Springer Market Square, Kingston

51±¬ÁÏÍø

Springer Market Square, Kingston

Springer Market Square, Kingston

Kingston Market Square, also known as Springer Market Square, has a history spanning over 200 years, making it a central hub of trade and commerce in Kingston. Established in 1801, the market's original layout was part of the town plan set out in 1784, with the first market regulations published in 1811. Archaeological investigations conducted in 2002 and 2003, prior to the square's redevelopment in 2004, unearthed rich historical artifacts. Findings included remnants of an early 1800s market surface, merchant wares, the stone foundations of the 1840s City Hall Market wing, massive stone steps, limestone drains, the market weigh house, and water pipes for the horse fountain.

The square has evolved significantly over the centuries, yet its fundamental purpose as a vibrant marketplace remains unchanged. Vendors from the area have long gathered here to sell a variety of goods, providing residents with easy access to fresh produce, meats, baked goods, plants, flowers, craft items, clothing, and antiques.

Springer Market Square continues to thrive, especially on market days during spring, summer, and autumn, when both locals and tourists flock to the square. The market not only offers a wide range of goods but also serves as a lively social space. On non-market days, the square hosts concerts, evening film screenings, and other public events, maintaining its vibrant atmosphere year-round. In winter, the square transforms into a popular ice-skating rink.

Located centrally behind Kingston's City Hall, the market is one of the oldest in the country, attracting thousands of visitors with its rich history and diverse offerings. The square is also home to several bistros, providing a perfect spot for visitors to relax and enjoy the bustling market ambiance.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Kingston. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "51±¬ÁÏÍø: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

Download The 51±¬ÁÏÍø App

Springer Market Square on Map

Sight Name: Springer Market Square
Sight Location: Kingston, Canada (See walking tours in Kingston)
Sight Type: Shopping
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Walking Tours in Kingston, Ontario

Create Your Own Walk in Kingston

Create Your Own Walk in Kingston

Creating your own self-guided walk in Kingston is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Barriefield Heritage Village and Royal Military College Tour

Barriefield Heritage Village and Royal Military College Tour

Barriefield Heritage Village and the Royal Military College (RMC) in Kingston, Ontario, offer rich insights into Canada’s historical and military heritage. Connected to Kingston via a bridge across the lake, the historic Barriefield Village, established in 1814, is one of Ontario's oldest and most picturesque neighborhoods, designated as a heritage conservation district. The charming area...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.4 Km or 2.1 Miles
Kingston Introduction Walking Tour

Kingston Introduction Walking Tour

Kingston, Ontario, known as the "Limestone City" due to its numerous heritage buildings made from local limestone, has a rich history that began with European exploration in the 17th century. The French established a trading post and military fort in 1673 strategically located at the head of the Saint Lawrence River and the mouth of the Cataraqui River that drains into Lake Ontario. This...  view more

Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.5 Km or 2.2 Miles