A Local's Guide to the Thousand Islands in Canada
There are places in the world that seem too surreal to be true—where granite rises from emerald waters, castles crown tree-covered islands, and the morning mist clings to secret passages and century-old skiffs. Welcome to the Thousand Islands, a spellbinding region shared by Ontario and New York, nestled in the heart of the Saint Lawrence River.
Despite the name, there are actually 1,864 islands scattered along this 80-kilometer stretch of river. Some are no larger than a living room, while others host mansions, farms, or even entire fairy tale fortresses.
The Gateway: Gananoque
Your Thousand Islands adventure begins in Gananoque, the charming Canadian riverside town dubbed the "Gateway to the Islands." Whether you arrive by car, boat, or—better yet—helicopter, Gananoque greets you with small-town charm and a big embrace of river culture.
For an unforgettable introduction, take to the skies with Thousand Islands Helicopter Tours. From above, you'll see how the islands form a surreal mosaic, scattered like emerald petals by the Great Spirit—at least, that’s how Indigenous legends tell it.
Thousand Island Must-Sees & Hidden Gems
Beyond the castles and cottages, this region is packed with things to do:
1. Thousand Islands Tower – The Best View in the Archipelago
Located on Hill Island, this 400-foot tower offers breathtaking 360-degree views of both Canadian and U.S. islands. Ride the elevator to three open-air decks, with historical plaques identifying key landmarks. On clear days, you can see as far as Kingston and into upstate New York. Affordable and often overlooked, it’s a must-do for panoramic photographers and first-time visitors alike.
2. Confederation Park – Art, Nature, and River Tranquility
In downtown Gananoque, Confederation Park blends sculpture, swans, and river serenity. It's home to one of Canada’s largest outdoor contemporary art exhibits and a peaceful waterfall trail. With picnic spots and public events throughout the year, this green space is a local favorite for downtime before or after a Thousand Islands cruise.
3. Thousand Islands Boat Museum – River Heritage in Action
Located on Gananoque’s waterfront, this hands-on museum showcases the region’s deep boating history. Wander through restored wooden skiffs, watch traditional boatbuilding demos, or ride in a vintage craft. The museum also includes interactive exhibits for kids and a lovely café overlooking the water—perfect for riverside relaxation.
4. Thousand Islands National Park – Canada's Natural Treasure
Scattered across the river and its shores, this national park offers kayaking routes, island camping, and trails like Landon Bay and Jones Creek. Wildlife sightings are common—think herons, turtles, and bald eagles. It’s the perfect place to paddle, picnic, or stargaze under open skies on your very own granite island.
5. Arthur Child Heritage Museum – Gateway to the Past
Right by the cruise docks in Gananoque, this engaging museum dives into the area’s cultural and maritime roots. Exhibits cover Indigenous heritage, the War of 1812, steamship travel, and historic boatbuilding. It’s a fantastic first stop to understand the stories behind the Thousand Islands' natural and cultural charm.
6. Maple Leaf Market – A Taste of Local Life
Just outside Gananoque, this family-run country store is a sweet slice of rural Ontario. Sample maple syrup, fruit preserves, and home-baked goods. Spring visitors may even get to taste syrup straight from the evaporator. It’s the perfect roadside stop for edible souvenirs and local conversation.
7. Lyndhurst Stone Arch Bridge – A Hidden Historic Gem
Found in the quiet village of Lyndhurst, this 1857 stone bridge is the oldest in Ontario. It arches gracefully over the Gananoque River and is surrounded by historic homes, walking trails, and quaint antique shops. It’s a peaceful and photogenic detour off the main tourist trail.
8. Landon Bay Lookout – A Hidden Hiking Gem
Accessible from Thousand Islands National Park near Ivy Lea, Landon Bay is a forested trail that leads to a sweeping clifftop view of the river. The hike is short and easy, ideal for families or sunset lovers. It’s a serene escape into nature with a reward that’s 100% worth the walk.
9. Ivy Lea Wharf – Quiet Beauty and Local Flavor
This tiny riverside spot near the Thousand Islands Bridge is perfect for a swim, kayak launch, or a peaceful riverside break. Nearby, the Ivy Restaurant serves gourmet meals on a deck overlooking the water. Ivy Lea is a favorite for those who want a slower pace and stunning views.
10. Halstead Bay – Scenic Stop Along the Parkway
Just across from the Langdon Bay Trailhead, Halstead Bay is one of the Thousand Islands Parkway’s best-kept secrets. A short trail leads to a picture-perfect viewpoint over the river. It’s a quiet, natural spot to pause, reflect, or capture a postcard-worthy photo with zero crowds.
11. Boldt Castle – A Monument to Lost Love
Located on Heart Island in New York waters, Boldt Castle is the crown jewel of the Thousand Islands. Built by millionaire hotelier George C. Boldt in the early 1900s as a tribute to his beloved wife, the castle was abandoned after her sudden death. Now beautifully restored, it’s open for tours and brims with romantic architecture, lush gardens, and heart-shaped design motifs. Accessible by boat from Canada or the U.S., it’s one of the most iconic and emotionally stirring stops in the region.
Best Time to Visit the Thousand Islands
The best time to visit the Thousand Islands is from late May to early October, when the river is thawed, the islands are fully accessible, and nearly all attractions are open. June to August offers prime boating weather, vibrant festivals, and lush green scenery, making it perfect for cruises and castle visits. For a quieter, more colorful experience, September and early October bring breathtaking fall foliage and fewer crowds. Spring is ideal for wildlife watching and maple syrup season, but some attractions may still be reopening. Winter, while beautiful, is harsh and best left to the year-round locals.
Best Places to Stay in the Thousand Islands
For exploring the Canadian side of the Thousand Islands, these key locations offer the best access, charm, and variety:
Gananoque – The Gateway to the Thousand Islands
Gananoque is the top place to stay for most visitors. This vibrant riverside town is home to the main cruise docks, boutique hotels, cafes, and cultural hotspots like the Thousand Islands Playhouse. It’s walkable, scenic, and packed with amenities. Whether you’re booking a castle cruise, kayaking adventure, or sipping local maple beer, Gananoque places you right in the heart of it all.
Rockport – Small Village, Big Views
Just a 20-minute drive east of Gananoque, Rockport is a charming waterfront village known for its picturesque marina and direct access to boat cruises. It’s smaller and quieter than Gananoque, perfect for a peaceful retreat. Many accommodations here are riverside inns or cozy B&Bs, and the views of the islands are unbeatable. Rockport is also close to hiking trails and scenic lookouts along the Thousand Islands Parkway.
Lansdowne & Ivy Lea – Nature and Seclusion
If you're looking for serenity and a deeper connection with nature, Lansdowne and Ivy Lea offer forested settings, quick access to Thousand Islands National Park, and stunning views of the river. These areas are ideal for campers, paddlers, or anyone wanting to escape the crowds. Ivy Lea also has access to the Ivy Lea Club and nearby trails like the Landon Bay Lookout.
Hill Island – Scenic Vantage Point
Hill Island, right next to the Thousand Islands Bridge, is home to the Thousand Islands Tower and several lookouts with sweeping views. While accommodations are limited, staying nearby gives you quick access to the tower, scenic trails, and water-based activities. It’s also a great jumping-off point for exploring the quieter stretches of the Parkway.
Each of these Canadian locations offers a unique lens on the Thousand Islands—choose based on whether you want vibrant town life, peaceful seclusion, or easy access to nature and the river.
Getting Around the Thousand Islands: Boats, Ferries & River Routes
Exploring the Thousand Islands isn’t just about the sights—it’s about the journey. In this region, the river is the highway, and every trip between islands becomes an experience in itself. From historic wooden skiffs to modern ferries and private boat tours, there’s a mode of transport to match every traveler's vibe and budget.
Scenic River Cruises
The most popular and accessible way to explore the Thousand Islands is by joining one of the many scenic boat cruises that depart from towns like Gananoque, Rockport, and Ivy Lea. Cruises range from one-hour tours to half-day adventures, often with live narration covering the history, legends, and landmarks of the region. Popular cruise routes include stops or views of Boldt Castle, Singer Castle, and the International Rift, where the U.S. and Canadian borders meet mid-river.
Ferry Services
While most of the islands are privately owned and don’t offer public ferry services, a few key islands—like Wolfe Island near Kingston—are serviced by a public ferry. This large island is accessible via a free, year-round ferry operated by the Ontario Ministry of Transportation. Once on Wolfe Island, you can explore charming rural roads by car or bike. From there, seasonal ferries also run to Cape Vincent, New York, offering a cross-border experience on the water.
Kayaks & Canoes
For the adventurous at heart, kayaking and canoeing are the most intimate ways to navigate the maze of islands. Outfitters in Gananoque and Ivy Lea offer rentals and guided tours that allow you to paddle through quiet channels, past granite outcrops and lush, pine-covered shores. It’s common to spot herons, turtles, and even deer along the way. This is a great option for travelers looking to connect with nature and explore the lesser-known corners of the river.
Private Boat Charters
If you're looking for a more custom experience, private boat charters are widely available. From vintage mahogany launches to sleek pontoon boats, these charters let you design your own route, stop at castles, picnic on a secluded island, or even go swimming in a quiet bay. Many charters include knowledgeable local captains who double as guides, sharing island lore and secret spots you’d never find on a map.
Marinas & Ports
Travelers bringing their own boats will find excellent facilities at marinas in Gananoque, Rockport, Alexandria Bay, and Clayton. These ports of call offer fuel, boat slips, maintenance services, and even shower and laundry facilities for extended stays. Brennan’s Marina in Gananoque is a favorite among wooden boat enthusiasts and is often the launching point for refurbished skiffs and antique watercraft.
Helicopter and Seaplane Access
While not for everyday travel between islands, a helicopter tour or seaplane arrival adds a splash of drama to your trip. Thousand Islands Helicopter Tours operates out of Gananoque and offers quick aerial access and spectacular views. Some island property owners even have private seaplane docks, as photographer Ian Corristine famously did before settling on his island.
Local Tips for Exploring the Canadian Thousand Islands
1. Sunrise Cruises Are Gold: Book your boat tour early—morning light makes the islands glow, and you’ll avoid the busiest crowds for the most peaceful experience on the river.
2. Cross-Border ID Alert: If you plan to visit Boldt Castle from Canada, bring your passport—even though it's a quick boat ride, you’re entering the U.S. and will need identification.
3. Eat Like a Local: Try the maple-glazed salmon or locally brewed maple beer in Gananoque—many restaurants use seasonal ingredients sourced straight from nearby farms or riverside producers.
4. Bring Binoculars: Wildlife abounds here! Ospreys, herons, and even the occasional mink can be spotted. Binoculars make island hopping a birdwatcher’s dream.
5. Paddle Smart: If kayaking, stick close to the shoreline and use a waterproof map. Winds and boat wakes on the open river can be stronger than they look.
6. Shop Off Main Street: Explore the side streets in Gananoque for charming boutiques, artisan studios, and lesser-known coffee shops that locals swear by—often cheaper and cozier than the main drag.
7. Avoid Summer Weekends: Visit on weekdays or in early June or September to beat the tour bus crowds and get better rates on accommodations and boat rentals.
8. Cash Up for Islands: Many small island vendors, like local farmstands or souvenir sellers, only accept cash—especially at private docks and seasonal markets.
9. Watch for Hidden Beaches: Grey’s Beach and Landon Bay offer scenic, quiet swim spots—pack water shoes and a towel for spontaneous stops along the Thousand Islands Parkway.
10. Book Ahead for Castle Stays: If you’re dreaming of staying overnight at Singer Castle, book several months in advance—it’s one of Canada’s most unique (and limited) accommodations.
The Magic of Canada's Thousand Islands
Whether you’re flying above the shimmering river, wandering through castle corridors, paddling between pine-topped islets, or enjoying a cold maple beer by the dock—the Thousand Islands region is pure Canadian enchantment. With its blend of rich history, small-town charm, wild nature, and unforgettable views, this is a destination that doesn’t just get visited—it stays with you. So pack your sense of wonder and set sail into a world where every island tells a story.
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