Best Places To Stay In Kingston

If you’re planning a visit to Kingston, Ontario, one of the first questions you’ll likely ask is where are the best places to stay in Kingston?

I recently visited Kingston and found it to be one of Ontario’s most enjoyable getaway destinations. If you’re visiting for a weekend, exploring the city’s historic sites, taking a 1000 Islands cruise, or enjoying the vibrant downtown, choosing the right accommodation will make a huge difference in your experience.

The good news is that Kingston offers accommodations for every type of traveller. It offers luxury waterfront hotels, charming boutique inns and budget-friendly options for places to stay.

Why Location Matters When Choosing Where to Stay in Kingston

One thing I learned when visiting Kingston is that staying close to downtown makes exploring much easier.

Many of Kingston’s top attractions are within walking distance of the downtown core, including the waterfront, City Hall, Confederation Park, Market Square, restaurants, shops, and departure points for 1000 Islands cruises.

If it’s your first visit, I highly recommend booking accommodations near downtown Kingston so you can spend less time driving and more time enjoying the city. When staying downtown, you can park your car when you arrive and leave it until it’s time to leave.

In this guide, I’ll share some of the best places to stay in Kingston based on location, amenities, and overall experience.

Delta Hotels by Marriott Kingston Waterfront ⭐⭐⭐⭐

If you’re looking for one of the best waterfront hotels in Kingston, the Delta Hotels by Marriott Kingston Waterfront is hard to beat.

Located directly on the waterfront, this hotel offers beautiful views of Kingston Harbour and Lake Ontario. One of my favourite things about the property is its unbeatable location. You can walk to many of Kingston’s top attractions, restaurants, and waterfront activities within minutes.

The rooms are modern and comfortable, making it an excellent choice for couples, weekend travelers, and anyone wanting a premium Kingston experience. It’s also home to the best waterfront dining patio in Kingston which is reason enough for me to want to stay at this hotel.

Holiday Inn Kingston Waterfront ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Frontenac Club ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

This hotel isn’t located directly on the waterfront, but is a short block away. For travellers looking for something more unique, the Frontenac Club offers a boutique experience in the heart of Kingston. Even though its a block up from the main street, it’s only a couple of minutes walk to the waterfront, where the action is.

Housed in a beautifully restored historic building, this property blends old-world charm with modern luxury. During my walk through Kingston’s historic district, I admired the building’s character and location. I also was fascinated by the history of the building. It hasn’t always been a hotel. It was once a gentlemens club and the lounge was a bank.

The Frontenac Club is perfect for travellers who appreciate personalized service, elegant décor, and a quieter atmosphere than larger hotels.

Drivers Tip: There is an upscale lounge and patio on-site which is also open to the public

Kingston Marriott ⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Kingston Marriott offers modern accommodations right in the heart of downtown.

What makes this property stand out is its central location. You’ll be within walking distance of many of Kingston’s most popular attractions, including Springer Market Square, restaurants, pubs, and historic sites.

If you enjoy staying in the middle of the action, this is an excellent option.

Residence Inn by Marriott Kingston Water’s Edge ⭐⭐⭐⭐

For longer stays or travellers who like having extra space, the Residence Inn by Marriott Kingston Water’s Edge is a fantastic choice. This is the hotel that I prefer when I’m visiting Kingston. It’s located right on the edge of the action so it’s a bit quieter than the other waterfront hotels.

The suites feature kitchenettes and additional living space, which makes them ideal for families or extended visits. The location near the waterfront also allows easy access to many attractions.

This is definitely a top choices if you’re planning on a longer stay.

Driver’s Tip: Breakfast is included with your stay. Parking isn’t, but there is parking on-site for a fee.

Hochelaga Inn ⭐⭐⭐

One of Kingston’s most charming accommodations is the Hochelaga Inn.

Set inside a historic Victorian mansion, this bed and breakfast offers a unique alternative to traditional hotels. The architecture alone makes it worth considering for travellers seeking a more memorable stay.

Its location near downtown allows guests to easily explore Kingston’s attractions while enjoying a cozy and welcoming atmosphere in a residential area of the city.

Best Budget-Friendly Places To Stay In Kingston

Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice comfort. Kingston offers several reliable budget-friendly hotel options, including:

• Comfort Inn Highway 401 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
• Hampton Inn by Hilton Kingston ⭐⭐⭐
• Quality Inn & Conference Centre ⭐⭐⭐⭐
• Best Western Fireside Inn ⭐⭐⭐

These properties often provide excellent value, but you will have to drive a short distance to access Kingston’s downtown attractions and waterfront.

My Recommendation For First-Time Visitors

If it’s your first time visiting Kingston, I would strongly recommend staying downtown along the waterfront.

Being able to walk to restaurants, attractions, cruise departures, and scenic waterfront trails will significantly enhance your overall experience.

In my opinion, the Delta Hotels by Marriott Kingston Waterfront, Holiday Inn Kingston Waterfront, and Marriott Kingston offer the best locations for easy access to attractions and restaurants, without having to drive.

The convenience of being near the waterfront allows you to fully experience what makes Kingston such a special destination.

My Thoughts On The Best Places To Stay In Kingston

Kingston offers accommodations for every style of traveller. If you’re looking for luxury, boutique charm, family-friendly amenities, or budget-conscious options, Kingston has it all.

After spending time exploring the city, I believe that staying near the waterfront downtown provides the best overall experience. You’ll be close to Kingston’s most popular attractions while enjoying the beautiful scenery that makes this city one of Ontario’s top destinations.

No matter where you choose to stay, Kingston’s combination of history, waterfront views, excellent dining, and welcoming atmosphere makes Kingston worth returning to again and again.