Just a short away from you exists endless shoreline, and uncrowded activities you can’t experience anywhere else. Visit the 1000 Islands for a fall getaway close to home.
Family Fun Without The Lines
We weren’t kidding around when we said fall is the best season to get the most out of the 1000 Islands.
A fall visit wouldn’t be complete without a trip to Old McDonald’s Farm Village! Visit with more than 200 friendly farm animals, explore through a massive new corn maze, pick your perfect pumpkin, and more. The best part? You can avoid the crowds with their online reservation system.
Fall Flavors and Finds
Enjoy a taste of fall in the islands by sipping on local brews, ciders, spirits, and wines.
Grab a flight or something seasonal from one of our eight breweries and cideries. Or go for something a little stronger from a local distiller.There is nothing like right-from-the-vineyard wine. Relax and enjoy tastings with a view and don’t forget to bring home a bottle or two.
Speaking of bringing something home with you, head to one of our quaint downtowns and browse the local specialty shops at your own pace for clothing, antiques, artwork inspired by the islands, and other souvenirs to remember your fall escape.
Alexandria Bay is centrally located on the New York side of the 1000 Islands and is a great “home base” for your team. Swim in the St. Lawrence River – which is actually warmest in early fall – from Scenic View Park with a playground and footbridge to Casino Island, the perfect spot for an on-the-water picnic.
Take The Trail Less Traveled
Sometimes we forget the most beautiful places are just a short drive away. Break free from your backyard and get your fix of vibrant colors by exploring the trails, preserves, and parks in our region.
The Thousand Islands Land Trust (TILT) offers 10 preserves filled with diverse habitats and beautiful landscapes. Each preserve is open to the public and offers recreation opportunities and endless inspiration, especially when painted with beautiful fall colors.
A lesser-known series of preserves is overseen by the Indian River Lakes Conservancy. Scattered around the chain of Indian River Lakes about 15 miles inland from the St. Lawrence River, the preserves include the fully accessible Redwood Hill with its overlook of Butterfield Lake and the challenging – or relaxing depending on the spur you take – Grand Lakes Reserve.
Further south, adventure through Tug Hill, a gorgeous 2,100-square-mile region with an expansive forest, fun trails, and uninterrupted foliage views.
Unique Foliage Views
Catch a new perspective – or an old favorite – and set sail on the waters of the St. Lawrence River for a boat tour that offers a mirrored, double-foliage effect. Uncle Sam Boat Tours are open through the end of October, weather dependent, and Clayton Island Tours are open through mid-October.
Embrace The Nearby Space
Don’t forget your poles and lures when you head to any of the waters. Enjoy a quick escape and cast a line from the shoreline or your own boat this fall for some much-needed stress relief.
And don’t put away your tent just yet. Why not spend a night under the stars surrounded by the crisp fall air during your visit by choosing from the variety of campground and camping experiences we have?
Enjoy your fall, close to home!