by Natasha Lair
Last updated: 1:55 PM ET, Tue September 29, 2026
Kingston, Ont., has received its first hotel recognition from the Michelin Guide.
The Smith Hotel and The Belvedere Hotel, both owned and operated by Kingston-based Benjamin Hotels, are among 42 Canadian properties recognized with a Michelin Key in the Guide’s 2026 selection.
Michelin Keys recognize hotels based on criteria including architecture and interior design, service, character and connection to their destination.
The Smith Hotel. Kingston, Ont. (Photo Credit: Facebook)
“This is Kingston's recognition as much as ours,” said Liv Halliday, Director of Hospitality at Benjamin Hotels. “We're a small, local team. We designed and built both of these hotels ourselves, in buildings that have been part of this city for well over a century. To be recognized alongside the best stays in the country shows that you don't need to be in a big city to do something extraordinary. There's so much quality and creativity in smaller places, and people are starting to notice.”
Historic Properties Recognized
The Smith Hotel, Benjamin Hotels’ first hotel project, is located inside a nearly 160-year-old limestone church in downtown Kingston.
Development began approximately seven years ago, with the building converted into a 10-suite boutique hotel. Its two-level loft suites retain elements of the church’s original architecture alongside mid-century modern design.
The Smith Hotel. Kingston, Ontario (Photo Credit: Facebook)The Belvedere Hotel occupies an 1880 mansion on King Street East. Following approximately five years of development and restoration, the property reopened as a boutique hotel.
The Belvedere also includes Bathhouse, a thermal spa inspired by European bathhouses, and Peacock Lounge. It received its Michelin Key approximately one year after opening.
Both properties were designed and developed in-house by Benjamin Hotels, a locally owned Kingston company.
“This recognition is an important milestone for Kingston and reflects the quality of our visitor experience. To see two local boutique hotels earn the city's first Michelin Keys is something our community can be proud of” said Megan Knott, CEO, Tourism Kingston.
Benjamin Hotels also operates Dwell Aparthotels, Bathhouse and Peacock Lounge in Kingston.
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