Frontenac Club Inn

Frontenac Club traces its origins to 1845, when it was constructed as the first purpose-built branch of the Bank of Montreal in Upper Canada. Designed in the Neoclassical style using locally quarried Kingston limestone, the building reflected the city's growing importance as a commercial center. After the bank relocated in 1893, the property became the Frontenac Club, an exclusive gentlemen's club that welcomed many of Kingston's influential business and political leaders. Afterward, it served as residential apartments and operated as a bed and breakfast from the 1990s until 2016.

Local owners Sean Billing, Gregg Rosen, and Martin Skolnick purchased the neglected property in 2019. They led an extensive restoration that preserved its heritage features, including the original limestone walls, grand staircase, and even the former bank vault. The revitalized Frontenac Club reopened as a luxury boutique hotel in 2020, earning a Frontenac Heritage Foundation Conservation Award the following year for its thoughtful restoration.

The building that became the Frontenac Club was originally completed in 1845 as the first purpose-built Bank of Montreal branch in Upper Canada. Constructed from locally quarried Kingston limestone, the building was designed in the Neoclassical style, featuring a symmetrical façade, tall sash windows, and classical proportions that reflected the permanence and prestige of Canada's oldest bank. Many of these original architectural elements survive to this day, including the grand central staircase and thick limestone walls. The original bank vault has also been converted into a surreptitiously stylish private dining room.

During the property's extensive restoration in 2019 and 2020, the owners carefully preserved these heritage details while introducing contemporary interiors and modern guest amenities. The award-winning renovation successfully blended the building's 19th-century character with the comforts of a luxury boutique hotel, allowing Frontenac Club to retain its historic identity while serving modern travelers.

The Bank Gastrobar

Housed within the hotel's former 19th-century bank, The Bank Gastrobar offers a relaxed dining experience that blends historic character with contemporary cuisine. The menu highlights familiar comfort food made with locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. Also offered are seasonal small plates, hearty entrées, and handcrafted desserts. Guests can complement their meals with regional craft beers, carefully selected wines, and creative signature cocktails. The intimate setting showcases the building's original limestone walls and heritage details.

Opening hours:
General Menu: Daily: 3 pm - 10 pm
Dining:
Wednesday & Thursday: 3 pm - 9:30 pm
Friday & Saturday: 3 pm - 11 pm

Couples dreaming of an intimate destination wedding will find the Frontenac Club to be a gorgeous and playful setting. Set inside a beautifully restored 19th-century limestone landmark in the heart of historic Kingston, the boutique hotel provides a romantic backdrop that pairs timeless architecture with modern elegance. The property hosts weddings and private events in its stylish gathering spaces, such as the rooftop patio and the bank vault. The boutique guestrooms also make it easy for family and friends to stay for the celebrations and extend the trip into their holiday.

Cultural Experiences

Kingston's rich history makes it one of Ontario's most rewarding destinations for culture lovers. A short walk from Frontenac Club leads to Kingston City Hall, Market Square, and the city's charming waterfront. There's also the Bellevue House National Historic Site, the former home of Canada's first Prime Minister, Sir John A. Macdonald. These districts offer heritage walking tours that introduce visitors to Kingston's colonial architecture and fascinating past. Those seeking something a little spookier can also join one of the city's popular evening ghost tours, which explore haunted landmarks.

Throughout the summer, the city comes alive with festivities such as the Kingston Buskers Rendezvous and the Limestone City Blues Festival. Movie lovers shouldn't miss the Kingston Canadian Film Festival, one of Canada's largest festivals dedicated exclusively to Canadian cinema.

History enthusiasts will find no shortage of iconic landmarks nearby. Fort Henry National Historic Site brings the 19th century to life with military demonstrations, guided tours, and the famous Sunset Ceremonies during the summer months. Just across the harbor, the S.S. Keewatin offers a rare opportunity to step aboard one of the world's last surviving Edwardian passenger steamships, with guided tours showcasing its beautifully preserved interiors. Another must-visit is Kingston Penitentiary, where former correctional officers lead behind-the-scenes tours of Canada's oldest and most famous maximum-security prison.

Other Celebrations

Whether you're planning a milestone birthday, anniversary, or family reunion, Frontenac Club Inn provides an elegant setting for memorable occasions. The hotel's beautifully restored heritage spaces offer a distinctive backdrop for both social and business events, combining historic charm with modern comforts. Guests can also reserve overnight accommodations, making it easy for friends, family, or colleagues to celebrate and stay together in the heart of downtown Kingston. From intimate dinners to private receptions and meetings, the hotel's team works with organizers to help create a seamless and personalized event experience.