose the Best Kingston Tour for You
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, available time, and interests. For a quick overview, the Kingston: Trolley City Tour offers a relaxed introduction, while the Hidden Kingston walking tour is perfect if you want a more quirky, story-rich experience.
If you’re coming from Montreal or want to combine sightseeing with a cruise, the Kingston Day Trip & 1000 Islands Cruise provides a full day of activity and scenic views. For a truly memorable experience and great photo opportunities, the Kingston City Tour by air adds a wow factor.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak summer months, as Kingston’s guided tours tend to fill up. Think about your preferred pace—do you want a quick overview, a humorous walk, or an all-day adventure? Each tour offers something distinctive.
Final Thoughts
From the charming nostalgia of a trolley ride to the thrill of an aerial view, Kingston’s diverse tours cater to a variety of interests. For a family or first-time visitor, the trolley tour provides a friendly, comprehensive introduction. History buffs and humor seekers will enjoy the Hidden Kingston walking tour, while those seeking natural beauty and scenic vistas will appreciate the scenic cruise and day trip.
No matter which you choose, Kingston’s mix of historic sites, lively streets, and scenic landscapes ensures a memorable experience. To make the most of your visit, consider booking your preferred tour early and planning your day around what excites you most about this Canadian city.