Kingston’s historic downtown walking tour offers visitors a captivating journey through the city’s vibrant past. Led by the charismatic storyteller Arthur Milnes, the 1-hour experience guides participants through Market Square and City Hall, uncovering intriguing tales of Canadian Prime Ministers, US Presidents, and Indigenous leaders. Priced at a reasonable $22.22 per person, the tour’s small group size ensures personalized attention as guests are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes and bring their cameras. With a focus on engaging exploration, this immersive experience invites you to discover Kingston’s rich heritage and uncover the secrets that lie within its streets.
This experience made our list of the 3 Best Walking Tours In Kingston Ontario.
Key Points
- This 1-hour immersive walking tour explores Market Square and City Hall, led by Kingston’s chief storyteller, Arthur Milnes.
- The tour highlights the city’s rich history, including stories of Canadian Prime Ministers, US Presidents, and Indigenous heritage.
- Participants can expect a personalized experience with engaging narratives reflecting Kingston’s vibrant culture and architectural significance.
- The tour is priced at $22.22 per person and is non-refundable, with comfortable shoes recommended for the walking experience.
- The tour departs from the Kingston Visitor Information Centre and is suitable for history enthusiasts, families, and locals, with an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars.
Tour Overview and Pricing
Exploring the Kingston Historic Downtown Walking Tour, visitors can expect an immersive 1-hour experience led by a live guide.
Priced at $22.22 per person, the non-refundable tour offers an intimate exploration of the city’s highlights, including Market Square and City Hall.
Guided by Arthur Milnes, Kingston’s chief storyteller and former speechwriter, guests will learn about Canadian Prime Ministers, US Presidents, Indigenous leaders, and notable visitors like Charles Dickens and Ernest Hemingway.
Meeting at the Kingston Visitor Information Centre, participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes and bring a camera to capture the tour’s engaging stories and insights.
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Tour Highlights and Experience
Guests embarking on the Kingston Historic Downtown Walking Tour will enjoy the city’s rich history and captivating narratives. Led by Arthur Milnes, Kingston’s chief storyteller and former speechwriter for the Prime Minister, the tour explores highlights including Market Square and City Hall. Participants will learn about the fascinating stories behind Canadian Prime Ministers, US Presidents, Indigenous leaders, and notable visitors like Charles Dickens and Ernest Hemingway. The small group size ensures an intimate experience, allowing for personalized attention and engaging discussions.
| Tour Highlights | ||
|---|---|---|
| Explore Market Square | Discover stories of Canadian leaders | Learn about Indigenous heritage |
| Visit historic City Hall | Uncover tales of famous authors | Gain insider tips on local amenities |
| Hear captivating narratives | Enjoy a personalized experience | Experience the city’s vibrant culture |
Meeting Point and What to Bring
The Kingston Historic Downtown Walking Tour departs from the Kingston Visitor Information Centre, located at 209 Ontario Street in downtown Kingston.
Participants should wear comfortable shoes as the tour involves walking. A camera is recommended to capture the sights and scenes along the way. Weather-appropriate clothing is advised, as the tour proceeds rain or shine.
The meeting point is easily accessible, with nearby free parking available for those driving to the tour. Guests are encouraged to arrive a few minutes early to check-in and get acquainted with their knowledgeable guide before the tour begins.
Participant Information
Participants for the Kingston Historic Downtown Walking Tour span a variety of ages, catering to both adults and children.
The tour welcomes adults aged 16 to 99, as well as children aged 2 to 15. Infants aged 1 and younger are welcome to join the tour at no additional cost.
For larger groups of 20 or more passengers, a specialized booking link is available.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a family on vacation, or a local looking to explore your city’s heritage, the Kingston Historic Downtown Walking Tour provides an engaging and informative experience for all.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyCustomer Reviews and Ratings
Travelers have left overwhelmingly positive reviews for the Kingston Historic Downtown Walking Tour, with an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars based on 16 customer evaluations.
The tour’s knowledgeable and friendly guide received a perfect 5/5 rating, while the value for money and overall service and organization were also highly praised at 4.6/5 and 5/5, respectively.
Reviewers highlighted the guide’s engaging storytelling, personalized tours, and helpful tips on local amenities like free parking.
The tour’s highlights include:
- Exploring iconic landmarks like Market Square and City Hall.
- Learning about Canadian Prime Ministers, US Presidents, and notable visitors.
- Experiencing an intimate small-group atmosphere.
- Gaining insider knowledge from Kingston’s chief storyteller.
Exploring Market Square and City Hall
Visitors to the Kingston Historic Downtown Walking Tour enjoy the rich history and architecture of the city’s iconic Market Square and City Hall.
At Market Square, they’ll discover a bustling hub of activity, surrounded by heritage buildings that once housed merchants, banks, and government offices.
The magnificent City Hall, with its clock tower and imposing limestone facade, stands as a testament to Kingston’s proud past.
The guide shares captivating tales of famous figures like Prime Ministers, Presidents, and literary icons who’ve graced these landmarks over the centuries, bringing the past to life in vivid detail.
Exploring these historic sites offers a unique window into Kingston’s enduring legacy.
Stories of Canadian and US Leaders
The walking tour provides a captivating glimpse into the lives and legacies of esteemed Canadian and American leaders who’ve left an indelible mark on Kingston’s history.
The guide regales visitors with stories of:
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Canadian Prime Ministers, including Sir John A. Macdonald, who played a pivotal role in the nation’s founding.
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US Presidents, such as Ulysses S. Grant, who visited Kingston and forged close ties with the community.
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Indigenous leaders, like Chief Niwatha, whose contributions to diplomacy and cultural exchange are highlighted.
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Notable figures like Charles Dickens and Ernest Hemingway, who were inspired by Kingston’s rich heritage during their visits.
Guide: Kingston’s Chief Storyteller
Arthur Milnes, Kingston’s chief storyteller and former speechwriter for the Prime Minister, leads the walking tour.
With his deep knowledge of the city’s history and his captivating storytelling abilities, Milnes brings the past to life.
He shares tales of Canadian Prime Ministers, U.S. Presidents, Indigenous leaders, and notable visitors like Charles Dickens and Ernest Hemingway who’ve walked these streets.
Milnes’ personalized approach and engaging anecdotes create an immersive experience for guests, allowing them to connect with the city’s rich heritage.
His expertise and passion for Kingston’s history make him the ideal guide to unveil the city’s hidden gems and captivate visitors with its storied past.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Purchase the Tour Tickets on the Day of the Tour?
According to the tour information, the tickets for the walking tour cannot be purchased on the day of the tour. The tour has a non-refundable cancellation policy, so customers must book the tour in advance.
Are Group Discounts Available for This Walking Tour?
Yes, group discounts are available for the walking tour. For groups of 20 or more passengers, customers can use the specified link to make group reservations and access discounted pricing.
Does the Tour Include Admission to Any Historic Buildings?
The tour does not include admission to any historic buildings. It’s a walking tour that focuses on exploring the highlights and stories of Kingston’s downtown area without going inside specific sites.
Can the Tour Be Customized for Specific Interests?
The tour can be customized to accommodate specific interests. Participants can request a focus on topics like architecture, local history, or notable figures. The guide tailors the experience to meet the group’s needs and preferences.
Are There Any Accessibility Options for Guests With Disabilities?
The tour offers accommodations for guests with disabilities, including wheelchair-accessible routes and guides who can provide assistance. Visitors should contact the tour provider in advance to discuss their specific needs and ensure an enjoyable experience.
Recap
The "Kingston: Historic Downtown Walking Tour" offers an immersive 1-hour experience through the city’s vibrant culture and rich heritage. Guided by Kingston’s chief storyteller, Arthur Milnes, the tour reveals captivating tales of Canadian Prime Ministers, US Presidents, and Indigenous leaders. With a small group size and personalized attention, guests can explore Market Square and City Hall, capturing the essence of Kingston’s historic downtown.
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