Proud Places: A 2SLGBTQI+-Friendly Guide to Prince Edward County and Kingston

Pack your weekend bag. Prince Edward County and Kingston are ready to welcome you. These two destinations offer a mix of charming streetscapes, one-of-a-kind shops, laid-back places to stay and local spots that know how to feed you well. They also happen to be home to a growing list of Rainbow Registered businesses and proudly inclusive spaces where everyone feels like they belong.

With 19 Rainbow Registered businesses in the County and more in Kingston, you’ll find plenty of friendly faces and places to explore, relax and recharge.

Queer-friendly travel in PEC: wineries, food, and local charm

Things to Do

Start in Picton with a wander through the main street shops, where inclusive energy runs high and small businesses are the heartbeat of the town. Check out Books & Company, an indie bookstore with a solid queer lit section and an in-house café. Next door: Miss Lily’s Café is  perfect for a quick lunch or sweet treat.

While you’re nearby, pop into PECish Baking Co. for fresh bread, pastries and some of the friendliest service you’ll find anywhere.

If you’re into wine, the options are endless. Closson Chase is a standout and recognizable by its purple barn and strong local following. Hinterland Wine Company is close by and specializes in sparkling wines. Rosehall Run offers laid-back tastings and a shaded patio, while The Grange of Prince Edward delivers estate wines in a rustic barn setting.

Explore the giant sculpture garden at Oeno Gallery, take a class at Melt Studio + Gallery, or go paddling from West Lake Watersports.

Side tip: The Wellington Farmers’ Market on Saturdays is a great place for lunch, local art and small-batch preserves.

Where to Stay

The Wilfrid Boutique Farmhouse is relaxed, stylish, and LGBTQ2S+ owned. Breakfast is a big deal here, and the hosts go out of their way to make guests feel welcome.

The June Motel in Picton brings a splash of fun with its retro aesthetic and laid-back energy.

Angeline’s Inn is a little more eclectic and perfect for travellers who like character over cookie-cutter.

Looking for something off the beaten path? Cribs on the Hill offers condo-style accommodations with kitchenettes, and Drake Motor Inn brings an art-forward, pet-friendly option close to Wellington’s main strip.

What to Eat

Book dinner at Flame + Smith in Bloomfield. Everything is wood-fired, from the steaks to the vegetables, and it’s done well. For casual, seasonal food, Bloomfield Public House offers great plates without the attitude.

Try La Condesa for Mexican-inspired dishes made with fresh, local ingredients, or head to Bocado for Mediterranean flavours with serious flavour depth. Hartley’s Tavern in Picton serves upscale small plates and a tight, curated wine list.

Creekside Cafe is a lovely morning spot for locally roasted coffee and hearty breakfasts.

Try this: Grab a jar from Cressy Mustard Co. and a loaf from Agrarian Market for the perfect afternoon picnic.

LGBTQ2S+ welcoming things to do, places to stay and dine in Kingston

Things to Do

Pop into Martello Alley, an outdoor art market strung with lights and full of work from local artists. Visit The Screening Room, an indie theatre that regularly screens queer cinema. Don’t miss the immersive escape rooms at Improbable Escapes, which are as much theatre as puzzle-solving.

In summer, take in live music at Musiikki Café or find a quiet spot by the lake at Breakwater Park.

Kingston Pride events typically run in June and include drag brunches, boat cruises and a well-loved street fair.

Side tip: Stop by the Kingston Antique Market on Sundays in Springer Market Square for vintage finds and unexpected treasures.

Where to Stay

Green Acres Inn is a locally owned motel with charm, privacy and a reputation for warm service. The Rosemount Inn offers boutique comfort in a historic building with spa services and a leafy courtyard.

Hochelaga Inn delivers Victorian charm and welcoming energy. The Secret Garden Inn is another great boutique option with luxe finishes and thoughtful details. For reliable waterfront views and modern rooms, Delta Kingston Waterfront is hard to beat.

What to Eat

Start your day at Northside Espresso + Kitchen for Aussie-style coffee and a creative brunch. Pan Chancho Bakery & Café is a go-to for baked goods and seasonal lunch specials.

Try The Everly for contemporary dining with locally sourced ingredients, or grab a table at Miss Bao for bold Asian fusion plates. Tango Nuevo is ideal for small plates and cocktails.

Also worth a stop: Chez Piggy for rustic-chic dining in a historic limestone stable, and Dianne's Fish Shack & Smokehouse for Baja-meets-Canadian seafood.

Try this: Order the mezze platter at Olivea and you can get some house-made hummus, warm focaccia and marinated veg that’s perfect for sharing (or not).

Bright Lights and Big Performances in Belleville

In the Bay of Quinte region, inclusivity is front and centre at The Smokin’ 116 Bistro. This downtown Belleville hotspot has built a reputation as a 2SLGBTQ+-friendly venue with a vibrant events calendar, including regular drag shows that bring the house down. Recently featured on CraveTV’s Drag Brunch Saved My Life, the bistro’s flamboyant flair and welcoming vibe make it a must-visit for anyone seeking good food, a strong community, and top-tier entertainment.

Plan Your Trip

A full list of Rainbow Registered businesses is available at rainbowregistered.ca,

Prince Edward County and Kingston are ready when you are. Just pack your curiosity and maybe an extra snack for the road.