Murney Tower National Historic Site
Explore a 19th-century defense tower, a National Historic Site offering a glimpse into Kingston's military past with exhibits and a canon.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit
Murney Tower National Historic Site
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a 19th-century defense tower, a National Historic Site offering a glimpse into Kingston's military past with exhibits and a canon.
"A fantastic experience! The museum offers a fascinating glimpse into Kingston's history."
⏳ Allow 30-60 Minutes
This site is compact; a self-guided tour takes about 15-30 mins, but allow extra time to enjoy the exhibits.
💰 Donate Generously
Entry is by donation. Your support keeps this historic site alive! Card and cash accepted.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Tower Itself
Explore this imposing 19th-century defense tower, much larger than it appears from the outside. A true piece of local history.
Military Barracks & Exhibits
Discover artifacts and informative displays offering a fascinating glimpse into Kingston's military past. Kids often love exploring.
Cannon Views
See the historic canon and imagine its role in defending the city. Offers a tangible connection to military history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Self-Guided Exploration
Donation-Based Entry
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Allow 30-60 Minutes
This site is compact; a self-guided tour takes about 15-30 mins, but allow extra time to enjoy the exhibits.
💰 Donate Generously
Entry is by donation. Your support keeps this historic site alive! Card and cash accepted.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be navigating narrow stairs inside the tower. Comfortable footwear is recommended.
👨👩👧 Kid-Friendly Fun
Kids often enjoy exploring the tower and looking at the artifacts. It's a great way to engage them with history.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Allow 30-60 Minutes
This site is compact; a self-guided tour takes about 15-30 mins, but allow extra time to enjoy the exhibits.
💰 Donate Generously
Entry is by donation. Your support keeps this historic site alive! Card and cash accepted.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be navigating narrow stairs inside the tower. Comfortable footwear is recommended.
👨👩👧 Kid-Friendly Fun
Kids often enjoy exploring the tower and looking at the artifacts. It's a great way to engage them with history.
🚗 Parking Available
There's enough parking nearby, making it easy to access this historic gem.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Murney Tower to be a fascinating and worthwhile stop, appreciating its historical significance and the self-guided exploration. While compact, it offers a unique glimpse into Kingston's military past. The donation-based entry is a plus for many, though its inaccessibility for those with mobility issues is a noted drawback.
"We finally made it to this amazing tower and piece of local history. It was much bigger than it seems from the outside. It was a self guided tour. So we could take our time enjoying it. If You are passing or staying in Kingston stop by. It’s worth it."
Chris Papas
"It's a nice little museum. Kids loved looking at the artifacts and going up and down the narrow stairs."
Cristine Guiomar
"Great place to visit. A little donation is all that it takes to keep this place on its feet."
Jan Nuaman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Murney Tower is located in Kingston, Ontario. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. If you're exploring Kingston, it's a pleasant walk from the downtown area, offering scenic views along the waterfront.
Unfortunately, Murney Tower is not wheelchair accessible due to its historic structure and narrow staircases.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website or local listings before your visit to confirm current opening times.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to Murney Tower is by donation. You can make a contribution at the end of your visit, with both card and cash options available.
The cost is entirely up to you, as it's a donation-based site. Visitors are encouraged to donate what they feel the experience is worth to help maintain the site.
Murney Tower offers a self-guided tour experience, so advance booking is not typically required. You can explore at your own pace upon arrival.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the 19th-century defense tower, view military artifacts and exhibits, and learn about Kingston's history. It's a compact but engaging site.
Most visitors spend between 30 to 60 minutes exploring the tower and its exhibits. The self-guided tour itself can be completed in 15-30 minutes.
Yes, children often enjoy exploring the tower and looking at the historical artifacts. The unique structure and exhibits can be quite engaging for younger visitors.
Restroom facilities may be limited or seasonal. It's advisable to use facilities before your visit or check availability upon arrival.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside Murney Tower for personal use. However, it's always a good idea to be respectful of other visitors and any specific signage regarding photography of exhibits.
The exterior of the tower itself makes for a striking photo. Inside, the narrow staircases and the canon offer unique photographic opportunities. The surrounding waterfront also provides scenic backdrops.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the narrow stairs might require some supervision, the overall experience is usually a hit. It's a chance to step back in time and see a different side of Kingston beyond the usual tourist attractions. Remember to wear comfortable shoes for navigating the tower's interior.
🚶 History Enthusiasts & Day-Trippers
As a day-trip destination, it’s an excellent addition to a Kingston itinerary. Its relatively short visit time (30-60 minutes) means you can easily fit it in alongside other attractions, and the donation-based entry makes it an affordable option. The waterfront location also provides opportunities for a pleasant stroll before or after your visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Kingston's Defense
Today, the tower serves as a museum, offering visitors a tangible connection to this military past. Inside, you can explore the various levels, including the barracks and the gun deck where a canon is displayed. The exhibits showcase artifacts and information that paint a picture of the lives of the soldiers stationed there and the historical context of the tower's construction. It’s a fascinating way to understand Kingston’s role in Canadian history, moving beyond just its reputation as a university town.
Exploring the Interior: A Unique Experience
Each level offers a different perspective and a chance to discover various artifacts. You'll find displays detailing the tower's construction, the lives of the soldiers, and the broader military history of the region. The compact nature of the tower means you can absorb the information without feeling overwhelmed, making it an ideal stop for a quick yet informative historical immersion. The experience is often described as much bigger on the inside than it appears from the outside, adding to its intrigue.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit