As the morning sun slowly rises above the St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario, a cool, crisp drifting breeze glides across the water, offering a welcome escape from the summer heat in the 1000 Islands.
This is where summer days are meant to be spent, surrounded by breathtaking scenery, amazing people and endless adventures. The 1000 Islands region offers the perfect way to keep cool while creating unforgettable summer memories with your family and friends.
Experience breathtaking views of waterfront mansions, island cottages, lighthouses and famous castles as boat cruises bring the history of the 1000 Islands to life. Sightseeing boat cruises, available on both sides of the border, range from a one-hour tours and half-day adventures, a dinner cruise or themed excursion, offered by trusted operators including Uncle Sam’s Boat Tours (Alexandria Bay, New York), Clayton Island Tours (Clayton, New York), 1000 Islands City Cruises (Gananoque, Ontario), and Rockport Cruises (Rockport, Ontario).
Take a trip to two unique river castles – Boldt Castle and Singer Castle – on the St, Lawrence River. Uncover the mysteries of Singer Castle on Dark Island or the romantic story of Boldt Castle on Heart Island.
Boldt Castle, one of the most iconic landmarks in the 1000 Islands, was built on Heart Island as a symbol of love by New York City hotel magnate George C. Boldt. Guests can explore the spectacular gardens, ornate rooms and picturesque waterfront views. Singer Castle on Dark Island offers secret passageways, a four-story clock tower, antique European furnishings and stunning river views. Guests can also book a stay on Dark Island in Singer Castle’s royal suite.
ALEXANDRIA BAY
Boaters make Alex Bay a cool destination, with plenty of places to dock for the day trip or overnight stay. A stroll down James Street offers shops for shirts and gifts, charming restaurants and live entertainment from talented artists and musicians. The kids love checking out the boats at the Upper James Street Boat Docks while enjoying ice cream from Liv River Fudge Co. or The Whole Scoop. Just a short walk from the business district, Scenic View Park offers an amazing sandy beach where families can enjoy the St. Lawrence River, cross the bridge to Casino Island or dive to explore the wreck of the Islander. Just a short drive from the village, Keewaydin State Park offers a large swimming pool, playground and walking trails along the St. Lawrence River.
CLAYTON
The waterfront riverwalk offers spectacular views of passing boats and Lakers while a cool breeze comes off the St. Lawrence River. The business district has a variety of restaurants, boutiques and specialty shops, art galleries and the world-renowned Clayton Opera House for concerts and community events. Grab a cone from Scoops Ahoy or Castle Ice Cream, then stroll down to Frink Park and relax in colorful Adirondack chairs under the pavilion as you watch the sunset over the river or large cargo ships passing. During the day, the pool at Cerow Recreation Park or Potters Beach Preserve offers a place to escape the summer heat. Spend a few hours walking through nautical history at the Antique Boat Museum, which showcases numerous vintage wooden boats and interactive exhibits, and see how hotel magnate George C. Boldt spent summers on his houseboat La Duchesse. The museum also offers rides in vintage wooden boats on the St. Lawrence River. Clayton Island Boat Tours offers daily trips to Rock Island Lighthouse State Park to explore the 1847 lighthouse, where visitors can climb to the lantern room or check out the Keeper’s Quarters.
CAPE VINCENT
Where Lake Ontario meets the St. Lawrence River, Tibbetts Point Lighthouse offers a beacon for mariners and exceptional views for visitors to stay cool while exploring Cape Vincent. The iconic lighthouse lets guests see how lighthouse keepers worked and kept the light shining for passing ships. After leaving Tibbets Point, take the scenic drive along the river to Cape Vincent’s picture-postcard downtown corridor for shopping and ice cream at Twist of Cape. The village’s waterfront parks offer amazing views of the river, especially East End Park for fishing and swimming, and wind turbines on Wolfe Island in Canada. Angel Rock Waterfront Cottages & Vacation Homes offers many amenities including a pool, volleyball court, fire pit and playground for the kids to let their energy out. A best-kept secret, Wilson’s Bay offers a relaxing escape from the crowds to enjoy the St. Lawrence River. Also, check out Cedar Point State Park for a cool day out on the beach, a dip in the St. Lawrence River and amazing shaded areas to beat the heat for a picnic.
SACKETS HARBOR
Keeping cool in this quaint village on Lake Ontario starts with a visit to an ice cream stand – The Parlor on Main, Pennock’s Ice Cream, Bubbly Scoops or Old McDonald’s Farm. While enjoying an ice cream or milkshake, relax and unwind at the Sackets Harbor Battlefield State Historic Site, with extraordinary views of Lake Ontario, or feed the ducks and geese at Market Square Park. The village has several boutique shops, galleries and restaurants to explore on East Main Street. Boaters can dock at Navy Point Marine or Madison Barracks Marina for a day trip or overnight stay. Guests can also enjoy the day on the water with sailing from Sail Ontario or boat charters with SacHenCruises. Take a short drive south on State Route 3, Westcott Beach State Park offers a great spot for families to swim in Lake Ontario, relax on the sandy beaches or barbecue.