Les meilleurs hôtels à Kingston

Kingston's dedication to making history a part of residents' daily lives has resulted in a notable record of keeping heritage buildings open for business. The downtown core of historic structures is anchored by city hall, designed by George Browne, one of Canada's leading 19th-century architects. The busy municipal building, built in 1842, also boasts a farmer's market begun at the same time. Queen's University (founded in 1842) houses classrooms and administrative offices in many buildings designated as historic properties. The Anglican cathedral of St. George's and Roman Catholic cathedral of St. Mary's, both built in the 19th century, continue too be the heart of local congregations. Situated on easterly Lake Ontario near the head of the St. Lawrence River, Kingston is known as one of North America's great fresh-water sailing destinations. In fact, the city was the site of sailing events during the 1976 Olympics that were held at Montreal in neighboring Quebec. Fort Frontenac (founded 1673) and Royal Military College (founded 1874) play significant roles in Canada's military operations, continuing the long military history evidenced by Fort Henry (built during the War of 1812) and the area's Martello Towers (erected in the late 1840s and never attacked). Kingston also remains conscious of its role as the home of Canada's first prime minister, Sir John A. Macdonald, whose parents brought him from Scotland at the age of five. The city is dotted with plaques noting various structures where its most-famous lawyer lived and worked. Bellevue House, leased by Sir John A. from 1848-49, has been preserved as a national park and remains one of the most popular destinations in the city's thriving tourist trade.