Our sneaky secret? Fall is low-key and the best time to visit the 1000 Islands Region because it’s still warm, more beautiful than ever and it lacks the crowds of summer.
Wide-Open Spaces
Enjoy an exclusive version of the 1000 Islands Region this fall. Skip the crowded trailheads, park with ease in a normal parking spot, and spend more time outside surrounded by vibrant fall hues.
Check out the Thousand Islands Land Trust (TILT), which manages 10 signature preserves spanning over 1,800 acres with diverse habitats, outdoor recreation opportunities, and endless inspiration from the beautiful landscapes.
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.
Craving a little more forest action? Plan an adventure in Tug Hill which spans 2,100 square miles – aka – there is plenty of room to roam uninterrupted.
Our Local Flavors
Get a taste of the 1000 Islands Region by enjoying local brews, ciders, spirits, and wines. While others wait for a half-hour between pours you’ll be sipping pretty on seasonal flavors. Visit on the right day and you may get a glimpse of the grape harvest. Cheers to that!
Endless Shorelines and Water Adventures
Try something unique and double your foliage views by taking a scenic cruise on the St. Lawrence River where the water mirrors the vibrant hues. Uncle Sam Boat Tours are open through the end of October, weather dependent, and Clayton Island Tours are open through mid-October.
Our fishing opportunities will make a fin-tastic addition to your fall adventure. When you load up the car don’t forget to include your fishing pole and tackle box so you can cast a line in our beautiful waters surrounded by fresh autumn air.
Family Time
Back-to-school season comes with new challenges this year. Plan a short escape to reconnect and have some fall fun!
Head to the pumpkin patch at Old McDonald’s Farm Village to find the perfect pumpkin, visit with over 200 friendly farm animals, navigate the massive new corn maze, and more. The best part? Thanks to their new online reservation system you know you’re set for an uncrowded, enjoyable trip.
Crown the mini-golf champion of your family with a visit to River Golf Adventures, a fun water-themed course, with a special surprise at hole 6 this year.
A Room With A View
Find a place to rest your head by choosing from a variety of resorts, motels, BNB’s, campgrounds, and cottages.
Sleep under the stars and wake up to the crisp fall air at one of our many campgrounds or cozy up in a cottage fit to fulfill your Instagram dreams.
Treat yourself by checking into the gorgeous 1000 Islands Harbor Hotel, a 4-Diamond waterfront location with stunning views, and enough amenities to make you extend your fall stay.