Kingston: Historic Downtown Walking Tour

Discover Kingston’s captivating history on the Historic Downtown Walking Tour. Led by local historian Arthur Milnes, this engaging 1-hour experience unveils the city’s rich heritage, from the bustling Market Square to the iconic City Hall. Milnes’ exceptional storytelling transports visitors back in time, revealing fascinating anecdotes and the connections to influential leaders. With small group sizes, the tour offers a personalized glimpse into Kingston’s past, inviting you to uncover its hidden gems and appreciate the beauty of its historic landmarks. Lace up your comfortable shoes and prepare to be immersed in the vibrant tapestry of this remarkable city.

Good To Know

• A 1-hour guided walking tour starting at the Kingston Visitor Information Centre, led by local historian Arthur Milnes.
• Explore Market Square, City Hall, and hear engaging stories about influential leaders and notable visitors to Kingston.
• Tour may extend beyond 1 hour due to Arthur Milnes’ captivating storytelling style and visitors’ curiosity.
• Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate attire, and a camera are recommended for the tour.
• Tour has an average rating of 4.7/5 based on 16 reviews, praised for the personalized experience and exceptional value.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Details

The Historic Downtown Walking Tour typically begins at the Kingston Visitor Information Centre, where visitors gather to embark on their journey through the city’s storied past.

For just $21.99 per person, guests can explore the highlights of downtown Kingston for an hour, guided by local historian Arthur Milnes – known as the city’s chief storyteller.

The tours are conducted in English and follow a non-refundable cancellation policy.

Along the way, small group sizes allow for an intimate experience as Milnes shares exciting narratives and lesser-known anecdotes about Canadian Prime Ministers, US Presidents, Indigenous leaders, and notable visitors like Charles Dickens and Ernest Hemingway.

Experience and Highlights

Exploring the city’s highlights, the tour transports visitors through Kingston’s storied past. Guided by local historian Arthur Milnes, known as Kingston’s chief storyteller, the small group sizes allow for an intimate experience.

Guests will:

• Discover the lively Market Square and stately City Hall
• Hear exciting stories and lesser-known anecdotes about Kingston’s history
• Learn about the influential Canadian Prime Ministers, US Presidents, Indigenous leaders, and notable visitors who’ve graced the city
• Enjoy Milnes’ engaging storytelling style, which may extend the tour beyond the scheduled 1 hour.

This dynamic experience offers a personalized glimpse into Kingston’s rich heritage.

Arthur Milnes Background

Arthur Milnes, Kingston’s chief storyteller, has an impressive background that sets the stage for the engaging experiences he provides on the Historic Downtown Walking Tour. Milnes has hosted an American President and First Lady, and served as a speechwriter for the Prime Minister of Canada. His storytelling style is described as engaging, often extending tours beyond the scheduled hour due to participants’ captivation. Milnes’ wealth of knowledge and ability to bring history to life make him a tour guide par excellence.

Hosted	Served as	Engaging Storytelling
An American President and First Lady	Speechwriter for the Prime Minister of Canada	Tours may extend beyond 1 hour based on interest

What to Bring and Know

Comfortable shoes are a must for participants on the Historic Downtown Walking Tour. The tour covers highlights throughout Kingston’s charming city centre, so you’ll be on your feet for the full hour.

Plus, be sure to dress for the weather – the tour runs rain or shine.

• Bring your camera to capture Kingston’s picturesque landmarks and historic architecture.
• Pack a water bottle to stay hydrated during the walk.
• Layer up with weather-appropriate clothing, as the coastal breeze can be cool.
• Consider bringing a small backpack or purse to keep your hands free for exploring.

The engaging storytelling by local historian Arthur Milnes may even extend the tour beyond the scheduled hour, so come prepared to make the most of this immersive experience.

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Customer Reviews and Ratings

The tour’s impressive customer ratings reflect the thoughtful curation of the experience. Reviewers consistently praise Arthur Milnes’ engaging storytelling, which brings Kingston’s rich history to life.

With an average rating of 4.7/5 based on 16 reviews, guests highlight the personalized nature of the tour and its exceptional value for money.

One reviewer remarks, "Arthur’s passion for the city is contagious, and his insider knowledge made the tour truly unforgettable."

Another notes, "We learned so much and had a blast in the process."

The uniformly positive feedback underscores the tour’s ability to captivate visitors and leave a lasting impression of Kingston’s heritage.

Meeting Point and Availability

Situated within the heart of downtown Kingston, the Kingston Visitor Information Centre on 209 Ontario Street serves as the meeting point for this captivating walking tour.

Guests can check the tour’s availability and select from a range of convenient start times to suit their schedule. The tour’s flexibility ensures an immersive experience tailored to each visitor’s preferences.

Key details about the tour’s availability include:

• Frequent departures throughout the day
• Easy online booking to secure your spot
• Advance reservations recommended, especially for larger groups
• Flexible start times to accommodate your agenda

Whether you’re a local or a first-time visitor, this guided tour promises an engaging exploration of Kingston’s rich history and vibrant downtown.

Guided by Local Historian

Guiding this captivating walking tour is Arthur Milnes, renowned as Kingston’s chief storyteller.

With an engaging, personable style, Milnes weaves narratives that bring the city’s storied past to life. As you stroll through the historic downtown, he regales you with tales of Canadian Prime Ministers, U.S. Presidents, Indigenous leaders, and notable visitors like Charles Dickens and Ernest Hemingway.

Milnes’ expertise and passion for Kingston’s history ensure an immersive experience, often extending beyond the scheduled hour as he responds to the group’s curiosity.

His guided tour offers a unique opportunity to discover the city’s hidden gems and hear lesser-known anecdotes that bring the past into vivid focus.

Explore Kingston’s Highlights

Amidst the bustling heart of downtown Kingston, one discovers a trove of captivating historical landmarks. The guided tour leads visitors through the charming Market Square, where the iconic City Hall stands tall, its architectural grandeur a testament to the city’s rich heritage.

Along the way, guests are regaled with exciting stories and lesser-known anecdotes, painting a vivid picture of Kingston’s past.

Highlights of the tour include:

• Taking in the vibrant atmosphere of Market Square
• Admiring the striking façade of City Hall
• Uncovering the intriguing connections to Canadian Prime Ministers, US Presidents, and notable figures
• Exploring the city’s role in shaping Canada’s history

The tour’s intimate setting and the guide’s engaging storytelling style ensure an unforgettable experience for all who embark on this journey through Kingston’s historic downtown.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour does not explicitly mention wheelchair accessibility. However, with a guide leading the way and exploring highlights like Market Square and City Hall, the tour may be accessible for those using wheelchairs, depending on the terrain and facilities.

Can I Purchase Tickets on the Day of the Tour?

Yes, visitors can purchase tour tickets on the day of the tour at the Kingston Visitor Information Centre. The tour offers flexibility, allowing travelers to easily join the experience without prior booking.

Are There Any Food or Drink Options Available During the Tour?

The tour does not include any food or drink options. However, walkers can explore the many cafes, restaurants, and pubs in downtown Kingston before or after the tour to further enjoy the city’s lively atmosphere.

Do I Need to Bring Any Specific Identification or Documentation?

No specific identification or documentation is needed for the tour. Just bring yourself, comfortable shoes, and a camera to capture the historic sights and engaging stories shared by the knowledgeable guide, Arthur Milnes.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students, Seniors, or Local Residents?

The tour doesn’t explicitly mention any discounts, but travelers should check if student, senior, or local ID cards qualify for reduced prices. The personalized experience and engaging storytelling may make it worthwhile even at the standard rate.

The Sum Up

Discover Kingston’s captivating history on the Historic Downtown Walking Tour. Led by renowned local historian Arthur Milnes, this engaging experience delves into the city’s past, unearthing fascinating stories and lesser-known anecdotes. With a personalized touch and stunning landmarks, you’ll leave with a newfound appreciation for Kingston’s rich heritage. Don’t miss the chance to explore this vibrant Canadian city and its captivating past.

You can check if your dates are available here: