Top Kid-Friendly Fun Activities and Things to Do in Kingston, Ontario
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Top Kid-Friendly Fun Activities and Things to Do in Kingston, Ontario

Updated: 7 days ago

If you're planning a family trip to Kingston, Ontario, you're in for a treat with a variety of activities that will keep your kids engaged and entertained. Start your adventure at the Kingston Trolley Tours; it's a fantastic way to get an overview of the city. The hop-on, hop-off feature allows you to explore attractions like Fort Henry and the PumpHouse Steam Museum at your own pace. For an outdoor experience, head to the Lemoine Point Conservation Area, where kids can explore nature trails, go swimming, or enjoy a family picnic. Don't forget to check out the seasonal fruit-picking at local farms, which offer a fun and tasty activity for children of all ages.


For a more structured day, consider visiting one of the many child-friendly museums that Kingston has to offer. The Marine Museum of the Great Lakes offers interactive exhibits that will captivate any curious mind, and the Original Hockey Hall of Fame is a must-see for sports enthusiasts. If your kids are looking for more physical activities, the Artillery Park Aquatic Centre provides indoor swimming options that are perfect for any weather. And for a unique and thrilling experience, take them to the Skywood Eco Adventure Park, where they can challenge themselves on zip lines and aerial courses. Remember to check the availability and opening hours for each attraction before you go, and consider booking in advance when possible to ensure you have a spot, especially during peak tourist seasons


Top and Fun Things to Do with Kids and Family in Kingston, Ontario


Index



1. Learn about Steam and Technology at The PumpHouse


The PumpHouse, Kingston
The PumpHouse, Kingston

Location: 23 Ontario Street, Kingston, ON K7L 2Y2

Website: The PumpHouse


The PumpHouse in Kingston, Ontario, offers an intriguing blend of history and science for children. Kids can engage with interactive exhibits that explain the mechanics of steam and waterworks. The museum's Discovery Centre is filled with hands-on activities that encourage young visitors to learn through tactile experiences. Seasonal workshops and special family events are designed to captivate children's imaginations, making the PumpHouse a place where history's stories spark the curiosity of the young and old alike.


2. Be Hands-on at MacLachlan Woodworking Museum


Location: 2993 Highway 2 East, Kingston, ON K7L 4V1


The MacLachlan Woodworking Museum in Kingston invites children to discover the art of woodworking in an interactive environment. Kids can participate in hands-on activities, such as building their own wooden creations, and learn about the craft through child-friendly exhibits. The museum's workshops and summer camps offer educational programs tailored for young learners, fostering creativity and manual skills. Situated by the water, it also provides a picturesque setting for family picnics and exploration after a session of crafting.


 

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3. Practice Archery at Kingston Archery Club


Location: 2043 Battersea Road, Kingston, ON K7L 4Z6


The Kingston Archery Club provides an excellent opportunity for kids to learn the sport of archery in a safe and welcoming environment. Certified instructors guide children through the basics, focusing on technique, safety, and fun. The club offers youth programs and beginner courses tailored for young archers, allowing them to develop focus, discipline, and hand-eye coordination. It's an empowering experience where children can aim for success and enjoy the thrill of hitting their target.


4. Learn about Ecosystem at Little Cataraqui Creek Conservation Area


Location: 1641 Perth Road, Glenburnie, ON K0H 1S0


Little Cataraqui Creek Conservation Area in Kingston is a natural oasis for family-friendly outdoor activities. Kids can explore diverse habitats on the walking trails, spot wildlife, and learn about conservation. In winter, the area becomes a wonderland for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. The conservation area also offers educational programs, like the Maple Madness event during syrup season, and interactive displays at the Outdoor Centre, making nature both a playground and classroom for children.


5. Cool off with Kingston Splash Pad Tour


Location: Various locations around Kingston


Kingston is dotted with kid-friendly splash pads, providing a perfect escape from the summer heat. These vibrant water play areas are found in many community parks, such as City Park, Lake Ontario Park, and Victoria Park. They feature various interactive water elements like gentle sprays, gushing fountains, and cascading buckets that offer endless fun for children. With no standing water, splash pads are a safe option for toddlers to older kids, encouraging active, imaginative play in a refreshing outdoor setting.


6. Learn about Canada's Military History at Fort Henry National Historic Site


Fort Henry National Historic Site, Kingston
Fort Henry National Historic Site, Kingston

Location: 1 Fort Henry Drive, Kingston, ON K7K 5G8

Website: Fort Henry


Fort Henry National Historic Site in Kingston offers a unique educational adventure for kids. They can step back in time, exploring the 19th-century fortress with its ramparts, garrison rooms, and museum exhibits. Interactive displays and guided tours captivate young minds, while lively reenactments and cannon firings bring history to life. The "Xplorers Program" for children includes activities like scavenger hunts, making the visit a dynamic learning experience that combines fun with a glimpse into Canada's military past.


7. Explore Kingston Downtown on a Trolley Tours


Location: 248 Ontario Street, Kingston, ON K7L 5P7


Kingston's Trolley Tours provide a delightful way for kids to see the city's historic landmarks and waterfront. The hop-on, hop-off nature of the tour allows families to explore attractions at their own pace. With engaging commentary that often includes fun facts and stories, children can learn about Kingston's rich history while riding in the charming, old-fashioned trolley. Special event tours, like the Haunted Walk, add an extra layer of excitement for older kids seeking a spooky adventure.



8. Enjoy Outdoor Playground and Picnic at Grass Creek Park


Location: 2991 Kingston 2, Kingston, ON K7L 4V1


Grass Creek Park in Kingston is a delightful destination for families. With its expansive sandy beach and clear swimming areas, it's perfect for a summer day. Kids can enjoy the playground, while the wide-open spaces are great for soccer or frisbee. There's also a charming boardwalk for leisurely strolls and a picnic area for family lunches. The park often hosts events and festivals, adding to the fun-filled atmosphere for a memorable family outing.


9. Hike and View Wildlife at Lemoine Point Conservation Area


Location: 1440 Coverdale Drive, Kingston, ON K7M 8X7


Lemoine Point Conservation Area in Kingston is a haven for family outdoor activities. With over 11 kilometers of picturesque trails winding through forests and along the shoreline, it's ideal for kid-friendly hiking, bird watching, and nature exploration. The swimming area provides a refreshing dip on hot days, while the picnic spots are perfect for family lunches. Playgrounds and open spaces offer children the freedom to run and play, making for a perfect day out in nature.


10. Enjoy Various Aquatic Activities at Artillery Park Aquatic Centre


Artillery Park Aquatic Centre, Kingston
Artillery Park Aquatic Centre, Kingston

Location: 382 Bagot Street, Kingston, ON K7K 3B9


Artillery Park Aquatic Centre in Kingston is a family-friendly facility that offers a range of aquatic activities for children. With a leisure pool featuring a shallow end perfect for young swimmers and a variety of water toys and floatables, it's designed for kid-approved fun. There's also a vortex pool and a slide for more adventurous spirits. Swimming lessons and free swim times cater to all skill levels, making it an inclusive environment for water-based enjoyment and learning.


11. Learn Hockey History at The Original Hockey Hall of Fame


Location: 1350 Gardiners Road, Kingston, ON K7P 0E5


The Original Hockey Hall of Fame in Kingston is not only a treasure trove for hockey enthusiasts but also a fun destination for kids. Interactive exhibits like trying on vintage goalie gear and playing old-time hockey games engage young visitors. They can learn about hockey's roots and its greats through accessible displays. The Hall of Fame's focus on the sport's history and its heroes provides an inspiring visit for the whole family, fostering a deeper appreciation for Canada's beloved game.


 

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12. Learn about Minerals and Geology at the Miller Museum of Geology


Location: Queen’s University, 36 Union Street, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6


The Miller Museum of Geology on Queen's University campus is an educational gem. Children can learn about fossils, minerals, and the geological history of the Earth. Interactive displays make the experience both fun and enlightening.


13. Watch Boats Navigate the Locks at Kingston Mills Lockstation


Location: 1 Lock Street, Kingston, ON K7L 4V3


Part of the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kingston Mills Lockstation, part of the historic Rideau Canal, is a delightful spot for a family outing. Kids can watch boats navigate through the locks, learning about the engineering marvel firsthand. The adjacent park offers ample space for children to play and picnic. They can explore the surrounding nature trails, and during summer, the area occasionally hosts educational sessions about the canal's history, providing an interactive and informative experience for young minds in a beautiful setting.


14. Adventure at Improbable Escapes


Location: 303 Bagot Street, Suite 16B, Kingston, ON K7K 5W7


Improbable Escapes in Kingston delivers an exhilarating adventure for families with its kid-friendly escape rooms. These interactive games transport players into themed stories where teamwork and puzzle-solving are key. With a variety of rooms designed to cater to different age groups, even younger children can enjoy the hunt for clues and the rush of 'escaping.' The experience fosters critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration, making it a memorable outing for children and parents alike.


15. Be Active and have Fun at Kingston Expert Tees Active Fun Park


Location: 1165 Collins Bay Road, Kingston, ON K7P 2X6


Expert Tees Active Fun Park in Kingston offers an abundance of kid-friendly activities set to delight and entertain. From the challenging mini-golf course that weaves through imaginative landscapes to the adrenaline-pumping batting cages, there’s fun for every age. The driving range gives budding golfers a chance to swing, and the park's open spaces provide plenty of room for children to run and play. It's a family-favorite spot for outdoor fun and active play.


16. Learn about Military Life at Murney Tower Museum


Murney Tower Museum, Kingston
Murney Tower Museum, Kingston

Location: 2 King Street West, Kingston, ON K7L 4V6


The Murney Tower Museum in Kingston is a fortress-turned-museum that offers a kid-friendly glimpse into 19th-century military life. As one of Kingston's Martello towers, it provides a hands-on history lesson where children can explore the tower's thick walls, climb to the top for panoramic views, and see historical artifacts. Educational programs and interactive displays capture young imaginations, making history tangible and engaging for all ages in a setting that feels like a castle from a storybook.


17. Enjoy a Show at Blue Canoe Productions


Location: 1296 Bath Rd, Kingston, ON K7M 4X3


Blue Canoe Productions in Kingston ignites the creative spark in children with its focus on youth and educational theatre. Offering kid-friendly shows and musicals, it provides an ideal introduction to the performing arts. Their involvement in the Juvenis Festival gives young people a chance to participate in workshops and performances, encouraging them to explore their talents. Whether as audience members or budding performers, kids can experience the joy and excitement of live theatre in a welcoming and supportive environment.



18. Be Creative at The Tett Centre for Creativity and Learning


Location: 370 King Street West, Kingston, ON K7L 2X4


The Tett Centre for Creativity and Learning in Kingston is a cultural hub that nurtures children's artistic expression. With studios offering classes in music, dance, pottery, and visual arts, kids can discover and develop their creative abilities. Family-friendly events, such as interactive art workshops and community festivals, provide opportunities for hands-on learning and fun. The Tett Centre's welcoming atmosphere inspires young minds, making art accessible and enjoyable for children of all ages.


19. Explore Indigenous Pictograph Paintings in Bon Echo Provincial Park


Pictographs on Mazinaw Rock, Upper Mazinaw Lake, Bon Echo Provincial Park, Ontario
Pictographs on Mazinaw Rock, Upper Mazinaw Lake, Bon Echo Provincial Park, Ontario

Location: 16151 Hwy 41, Cloyne, ON K0H 1K0


Bon Echo Provincial Park, although not in Kingston but near it, is an outdoor haven for families. Kids can revel in the natural beauty with activities like hiking to see ancient Indigenous pictographs on Mazinaw Rock, canoeing in clear waters, and swimming at sandy beaches. The park's interpretive programs, such as guided walks and evening campfires, educate and entertain young campers. With spacious campsites, the park offers a memorable wilderness experience that's accessible for even the littlest explorers.


20. Pick Your Own Fruits in Farms around Kingston


Location: Various

Website: Various


Kingston offers delightful fruit-picking experiences that are perfect for kids. Family-friendly farms open their fields for seasonal picking, where children can gather strawberries, apples, raspberries, and more. It's not only fun but educational, as kids learn where their food comes from. Wagon rides, petting zoos, and playgrounds often complement the experience. Picking fruit by hand fosters a connection with nature and provides a sweet reward for little ones' efforts, all within the beautiful countryside surrounding Kingston.


 

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21. Enjoy Sightseeing Tours with 1000 Islands Cruises


Location: 248 Ontario St, Kingston, ON K7L 5P7


1000 Islands Cruises in Kingston offers kid-friendly sightseeing tours, a perfect way to explore the natural beauty of the region. Families can enjoy narrated cruises, learning about the history and legends of the Thousand Islands. Children will be captivated by the sight of fairy-tale castles, historic lighthouses, and scenic waterfronts. Some tours feature interactive pirate-themed adventures, adding an element of fantasy and play that is sure to delight the younger adventurers on board.


22. Explore Artwork Collections at the Agnes Etherington Art Centre


Location: 36 University Ave, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6


The Agnes Etherington Art Centre in Kingston provides a stimulating environment for children to appreciate art. With family-friendly tours, kids can explore diverse collections and exhibits in an accessible way. Creative workshops and art-making sessions are tailored to young visitors, fostering their artistic talents. Events like Family Sundays offer hands-on activities designed to complement current exhibitions, making art education engaging and fun. It's a place where kids can connect with art, culture, and history in an interactive setting.


23. Learn about Fascinating Electronics and gadgets at the Military Communications and Electronics Museum


Military Communications and Electronics Museum, Kingston
Military Communications and Electronics Museum, Kingston

Location: 95 Craftsman Blvd, Kingston, ON K7K 7B4


The Military Communications and Electronics Museum in Kingston offers an engaging educational experience for kids. With interactive displays and hands-on exhibits, young visitors can learn about the history of military communications and electronics. They can climb into military vehicles, operate signal equipment, and participate in scavenger hunts. Special events and programs aimed at children make the world of military tech accessible and fascinating, sparking curiosity and offering a unique glimpse into the world of military innovation.


24. Explore Wolfe Island


Location: Wolfe Island


A visit to Wolfe Island, a short ferry ride from Kingston, is an idyllic family retreat. Kids can frolic on sandy beaches, cycle along peaceful country roads, and spot wildlife in natural habitats. The island's quaint atmosphere is perfect for a laid-back day of exploration. Seasonal activities like corn mazes and pumpkin patches add to the fun. It's a charming escape where children can enjoy the simplicity of rural life and outdoor adventure.


25. Enjoy Zipline and Aerial Adventures at Skywood Eco Adventure


Location: 1278 Thousand Islands Pkwy, Mallorytown, ON K0E 1R0


Skywood Eco Adventure near Kingston is an exhilarating treetop experience for families. It boasts the largest zip line and canopy adventure park in North America, offering age-appropriate aerial courses for kids, including rope bridges, swings, and zip lines. Little adventurers can navigate the Treewalk Village or challenge themselves on the Discovery Courses. With attentive staff ensuring safety, children can confidently enjoy the thrills, while learning about the environment in this unique outdoor setting.



26. Learn Maritime History at Marine Museum of the Great Lakes at Kingston


Location: 55 Ontario St, Kingston, ON K7L 2Y2


The Marine Museum of the Great Lakes in Kingston is a waterfront treasure that's perfect for kids curious about nautical history. With hands-on exhibits and engaging storytelling, children can delve into the maritime heritage of the Great Lakes. They can explore the retired icebreaker, the Alexander Henry, imagining life at sea. Educational programs and interactive displays teach young visitors about shipwrecks, ecology, and the importance of maritime trade in a fun and accessible way.


27. Tour Kingston Penitentiary


Kingston Penitentiary
Kingston Penitentiary

Location: 560 King St W, Kingston, ON K7L 4V7


Visiting the historic Kingston Penitentiary offers a unique experience for older kids and teenagers. As Canada's oldest maximum-security prison, now decommissioned, it provides guided tours that reveal the penitentiary's past and shed light on prison life. The educational aspect is intriguing, with tales of infamous inmates and escapes. While it may not be suitable for very young children, it's an eye-opening outing for families with an interest in history and criminal justice.


These attractions in Kingston, Ontario, provide a mix of historical, educational, and recreational experiences that can cater to various interests within a family. By visiting these places, families can enjoy quality time together while learning new things, appreciating nature, or simply having fun. It's always recommended to check the websites or contact the attractions directly for the most current information on hours of operation, any COVID-19 related restrictions or requirements, and to ensure they are open during your planned visit.


 

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Comments (2)
Guest
Feb 14

I have been in Kingston few times, but looks like I have seen nothing. Time to go again.

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Let's Live A Life
Let's Live A Life
Admin
Feb 14
Replying to

Definitely a good idea. Cheers!

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