Thousand Islands, New York: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

The Thousand Islands region in New York is a hidden gem by the St. Lawrence River. It has over 1,800 islands, each offering unique experiences. Visitors can enjoy historic castles, boat cruises, and outdoor adventures. But what secrets are waiting for those who explore this area? Let's find out the top things to do in this beautiful part of New York.

Key Takeaways

• Explore the iconic Boldt Castle, a 120-room mansion on Heart Island, undergoing a $50 million restoration project
• Embark on scenic boat tours along the St. Lawrence River to admire the region's stunning waterfront mansions and historic lighthouses
• Indulge in world-class fishing opportunities, with the St. Lawrence River known for its abundant fish populations
• Discover the Antique Boat Museum in Clayton, showcasing a vast collection of vintage watercraft
• Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Thousand Islands-Seaway region's state parks, offering sandy beaches, hiking trails, and outdoor recreation

Discover the Magical Thousand Islands Region

A Mystical Destination with Castles, Lighthouses, and Breathtaking Scenery

The Thousand Islands region is a hidden gem along the St. Lawrence River. It's a place where history, architecture, and nature come together. With over 1,700 islands, each one has its own special story.

See the grand castles like Boldt Castle and Singer Castle. These castles show off amazing craftsmanship. They are true architectural wonders.

While cruising the St. Lawrence River, you'll see beautiful lighthouses. They guide ships safely through the water. Nature lovers will be amazed by the stunning views here.

"The Thousand Islands region is a true hidden gem, offering a captivating blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty that will leave a lasting impression on all who visit."

Tour Iconic Castles and Mansions

Visiting the Thousand Islands lets you step back in time. You can explore stunning historic castles and mansions. A top spot is the Boldt Castle, a 120-room Rhineland-style castle on Heart Island. It was built by George C. Boldt as a love gift for his wife.

Take a boat ride to the castle. You'll see its opulent architecture, Italian gardens, and hidden tunnels.

For more castle views, go on a boat tour to the Singer Castle on Dark Island. This 28-room Scottish-inspired mansion was once owned by the fifth CEO of the Singer Sewing Machine Company. It has 5 stories, 8 bathrooms, 10 fireplaces, and even a turret dungeon.

Beyond these iconic castles, the Thousand Islands have many historic mansions. Check out the 26-room Casa Blanca on Cherry Island. Also, see the man-made Longue Vue Island and the former summer home of President Ulysses S. Grant on Castle Rest on Pullman Island.

Step back in time and dive into the opulence of these magnificent historic homes.

"The Thousand Islands region is a true gem, offering a glimpse into the grand and opulent era of America's industrialists and captains of industry."

Embark on Scenic Boat Cruises

Explore the St. Lawrence River and Admire Waterfront Mansions

Discover the Thousand Islands by floating on the St. Lawrence River. Enjoy a relaxing boat cruise. See the Millionaires Row Tour to view historic mansions from the late 1800s and early 1900s. Or, take the 2 Nation Tour to see the US and Canada's border.

Clayton Island Tours offers more cruises. Try the Islands, Lighthouses and Castle Tour or the Sunset Cruise. These tours let you see the area's beauty and mansions up close.

Choose from many boat cruises to see the Thousand Islands. You can enjoy scenic river tours. Whether you like historic mansions or beautiful views, these tours are a great way to see this special place.

Thousand Islands, New York: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

The Thousand Islands region in New York is more than just castles, boat cruises, and outdoor fun. It's filled with top attractions and activities. You can explore charming small towns along the St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario. Each town has its own special vibe.

Walk through Alexandria Bay and enjoy the beautiful views where the river meets the lake. Then, head to Clayton, the #1 Small Town Cultural Scene by USA Today. You'll find local shops, restaurants, and the famous Thousand Islands Museum there.

Don't miss Cape Vincent and its historic Tibbetts Point Lighthouse, the only working Fresnel Lens on Lake Ontario. It's free to visit. In Ogdensburg, check out the Frederic Remington Art Museum for a small fee of $10 to $20 per person.

For a special cultural visit, go to the Safe Haven Holocaust Refugee Shelter Museum in Oswego. It tells the story of 982 Holocaust refugees for just $5 per person.

The Thousand Islands region has something for everyone. Whether you like art, history, or small-town life, there's plenty to see and do.

"The Thousand Islands region is a true gem, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and endless opportunities for exploration." - Local Resident

Explore State Parks and Outdoor Adventures

New York state is a paradise for those who love the outdoors, with 180 state parks to choose from. These parks offer everything from sandy beaches to hiking trails and top-notch fishing. The Thousand Islands-Seaway region is perfect for nature enthusiasts.

Discover Sandy Beaches, Hiking Trails, and Fishing Opportunities

The region's state parks are right by Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River. They have lots of activities for the adventurous type. Robert G. Wehle State Park lets you explore 1,100 acres and 17,000 feet of beautiful Lake Ontario coastline. Wellesley Island State Park has a big campground, a sandy beach, and great muskie fishing.

Other parks like Westcott Beach, Cedar Point, and Southwick Beach also offer beaches, fishing, and stunning views. You can find peace on a quiet hike or fun in the water. These parks have something for all.

"New York state boasts 180 state parks, providing millions of acres of protected wilderness for outdoor enthusiasts."

New York is great for nature lovers with its many trails and water spots. The Adirondack Park is the biggest in the U.S. after Alaska, covering over 6.1 million acres. It's even bigger than some famous national parks.

If you want to relax on a beach, hike, or fish, the Thousand Islands-Seaway region has it all. It's a top spot for outdoor fun.

Admire Historic Lighthouses and Sites

The Thousand Islands region is full of maritime history. It has beautiful lighthouses and historic sites. The Tibbetts Point Lighthouse in Cape Vincent is a key spot. It's where the St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario meet. This lighthouse uses the original Fresnel lens, making it special.

At the Oswego Lighthouse, you can take guided tours. It's part of the H. Lee White Maritime Museum. This lighthouse helps ships navigate safely with its unique design.

• The star-shaped Fort Ontario, from the 18th century, shows the area's military role.
• The Sackets Harbor Battlefield, a National Historic Landmark, tells stories of the War of 1812.
• The Fort de la Présentation, built in 1749, adds more history to the Thousand Islands.

Visiting these lighthouses and sites lets you dive into the region's rich past. The mix of land and water has shaped its history for centuries.

Explore the maritime and military history of the Thousand Islands. These historic lighthouses and sites offer a peek into the past. They invite you to step back in time and see the lasting impact on the Thousand Islands today.

Indulge in World-Class Fishing

The Thousand Islands-Seaway region is a dream spot for anglers. The St. Lawrence River is known as the #1 fishing spot. It's perfect for both experts and beginners, offering great chances to catch big fish like the muskie.

The St. Lawrence River, on the US-Canada border, is famous for its many fish types. You can catch muskie or smallmouth bass for a fun fishing day. The river's clear waters and beautiful views make it ideal for fishing.

For a top fishing trip, think about a guided tour or charter with local pros. These guides know the best spots and can teach you how to fish better. They'll help you catch a trophy fish.

Looking for the thrill of catching a big muskie or the fun of smaller fish? The Thousand Islands-Seaway is perfect for you. So, bring your gear, get ready, and start your fishing adventure on the beautiful St. Lawrence River.

Explore the Great Lakes Seaway Trail

Get ready for a scenic drive on the 454-mile Great Lakes Seaway Trail, a top National Scenic Byway in the U.S. This route hugs the US-Canada border, showing off the St. Lawrence River, Lake Ontario, the Niagara River, and Lake Erie.

Embark on a Scenic Byway Along the US-Canada Border

Driving the Great Lakes Seaway Trail, you'll see diverse landscapes. You'll pass through charming towns, quaint villages, and beautiful bays. The route also takes you through rolling farmland, harbors, and historic lighthouses.

This memorable trip covers 11 counties in New York and a bit of Pennsylvania. It highlights the area's natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Highlights include the Barcelona Lighthouse, Lake Erie State Park, and the Chautauqua Institution. You'll also see historic lighthouses along the shore. Don't miss attractions like Artpark in Lewiston, the Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum in North Tonawanda, and the Genesee Country Village and Museum in Rochester.

The Great Lakes Seaway Trail is perfect for history lovers, outdoor fans, or anyone wanting a scenic drive. Start this National Scenic Byway and explore the natural and cultural treasures along the US-Canada border.

Conclusion

The Thousand Islands region of New York is a hidden treasure. It's filled with stunning castles and mansions, and offers peaceful boat cruises on the St. Lawrence River. This place has a perfect mix of history, nature, and adventure.

Looking for state parks, historic lighthouses, or top-notch fishing? The Thousand Islands has it all. It's a place that will capture the heart of every traveler.

When planning your visit, get ready to be amazed by over 1,800 islands and a wide range of activities. Clayton, with its shift from lumber to tourism, and Grindstone Island's protected lands, are just the start. There are many hidden spots to discover.

Dive into the Thousand Islands' deep history and taste the original Thousand Island dressing. Make memories as you explore this UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. Start your adventure in the Thousand Islands and see why it's a top spot in New York. It's a mix of castles, boat tours, outdoor fun, lighthouses, and great fishing.