Thousand Islands

The Basics

Despite the region’s name, there are actually 1,864 islands, from tiny private isles containing a single residence to larger islands open to the public with campgrounds, parks, cottage rentals, and more. Take a boat tour to see Gilded Age mansions and castles, intricate island geography, lighthouses, and other waterfront sights while learning about the history of the area from an onboard guide. Alexandria Bay, Clayton, and Sackets Harbor are some of the more popular towns to stay in or visit on the US side. If you’re interested in heritage and culture, check out the Cornwall Brothers Museum, Antique Boat Museum, or Thousand Islands Arts Center.

Things to Know Before You Go

• If you wish to cross the border into Canada, you’ll need a passport or another approved form of documentation. This includes boat travel, although some boat tours do not require documentation if passengers are to stay on the boat for the duration of the tour.

• Wellesley Island is reachable by car on the Thousand Islands International Bridge, which connects the US to Canada. Wolfe, Howe, and Simcoe islands can be accessed by ferry.

• There are a number of New York state parks that offer camping, picnic spots, fishing, and other recreation. These include Waterson Point State Park, Wellesley Island State Park, and Keewaydin State Park.

How to Get There

The town of Alexandria Bay is 350 miles (560 kilometers) north of Manhattan. If you’re arriving by road from New York destinations, travel times are about 90 minutes from Syracuse, 3.5 hours from Albany, four hours from Buffalo, and 6.5 hours from New York City.

When to Get There

Summer is the high season, perfect for outdoor activities such as boat tours, fishing, and picnicking. Go in the winter for a quieter atmosphere and to see the beauty of islands covered in snow.

Visiting Boldt Castle

Located on Heart Island near Alexandria Bay, Boldt Castle is one of Thousand Islands’ top attractions. Commissioned in 1900 by George C. Boldt, the millionaire owner of Manhattan’s Waldorf Astoria Hotel, the 120-room, 6-story castle features tunnels, a drawbridge, and Italian gardens but was never used by the Boldts due to the sudden death of George’s wife. Today, it’s open to visitors from May through October.

What are the Thousand Islands and where are they located?

Thousand Islands in upstate New York consists of more than a thousand tiny islands—1,864, to be exact—that sit across the US-Canada border where the St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario meet. They’re located in the St. Lawrence Seaway and are a popular summer getaway.

What are the best things to do in the Thousand Islands?

Among the best things to do in Thousand Islands is to take a boat tour to see the area’s array of mansions, castles, and lighthouses. Other attractions include the Cornwall Brothers Store Museum, Antique Boat Museum, and Thousand Islands Arts Center.

Are there any boat tours available in the Thousand Islands?

Yes, there are boat tours available of Thousand Islands, offering one of the best ways to sightsee in the area. You can spot more from the water than you can on land, as the area boasts so many islands of varying sizes.

What is the best time to visit the Thousand Islands?

The best time to visit Thousand Islands is in the summer, which offers the best opportunity to enjoy its many outdoor activities. However, the winter is much quieter, so head then if you want to miss the high-season crowds.

What wildlife can be seen in the Thousand Islands?

There is a wide variety of wildlife you can see in Thousand Islands. Some of the most common animals are osprey, minks, white-tailed deer, great blue herons, and map turtles. If you book a tour with a guide, they’ll advise you on the best areas for wildlife spotting.

Are there any accommodations in the Thousand Islands?

Yes, there are many accommodation options in Thousand Islands to choose from. Options range from high-end hotels to more laid-back resorts and cottages, as well as private and public campgrounds.

Ways to explore

Thousand Islands comprises 1,864 islands, from tiny private isles to larger islands with campgrounds, parks, cottage rentals, and more. Take a boat tour to see Gilded Age mansions and castles, intricate island geography, lighthouses, and other waterfront sights while learning about the history of the area from an on-board guide. Alexandria Bay, Clayton, and Sackets Harbor are some of the more popular towns to stay in or visit on the US side. If you’re interested in heritage and culture, check out seasonal attractions including the Cornwall Brothers Store Museum, Antique Boat Museum, and Thousand Islands Arts Center.

Accessibility

Some Thousand Islands tours are accessible to people who use wheelchairs.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Camera, sun protection, bathing suit and towel, water and snacks

What to wear

Wear weather-appropriate layers—you’ll likely be spending plenty of time outdoors.

Not allowed

While the rules vary by tour, most don’t allow smoking, pets, or alcohol.

Amenities

Docks, hiking trails, campgrounds

Address

Given the size of Thousand Islands, there are a number of ways to access the region from both Canada and the United States. Numerous driving routes exist, and boat tours and rentals provide aquatic access. Area towns have their own taxi and transit options.

Driving

The Thousand Islands International Bridge links I-81 in New York and Highway 401 in Ontario. Other scenic routes, including the Seaway Trail (Route 12) in New York and the 1000 Islands Parkway (Highway 2) in Ontario, are popular options.

Public transportation

Select bus and train transport serve some areas in the region, but access can be limited. It’s recommended to travel on an official tour if you don't have a car.

Best times to visit

Arrive early in the day—you’ll want to set aside as much time as possible to make the most of this vast area.

Best days to visit

Expect weekends and holidays to be particularly busy times in Thousand Islands, particularly in summer.

Best months to visit

Summer is the peak season for sightseeing in the Thousand Islands, a long-time hot-weather getaway destination. Go for the spring and fall shoulder seasons to miss the crowds.

Special events

The region hosts a wealth of events throughout the year, including highlights such as the 1000 Islands Art & Craft & Antique Festival in August.