Thousand Islands

Explore the majestic Thousand Islands region with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best attractions, accommodations, and activities on both the New York and Ontario sides. Learn about seasonal travel tips, local cuisine, and how to navigate this picturesque area seamlessly.

Thousand Islands Travel Guide

The Thousand Islands is a stunning archipelago consisting of 1,864 individual islands, located in the Saint Lawrence River, which straddles the border between northern New York State in the U.S. and southeastern Ontario in Canada.

The islands range in size from tiny outcroppings with a single tree to larger land masses that are home to thriving communities. The river itself is the outlet of Lake Ontario and connects to the Atlantic Ocean. The region is renowned for its scenic beauty, recreational activities, and historical significance.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit the Thousand Islands largely depends on the kind of activities you're interested in. Here's a breakdown:

Summer (June to August): This is the peak tourist season in the Thousand Islands. The weather is warm and most suitable for outdoor activities like boating, fishing, swimming, and touring the islands. If you love vibrant atmospheres and don't mind crowds, this is the time to go.
Fall (September to October): The fall season is particularly picturesque in this region. The foliage turns to vibrant shades of orange, red, and yellow, offering a spectacular display against the backdrop of the blue river waters. The weather is cooler, and while some attractions might have reduced hours as compared to the summer, the less crowded environment can be a boon for those looking for a peaceful getaway.
Spring (April to May): As the snow melts away, spring brings a rejuvenation to the Thousand Islands. While the early part of spring can still be chilly, late spring offers a mild climate. This can be a great time to visit before the summer crowds pour in.
Winter (November to March): This is the off-season, and many attractions, including the castles, are closed. However, the snow-covered landscape is serene and offers opportunities for winter sports like ice fishing, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. If you appreciate winter wonderlands and are looking for a quiet retreat, this might be the time for you.

Getting There

By Air:
- Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (YOW): This is the closest major airport on the Canadian side. Located in Ottawa, it's approximately 100 miles north of the Thousand Islands. It offers flights to various destinations in Canada and internationally. Car rentals and shuttle services are available at the airport to travel to the Thousand Islands.
- Kingston Airport (YGK): While smaller than Ottawa's airport, Kingston Airport is closer to the Thousand Islands. It offers limited flight options but is a convenient choice if direct flights are available. Car rental services are available at this airport.
- The closest major airport on the U.S. side is Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR). Located about 90 miles south of the Thousand Islands, it connects to major cities across the US. After landing, you can rent a car or use shuttle services to get to the Thousand Islands area.
- Watertown International Airport (ART) is closer but is smaller and might have fewer flight options. Car rentals are available here as well.
By Car:
- The Thousand Islands region can be accessed from Ontario via Highway 401, which runs parallel to the St. Lawrence River. The region is well-marked with signs, and the drive offers scenic views of the Canadian landscape along the river.
- From NY, the Thousand Islands region is accessible via Interstate 81, which runs north-south parallel to the Saint Lawrence River. The region is well-signposted, and the scenic drives make road trips a popular choice.
By Train:
- VIA Rail Canada provides train services to Kingston, Ontario, which is near the Thousand Islands. From Kingston, you can rent a car or use local bus services to reach the Thousand Islands area.
- Amtrak offers services to Syracuse, from where you can rent a car or take a bus to reach the Thousand Islands.
By Bus:
- Various bus companies, including Greyhound, offer services to and from the region.

Getting Around in Thousand Islands

By Car:
- The most flexible and convenient way to explore the vast area. It allows easy access to various attractions, especially those that are not on the main islands.
By Boat:
- A popular choice to truly experience the beauty of the region. Many islands are only accessible by boat.
- Various companies offer boat tours, which can be a relaxed way to see the major sights.
- Boat rentals are available for those who want to chart their own course or go fishing.
Bicycling:
- Certain areas, especially the scenic byways and state parks, are great for bicycling. Some islands also have bike-friendly trails.
Walking:
- Many of the islands are small enough to be explored on foot, especially if you're staying overnight. Walking allows you to take in the sights at a leisurely pace.
Public Transport:
- Limited in this region. It's best to check local schedules if you're considering using buses.
Ferries:
- Useful for hopping between certain islands, especially those without bridges.

For a comprehensive exploration of the Thousand Islands, a combination of car (for on-land attractions) and boat (for island hopping) is recommended.

Top 20 Attractions

The Thousand Islands region is rich in natural beauty and historical significance. Here's a list of the top attractions:

Boldt Castle: Located on Heart Island, this magnificent early 20th-century castle was built by George C. Boldt as a tribute to his beloved wife. Today, visitors can tour its grand rooms and manicured grounds.
Singer Castle: Another grand edifice, this castle on Dark Island was originally built for the president of the Singer Sewing Machine Company. The castle's rooms and secret passageways are a treat for visitors.
Thousand Islands Park: A picturesque and historic community on Wellesley Island, featuring charming Victorian homes and a relaxed atmosphere.
Thousand Islands Bridge: This offers stunning panoramic views of the region. There's also a pedestrian walkway for those wanting to enjoy the scenery on foot.
Antique Boat Museum: Located in Clayton, this museum showcases the rich boating history of the region with an impressive collection of over 300 boats.
Skydeck: Situated on Hill Island in Ontario, Canada, this observation deck offers sweeping views of the Thousand Islands and the St. Lawrence River.
Wellesley Island State Park: A popular spot for camping, fishing, and hiking. The park is especially beautiful during the fall foliage season.
Rock Island Lighthouse State Park: Located on the St. Lawrence River, this historic lighthouse offers picturesque views of the surrounding area.
Zenda Farms Preserve: A community space and environmental education center that showcases sustainable farming practices.
Downtown Alexandria Bay: A vibrant area with shops, restaurants, and a lovely waterfront. It's the launching point for many boat tours in the region.
Uncle Sam Boat Tours: Offering various tours that provide narratives on the history, legends, and lore of the Thousand Islands region.
Minna Anthony Common Nature Center: Located on Wellesley Island, this center offers a variety of nature trails, exhibits, and seasonal events.
Gananoque: Often referred to as the "Gateway to the Thousand Islands," this charming town features boat tours, cultural events, and a vibrant downtown with shops and restaurants.
Fort Henry National Historic Site: Located in Kingston, this 19th-century military fortification offers historical reenactments, museum exhibits, and spectacular views of the Thousand Islands.
Kingston Waterfront: The historic city of Kingston has a beautiful waterfront area with restaurants, parks, and a lively arts scene. The waterfront is also the launching point for many cruises into the Thousand Islands.
1000 Islands Tower: Offering breathtaking panoramic views of the area, this observation tower on Hill Island provides a unique perspective of the archipelago and the St. Lawrence River.
1000 Islands Playhouse: Located in Gananoque, this theater is known for its diverse performances, ranging from musicals to contemporary dramas, in a picturesque setting on the St. Lawrence River.
Wolfe Island: Accessible by ferry, Wolfe Island offers a peaceful rural landscape, perfect for cycling, birdwatching, and enjoying the laid-back island lifestyle.
Rockport Cruises: Departing from the small village of Rockport, these cruises offer various tours, including visits to Boldt Castle and narrated sightseeing tours of the Thousand Islands.
Arthur Child Heritage Museum of the Thousand Islands: Located in Gananoque, this museum offers exhibits on the natural and cultural history of the region, including its indigenous heritage, ecology, and the development of the Thousand Islands as a tourist destination.

Top 16 Activities to do in the Thousand Islands

The Thousand Islands region is brimming with activities to cater to a range of interests. Here's a list of the top activities you can enjoy:

Boating & Cruises: With its maze of islands, boating is a favorite pastime here. Join a guided boat tour or rent your own vessel to explore.
Fishing: The St. Lawrence River is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, particularly for bass, pike, and walleye.
Swimming: During the summer months, enjoy a refreshing swim in designated areas throughout the region.
Hiking & Nature Walks: With numerous state parks and nature preserves, there are plenty of trails ranging from easy to challenging.
Kayaking & Canoeing: Paddle through the calm waters and navigate between islands for a serene experience.
Scuba Diving: Dive into the St. Lawrence River to explore historic shipwrecks and underwater sights.
Camping: Set up camp in places like Wellesley Island State Park and enjoy the great outdoors.
Golf: Play a round at one of the scenic golf courses in the area, like the Thousand Islands Country Club.
Wine & Craft Beer Tasting: The region boasts several wineries and breweries where you can sample local flavors.
Historical Tours: Explore the rich history of the region with guided tours of attractions like Boldt Castle and Singer Castle.
Bird Watching: The area's diverse habitats attract a wide variety of birds, making it a haven for bird enthusiasts.
Cycling: Ride along scenic byways and dedicated bike paths, such as the Thousand Islands Seaway Trail.
Photography: With its picturesque landscapes and historic architecture, the region is a dream for photography enthusiasts.
Winter Sports: In the colder months, engage in activities like ice fishing, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.
Shopping & Dining: Explore local boutiques in towns like Alexandria Bay and Clayton and savor regional dishes at various restaurants.
Attend Local Festivals: Depending on when you visit, partake in local events and festivals that celebrate the culture and heritage of the Thousand Islands.

Where to Stay

The Thousand Islands region offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different tastes and budgets. Here are some of the best areas to stay when visiting the Thousand Islands in New York and Ontario:

New York

Alexandria Bay:
- This is one of the primary tourism hubs in the Thousand Islands region. The village offers a range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts. Its central location is ideal for boat tours, shopping, dining, and visiting nearby attractions like Boldt Castle.
Clayton:
- Another popular village in the region, Clayton boasts beautiful river views, charming inns, boutique hotels, and is home to the Antique Boat Museum.
Wellesley Island:
- For those seeking a more natural setting, Wellesley Island offers state park camping grounds and cabin rentals. It's perfect for visitors who enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and boating.
Cape Vincent:
- Located on the western edge of the Thousand Islands, Cape Vincent offers a quieter atmosphere with bed and breakfasts, vacation rentals, and inns. It's an ideal spot for those looking to explore both the Thousand Islands and the nearby Lake Ontario region.
Hammond:
- This small town offers some lodges and vacation rentals and is close to attractions like Singer Castle on Dark Island.
Private Island Rentals:
- For a truly unique experience, consider renting a private island. Several islands in the region offer cottages or homes for rent, providing a secluded and serene getaway.

Ontario

Gananoque: Known as the "Gateway to the Thousand Islands," Gananoque offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to charming bed and breakfasts. It's a great base for boat tours, local dining, and visiting nearby attractions.
Kingston: As a larger city near the Thousand Islands, Kingston provides numerous lodging choices, including boutique hotels, historic inns, and modern accommodations. It's also rich in cultural and historic sites, such as Fort Henry and the Kingston Waterfront.
Brockville: Situated along the St. Lawrence River, Brockville offers a variety of accommodations, including riverside hotels and cozy B&Bs. The city is known for its historic architecture and is close to several islands and parks.
Ivy Lea and Lansdowne: These areas offer a more secluded experience. You can find luxury resorts, lodges, and cottage rentals, many with beautiful river views and easy access to recreational activities.
Rockport: This small community offers a quaint, more intimate setting. Accommodations include traditional inns and guesthouses, ideal for those looking to explore the heart of the Thousand Islands.
Wolfe Island: For a more rustic and serene experience, consider staying on Wolfe Island. It offers bed and breakfasts, and cottage rentals, perfect for a peaceful retreat.

Food Scene

The food scene in the Thousand Islands region reflects its rich history, diverse culture, and abundant natural resources. Here's a glimpse into what the area offers gastronomically:

Freshwater Fare: The St. Lawrence River enriches both the New York and Ontario sides with an abundance of freshwater fish. Restaurants in both areas offer dishes featuring bass, pike, perch, and walleye, often freshly caught. The Ontario side also boasts its unique catches, adding to the diversity of seafood options.
Thousand Island Dressing: Originating from this region, this iconic salad dressing is a culinary highlight on both sides of the border. Whether used in salads or as a unique condiment, its presence is prominent in various eateries across the Thousand Islands.
Local Wineries and Breweries: The trend of craft breweries and wineries is prevalent in both Upstate New York and Ontario. Visitors can enjoy tastings and tours, sampling local flavors that capture the essence of the region's terroir.
Maple Syrup: While New York State is renowned for its maple syrup production, Ontario is equally famous for its maple products. Throughout the Thousand Islands, visitors can find pure maple syrup, candies, and confections, reflecting the rich maple tradition of the region.
Dairy and Cheese: Both New York’s North Country and Ontario have rich dairy traditions. Cheese, particularly fresh cheese curds, is a regional specialty, with numerous dairies and creameries offering a chance to sample and purchase locally produced cheeses.
Farm-to-Table: The farm-to-table movement thrives on both sides of the border, with restaurants in New York and Ontario emphasizing local produce. This collaboration with nearby farms allows for fresh, seasonal dishes that showcase the area's agricultural diversity.
Diverse Offerings: Reflecting the diverse cultures in both New York and Ontario, the Thousand Islands region offers a variety of cuisines. From Italian and French to Asian and Middle Eastern, the culinary scene is a testament to the region's multicultural influence.
Bakeries and Patisseries: With European influences, particularly French, prevalent in both New York and Ontario, several establishments offer high-quality pastries, bread, and baked goods reminiscent of those in European capitals.
Riverside Dining: The scenic beauty of the St. Lawrence River is a unifying feature. Restaurants on both sides offer waterfront dining experiences, where diners can enjoy their meals with picturesque views of the river and the islands.
Traditional Favorites: Across the Thousand Islands, comfort foods like burgers, fries, pizza, and ice cream are popular. Many eateries give these dishes a local twist, incorporating regional ingredients and unique preparation methods from both New York and Ontario.

Whether you're a seafood lover, a wine connoisseur, or someone seeking a comforting meal after a day of exploration, the Thousand Islands region has something to offer. The combination of its historical roots, natural bounty, and modern culinary innovations creates a food scene that's as diverse and delightful as its landscapes.

Travel Tips

Traveling to the Thousand Islands region of New York is a unique experience, and to make the most of your trip, here are some travel tips to consider:

Timing is Key: While summer is peak season with warm weather and many outdoor activities, it can also be crowded. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) when the weather is still pleasant, and the crowds are fewer.
Pack Accordingly: Even during summer, evenings can be cool due to the proximity to the water. Bring layers, comfortable shoes for walking, and water-resistant clothing.
Crossing Borders: If your travel plans include crossing from New York to Ontario or vice versa, ensure you have a valid passport or appropriate travel documents. This is also necessary for certain boat tours that may cross into Canadian or American waters.
Book in Advance: Both sides of the Thousand Islands region see an influx of visitors during peak seasons. To secure your preferred accommodations and tours, make reservations well in advance, particularly for popular spots like Boldt Castle or boat cruises.
Currency: New York: Transactions are in U.S. dollars. Most places accept credit cards, but having some cash is advisable for smaller establishments. Ontario: The Canadian dollar is the currency here. Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash can be helpful, especially in more remote areas.

Thousand Islands is more than just a picturesque destination; it's a blend of adventures, relaxation, and timeless tales awaiting exploration. Whether it's the allure of castles, the thrill of water activities, or the serenity of nature, the region promises a memorable getaway.