Visit Kingston Penitentiary and explore over 180 years of Canadian history inside this world-renowned maximum-security prison. Learn about life behind the walls, the people who lived and worked here, and the unique architecture that makes this site a national landmark.
Discover the real-life stories of the daily life of Canada’s most well-known prisoners, as well as the daring escapes, dramatic incidents, and legends that shaped the penitentiary’s history.
Take in the incredible limestone buildings, guard towers, and cell blocks that showcase 19th-century craftsmanship and Kingston’s rich heritage.
Step into cells, workshops, and exercise yards once closed to the public, guided by knowledgeable storytellers who bring Kingston Pen Tours to life.
Thank you for visiting us this season! Please follow our channels to stay updated on when we will open in 2026!
Prices include all fees and HST.
All tours contain subject matter designed for a mature audience - parental discretion is advised.
Duration: 45 minutes
This fully accessible guided tour offers an introductory experience of Kingston Penitentiary.
Guests will have the opportunity to visit many of the highlights of the institution, including the North Gate, a cell range, the canteen and social services area to hear about the 1971 riot, and more.
New! Evening Express Tours now available Fridays and Saturdays for a limited time! Don’t miss this unique opportunity to explore Kingston Penitentiary after hours.
Duration: 1.5 hours
Step inside the walls of Canada’s oldest penitentiary and explore the living and working areas, some dating back to the 1830s. Hear the personalized accounts from former staff and learn about the history and the daily routines, including stories of escapes, riots and everything in between on this guided tour.
This is our most popular and classic tour that you won't want to miss!
Available in English and French.
Duration: 2.5 hours
This tour covers the Standard Tour content as well as a more in-depth look behind the walls exploring the history of Kingston Penitentiary and Regional Treatment Centre.
Discover more of the site and hear about the history of additional areas, such as the hospital, gymnasium, and school.
With smaller group sizes the Extended Tour provides a greater opportunity to connect with retired corrections staff and tour guides.
560 King St W, Kingston, ON K7L 4V7
Free on-site parking is available for all visitors.
All ticket sales are final. Tickets are non-refundable, and non-transferable. Full Terms and Conditions may be viewed here.
If you are unable to make your scheduled entry time, please contact us for modifications, although this is not guaranteed. Please note this does not apply to special events or pre-booked group tours.
Please note that the tour includes both indoor and outdoor areas. We recommend dressing appropriately for the weather for a comfortable experience.
Please do not drink from any taps or sinks during the tour. For safe drinking water, ask your tour guide to direct you to the nearest water station.
Step across the street to explore the Canadian Penitentiary Museum, home to a fascinating collection of preserved artifacts from the Kingston Penitentiary era. Housed in historic Cedarhedge, the former residence of the prison’s wardens, the museum offers a unique glimpse into Canada’s correctional past.
Companions are allowed free entry with and without an Access 2 card. Tours are available in both English and French upon request.
Service animals are permitted with an identification card or documentation from a qualified health professional. Emotional support animals are also allowed with a note from a practicing physician.
Walkers and wheelchairs are allowed on the tours. Twelve (12) wheelchairs are available on-site for guest use. If you will require the use of one of our wheelchairs during your visit, please advise our admissions staff upon arrival.
Ten (10) accessible parking spots are located at the north end of the main parking lot. There is a distance to the main entrance. Guests can be dropped off at the main doors on King Street West while a member of their party parks the vehicle.
Express and Standard Tours are accessible. However, some areas on the Extended Tour, located on the second level of the shop dome, are not accessible.
Accessible tour options for visitors with vision loss are available on all tours, with guides providing oral information and extra time.
A full tour script is available for visitors with hearing loss; request it upon arrival after purchasing tickets online. For ASL interpretation, contact SLPC Guest Services before purchasing tickets.
Accessible washrooms are available at the beginning and the end of the tour.
Kingston Pen Tours is proudly Rainbow Registered, demonstrating our commitment to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all 2SLGBTQI+ visitors. We are dedicated to ensuring that everyone feels respected and valued during their visit. Come explore the historic Kingston Penitentiary with confidence, knowing that inclusivity is at the heart of our service.