Kingston’s shopping scene is one of the hidden gems of the Limestone Capital and a discerning shopaholic’s paradise. As a shopping-enthusiast myself (which, my wallet may tell you, is a gross understatement), some of my favourite days in Kingston have been spent strolling along the cobblestone streets and seeing what’s new in the city’s many adorable shops. From clothes to obscure board games and Instagram-worthy jewellery — you can find it all.
Of course, you have to know where to look, so I’ve curated a list of some of my favourite stores for you to enjoy the next time you find yourself on a shopping spree.
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The Jungle
171 Wellington Street
The moment you step into this plant haven you get an instant sense of calm; it’s hard not to with indoor plants of all varieties surrounding you. Owner Melody Morrison can give you all the advice you need to decide what kind of plant is best for you (from cat owners to people who can only handle low-maintenance plants) so you can get your green thumb on. Even better, there’s an array of unique accessories, from pots to hanging holders — think of it like the curated collection of your dream Etsy store in real life.
Morrison’s thoughts on choosing downtown Kingston for her jungle? In an interview with Keep Up With Kingston, she said, “it’s the one downtown that I’ve come across that I saw was thriving rather than letting the box stores take over.”
Hours
Monday Closed
Tuesday – Saturday 11am to 5pm
Sunday 11am to 3pm
Phone
613.544.4769
https://www.instagram.com/p/B3IPZ8fgf1m/
Heel Boy
212 Princess Street
Every shopper has a weakness and mine just happens to be shoes. Heeled boots, flats, boots with studs, sneakers, even a daring strappy heel — I’m a sucker for them all. Heel Boy is my go-to spot for a new pair of fabulous shoes and I never feel guilty shopping there. They’re an independently owned and operated female-run boutique (can I get an amen?) that supports fellow small Canadian businesses. If you’re sick of cookie-cutter shoe stores head here for unique finds.
Some favourite Canadian brands of Sarah McLean from the Heel Boy team: “Eleven Thirty and Brave Leather, which are both designed and crafted in Toronto, Carmody, which is a luxury alpaca line from right here in Kingston, and David Tyler, which is designed in Montreal and produced in Europe.”
Hours
Monday – Friday 9:30am to 7pm
Saturday 10am to 6pm
Sunday 11:30am to 5pm
Phone
613.544.3203
https://www.instagram.com/p/BUpSdUWF_tP/
PHASE 2
353 Princess Street
Phase 2 is the go-to shop in Kingston to find unique pieces, from Halloween costumes and ugly Christmas sweaters to cozy flannels and new uniforms. It’s easy to get overwhelmed with the sheer volume of recycled clothing at this family-owned business, so a little more browsing is required to find that perfect outfit. But that just makes it all the more satisfying.
Insider tip: They carry a lot of professional wear for both men and women, so if you don’t feel like dropping hundreds on your work wardrobe, swing by.
Hours
Monday – Thursday 10am to 5pm
Friday 10am to 8pm
Saturday 10am to 5pm
Sunday CLOSED
Phone
613.542.8755
https://www.instagram.com/p/B34vVB8glXm/
UNDR for Men
68 Princess Street
Even though, as a woman, I have no personal need for this store, it had to make my list. Men, if you’re looking for an efficient, quality shopping experience, UNDR has your back. They describe themselves as a one-stop-shop for men, carrying 35 brands with products including underwear, socks, loungewear, robes, skin and beard care, and luxurious shaving products.
Go here for: Funky patterns, cheeky prints, bright colours, and amazing staff.
Hours
Monday – Saturday 10 am to 6 pm
Sunday 11 am to 5 pm
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Minotaur Games & Gifts
78 Princess Street
Minotaur sits as a beacon of fun, creativity, and community on Princess Street, beckoning all with curious minds to enter. The shop itself is stunning; a huge exposed brick room filled with nostalgic and trendy games. Owners Justine Scala and Michael White have a passion for engaging with their customers and it shines through the unique products they carry. They find their quirky offerings of toys, puzzles, art supplies and playful greeting cards from more than 100 suppliers.
Drop by: On Thursday and Sunday for free game nights 5–9 pm, or any time to get a game recommendation from the staff!
Hours
Monday – Tuesday 10 am to 6 pm
Wednesday – Saturday 10 am to 9 pm
Sunday 12 pm to 9 pm
Phone
613.545.2308
https://www.instagram.com/p/B4tg2VEgtii/
Sterling Jewellery
77A Princess Street
Sterling, at its core, is an “independent project of authenticity and character.” The owner, Chris Saasto, encourages customers to browse the collections of affordable fine silver jewelry in a non-judgmental environment. Take your time in this bright store as you browse each unique collection, from timeless classics to bold pieces and everything in between.
Go here to: Get your layering game on! A tip from the store, “…whether it be on the neckline or the ear, [layering] is a fun, hyper-personalized way to make a statement.”
Hours
Monday – Wednesday 10 am to 6 pm
Thursday – Friday 10 am to 8 pm
Saturday 10 am to 5 pm
Sunday 12 pm to 5 pm
Phone
613.548.8696
