Along the St. Lawrence River between New York State and Southeastern Ontario, several small communities along the water attract travelers from all over. Tranquil stays with an abundance of water activities including boating, fishing, swimming, and cruising, along the 1000 Islands' rich history and stunning architecture are abundant during a trip to the region.

CLASSIC STOPS

Whether just passing through or as an annual family trip destination, these 1000 Islands activities are a must-do. Head straight to the St. Lawrence River to hop aboard a cruise among the lavish homes and beautiful scenery. Explore the estate of Boldt Castle where visitors can learn about the property's fascinating history while picturing life in the Gilded Age. Sail to the point that marks the changeover from Lake Ontario to the St. Lawrence River at Tibbetts Point Lighthouse. In Clayton, explore the Antique Boat Museum, North America's premier freshwater boating museum with 320 unique vessels showcased, speedboat rides and educational programs. To get in-depth with the region's history, explore the Thousand Islands Museum's rotating exhibits and shows and look through their extensive decoy exhibit.

UNIQUE FINDS

Chaumont offers small-town vibes and quaint local shops and Chaumont Bay, the largest freshwater bay in the world, offers weekly sailing events during the warmer months. In Clayton, waterfront Frink Park hosts a concert series throughout the summer featuring some of the region's top musical acts. On Wellesley Island, Thousand Island Park is a memorable community of Victorian-style cottages with kayak rentals, bike tours and restaurants. Home to Boldt Castle and Millionaire's Row, Alexandria Bay has a variety of ways to explore from Mississippi-style paddle boats to glass-bottom pontoons that give a glimpse beneath the surface. Visitors interested in military history can explore the Sackets Harbor Battlefield, along Lake Ontario, which was the site of two crucial U.S. wins in the War of 1812 and offers living history exhibits.

DINE & RELAX

A true agricultural culinary delight, the 1000 Islands region has something for every palate. Here, you'll find everything from fresh fish to maple sugar shacks to beautiful vineyards. Visitors can also explore the 1000 Islands Agricultural Tour, which includes stops at farms, wineries and crop stands. Thanks to the humid and fertile climate, the region is home to more than a dozen craft beverage makers! Whether grabbing a beer and brick oven pizza at Wood Boat Brewery, enjoying a tasting at Thousand Islands Winery, or sipping a cocktail at Dark Island Spirits in Alexandria Bay, visitors will taste the quality of the region's homegrown ingredients. Lodging options can be found throughout the many towns of the 1000 Islands. From the historic charm of the 1000 Islands Harbor Hotel, to unique experiences such as the floating cottages at The Ledges Resort, or even a Schitt's Creek- themed room at Wooden Boat Inn, there is no shortage of one-of-a-kind stays.

WHAT'S NEW IN 2026

American Cruise Lines is launching a new Great Lakes & Thousand Islands Cruise beginning May 2026 and running through August 2026 aboard the American Patriot, the newest small cruise ship in the country. The boat accommodates 130 guests including private balcony staterooms, a top deck lounge and walking track, a restaurant, fitness room and elevators to all decks. Highlights include a visit to Boldt Castle along a sailing exploration of the St. Lawrence River, a stop at the Antique Boat Museum, and savoring the region's finest grapes at a Coyote
Moon Winery tour and tasting. What's unique about these cruises is that American Cruise Lines can dock in the heart of small towns, city parks, and private marinas. November 2025 saw the opening of a new terminal at Watertown International Airport, with a restaurant opening in 2026. The terminal now has a new passenger jet bridge, along with upgraded ticketing and baggage claim areas. Watertown International Airport currently offers two daily flights to and from Philadelphia via American Airlines.

ARRIVE WITH EASE

The 1000 Islands region is easily accessible from many major Northeastern cities in the US, as well as several of Canada's Eastern hubs. Whether you're flying directly into Watertown or a short distance away in Syracuse, visitors have access to rental car services to make exploring the area a breeze. There is no shortage of drive-in opportunities with Albany and Buffalo a few hours away; NYC, Boston and Philly all clocking in around 6 hours away, and Canadian cities like Ottawa, Montreal and Ontario just a few hours away.