Kingston neighbourhood gems: east end

By Abigail Beckett

In Kingston’s east end you will find Fort Henry National Historic Site, the Royal Military College, and beautiful green spaces. Fort Henry has exciting summer events like the Sunset Ceremony that runs until the end of August and in the fall, Pumpkinferno. Historically, this area has been largely used as a military space but has since expanded into the city. Today, the east side of Kingston has many scenic outdoor spaces, a craft brewery, shops, and museums. Discover the must-see spots of the east end with this list of neighbourhood gems.

 

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Barriefield Rock Garden

At the corners of highways 15 and 2, the Barriefield Rock Garden is accessible by foot from Barriefield’s Main Street. With perennials and trees complementing the surrounding limestone rock, the garden also offers pathways and seating areas for the traveller to stop and take in the beauty of nature. Created in 1990 by Bill Robb, a retired engineering technician, the garden is maintained by volunteers.

Salt of the Earth Farm

For freshly grown local produce, check out Salt of the Earth Farm. This neighbourhood gem offers produce for sale at their farmstands. From June to October, visit the stand at the gates of the farm on Highway 2. They also offer eggs, beef, and maple syrup.

Arrowhead Beach Park

This park is perfect for swimming, paddle boarding, kayaking, and other water activities. There is a small sandy area, and lots of other natural spots to explore. Arrowhead Beach is a must-visit spot in the east end if you are looking for a pleasant area to walk, cycle, or swim.

Military Communications and Electronics Museum

This museum is located just east of the Royal Military College and Fort Henry. Explore military technology of the past as well as other historical military collections. The main gallery has several displays illustrating the chronology of the Military Communications and Electronic Branch, from the late 19th century to modern day. See the website for various ticket prices and tour bookings.

Fine Balance Brewing Company

Fine Balance Brewing Company is a Kingston-based craft brewery with a taproom and bottle shop located on Innovation Drive. Their goal is to strike a balance between new world modern beers, like NE Hazy IPAs, and old-world classics like pilsners, styles that are not always accessible in Kingston. Fine Balance often collaborates with other local establishments and just recently released a sour beer in partnership with Mio Gelato.

Kingston East Community Centre

The Kingston East Community Centre opened its doors in spring of 2022. This new facility has a variety of features and amenities with gyms, splash pads, meeting rooms, tennis courts, and more. Check the website for more information on programs and services.

Grass Creek Park

Treat your dog to some fun in the sun and visit this amazing east side spot. Grass Creek Park has an off-leash dog park for your pup to run around and get some exercise. There is also a sandy beach, picnic tables, and play equipment. If you go get out onto the water, the park offers a cordoned-off swim area as well as a small craft/boat launch.

Enchanted Creations Tea Shoppe

Discover the value of tea at Enchanted Creations Tea Shoppe, located at 1559 Hwy 15. Talk to store owner Wanda to learn more about tea and find the perfect one for you. Enchanted Creations offers a wide selection of teas supplying black tea, chai tea, green tea, oolong tea, matcha tea, and other speciality tea collections. They also have sourdough bread and a bakery in the works.

The Duchess Pub

Enjoy draft selections from old favourites to new and local products when you visit the Duchess Pub in the east end located on Highway 15. The pub offers an elegant yet cozy atmosphere and a patio available in the summer months. Try some pub favourites like fish and chips, nachos, chicken wings, and sandwiches.

Maki Sushi and Noodle Restaurant

Looking for an east-side sushi spot? Try Maki Sushi and explore their extensive sushi and noodle menu. Start off with some miso soup and then try some of their speciality maki rolls like the Red Dragon maki rolled with fried shrimp, avocado, smoked salmon, teriyaki sauce, green onion, and mayo sauce. Or try the Ocean Rainbow maki wrapped with fried shrimp, cucumber, avocado, salmon, fish egg, flavoured with teriyaki sauce, mayo sauce, and topped with mango.

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