Every time I plan a trip, there’s always that quiet tug-of-war between wanting to stay somewhere stylish and comfortable while also keeping my wallet from crying. Kingston, with its rich history and lakefront beauty, surprised me by offering plenty of accommodation options that feel both affordable and rewarding. The term “high value” doesn’t just mean cheap—it means the place provides more than you expect for the price you pay: thoughtful service, location convenience, little perks, or simply the feeling that your money was well spent.
I had several nights in Kingston where I experimented with different budget-friendly spots, testing them out not only for comfort but also for atmosphere. Each stay told a different story, and together they painted a picture of Kingston as a city that welcomes travelers of all budgets without compromising on experience.
The First Find: Thriftlodge Kingston
Location: 1187 Princess Street, Kingston, ON
I stumbled upon Thriftlodge Kingston while looking for a quick overnight option on my way into the city. From the outside, it looked unassuming—a simple motel-style property tucked along Princess Street. But inside, it delivered exactly what I needed: clean, spacious rooms with all the essentials.
Why It Worked for Me
The beds were unexpectedly comfortable, the Wi-Fi strong (a must when I wanted to map out my next day’s walking routes), and parking was free right outside the door. It wasn’t fancy, but after a long drive, it gave me a sense of relief to walk into a spotless room that smelled fresh, not stale.
Features and Advantages
- Free continental breakfast that included surprisingly good bagels and fresh fruit.
- Family-friendly, with rooms large enough for small groups.
- Located close to downtown without the downtown price.
What Others Say
Online reviews often highlight the cleanliness and the friendly staff. Some note that the property looks older, but almost every comment emphasizes that it’s well-maintained and offers excellent value.
Booking and Cost
I reserved through Booking.com, paying around CAD \$110 per night. The trick here is to book a week in advance. Prices tend to rise closer to weekends, especially in summer. Hotels.ca also had competitive rates, but Booking gave me the perk of free cancellation, which I appreciated for flexibility.
A Cozy Surprise: Green Acres Inn
Location: 2480 Princess Street, Kingston, ON
If Thriftlodge was practical, Green Acres Inn felt like stepping into a boutique retreat without boutique prices. The moment I pulled into the driveway, I noticed the difference—lush, landscaped gardens framed the inn, with hanging flower baskets and a quiet atmosphere that made me forget I was on busy Princess Street. It’s family-run, and you can feel that personal touch immediately. The check-in process was warm and welcoming, and I sensed that this wasn’t just a place to sleep—it was somewhere to slow down.
Why It Worked for Me
After spending entire days exploring Kingston—wandering Fort Henry, browsing local markets, and walking along the waterfront—I found myself craving somewhere restful to retreat to. Green Acres provided exactly that. Instead of rushing back out after dropping my bag, I actually lingered in the room. The cozy décor, soft lighting, and thoughtful details gave it a homelike atmosphere. At night, it felt like a quiet oasis where I could recharge before another day of sightseeing.
Features and Advantages
- Outdoor pool and peaceful gardens, rare amenities at this price.
- Spacious rooms, some featuring whirlpool tubs for extra comfort.
- Free parking and convenient access to both downtown Kingston and Highway 401.
What Others Say
Reviews consistently highlight how “unexpectedly elegant” the inn feels for the cost. Many guests comment on the attentiveness of the staff, the cleanliness of the rooms, and the surprising level of comfort compared to larger chain hotels.
Booking and Cost
I booked directly through their website for CAD \$130 per night, but I’ve seen Expedia.ca discounts that drop the rate closer to CAD \$115. If you’re flexible with timing, traveling off-season (October–April) can save even more, making Green Acres one of Kingston’s best value stays.
Downtown Convenience: Econo Lodge City Centre
Location: 840 Princess Street, Kingston, ON
One evening I wanted something dead-simple and straightforward. Econo Lodge City Centre delivered exactly that. It’s part of a chain, so I knew what to expect, but the location and price were hard to beat.
Why It Worked for Me
The best part was how central it felt. I could get downtown in minutes and still pay a fraction of the price of waterfront hotels. After an evening walk along Ontario Street, I returned easily without needing to navigate long drives.
Features and Advantages
- Free Wi-Fi, parking, and breakfast included.
- Rooms with mini-fridges—handy when I stocked up on snacks at the farmers’ market.
- Reliable service, no fuss.
What Others Say
Reviews online emphasize its simplicity—“no frills, but good for the price.” A few note that the building could use updates, but almost everyone agrees that it’s practical, affordable, and well-located.
Booking and Cost
I booked this one through Hotels.ca at CAD \$95 per night. I’ve noticed Econo Lodge often appears on Kayak with package deals if you’re bundling it with a rental car.
Lakeside Comfort: Confederation Place Hotel
Location: 237 Ontario Street, Kingston, ON
If you want affordability without giving up location, Confederation Place Hotel is a gem. Right by the waterfront and Springer Market Square, it gave me the feeling of being right in the center of Kingston’s energy.
Why It Worked for Me
I opened the curtains in the morning to views of Lake Ontario—it felt like luxury without the luxury price tag. I could walk to City Hall, the market, and the pier for Thousand Islands cruises in under five minutes.
Features and Advantages
- Lakeside rooms with spectacular views.
- Free hot breakfast included.
- Seasonal outdoor pool.
What Others Say
Reviewers rave about the location more than anything else. Some note that the rooms are modestly decorated, but almost everyone agrees the views and convenience make it worth it.
Booking and Cost
I booked through Expedia.ca at CAD \$145 per night, which is incredible given the prime location. Prices are higher in summer (up to CAD \$180), so I’d recommend traveling in spring or fall for better deals.
A Friendly Hostel Option: Kingston’s Queen’s University Summer Residence
Location: 75 Bader Lane, Kingston, ON (campus of Queen’s University)
During the summer months, when students are away, Queen’s University opens its residence halls to travelers. Staying here felt a bit nostalgic, reminding me of my own student days, but it was surprisingly comfortable.
Why It Worked for Me
It was budget-friendly and right in the heart of Kingston. Plus, I met other travelers in the common areas, which gave it a hostel-like social vibe.
Features and Advantages
- Single or double rooms available, shared bathrooms.
- Located steps from downtown and the waterfront.
- Safe and clean, with university staff on-site.
What Others Say
Many reviewers mention how perfect it is for budget-conscious travelers who still want to be close to everything. Some note that it’s very basic, but the location and price more than make up for it.
Booking and Cost
I booked directly through the Queen’s University Hospitality website for CAD \$70 per night. Prices vary slightly depending on the building and room type. It’s not available year-round, so plan for a summer stay.
Booking Tips I Learned
While hopping between these stays, I picked up a few lessons on how to stretch my dollar further in Kingston:
- Use Multiple Platforms – I often compared Booking.com, Hotels.ca, and Expedia.ca side by side. Sometimes the same hotel had a CAD \$20 difference depending on the site.
- Check Direct Websites – Independent places like Green Acres Inn sometimes offer direct booking discounts or perks like free upgrades.
- Book Early for Summer – Kingston is packed in July and August due to festivals and cruises. Rates can skyrocket if you wait.
- Travel in Shoulder Seasons – May/June and September/October often bring lower rates, especially for central hotels.
- Consider Loyalty Programs – Platforms like Expedia Rewards and Booking Genius gave me small discounts and free perks (like late checkout).
When I reflect on my nights in Kingston, what strikes me is how each budget-friendly place carried its own personality. Thriftlodge was comfort after a long drive. Green Acres Inn was charm and peace. Econo Lodge gave me downtown practicality. Confederation Place Hotel delivered location and views that rivaled luxury stays. Queen’s University Residence reminded me that simplicity sometimes brings the most connections.
Value travel in Kingston doesn’t feel like compromise—it feels like discovering a hidden layer of the city, one where you meet staff who genuinely care, wake up to lake views without breaking the bank, and leave with money left over to spend on experiences like Thousand Islands cruises or Kingston Penitentiary tours.
For anyone coming to Kingston, I’d say this: don’t just think of budget accommodations as “cheap.” Think of them as your ticket into a city where history, culture, and comfort can be enjoyed without overspending. With a little planning and the right platforms—Booking.com, Hotels.ca, Expedia.ca, and even Airbnb—you’ll find a place that suits both your wallet and your spirit.
And at the end of the day, as I sat by the waterfront with a coffee bought with the money I saved on lodging, I realized the truest luxury of all was peace of mind.
