If your idea of a perfect summer day involves sunshine, a flight of craft beer and hopping between patios like it’s your full-time job, you need to head to Kingston.
Tucked between Toronto, Ottawa and Montreal, Kingston is like a goldmine of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. This small city punches way above its weight when it comes to food, drink and vibes. And in the summer? The patios are elite.
Kingston gives off small-town energy in the best way possible: charming, friendly, and historic, without skimping on the good stuff. Downtown is walkable, so you can spend the day wandering between cafés, restaurants, breweries and boutiques, all while soaking up the waterfront views.
And the patios? They’re not just generic sidewalk seating. Many are nestled beside limestone buildings, tucked into hidden alleyways, or perched near historic sites and museums. Basically, your beer comes with a side of history — and maybe a ghost story or two.
And don’t let the city’s size fool you. Kingston is home to eight craft breweries, all of which produce their own unique beers on-site. Whether you’re into hoppy IPAs, crisp lagers or sours that taste like sunshine, there’s something for everyone.
Live music, creative brews and charming ambiance await you in Kingston during patio season. Courtesy of Tourism Kingston
A few local favourites to check out include Riverhead Brewing Company, where you’ll find a mix of traditional and adventurous brews with seasonal selections; Daft Brewing downtown for funky, small-batch creations and a vibey patio; and Kingston Brewing Company, the OG spot, with serious historic pub energy.
Beyond the breweries, Kingston’s food scene is thriving. There are 10 Feast On® certified restaurants, meaning they source at least 25% of their ingredients from Ontario farmers and producers and ultimately create hyper-local menus.
The city also boasts two farmers’ markets and a growing number of restaurants serving a diverse range of dishes, from wood-fired pizza to fresh seafood, accompanied by numerous patios.
So if you’re craving a summer escape that pairs craft beer with local eats, lakeside views and a hearty dose of charm, Kingston is calling. Whether you’re patio-hopping downtown, sipping in the west end, or exploring hidden corners between bites, this city makes it easy to slow down and soak it all in.
Come for the beer, stay for the vibes — and don’t be surprised if you start planning your next visit before you’ve even left.
MTL Blog does not condone the overconsumption of alcohol. If you’re going to drink alcohol, please do so responsibly and only if you’re of legal age.