KingstonOutdoor Escape Game & Treasure Hunt
First capital of united Canada
Kingston, the first capital of unified Canada, is a city where history meets modern adventure. If you're wondering what to do in Kingston, prepare to be enchanted by its rich past and contemporary activities. Stroll along the picturesque waterfront, admire the majestic limestone buildings of the historic downtown, or explore the impressive Fort Henry, a UNESCO World Heritage site offering spectacular views of Lake Ontario and the entrance to the Rideau Canal. For a truly memorable experience, dive into an OddballTrip outdoor escape game. It's much more than just a walk; it's a captivating scavenger hunt, a life-sized treasure hunt that transforms the city into your playground. This unusual activity invites you to solve puzzles while discovering hidden gems and fascinating anecdotes about Kingston, far from the beaten path. Whether you're seeking culture, history, or a fun challenge, Kingston has something to satisfy all your desires.
Unusual things to do in Kingston
For an unusual activity in Kingston, step off the beaten path and let yourself be surprised by the city's fascinating history. Beyond traditional museums, imagine yourself wandering through historic streets, armed with clues for a life-sized scavenger hunt. This is an original outing that allows you to see Kingston from a new angle, transforming every street corner into a puzzle piece. Explore the mysteries of downtown, uncover surprising anecdotes about former penitentiary prisoners or the maritime legends of Lake Ontario. It's an interactive and fun way to immerse yourself in the heritage of Canada's first capital, while creating unique memories.
Things to do in Kingston with kids
Kingston is a fantastic family destination, offering activities that captivate both children and teens. What to do in Kingston with family? An outdoor escape game is a perfect option, stimulating teamwork and curiosity in everyone. From age 8 (accompanied), younger participants can actively engage in solving puzzles, while older ones will appreciate the intellectual challenge and playful aspect of the treasure hunt. It's an interactive way to discover the city, transforming a simple stroll into an exciting adventure where everyone has a role to play. Let your children marvel at Kingston's living history while having fun.
Kingston for couples
For a romantic getaway, Kingston for couples offers an idyllic setting blending historic charm and picturesque views. Imagine yourselves hand in hand, exploring the cobbled alleys of downtown, admiring the limestone architecture, and discovering artisan boutiques. The waterfront, with its breathtaking views of the Thousand Islands and Lake Ontario, is perfect for a memorable sunset. An OddballTrip scavenger hunt can add a touch of adventure to your date, guiding you through the city's heritage while strengthening your bond. It's an intimate and original way to share discoveries, create precious memories, and fall in love, not only with each other but also with this historically rich city.
What to do in Kingston when it rains
Even on a rainy day, Kingston offers engaging activities. If you're wondering what to do in Kingston on a rainy day, know that our outdoor escape game is designed to minimize inconvenience. Approximately 80% of the route takes place under arcades, covered passages, or near shelters, allowing you to continue the adventure without getting soaked. Additionally, many cafes and museums are within easy reach for a warm break. You can thus enjoy the city's history and challenges, even when the sky is gray, by alternating outdoor discoveries with comfortable refuges.
Where is Kingston, and where do the routes start?
Starting points of our routes and the places they pass through.
Route starting points
Places in Kingston
- Confederation Park
- Kingston General Hospital (former Parliament)
- Murney Tower (Martello Tower)
- Kingston Inner Harbour
- Kingston Penitentiary (exterior entrance)
- Fort Henry (outer esplanade)
- Bellevue House (exterior)
- St. George's Cathedral
The history of Kingston
From Indigenous Lands to British Stronghold
Kingston's location at the confluence of Lake Ontario, the St. Lawrence River, and the Cataraqui River (the southern end of the Rideau Canal) has shaped its development. Before European settlement, the area was a meeting place for Indigenous peoples, particularly the Iroquois Confederacy. In 1673, French explorer Comte de Frontenac established Fort Cataraqui here, later known as Fort Frontenac, to control trade routes.
After the British conquest of New France in 1760, the fort fell into disrepair. Loyalist refugees, fleeing the American Revolution in the 1780s, revitalized the settlement, renaming it Kingston in honor of King George III. The War of 1812 highlighted the town's vulnerability, leading the British to construct a more robust defense system. This resulted in the building of Fort Henry between 1832 and 1836, designed to protect the Rideau Canal and the naval dockyard. The fort, along with four Martello towers along the waterfront, formed a defensive network. Kingston served as the first capital of the Province of Canada from 1841 to 1844, a period of growth and construction of many of its limestone buildings.
A City of Stone and Institutions
Kingston's architecture, earning it the nickname "Limestone City," is a direct result of the local quarries. Many 19th-century buildings, including Queen's University and Kingston City Hall, showcase this local material. The city also became a center for correctional facilities, with Kingston Penitentiary opening in 1835 as the "Provincial Penitentiary of the Province of Upper Canada." This institution, one of the oldest prisons in continuous use globally until its closure in 2013, played a role in the city's identity for nearly two centuries. The presence of these institutions, along with the military installations, contributed to Kingston's character as a city with a strong sense of history and civic duty.
What to see in Kingston
- Fort Henry National Historic Site — This 19th-century British fortress, built between 1832 and 1836, defended the Rideau Canal and naval dockyard. It offers military demonstrations and guided tours.
- Kingston Penitentiary — Take a guided tour of this former maximum-security prison, which operated from 1835 until 2013. Learn about its history and the lives of its inmates.
- Bellevue House National Historic Site — Visit the former home of Canada's first Prime Minister, Sir John A. Macdonald. This villa, built in the 1840s, shows 19th-century life and Macdonald's political career.
- Murney Tower National Historic Site — This is one of Kingston's four Martello towers, constructed in the 1840s as part of the city's defenses. This circular stone tower now houses a museum showcasing local military history.
- St. George's Cathedral — This Anglican cathedral, a landmark in downtown Kingston, began construction in 1825. It features a dome and classical facade.
- Queen's University Campus — The grounds of this university, founded in 1841, feature many buildings constructed from local limestone.
- Kingston City Hall — This limestone building, completed in 1844, is an example of Kingston's early architectural heritage and a focal point of the downtown area.
When to visit Kingston
For outdoor activities and exploration, visit Kingston from late May through September. Temperatures are warm, between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F), suitable for waterfront walks, boat cruises, and historic sites. July and August offer peak warmth, with average highs around 24-26°C (75-79°F). Fall, late September and October, brings cooler weather and autumn foliage, though rainfall can be higher. Winters, from December to March, are cold, snowy, and windy, with temperatures below 0°C (32°F), and many outdoor attractions may have reduced hours or be closed. Avoid January, the coldest month, with average lows around -12°C (10°F), and often the cloudiest.
Getting around Kingston
Kingston is served by Kingston Norman Rogers Airport (YGK), about 8 kilometers (5 miles) west of downtown. Direct flights are limited. Ottawa (YOW) and Syracuse (SYR) airports are within driving distance for wider options. VIA Rail provides inter-city passenger train service to Kingston, connecting it to Toronto, Ottawa, and Montreal. The Kingston VIA Rail station is about a 15-minute drive from downtown.
Downtown Kingston is walkable, with many attractions, shops, and restaurants in the historic core. Kingston Transit offers bus services throughout the city. Routes are frequent, especially downtown. Parking is available, though it can be challenging downtown. The Wolfe Islander IV, an electric ferry, provides free service between downtown Kingston and Wolfe Island for car or walk-on access.
Things you probably do not know about Kingston
Verified details most visitors walk straight past.
- Kingston General Hospital
- Did you know that a portion of Kingston General Hospital once served a different, rather important, civic function? From 1841 to 1844, when Kingston was the capital of the Province of Canada, the main building of what is now Kingston General Hospital temporarily housed the Parliament of the Province of Canada. The building was originally designed as a hospital, but due to the urgent need for a parliamentary building, it was adapted for this purpose.
- Kingston Penitentiary
- The imposing limestone walls of Kingston Penitentiary hold many stories, but one detail about its construction is particularly striking. The very stone used to build Kingston Penitentiary, which opened in 1835, was quarried directly from the ground on which the prison stands. Inmates themselves were put to work cutting and laying the stone for the facility, including the north wing which rose from 1836.
- Fort Henry
- Fort Henry was a massive undertaking of defense, but its name might lead you to confuse it with other historical fortifications. While Kingston's Fort Henry was built between 1832 and 1836 to defend the Rideau Canal, there are other forts named Fort Henry in North America. For example, a Fort Henry was constructed in 1774 in present-day Wheeling, West Virginia, during the Revolutionary War, and another in Pennsylvania in 1756 during the French and Indian War.
- Murney Tower
- Kingston's Martello towers were designed for defense, but one architectural feature was specifically adapted for the Canadian climate. The Martello towers, like Murney Tower, built in Kingston in the 1840s, have a distinctive removable roof. This feature was incorporated specifically to protect the structures from heavy Canadian snowfall, a practical adaptation for the local weather conditions.
- Kingston Inner Harbour
- Kingston's Inner Harbour was once a crucial hub for a railway that transported more than just passengers. The Kingston & Pembroke Railway, which operated from 1871, had its second station from 1884 onward at 209 Ontario Street, in what is now Confederation Park, right by the Inner Harbour. This railway was primarily developed to transport mineral and lumber resources from Frontenac County to Kingston's harbor facilities.
- Bellevue House
- Bellevue House, the former home of Sir John A. Macdonald, underwent a significant alteration that directly relates to a nearby institution. Originally, Bellevue House featured a greenhouse, vinery, conservatory, and a coach-house. However, these sections were removed by 1978 to accommodate the new wall of the former Prison for Women, which was located directly behind the house.
Questions about visiting Kingston
How long should I plan to stay in Kingston?
To experience Kingston's main historical sites, waterfront, and enjoy its atmosphere, a stay of 2 to 3 days is generally recommended. This allows time for tours of Fort Henry and Kingston Penitentiary, a Thousand Islands cruise, and exploring the downtown area.
What are the best ways to get around Kingston?
Downtown Kingston is very walkable. For longer distances, Kingston Transit offers a comprehensive bus network, with frequent service, especially in the urban core. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available, and a free ferry connects to Wolfe Island.
Is Kingston a good destination for families with children?
Yes, Kingston offers several family-friendly activities. Children can enjoy the historical reenactments at Fort Henry, explore the waterfront parks, and take boat cruises on the Thousand Islands. The city also hosts various festivals and events throughout the warmer months.
What is the typical budget for a trip to Kingston?
A budget for Kingston depends on your preferences. Accommodation ranges from budget-friendly to luxury. Dining options are varied, from casual eateries to fine dining. Activities like museum visits and cruises have entrance fees, while walking around the historic downtown and waterfront is free. Public transport is affordable, and there are free attractions like the Wolfe Island ferry.
What are the best neighborhoods to explore in Kingston?
The historic downtown core is a must-explore, known for its limestone architecture, shops, and restaurants. The waterfront area offers parks and scenic views of Lake Ontario. The Queen's University campus is also a pleasant area to walk through, with its distinctive buildings.
What kind of weather should I expect in October in Kingston?
In October, Kingston experiences cooler autumn weather. Average high temperatures are around 12-14°C (54-58°F), with lows around 5-6°C (40-42°F). You should expect crisp air, changing foliage, and a higher chance of rain, so packing layers and a waterproof jacket is advisable.
Frequently asked questions
How much does an outdoor escape game cost in Kingston?
An OddballTrip outdoor escape game in Kingston costs €12 per team. This price is fixed, regardless of your group size (up to 6 recommended players), making it a very economical and accessible activity. It offers excellent value for an immersive and fun experience that will allow you to discover the city from a new perspective. You pay for the adventure, not per person, which is perfect for families or groups of friends.
Is it suitable for children / families?
Absolutely! Our outdoor escape games are designed to be a fantastic activity for the whole family. Children from 8 years old (accompanied by an adult) can actively participate in solving the puzzles. It's a great way to stimulate their curiosity and teamwork while exploring Kingston. Teens love the challenge and the modern "treasure hunt" aspect. It's a fun and educational adventure that is sure to please all family members.
How long does an escape game in Kingston last?
An OddballTrip outdoor escape game in Kingston typically lasts between 1 hour 30 minutes and 2 hours 30 minutes. The exact duration depends on your pace, your observation skills, and how quickly your team solves the puzzles. There's no strict time limit, so you're free to take your time to admire the sights, take breaks, or even stop for a coffee. The goal is to fully enjoy the experience and the discovery of the city.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it is highly recommended to book your outdoor escape game in advance, especially if you have a specific date and time in mind. While our games are flexible and available most of the time, prior booking guarantees your spot and allows us to send you all the necessary instructions before your arrival. This ensures a smooth and stress-free experience from the very beginning of your adventure in Kingston.
What to visit in Kingston beyond the escape games?
Kingston is full of fascinating sites! Don't miss Fort Henry, a UNESCO World Heritage site, for a dive into military history, or explore the Kingston Penitentiary, a former prison turned museum. The historic downtown is ideal for strolling and admiring the limestone architecture. You can also take a cruise through the Thousand Islands or visit the picturesque campus of Queen's University. The city offers a rich blend of culture, history, and beautiful landscapes.
What is the best season to visit Kingston?
The best season to visit Kingston is generally from spring to autumn (May to October). Temperatures are pleasant, ideal for walking, enjoying patios, and water activities on Lake Ontario and the Thousand Islands. Summer is very popular with many festivals and events. Spring and autumn offer beautiful colors and a quieter atmosphere. Winter can be cold and snowy, but the city retains a certain festive charm.
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