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Outdoors & adventure

The best (and sometimes overlooked) photo spots in Kingston

By Abigail Beckett

Published
Updated

Besides the awesome Kingston sign downtown at Confederation Basin (6 Clarence Street), check out these other Instagram-worthy spots. Kingston is filled with unique spots where you can capture professional-quality photos. Whether it be classic nature photos, or artsy and edgy ones, there is a place for everything. Grab some friends or go solo and start a photo shoot.  

1. Agnes Etherington Art Centre 

36 University Avenue (temporarily closed for renovation)  

The Agnes is currently undergoing renovation and will reopen to the public in 2026. The new building will feature a glass, three-floor configuration, home to multiple exhibitions showcasing local and visiting artists. The modern, dynamic exterior and open, bright interior will both make for the perfect photo opportunity. 

2. Emma Martin Park 

1 Cataraqui Street  

Looking for cottage country vibes? This picturesque spot is located by the River Mill Restaurant along the Waterfront Pathway/K & P Trail. Capture the reflection of the sunset on the buildings on the east side across the water. You might even find some wildlife out here. 

3. Antique Alley 

207 Wellington Street  

Tucked away on Wellington Street, check out Antique Alley for your next photo op with a vintage vibe. The hidden alleyway is filled with one-of-a-kind antique items, pictures, and signs. Visit the store at the end of the alley and see what exciting antiques they have. 

4. Delta Hotel pathway 

1 Johnston Street 

Walk along the Waterfront Pathway beside the Delta Hotel and find amazing artwork across the walls by Kingston artist EronOne. Take some pictures with the murals and some shots with the water. You will also see many boats both docked and in the water during the summertime.  

4. FORT HENRY  

Visit this 19th-century military fort overlooking downtown Kingston in the early evening for an uninterrupted view of the sun setting in the pink and red sky. Grab some takeout from a downtown Kingston restaurant, take the picturesque drive across the Cataraqui River, and snap your next Instagram photo atop Fort Henry’s hill. 

6. Newlands Pavilion 

Macdonald Park by Murney Tower  

Head to the waterfront and check out the gazebo located by Murney Tower. This area is great for capturing the view of Lake Ontario using the gazebo as your personal frame. This spot is perfect for all seasons and is especially useful for group photos. 

7. Secret spot west of Lake Ontario Park 

Trailhead Place 

Lake Ontario Park has some fantastic natural features to capture the ideal outdoorsy photo. However, if you head west for just under 1 km, you will find a secret spot. At the end of Trailhead Place, walk down a path that takes out to a narrow point with a great view of the water.  

8. City Park 

King Street East between West and Barrie streets 

Located on the east side of Queen’s University campus, this park has a few hidden gem photo spots you need to check out. This is the perfect place to capture sunset photos. It is full of greenery in the summer and packed with fall colours in the autumn. Check out the unique Victorian homes that border the park. They are also great photo backdrops! 

9. Churchill Park 

685 Brock Street  

Looking for flowers? Head down Brock Street and stop by Churchill Park. This spot will have your senses heightened with the beautiful sights and smells of the flower gardens. Snap some photos with the bright and colourful flowers and get that perfect vibrant summer photo. 

10. Barriefield Rock Garden 

Alongside James Street (Barriefield) 

Head over to Kingston’s east side and explore Barriefield Rock Garden. The garden was created in 1990 by Bill Robb who used a variety of engineering techniques to devise the garden’s layout. The area has some exceptional spots for pictures. Fall colours look remarkable in this spot. 

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