Kingston's geographic situation, only a few kilometres from the United States, was the reason for the construction of Fort Henry between 1832 and 1840. Then the Royal Military College was created partly because of the strong British military presence during the conflicts that led to the creation of Canada. Make sure you reserve in advance if you want to eat in the Fort Henry's old mess because it isn't open all year. The soldiers walking across the site, (guides in costumes), will make you feel like you are living in history.
From the park of the college there is a good view over Confederation Place in the old town. You should also visit the other four parks in the centre of town and Kingston's women's prison. Kingston is also home to Queen's University.
The historically rich Fort Henry is well worth a detour. As well as numerous events, you'll find guides dressed in period costumes who'll plunge you back in time to the day when this military base thrived - firearm demonstrations included.
The tour by trolley bus gives a good insight into the town - a touristy activity but a practical one. You can get off along the route and pick up the next trolley bus when you're ready. If you tour by foot, you'll have the time to admire the red brick buildings, art galleries and curiosity shops in what was Canada's first capital.
Don't miss out on taking a boat trip; the water town of Kingston was built where the St. Laurent River, Lake Ontario and the Rideau Canal meet. The Thousand Islands Archipelago merits its name!