Hidden Kingston City Walking Tours

If you’re visiting Kingston, Ontario, and want to go beyond the usual tourist spots, the Hidden Kingston City Walking Tour might just be what you’re looking for. This 1.5-hour adventure promises to uncover the city’s lesser-known stories, filled with humor, oddities, and surprises. While it might not sound like your typical historical ramble, it’s a lively way to get a fresh perspective on a city packed with character.

What immediately caught my attention about this tour are two things: First, it’s not your standard history walk. It focuses on the bizarre and humorous tales that you won’t find in any guidebook, which makes it especially appealing if you’re into quirky stories. Second, the guide’s knowledge seems to be a real highlight—people rave about their guides being personable and full of interesting tidbits.

The only potential drawback? At $28 per person, some might find the price a little high for a 90-minute tour. But considering the personalized storytelling and the unique content, many will feel it’s worth the cost. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy fun, offbeat stories and want to see Kingston from a different angle—perfect for first-timers, locals wanting a new perspective, or anyone with a curiosity for unusual tales.

Key Points

• Unique Stories: Focuses on bizarre, humorous, and unexpected tales of Kingston.
• Accessible & Convenient: Starts and ends near key locations, easy to reach.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Highly praised for personable, well-informed storytelling.
• Value for Money: Offers more than just surface-level information—an engaging experience.
• Weather-Ready: Takes place rain or shine; dress accordingly.
• Accessible for Wheelchairs: Designed to be inclusive for different mobility needs.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Hidden Kingston Tour

This isn’t your average city walk. The tour is designed to entertain as well as inform, with guides sharing stories that veer into the humorous and the unusual. Expect to spend about 90 minutes strolling through Kingston’s streets, with plenty of opportunities to snap photos of historic buildings and notable sites along the way. It’s built around storytelling, so don’t expect a long lecture—think of it more as a lively conversation with a knowledgeable friend who loves Kingston’s quirky side.

The Meeting Point and Logistics

You’ll gather in front of the Kingston Visitor Information Centre at 209 Ontario Street, easily accessible and central. Look for a guide wearing a blue nametag lanyard—simple enough to spot. The tour runs in the morning and afternoon, and you can reserve your spot without paying upfront, offering flexibility if your plans change.

The Route and Highlights

While the exact stops aren’t listed, the tour promises an exploration of Kingston’s hidden gems and stories behind them. You might find yourself hearing about tricky tenants, costly mistakes, and musical mischief, all told with humor and insight. The guide’s storytelling style is praised for being personable and full of interesting facts, even locals may not know.

One of the tour’s strengths is its focus on anecdotal stories—tales of dueling doctors, the city’s sea serpent, and bank robbers—which make the history much more lively than dry dates and facts. These stories turn Kingston into a city of surprises, full of secrets waiting to be uncovered.

The Content and Experience

People who’ve taken this tour talk about a good mix of historical tidbits and fun legends. The stories tend to bring Kingston’s history alive, engaging both first-time visitors and locals. Evelyne from Canada appreciated her guide, India, calling her “very sympathetic and super knowledgeable about Kingston’s hidden stories.” That kind of personal touch can elevate the experience from a simple walk to a memorable mini-adventure.

The stories include some quirky tales that aren’t usually covered in traditional tours, making it a refreshing change if you’re tired of the usual tourist fare. The combination of humor, oddity, and local lore offers a well-rounded glimpse into Kingston’s lesser-known history.

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Price and Value

At $28 per person, this tour is a bit pricier than some might expect for an hour and a half. However, when you factor in the engaging storytelling, exclusive stories, and the chance to see parts of the city you might not explore on your own, many find it worth the investment. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a lighthearted experience that doesn’t require a significant time commitment or expense.

Accessibility and Practicalities

The tour is wheelchair accessible, which is a huge plus, making it inclusive for a wider range of travelers. It runs rain or shine, so be sure to dress for the weather—bring an umbrella if needed. Booking is flexible with a cancel-up-to-24-hours policy, giving peace of mind if your plans suddenly shift.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after an unconventional way to explore Kingston, this tour offers a lively mix of storytelling, humor, and hidden secrets. It’s perfect for history buffs who want to see a different side of the city or travelers who appreciate stories that make the past feel alive and personal. It’s also a good fit for those who enjoy a bit of mischief and local legends—the tales of dueling doctors and sea serpents are especially amusing.

While it might not satisfy those looking for a serious, in-depth history, this tour excels at providing an engaging, fun snapshot of Kingston’s quirky, lesser-known past. It’s also ideal for first-time visitors who want to get a feel for the city’s character without the fatigue of a long day of sightseeing.

The Bottom Line

The Hidden Kingston City Walking Tour offers a genuinely fun and engaging way to see Kingston through a different lens. For just $28, you get a lively 90-minute stroll filled with stories of mischief, oddities, and secrets that you won’t find in any guidebook. The guides are highly praised for their knowledge and personable style, making the experience feel like a chat with an amusing local friend.

While the price may seem high for the length of the tour, the quality of storytelling and the unique content make it a worthwhile option for travelers who enjoy offbeat stories and a bit of local legend. Whether you’re new to Kingston or a seasoned local, this tour provides a fresh perspective that will leave you smiling and maybe a little more curious about the city’s hidden sides.

If you’re up for a playful, slightly mischievous peek at Kingston’s past, this tour is a great choice. Just come prepared for whatever weather and enjoy uncovering Kingston’s secrets.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally family-friendly, but it’s best suited for older children who can keep up with the walking and enjoy storytelling. It’s not specifically marketed as a children’s tour.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 1.5 hours.

Where exactly do I meet the guide?
Meet in front of the Kingston Visitor Information Centre at 209 Ontario Street. Look for a guide wearing a blue nametag lanyard.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

Does the tour run in bad weather?
Yes, it takes place rain or shine. Dress accordingly.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Do I need to pay upfront?
No, you can reserve now and pay later, giving you flexibility.

Are there any hidden costs?
No, the price listed includes the tour and guide.

What’s the main focus of the stories?
The stories focus on the humorous, bizarre, and lesser-known tales of Kingston, rather than just plain history.

Is this a guided tour or just self-guided?
It’s a live guided tour led by storytelling guides.

All in all, if you’re curious about Kingston’s less serious, more entertaining side, this tour’s a fantastic way to spend a morning or afternoon. It’s perfect for those who love stories, a good laugh, and uncovering city secrets—one quirky tale at a time.

You can check availability for your dates here: