kingston penitentiary tours reviews

A Peek Inside Canada’s Oldest Prison – Kingston Pen Tour Review

For a city that has produced iconic Canadian talents such as Bryan Adams and The Tragically Hip, it’s odd to say that the hottest ticket in Kingston is for a prison. Since opening its doors to tourism in 2016, visiting Kingston Penitentiary has been in high demand and often sells out its daily tours well in advance. Admittedly, I knew very little about the prison so was a bit confused by this attraction. It is, after all, just a really big and really old jail.

To better understand what all the fuss is about I took a peek inside.

Table of Contents

Can a Prison be Beautiful?

Apparently, yes.

The first thing that struck me about visiting Kingston Penitenteray is the beauty of the building itself. This is an odd thing to say about a prison however much like the rest of old Kingston, it is made of limestone. From the courthouse to the towers that once protected Kingston’s shores, “Stone City” has its share of beautiful structures. Kingston Penitentiary is, oddly, one of them.

The second thing I noticed while visiting Kingston Penitenteray is its surprising location on the shores of Lake Ontario. The beauty of this waterfront location is lost when passing by the entrance on King street however it’s land value should be clear with the Portsmouth Olympic Harbour , home to the sailing events from the 1976 Summer Olympics, neighboring the prison to the west. Thanks to Fly Kingston I was able to get a bird’s eye view of Kingston Pen and only made me question it’s location further. Why anyone would build a prison here and give up this water-front property was beyond me, but again, that is why I was taking this tour.

Touring Kingston Pen

Built in 1833, Kingston Pen was Canada’s first maximum-security prison and served as such until closing its doors in September 2013. Its waterfront location was chosen as for its easy access and abundance of limestone. At the time of construction, Kingston (and much of Ontario) was not developed so little thought was required in giving up prime real estate. Makes sense I suppose. Those views though…

At the time of closure, Kingston Pen was one of the oldest prisons in continuous use in the world. During that time it held some of Canada’s most notorious criminals including Clifford Olson, Russell Williams, and Paul Bernardo…although you would never know that taking this tour. At the very beginning of the tour, our guide was quick to point out that he is legally not allowed to answer specific questions on former inmates due to Canada’s Privacy Act. This was nice as, in a way, it avoids making a celebrity out of the criminals that served there. Instead, the tour focuses on the history behind the building and why it is so important in Kingston’s story.

Behind the Walls

Once I signed my life away through a mountain of waivers, our tour began with a walk through the main courtyard. This took us past the conjugal visit units and past the center where the inmate radio show was broadcasted from. So far life inside Kingston Pen didn’t seem that rough. Less so when we were told that inmates in the conjugal visit units could order-in pizza or Chinese food. From my limited knowledge of life behind bars (supplied by films and TV shows), this is not what I expected.

Behind the Scenes

This theme continued throughout the day with our guide noting the differences between Hollywood and real life inside the jail. He also pointed out the differences and flaws with the private jail systems in the States versus the government run institutions in Canada. Thankfully privately run prisons have been limited and reverted to Government control in Canada.

Our tour continued inside the prison where we were handed off to a retired guard who filled us in on what life was like day-to-day for both the prisoners and himself. This was an incredibly interesting touch and similar to what you will find on the audio guides of Alcatraz as well as the personal stories from the former prisoners of Robben Island in South Africa.

We were then allowed to stroll through a wing of mocked up cells. Again not being told what notorious criminal was locked up where. This is where the prisoners spent most of their time, including where they ate their meals.

What I found most interesting while visiting Kingston Pen was the workshop and the brick building it is housed in. As Kingston pen was a working prison the labour shop produced everything from mattresses to furniture. Because the inmates made roughly $6 a day, the products were only ever used in other government agencies.

Riot Revealed

The former guard also went through the conditions that led to the 1971 riot; a four-day event that resulted in hostages, police negotiations, and fires. In the end, the inmates gave in after the military threatened to take the prison back with force. Two prisoners were killed during the riot and much of the prison was damaged beyond repair. This was partly because the inmates were concerned about moving to the newly built Milhaven facility.

Like I said, this place is oddly beautiful. Clearly, those that spent the most time in it, knew this.

The Most to Canadian Escape Ever

One former inmate story that the guide did share was of Norman “Red” Ryan. He is one of only a handful of prisoners to ever escape Kingston Pen. After setting fire to a barn as a distraction, “Red” and a small group of prisoners made their move over the tall stone walls. During his escape he fought off a guard, hitting him in the head with a pitchfork to shake free. Although in the clear for awhile, hurting the guard weighed heavily on Ryan to the point of writing an apology. He mailed it to the guard, return address and all. Days later Ryan was able to apologize in person.

How’s that for a true Canadian escape artist? Only getting caught because he said sorry.

What makes this story that much more amazing is the fact that a young Ernest Hemmingway, on his very first day working for the Toronto Daily Star, was sent to Kingston to cover the escape. You can read his story here.

Worth the Visit. Worth the Wait

In the end, touring Kingston Pen is a great way to appreciate and understand Kingston’s connection to corrections. Paired with the Penitentiary Musem across the street, visiting Kingston Pen offers an amazing insight into life inside Canada’s oldest prison and judicial system. Booking a bike tour offers a unique way to visit Kingston Pen too.

With its architectural highlights and the intrigue of seeing something hidden from the public for over 180 years, touring Kingston Pen is a must-do. Again, this tour is popular so be sure to book ahead !

What are your thoughts on visiting  Kingston Pen  ? Let’s hear it!

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Although I was provided a complimentary day touring Kingston Pen thanks to Visit Kingston , the experience, opinions, and realization that prisons can be pretty are my own.

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Please see the book called West Yard. It speaks truth to power about what really goes on inside the walls and fences.

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Thank you for such a detailed report, Shaun. You make the tour sound very interesting. Worth a visit for sure.

It’s worth a visit for sure, especially since not so many tourists get to do so. It will provide you with a different perspective.

I have never been for a prison tour but I can imagine how cool it must have been! Love the pictures and I bet the guides have some very interesting stories to tell about things that have happened there. What a cool thing to do!

I just like that it’s not something that most people would do. It gives us a different perspective since what we usually know about prisons, we learn from movies.

What a cool trip, I’d love to do something like this at a prison! Bet it was really interesting x

Yeah, it was. At least I learned so many things about prisons and what really happens behind bars.

Wow… it actually looks like a university from the outside! I guess it’s interesting to see how is the life inside the prison, far from the Hollywood stuff! And having a former guard as a speaker really makes it interesting.

That’s for sure! I agree, the buildings look really nice. Even for the architecture alone, I would definitely go. And yeah, having someone who had worked there as your guide makes the tour more interesting since he has firsthand knowledge of the place.

Another prison that’s become a point of interest, so interesting, and Kingston Pen is one to see for sure!

What sets it apart also is its location and how beautiful the buildings are. From the outside, it doesn’t look like a prison at all.

Looks Like an Interesting Fully Escorted Guided Tour Provided by Kingston Pen Tours for Those Visiting Ontario, Canada. Canada’s Version of Alcatraz Prison in San Francisco!

It is an interesting one. Definitely a must visit when you’re in Ontario!

Haha I laughed at the story about the Canadian prisoner who escaped and then apologized :p The exterior of the prison looks really beautiful by the way!

Sounds very Canadian, doesn’t it? 😉

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Kingston Penitentiary Tours

Constructed from 1833 to 1834 and opened on June 1, 1835, as the "Provincial Penitentiary of the Province of Upper Canada", it was one of the oldest prisons in continuous use in the world at the time of its closure in 2012.

Tours of Kingston Penitentiary offer a rare and unique opportunity to go behind the walls of Canada's oldest and most notorious maximum security prison.

Plan Your Visit

Tickets are now on sale.

Kingston Pen Tours offers a unique opportunity to explore Canada's oldest maximum-security prison. Closed in 2013 and designated as a National Historic Site, it is an amazing historical building, predating Canada's confederation in 1867. Tours include the Standard, Extended, Architectural and Film Tours. We look forward to seeing you this season!

Before You Visit

Tickets are available for purchase online and purchasing tickets prior to arrival is highly recommended.

Located at 560 King St W, Kingston, Ontario

Parking is available at no charge onsite. Accessible parking spaces are also available closest to the entrance of the parking lot nearest King Street.

Yes, RVs are permitted, and it is recommended that guests park towards the far Southside of the parking lot towards the back end which should allow for ample space.

Residents with a valid Kingston postal code can save $5 from their tour ticket by inputting their postal code using format “ABC 123” into the “Enter a promo code” section once you have selected the preferred tour type. This will be verified upon entry.

Guests are required to submit a request 72 hours prior to their scheduled tour time. Please note that tickets are non-refundable.

Please notify our staff upon arrival. They will ensure that you join your applicable tour time.

Good news! They are opening back up this year and operate on a donation basis and are not affiliated with Kingston Pen Tours. For more information, visit https://www.penitentiarymuseum.ca/

No, there is no discount available for military or former staff.

For more information regarding tours offered, click here.

Yes, the Standard Tour is available in French at 1:40pm.

Washrooms are available at the start of the tour as well the end of the tour. Guests are advised to use a washroom before starting the tour.

Yes, our retail shop will be available at the end of the tour.

No guests are not permitted to spend the night at Kingston Penitentiary.

Personal cameras are welcome but no tripods or heavy equipment allowed on the tours.

No audio or video recording is permitted without prior written approval by the St. Lawrence Parks Commission.

Please note that only service animals are permitted.

Yes, strollers are permitted. Please note that some parts of the Extended tour are not accessible, however.

Yes, walkers and wheelchairs are allowed on the tours. We have 12 wheelchairs on site. Please note there may be some areas that may be difficult to access.

Yes, a bike rack is available on the northwest of the parking lot.

Yes, guests are welcome to bring their own or purchase a reusable bottle before their tour as water stations are available throughout the tour route.

Tours operate on a rain or shine basis. There is no heat or air conditioning onsite, as such it is recommended that guests dress for the weather.

No smoking or vaping is allowed on site.

Yes, there are chairs available in certain locations on the tour available for guests.

More information regarding accommodations can be found at https://www.visitkingston.ca/stay/

Health & Safety Measures 

Guests are encouraged to self-assess their health and encouraged to not visit our attractions if there is any possibility that they may have contracted or have come into contact with COVID-19.

• Guests may bring their own personal protective equipment; gloves, masks and/or face coverings, hand sanitizer and disinfectant cleaning products if they wish.
• Cleaning practices have been enhanced throughout the tour route and restrooms.
• Signage will communicate best practices, so guests continue to adhere to best health and safety practices.

Kingston Pen Tours

Tickets are available for purchase online and purchasing tickets prior to arrival is highly recommended. Purchase Tickets

Located at 560 King St W, Kingston, Ontario.

For more information regarding tours offered, click here .

Kingston residents can receive a discount of 20% off their tour ticket. To access this discount, you must have an account and have a valid Kingston postal code associated with your account. To associate a postal code with your account, you must log in and click “Update Details”. Proof of residency with a valid postal code will be verified upon entry to the site.

Whether you’re a history buff or looking for a unique and educational experience, a visit to Canada’s Penitentiary Museum is a must when visiting Kingston Pen Tours. Open 7 days a week.

Admission is by donation, making it accessible for everyone to explore and learn.

For more information, visit https://www.penitentiarymuseum.ca/

Personal cameras are welcome but no tripods or heavy equipment are allowed on the tours.

Yes, strollers are permitted. Please note that some parts of the Extended tour are not accessible.

More information regarding accommodations and hotel packages can be found at www.visitkingston.ca/together/

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What to Expect on Your Kingston Penitentiary Tour in 2020

By jordan whitehouse.

Now that Kingston has been allowed to advance to stage three of Ontario’s reopening plan, some of  the city’s  most popular attractions  are  re suming operations   —  including  Kingston Pen  Tours  (July 23 – October 31).       

But it ’s not  quite touring as usual at Canada’s oldest and most notorious maximum-security prison, which officially closed in 2013  and opened to  the public in 2015 . 

While there  are  still two tours on offer  this year , groups  are  limited to 15 people for the 1.5-hour standard tour  ($35)  and 10 people for the 2.5-hour extended tour  ($80) .  There  is  also screening of visitors upon arrival, physical distancing and face mask requirements, and lots of regular cleaning happening everywhere.     

In other words, basically what people should be used to at this point in many public settings, says Vinnie  Rebelo , the manager of Kingston Pen Tours. “I’d be surprised if someone visited and was shocked to see what we’ve done or what we’re asking.”   

Upon Arrival

When  you  arrive at K ingston  P en ’s foreboding north gate,  you’ll  be met by a staff member behind a plexiglass partition who will check  you  in if  you’ve  bought tickets online or direct  you  to the box office to purchase tickets  (preferably via debit or credit) .   

You’re  encouraged to buy tickets online  in advance  and arrive no earlier than 15 minutes prior  to your  booked tour time , says  Rebelo . 

“We also encourage them to bring their own masks and their own hand sanitizer if they wish ,”  he  adds .  “ We have hand sanitizer and soap in bathrooms and in various locations throughout, but people might be more comfortable using their own products.”  

You’ll also be required to self-assess your health before your tour begins and  be  asked not to visit if there is any possibility that you may have contracted or have come into contact with C OVID -19.   

Physical Distancing   

When   it’s time to  step behind  the massive limestone walls to  start your tour, remember to put on your face mask and keep two metres between yourself and your fellow group members — unless they’re part of your bubble, of course.    

Once inside, you’ll likely notice ropes, barricades, and dots and painted lines on the ground. Those are there to help you keep your distance from staff, each other, and other groups.    

“Again, we’re all used to seeing this kind of stuff,” says  Rebelo . “None of it should be new anyone.”  

And if it is new, not to worry,  says   Rebelo .  Staff   are very cognizant of physical distancing rules ,  and will be happy to educate you  if needed.   

Extra Cleaning

Although Kingston Pen was built over 185 years ago, you may be surprised to see how spotless  it   is .  Extensive cleaning protocols have been put in place throughout the site, and washrooms are  cleaned even more regularly than normal.   

“We were already doing that cleaning frequently in past years because it was  just  a good thing to do,” says  Rebelo . “But now because the groups will be smaller, it will be even easier to get in there and do all of that cleaning that’s required.”  

Staff are  also scrubbing any touch points th at  might not have  been  cleaned as extensively in the past, adds Rebelo , including all railings and door handles.      

Most of the entryways  are  open, however, so you should be able to walk through the facility without having to open or close any doors.  

Tour Details

As for the tours themselves,  nothing has really changed from last year, says Rebelo . “If anything, we’ve  adjusted the route a little bit in order to accommodate the groups and the sizes, and we’ve  deviated the tour routes a little bit to give people more space and room. ”    

The standard Kingston Pen Tour runs 1.5 hours and takes you to   a cell range, the Indigenous Grounds, and the Regional Treatment Centre’s Gymnasium, which features a mural dedicated to the inmates and staff of Kingston Pen. Other stops include the north gate, programs wing, main cell dome, segregation wing, shop dome, metal shop, and recreational yard.  

The 2.5-hour extended tour includes most of the stops on the standard tour and additional ones, including the canvas repair and upholstery workshop, laundry room, main gymnasium, and hospital. You’ll also get to interact more personally with retired service agents and learn even more about the historical, architectural, and criminological context of  the penitentiary .     

Tours are also available in French and American Sign Language, as well as for those with vision loss or mobility issues.       

For more details and to purchase tickets online, head to  kingstonpentour.com .   

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