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Where to Stay in Kingston

Where to Stay in Kingston

Kingston Ontario, Canada Travel Guide

Accommodation Types

Traditional Lodging

  • Hotels

    International chains like Marriott and Holiday Inn, alongside independent boutique hotels, offer standard amenities. IHG Hotels for options.

  • Bed & Breakfasts (B&Bs) / Inns

    Charming B&Bs in restored historic limestone homes offer personalized stays with homemade breakfast.

  • Vacation Rentals / Apartments

    Platforms like Vrbo provide apartments, houses, or individual rooms, suitable for families or longer stays, often with kitchens.

  • Hostels

    Limited hostel options cater to budget travelers, offering dormitory beds and shared facilities. Discover options on Hostelworld.

Specialized Stays

  • Camping and Outdoor

    Provincial parks near Kingston offer serviced and unserviced campsites, typically seasonal and needing advance booking.

  • House/Pet Sitting

    For an alternative, TrustedHousesitters connects travelers with homeowners for unique stays.

  • Booking Platforms

    Global booking platforms like Booking.com and Agoda feature wide selections and user reviews.

  • Direct Bookings

    Booking directly through official websites sometimes offers exclusive deals or flexible cancellation terms.

Neighborhood Guide

Choosing the right neighborhood for your accommodation shapes your Kingston experience. Each area is a different character and proximity to attractions.

Downtown Central Kingston

Benefits
  • Central location for attractions and dining.
  • Lively and engaging atmosphere.
  • Diverse shopping options.
  • Walkable to many sights.
Considerations
  • Can be noisy, specifically on weekends.
  • Parking can be challenging and pricey.
  • Accommodation prices are generally higher.
  • Crowded during peak season.

Queen's University Area

Benefits
  • Proximate to the university campus.
  • Generally close to the central business district attractions.
  • Youthful, energetic atmosphere.
  • Budget-friendly eateries available.
Considerations
  • Can be noisy during academic terms.
  • Less dining and shopping variety than downtown.
  • Mainly student-focused environment.
  • Fewer luxury accommodation options.

West End

Benefits
  • Ample complimentary parking.
  • Typically lower hotel rates than downtown.
  • Convenient highway access (401).
  • Close to major shops.
Considerations
  • Requires driving to reach downtown attractions.
  • Lacks historic charm.
  • Limited unique dining experiences.
  • Suburban, not central, atmosphere.

Safety Notes

General Safety

Kingston is generally safe. Normal urban precautions (awareness, securing valuables) are advised in all areas.

East End Character

The East End is mainly where people live and peaceful, with minimal night-time activity. It is very safe.

Booking Strategies

Careful booking strategies secure your preferred accommodation at good rates.

Advance Booking by Season

  • High Season (Summer - June-August): Highly advised for popular B&Bs and downtown hotels. Kingston is a popular summer destination.
  • Shoulder Seasons (Spring/Fall - April-May & September-October): Advised, especially around university events or city festivals.
  • Low Season (Winter - November-March): Less critical, but booking a few weeks ahead may bring a better selection.
  • Peak Demand Periods: University events or specific city festivals can fill accommodations quickly.

Booking Platforms and Policies

  • Utilize international booking platforms (e.g., Booking.com, Expedia, Hotels.com).
  • Direct booking through official hotel websites sometimes features exclusive deals.
  • Always review specific terms and conditions for deposit and cancellation policies before confirming.
  • Flexible cancellation policies are good if travel plans are uncertain.

Seasonal Price Trends

Highest Prices
  • July and August due to peak demand.
  • During major city festivals.
  • During significant university events.
  • Around specific long weekends.
Lower Prices
  • Generally in shoulder seasons (spring/fall).
  • Lowest in winter, outside of major holidays.
  • Availability is typically pricier in off-peak months.
  • Booking early in the quiet season may yield better rates.

Important Considerations

Parking

Downtown parking can be difficult. Consider hotels with parking choices or taking public transit/walking.

Noise

Downtown and university areas can have higher noise levels, especially on weekends.

Accessibility

Some historic B&Bs might not be very accessible. Verify with the property directly.

Accommodation Recommendations

Here are some types of accommodation recommendations for Kingston, considering different budget levels and travel needs.

Budget and Mid-Range Stays

Hostel

Limited options, typically dormitory beds. Ideal for solo travelers. Price: $40-70 CAD/night.

  • Consider a Portable Travel Safe for ensuring valuables in shared spaces.
  • Social atmosphere.
  • Cost-effective.
  • Central locations for some.
Mid-range Hotel

Downtown hotels (Delta, Holiday Inn Express) provide comfort and amenities. Price: $150-250 CAD/night.

  • Noise Cancelling Earbuds can mitigate urban sounds for light sleepers.
  • Consistent service.
  • Standard amenities.
  • Often include dining options.

Premium and Unique Stays

Boutique Inn

Historic inns (The Rosemount, Frontenac Club) offer a charming experience. Price: $170-270 CAD/night.

Luxury Hotel

Waterfront hotels (Residence Inn Kingston) offer upscale comfort and views. Price: $250-400+ CAD/night.

  • A High-Quality Eye Mask improves sleep comfort in rooms with city lights.
  • Premium comfort.
  • Scenic views.
  • High-end amenities.

Family-Friendly Options

  • Vacation Rentals

    Apartments or houses through platforms such as Airbnb/Vrbo provide space and kitchen facilities.

  • Mid-range Hotels

    Many offer family suites or connecting rooms, often with pools.

  • Proximity to Parks

    Look for properties located near parks or green spaces for outdoor play.

  • Laundry Facilities

    A Travel-size Laundry Detergent is practical for rentals with laundry.

Solo Traveler Recommendations

  • Hostels

    Offer social opportunities and a chance to meet other travelers.

  • Downtown B&Bs

    Many provide a welcoming, safe environment with personal attention.

  • Central Location

    Choose centrally located spots for easy access to attractions and dining by foot.

  • Comfort and Security

    Prioritize properties with good reviews for comfort and safety.

Further Recommendations

Long-Stay Accommodations

Vacation rentals with kitchens are good. Some hotels feature extended-stay rates or suites with kitchenettes.

  • Residential feel.
  • Self-catering options.
  • Special rates for longer periods.
  • More space than standard hotel rooms.
Properties with Cultural/Historical Significance

Focus on B&Bs and inns located in historic limestone buildings downtown for a distinctive experience.

  • Restored heritage buildings.
  • Rich history.
  • Unique photo opportunities.
  • Personal stories from hosts.

Explore More Accommodation Options

Luxury Stays

Find premium hotels and exclusive vacation rentals for an elevated experience.

Boutique & Unique

Discover charming inns and distinct properties reflecting Kingston's character.

Budget-Friendly

Explore hostels plus budget-friendly lodging options without giving up on location.

Where to Stay in Kingston. Hotels, Neighborhoods, Accommodation