So what’s there to do in the winter? We get asked that question all the time.
First off, there is the outdoor stuff, much of which is covered over at our Outdoor Recreation page. You’ll still find some outdoorsy stuff below too but this list also includes things to do once the snow starts blowing and the temps drop.
For indoor fun to keep the kids happy, head to the Aquatarium, a state-of-the-art learning and discovery center created to inspire wonder and curiosity about all that there is to see and do in the 1000 Islands. The Aquatarium includes a tank where you can communicate with divers as well as kids games, a replica of an island post office and more.
No kids? No problem! Winter is the perfect time to sneak off to the tasting rooms and lounges stocked with wines, brews and spirits made from right here in the 1000 Islands. Keep an eye on the craft beverage spots for entertainment too; trivia nights, food pairings and live music get sprinkled throughout the winter as a way to keep customers coming in the door.
Want to explore a little more? Several art museums and private galleries stay open throughout the winter. The feeling is if the artist is in-house working, why not keep the door open? It’s a neat opportunity to not only see art inspired by the beautiful 1000 Islands but to interact directly with the artists!
Search below for a full list of “open” attractions and activities based on where you’re staying!
- Adams, NY
Historical Association of South Jefferson
29 E. Church St.
Adams, NY 13605Phone: 315-232-2616[email protected]http://hasjny.tripod.com
Welcome to a 1850s-era house and antique home with farm and marine displays as well as Indian artifacts, local history and genealogy. Craft classes hosted on-site.
Operation Season: Year Round
- Alexandria Bay, NY
Dark Island Spirits
42 Church St.
Alexandria Bay, NY 13607Phone: 315-482-2059[email protected]www.darkislandspirits.com
New York State Craft Beverage Distillery & Tasting Room. 2016, 2017 and 2018 Gold Medal winning craft spirits, including Brandies and Liqueurs produced from Grain to Bottle in our Alexandria Bay, NY facility. Craft cocktails available in our lounge where you can relax with a game of backgammon, or browse in our unique gift shop. Come visit the home of the “Musically Matured” spirits, and discover your own “Taste in Music.”
Operation Season: Year Round
Michael Ringer’s St. Lawrence Gallery
47382 Dingman Point Rd
Alexandria Bay, NY 13607Phone: 315-482-2833 or 315-686-1009[email protected]http://www.michaelringer.com
Large selection of St. Lawrence River art featuring Michael Ringer and other local artists. Gallery locations are: 47382 Dingman Point Rd, Alexandria Bay & 203 James St., Clayton.
Operation Season: Year Round
Otter Creek Preserve and Nature Trail
Alexandria Bay, NY 13607Phone: 315-686-5345[email protected]http://www.tilandtrust.org
TILT’s Otter Creek Preserve in the village of Alexandria Bay, NY offers 1.9 miles of trails for walking, hiking, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, and provides dramatic views of both Otter Creek and Lynch Creek. A portion of the trail is ADA-accessible, with highlights including a wildlife observation tower that overlooks the Golden-winged Warbler Demonstration Area, displaying TILT’s shrubland bird management for this imperiled songbird species, and a cable suspension bridge.
Operation Season: Year Round
Thousand Islands State Parks Region
Keewaydin State Park
45165 Rt. 12
Alexandria Bay, NY 13607Phone: 315-482-2593http://www.nysparks.com
Stretching from Lake Ontario north along the St. Lawrence River, the Thousand Islands Region includes 28 state parks, Sackets Harbor Battlefield Historic Site and six stand-alone boat launches, as well as thousands of great campsites. Campsite and cottage reservations only can be made at 800-456-CAMP. Part of the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation.
Operation Season: Year Round
Thousand Islands Winery
43298 Seaway Ave.
Suite #1
Alexandria Bay, NY 13607Phone: 315-482-9306[email protected]http://www.thousandislandswinery.com
Thousand Islands Winery® is the largest farm winery in Northern New York State and is located along the majestic St. Lawrence River on a historic 40-acre farmstead established in 1836. The winery began in 2002 with the purchase of the farm by Steve Conaway and his wife Erika. The primary grape varieties being grown at the winery include Frontenac, Frontenac Gris, Marquette and La Crescent. The introduction of these cold-hardy grapes to the Thousand Islands region is the very reason we now enjoy the benefits of the ever-expanding Northern New York Craft Beverage Trail.
Thousand Islands Winery® is open every day except Christmas from 10 am to 5 pm with extended hours from April to December and hosts multiple on-site festivals featuring live music. The winery’s expansive property offers many options for hosting weddings and special private events throughout the year.
Operation Season: Year Round
- Athens, ON
Historic Murals of Athens
1 W. Main St
Athens, ON K0E 1B0Phone: 613-924-2044
The Historic Murals of Athens were the first such attraction to be established in Ontario. Nine murals were painted by professional artists on the exterior walls of local businesses.
Operation Season: Year Round
- Black River, NY
Busted Grapes
19557 Ball Rd
Black River, NY 13612Phone: 315-777-0932[email protected]www.bustedgrapeswine.com
Busted Grapes is a small winery in upstate New York that handcrafts award-winning wines from cold hardy grapes. Located near Rutland, NY, approximately 10 minutes from Watertown. Stop in and get your grapes busted on Ball Road.
Operation Season: Year Round
- Brockville, ON
Aquatarium at Tall Ships Landing
6 Broad St.
Brockville, ON K6V 0C4Phone: 613-342-6789 [email protected]http://www.aquatarium.ca
The Aquatarium offers a full range of interactions & activities for kids, teens and adults, as guests are encouraged to experience life in the 1000 Islands Region. Guests participate in hands-on interactive exhibits as well as seeing many species of fish and animals, such as OTTERS, native to the St. Lawrence River. We have several replica ships that are found in the St. Lawrence river, as well as amazing experiences such as green screen adventures and a salt water touch tank! We seek to rekindle a passion for learning and an adventurous spirit!
Operation Season: Year Round
Brock Trail
c/o 10 Market St. W.
Brockville, ON K6V 4R7Phone: 613-342-4357Toll Free: 888-251-7676[email protected]www.brockvilletourism.com
A 7km walking and cycling path that begins along Brockville’s beautiful waterfront in the historic downtown core. This scenic trail is paved to accommodate bicycles, roller blades, wheelchairs and strollers. The Trail travels through Canada’s First Railway Tunnel and continues to Blockhouse Island and then on to Hardy Park, Rotary Park, and along Buell’s Creek to the north end. A newly added section of the Trail gives you the option to go West to St. Lawrence Park and North to Mac Johnson Wildlife Conservation Area. Read about Brockville’s rich history on the plaques installed by Heritage Brockville depicting historical sites along the way. Stop by the Tourism Office at 10 Market Street West to pick up a Visitors Guide that includes the trail route.
Operation Season: Year Round
Brockville Arts Centre
235 King St. W.
Brockville, ON K6V 7A5Phone: 613-342-7122Toll Free: 877-342-7122[email protected]http://www.brockvilleartscentre.com
Host to some of the finest stage entertainment in Ontario and Canada, the arts centre regularly attracts world class entertainers. The theatre boasts one of the region’s top art galleries, it is fully accessible and offers phonic in-ear hearing devices for those with hearing disabilities. The theatre is located in Heart of historic downtown Brockville and is within easy walking distance from the harbour and downtown restaurants.
Operation Season: Year Round
Brockville Museum
5 Henry St.
Brockville, ON K6V 6M4Phone: 613-342-4397[email protected]http://www.brockvillemuseum.com
Brockville’s history is one of the prominent manufacturers, formidable wealth, fascinating historical figures and vivacious ordinary people, which is interconnected by a dynamic river. Come and discover our past in historic downtown Brockville. Open Victoria Day-Labour Day: Mon-Sat 10am-5pm; Winter Season: Mon-Fri 10am-5pm.
Operation Season: Year Round
Fulford Place Museum
287 King St. E.
Brockville, ON K6V 1E1Phone: 613-498-3003[email protected]http://www.heritagetrust.on.ca/Fulford-Place
Tour this Edwardian mansion filled with period artifacts owned by two generations of the Fulford family. Learn about the family patent medicine business, enjoy their beautiful art and collectibles as well as stroll in the Italianate garden. Open daily during July and August; limited hours in fall, winter & spring – please call for information on hours. On-site gift shop with a variety of items. Spaces available to rent for events.
Operation Season: Year Round
Mac Johnson Wildlife Area
4649 Debruge Rd - east of Hwy 29
Brockville, ON K6T 1A5Phone: 613-546-4228 Toll Free: 877-956-CRCA (2772)[email protected]http://www.crca.ca
16 km of nature trails that cross field, forest, and wetland. Enjoy hiking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, bird watching at the reservoir, a picnic area including a shelter, nature centre and two canoe and kayak launches. Conservation education programs for schools from kindergarten to Grade 12 are also offered.
Operation Season: Year Round
- Cape Vincent, NY
Copper Top Stables Boarding & Indoor Arena
4280 Branche Rd
Cape Vincent, NY 13618Phone: 315-771-1644[email protected]
Offering horse boarding and an indoor arena for practicing for horse shows in the winter. Lessons available.
Operation Season: Year Round
The Cape Winery
2066 Deerlick Rd
Cape Vincent, NY 13618Phone: 315-654-3218[email protected]http://www.thecapewinery.com
Experience a “Taste of the Cape” at The Cape Winery, the destination for award-winning wines and a serene setting that truly reflects the lifestyle of the family farm winery. Our vineyards produce the grapes for 70% of our wines, allowing the winery to provide a wide variety of wines from dry to sweet to please every palate. Check our website and Facebook for details on our “farm to table” wine pairing dinners and reserve early as they sell out every time. Open 11am-5pm daily from 1 April to 31 December (Closed Christmas Day).
Operation Season: April - December
- Chaumont, NY
White Caps Winery
11544 Co. Rt. 125
Chaumont, NY 13622Phone: 315-649-2400[email protected]www.whitecapswinery.com
Farm winery along the shore of Chaumont Bay, Chaumont. Open year-round, serving wine, craft beer and non-alcoholic beverages. Accessible by boat opposite the navigational light on Independence Point. Walking and cross-country ski trails, Wi-Fi and gift shop on site. Open noon to 6pm during summer; Closed January and February, open seven days a week in July and August, with days/hours online for the remainder of the year.
Operation Season: March - December
- Clayton, NY
Clayton Distillery
40164 Rt. 12
Clayton, NY 13624Phone: 315-285-5004[email protected]http://www.claytondistillery.com
Destination distillery creating premium-grade distilled products from locally grown grains & fruit. Summer Hours: Memorial Day-Labor Day, open Mon-Wed, 10am-5pm; Thurs-Sat, 10am-8pm; Sun, 12pm-5pm. Winter Hours: Labor Day – Memorial Day, closed Mon-Thurs; open Fri-Sat 10am-5pm; Sun 12pm-5pm.
Operation Season: Year Round
Clayton Opera House
403 Riverside Dr.
Clayton, NY 13624Phone: 315-686-2200[email protected]http://www.claytonoperahouse.com
The Clayton Opera House is a renowned, year-round cultural institution for the presentation of the performing arts. It is an important cultural destination for residents and tourists of the Thousand Islands region. This venue can be rented for social functions, business activities and community events.
Operation Season: Year Round
Coyote Moon Vineyards
17371 Co. Rt. 3
East Line Road
Clayton, NY 13624Phone: 315-686-5600[email protected]http://www.coyotemoonvineyards.com
If you are looking for an over-the-top customer experience, filled with award-winning wines, friendly staff, and a howling good time, Coyote Moon Vineyards is a must-visit destination! The entire Randazzo Family invites you to be their guest and sample over 19 varieties of delectable, hand-crafted, award-winning wines from their famous, or infamous, Twisted Sister to their Best of Class Gold Medal Winner, Marquette. Coyote Moon has a wine for every palate, tantalizing taste buds from dry to sweet and everything in between. Even beer drinkers feel right at home after sampling their Fire Boat Red, the sweet nectar of the North! Pack a picnic, the family, or just yourself and take a memorable stroll through their picturesque vineyard, the largest in Northern New York with more than 20 acres of Northern Grape Vines. Explore, sample, and learn how their award-winning wines are handcrafted with a tour of the crush pad, fermentation room, and bottling facility. Allow the Randazzos to create that experience in a fun-filled environment for you today and you will learn what all the howling is about!
Operation Season: Year Round
Fibonacci 321 Art Gallery
321 James St.
Clayton, NY 13624Phone: 315-777-0612[email protected]https://www.facebook.com/Fibonacci321/
Fibonacci 321 Art Gallery offers fine-crafted original work by artists from Northern New York, specializing in wood, clay, fibers, metals, painting/drawing and glass.
Operation Season: May - December
S. Gerald Ingerson Preserve and Sissy Danforth Rivergate Trail
Clayton, NY 13624Phone: 315-686-5345[email protected]http://www.tilandtrust.org
The Sissy Danforth Rivergate Trail is the result of a rails-to-trail project undertaken by the Thousand Islands Land Trust. It is a 27-mile multi-use trail with several access points, located in Clayton, Orleans, Theresa, Redwood and Philadelphia. Two miles of this trail, which only allows non-motorized access, runs through TILT’s S. Gerald Ingerson Preserve. This 140-acre preserve lies south of the Village of Clayton, and is a mosaic of wildlife habitats: successional shrublands, oak, pine and maple forests, along with McCarn Creek. Protecting McCarn Creek, a tributary to French Creek, this Preserve safeguards important spawning habitat for fish species and serves as a filter to clean water that flows into the St. Lawrence River. TILT is currently working on a project to restore the trestle bridge and connect the Rivergate Trail to the Clayton Riverwalk.
Operation Season: Year Round
Saint Lawrence Spirits
38289 Rt. 12E
Clayton, NY 13624Phone: 315-285-5224Toll Free: 888-528-1992[email protected]www.saintlawrencespirits.com
Saint Lawrence Spirits is a farm-based distillery crafting small batch spirits, including vodka, gin, absinthe, moonshine, whiskey and bourbon. Located right on the St. Lawrence River, the Distillery and Château (previously Fairview Manor) tie in decades of history to their process. Saint Lawrence Spirits proudly proofs down their spirits with St. Lawrence River water through reverse osmosis, providing THE SPIRIT OF THE RIVER IN EVERY BOTTLE®. Saint Lawrence Spirits uses 100% New York grains in their moonshine, whiskey and bourbon, many of which are grown in Jefferson County! They offer tastings and craft cocktails at their Downtown Tasting Room, 510 Riverside Drive, Clayton, and in the on-site restaurant, Saint Lawrence Spirits Château. The Château is a farm-to-table restaurant combining local ingredients and international flavors for a very unique dining experience on the St. Lawrence River. Serving lunch, brunch & dinner year round!
Operation Season: Year Round
St. Lawrence Pottery
41468 State Route 12
Clayton, NY 13624Phone: 315-686-4252[email protected]www.stlawrencepottery.com
Art gallery and studio featuring hand thrown and decorated pottery, lamp work, glass bead jewelry, paintings and other fine crafts reflecting the St. Lawrence River area. Minutes from Interstate 81, with plenty of parking and friendly artists ready to give demonstrations of their crafts and behind the scenes studio tours. Open year round and stocked with hundreds of one of a kind gifts and collectibles, don’t miss this shop during your visit to the river! Check out our website for hours and more information.
Operation Season: Year Round
Thousand Islands Arts Center, Home of the Handweaving Museum
314 John St.
Clayton, NY 13624Phone: 315-686-4123[email protected]www.tiartscenter.org
The Thousand Islands Arts Center retains a vast 20th century North American textile collection and library and two galleries presenting a wide variety of changing art exhibitions year-round. The Arts Center offers over 125 classes and workshops in a variety of disciplines including weaving, pottery, painting, photography, soap making, jewelry making and other heritage arts. We also host three annual events, including a Weaving History Conference, the Antique Show & Sale celebrating 56 years, and the Arts & Crafts Show, in its 38th year in 2020. TIAC also houses a weaving and pottery studio on its campus.
Operation Season: Year Round
Thousand Islands Land Trust (TILT)
135 John St.
PO Box 238
Clayton, NY 13624Phone: 315-686-5345[email protected]http://www.tilandtrust.org
The Thousand Islands Land Trust invites residents and visitors to stop by and learn more about the 1000 Islands Region and the importance of conserving it. Located in the heart of downtown Clayton, the TILT office offers access to their knowledgeable staff, who are happy to provide information regarding their vibrant TILTreks programs, events, volunteer opportunities, and conservation efforts.
Operation Season: Year Round
Thousand Islands Museum
312 James St.
Clayton, NY 13624Phone: 315-686-5794[email protected]http://www.timuseum.org
Housing special exhibits of world class muskies and hunting decoys from the past and present. Museum gallery and library offers history of river life along the St. Lawrence. The museum is the only place in the world where you can purchase St. Lawrence Tartan. Located in the Historic District of downtown Clayton. Host to the annual Decoy and Wildlife Art Show. Gallery hours: Jan-May, open Tues & Wed, 10am-4pm. Memorial Day-December: Tues-Fri, 10am-4pm.
Operation Season: Year Round
Winged Bull Studio
12975 House Rd
Clayton, NY 13624Phone: 315-686-5722
An atelier – an artist’s workshop – where the works of Greg Lago can be viewed as they are created. His Vandercook Press rarely sits idle; printing wood engravings and linocuts that have brought him international recognition. Works in various mediums by Lago and other artists are also on display.
Operation Season: Year Round
Wood Boat Brewery
625 Mary St.
Clayton, NY 13624Phone: 315-686-3233[email protected]http://www.woodboatbreweryny.com/
Craft Brewery that also sells brick oven pizza. When the weather is warm, there is nothing better than sipping some brew, enjoying some grub and the views of the magnificent St. Lawrence River with amazing sunsets on our outdoor deck. In the cooler months, enjoy the fun, friendly indoor pub style restaurant and lounge.
Operation Season: Year Round
Zenda Farms Preserve, Community Garden and MacFarlane Trail
38973 Zenda Farm Rd
Clayton, NY 13624Phone: 315-686-5345[email protected]http://www.tilandtrust.org
Zenda Farms was a state-of-the-art dairy and beef farm that operated from 1939 into the late 1950’s. The farm preserve includes the original Jamesway farm buildings, thought to be the only full set of their kind in North America! The preserve is surrounded by 405 acres of grasslands, wetlands, forest, and hay meadows maintained for wildlife habitat and includes the LoisJean and John MacFarlane Trail and the Zenda Community Garden. The Zenda Community Garden provides fresh, locally grown produce for participating local families, and a Kids Korner Garden and Natural Play Area which is open to the public. The 1.35-mile-long LoisJean and John MacFarlane Trail runs around the perimeter of a meadow and is a non-motorized trail for hiking, jogging & cross-country skiing. TILT is currently developing Zenda Farms into a center for community engagement, environmental education, and sustainable agriculture within its ecologically diverse and culturally historic farm setting– including the production of sustainably-produced wine and organic cheese.
Operation Season: Year Round
- Delta, ON
Old Stone Mill National Historic Site
44 King St.
Delta, ON K0E 1G0Phone: 613-928-2584[email protected]http://www.deltamill.org
To experience all the sights and sounds of Ontario’s oldest operating stone gristmill, plan a visit to Delta’s 200-plus-year-old stone landmark, the Old Stone Mill! Designated in 1972 as a National Historic Site, it is equipped with operating milling machinery, a turning water wheel, and three floors of exhibitions. The Old Stone Mill is a educational and fun destination owned and operated by a non-profit organization that has spent 50 years restoring and preserving this important piece of Canadian heritage. The Mill is open daily between Victoria Day Weekend and Labour Day and by appointment in the off-season. Admission is free and tours are available from knowledgeable volunteers and helpful summer students.
Operation Season: May - December
- Finch, ON
South Nation River Conservation Authority (SNRCA)
38 Victoria St.
PO Box 29
Finch, ON K0C 1K0Phone: 613-984-2948[email protected]http://www.nation.on.ca
Discover the nature, wildlife and recreational opportunities of the South Nation Conservation Jurisdiction! Canoe one of the five South Nation canoe routes, try your hand at fishing, or visit conservation areas and trails for walking, hiking, cycling and geocaching adventures.
Operation Season: Year Round
- Gananoque, ON
1000 Islands Helicopter Tours
88 Hwy. 32
Gananoque, ON K7G 2V3Phone: 613-382-3888Toll Free: 855-855-HELI (4354)[email protected]http://www.fly1000islands.ca
Experience all that the 1000 Islands has to offer, first class! 1000 Islands Helicopter Tours and Kouri’s Kopters offer the most spectacular views from planned tours, custom charters and life-changing excursions. See the beauty, romance, and grandeur of the 1000 Islands from the air. Feel the excitement as you lift off and fly away on a journey of a lifetime from our state of the art facility. Take home memories by purchasing your personalized high-definition video of your tour!
Operation Season: Year Round
1000 Islands History Museum
125 Water St.
Gananoque, ON K7G 3E3Phone: 613-382-2535Toll Free: 877-217-7391[email protected]http://www.1000islandsheritagemuseum.com
Visitors will experience the history, life and times of the 1000 Islands Region through an exhibit of dioramas and interactive displays. Tours available.
1000 Islands History Museum – Open Year-Round.
New Hours:
January 8th – May 8th: 10am – 3pm. (Tuesday to Saturday).
May 9th – August 31st: 10am – 5pm.
September 1st – November 1st: 10am – 4pm.
November 3rd – December 18th: 10am – 3pm (Tuesday to Saturday)
Operation Season: Year Round
Gan Brewing Company
9 King St. E.
Gananoque, ON K7G 1E7Phone: 613-463-9131[email protected]http://www.ganbeer.com
The brewery is located in the historic Bell Tower mall built in 1860 and was originally used to manufacture springs and axles for horse-drawn carriages. People are welcome to come in for a tasting flight, a 12-ounce sample or even a tour. Call or check out our website or Facebook for Events
Operation Season: Year Round
Gananoque Inn & Spa
550 Stone St. S.
Gananoque, ON K7G 2A8Phone: 613-382-2165Toll Free: 888-565-3101[email protected]http://www.gananoqueinn.com
Take time to decompress and experience our many spa services. This petit spa is like an oasis with lots of little “extras” and will make you feel rejuvenated and relaxed. New clients always welcome. Located on the second floor of the Gananoque Inn & Spa. Open until 7pm on Fridays and Saturdays.
Operation Season: Year Round
Shorelines Casino Thousand Islands
380 Hwy. 2
Exit 648, off Hwy. 401
Gananoque, ON K7G 2V4Phone: 613-382-6800Toll Free: 866-266-8422http://shorelinescasino.com/thousand-islands/
Open Daily. Local and casually upscale, this is the place to go to escape – not just for gaming, but also for eating, drinking, entertainment, socializing, or relaxing. Must be at least 19 years to enter.
Operation Season: Year Round
- Hammond, NY
Crooked Creek Preserve and Macsherry Trail
Hammond, NY 13646Phone: 315-686-5345[email protected]http://www.tilandtrust.org
TILT’s Crooked Creek Preserve protects 1,525 acres of class I wetlands, uplands and forest along Crooked Creek, in both Jefferson and St. Lawrence Counties, and is part of the wildlife corridor that links Algonquin Park to the Adirondacks. It is one of the most significant wetlands on the St. Lawrence, providing habitat for countless species, and acting as both filter and buffer when water levels fluctuate. Bald eagles regularly fly overhead and the creek meanders for miles of quiet paddling. The Macsherry Trail consists of a short loop of about 1.5 miles and a long loop of nearly 3 miles. Passing beaver ponds and meandering through woods, it leads to the creek itself with a wonderful view of Chippewa Bay, before circling back to the trail head.
Operation Season: Year Round
- Henderson, NY
Henderson Historical Society Museum
12581 Co. Rt. 72
P O Bx 322
Henderson, NY 13650Phone: 315-938-7163[email protected]http://www.hendersonnyhistoricalsociety.com
The History & Genealogy Center & Museum is housed in 3 buildings: the former Universalist Church, Circa 1839 (with original 1910 Horwood stain-glass windows and church furniture), the 1807 Ray cabin (furnished with the items of Henderson settler families) and the Peters-Stevens Boat Annex, which displays 12 Henderson-made wooden work and recreation boats from 1890s to about 1940s. The collection has work by local artists as well as two Springsteen paintings and Springsteen’s collection of mathematical papers and drawings on site, Tyler coverlets, Indian and Pre-Iroquoian artifacts and period maps. Numerous educational programs are offered during the season.
Operation Season: May - October
- Ingleside, ON
Upper Canada Migratory Bird Sanctuary & Campsite
5591 Co Rd. 2
Ingleside, ON K0C 1M0Phone: 613-537-2024Toll Free: 800-437-2233[email protected]http://www.uppercanadabirdsanctuary.com
One of the key wildlife habitats in Eastern Ontario, the Sanctuary includes wooded uplands, waterways and marshland. Visitor Interpretive Centre with nature programs and more than 8 km of self-guided nature trails and over 200 species of birds. A birder’s paradise!
Operation Season: Year Round
- Iroquois, ON
Smyth’s Apple Orchard
11652 Co Rd 18, RR 1
Iroquois, ON K0E 1K0Phone: 613-652-2477[email protected]http://www.smythsapples.com
“Home of the McIntosh apple.” In 1796 John McIntosh discovered and named the first McIntosh tree; the orchard now boasts several variety of apples, cider, jams, chutneys and giftwares. Ready-made gift baskets or made-to-order baskets available.
Operation Season: August - April
- Kingston, ON
Agnes Etherington Art Centre
Queen's University, 36 University Avenue
Kingston, ON K7L 3N6Phone: 613-533-2190[email protected]http://agnes.queensu.ca
Agnes Etherington Art Centre is a research intensive art museum located on the historic campus of Queen’s University. It illuminates the great artistic traditions of the past and the innovations of the present through year-round programs of exhibitions and outreach activities staged across nine beautiful galleries, the Bieler Studio, and assorted public spaces including the gracious period rooms of the historic Etherington House. Its superb collections – numbering over 17,000 works – include cutting edge contemporary art and fine examples of Canadian historical art, Indigenous art and artifacts, and material culture including an unusual collection of Canadian Historical Dress and the Lang Collection of African Art. The Bader Collection, focusing on Rembrandt and his school, centers on more than 200 paintings from the Dutch Golden Age, including one portrait and three beautiful character studies by Rembrandt.
Free admission for all, donations are welcome.
Operation Season: Year Round
Frontenac County Schools Museum
414 Regent St.
Barriefield
Kingston, ON K7L 5J9Phone: 613-544-9113[email protected]www.fcsmuseum.com
Heritage limestone building with a schoolroom depicting an 1890-1910 school, complete with costumed teacher and activities; a gallery holds changing displays.
The museum is open Tuesday to Saturday, 10 am-3 pm during July and August. From September to June, open Tuesday and Wednesday, 9 am-3 pm and Thursday 9 am to noon- other times by appointment.
Operation Season: Year Round
Grand Theatre
218 Princess St.
Kingston, ON K7L 1B2Phone: 613-530-2050[email protected]http://www.kingstongrand.ca
The Grand Theatre showcases a season that is jam-packed with dazzling entertainment; featuring theatre, dance, music, comedy, variety, and family performances. The spotlight shines on internationally-known celebrity artists, Broadway touring shows, and local arts groups in over 100 amazing shows each year. The acoustically perfect Regina Rosen Auditorium and the intimate Baby Grand Theatre, plus two spacious reception lounges, make the Grand Theatre the City of Kingston’s premier performing arts facility. The theatre is wheelchair accessible.
Operation Season: Year Round
Kingston Symphony Association
11 Princess St.
Suite 206
Kingston, ON K7L 5C8Phone: 613-546-9729Toll Free: 800-451-2453[email protected]http://www.kingstonsymphony.ca
The Kingston Symphony is dedicated to musical development in the community through the orchestras and choir we operate and the high musical performances we present.
Operation Season: Year Round
Lemoine Point Conservation Area
1440 Coverdale Dr.
Kingston, ON K7M 8X7Phone: 613-546-4228Toll Free: 877-956-CRCA (2772)[email protected]http://www.crca.ca
Facilities include hiking and un-groomed cross-country ski trails, swimming area and a picnic area. Open year round, daily from 7:30 a.m. – dusk. Free admission, donations appreciated.
Operation Season: Year Round
Modern Fuel Artist-Run Centre
370 King St. W.
Suite 305
Kingston, ON K7L 2X4Phone: 613-548-4883[email protected]http://www.modernfuel.org
Presents works from Canadian contemporary artists. As a not-for-profit venue for contemporary art, the Centre facilitates the presentation and interpretation of visual and time-based arts that explore wide-ranging aesthetics and probe a broad scope of formal and socio-cultural questions.
Operation Season: Year Round
Museum of Health Care at Kingston
32 George Street
Ann Baillie Bldg, National Historic Site
Kingston, ON K7L 2V7Phone: 613-548-2419[email protected]http://www.museumofhealthcare.ca
With one of the largest collections of medical artifacts in Canada, this Museum will certainly have something you’ve never seen before! Eleven exhibits in the historic Ann Baillie Building bring to life the story of health care from the 18th century to the present. Gallery tours, outdoor walking tours and 12 curriculum-linked education programs available by appointment, Operating Hours: June-August – Tues-Sun, 10 am to 4 pm. September-May – Tues-Fri, 10 am to 4 pm. All floors accessible via elevator.
Operation Season: Year Round
Ontario Parks
Southeast Zone Ontario
Beechgrove Complex 51 Heakes Lane
Kingston, ON K7M 9B1Phone: 888-668-7275Toll Free: 800-667-1940http://www.ontarioparks.com
Ontario Parks is a branch of the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources. Its ensures that Ontario’s provincial parks protect significant natural, cultural and recreational environments, while providing ample opportunities for visitors to participate in recreational activities such as camping, boating, fishing, hiking, biking, swimming, wildlife viewing, day-use and natural heritage education. See Charleston Lake, Frontenac, Rideau River, Silver Lake, Murphys Point, Sandbanks, North Beach,Lake on the Mountain and Bon Echo. Also check out Frontenac, Sandbanks and Murphys Point Provincial Parks for cross-country skiing and/or snow-shoeing. Roofed accommodation is available at Charleston Lake (new yurt huts), Sandbanks (heritage home and cottage) and Bon Echo (rustic cabins and new yurts).
Operation Season: Year Round
- Morrisburg, ON
Upper Canada Playhouse
12320 Co. Rd 2
PO Box 852
Morrisburg, ON K0C 1X0Phone: 613-543-3713Toll Free: 877-550-3650[email protected]http://www.uppercanadaplayhouse.com
A totally equipped, air conditioned and accessible 275-seat professional theatre in a charming former toothbrush factory where all seats are close to the action. Includes spring and fall live concerts, a four-show summer season of popular plays and a winter holiday show family show. Bus tour groups welcome.
Operation Season: April - December
Upper Canada Village
13740 Co. Rd 2
Morrisburg, ON K0C 1X0Phone: 613-543-4328Toll Free: 800-437-2233[email protected]http://www.uppercanadavillage.com
Experience an authentically recreated 1860s village, complete with three fully operational mills, flourishing farms, trades people and a busy social and domestic life. Period music & entertainment, horse drawn vehicles, children’s activities and boat rides. Battle of Crysler’s Farm 1812 Centre nearby. Special events include Pumpkinferno in October and Alight at Night in December.
Operation Season: May - December
- Philadelphia, NY
Otter Creek Winery
33109 Rudes Road
Philadelphia, NY 13673Phone: 315-642-0622[email protected]http://www.ottercreekwinery.com
Located in Northern New York and owned by Kyle Hafemann, the youngest person to start a farm winery in the state. Currently Otter Creek produces more than 7,000 gallons of 13 different varieties of wine. Specializing in using cold-hardy grapes, the region’s signature wine flavors. Come in and taste hand-crafted wines and view our beautiful vineyards.
Operation Season: Year Round
- Redwood, NY
Grand Lake Reserve and Hiking Trails
Burns Road
Redwood, NY 13679Phone: 315-482-4757[email protected]www.indianriverlakes.org
The Grand Lake Reserve presents a spectacular landscape rich with biological diversity, rugged geography and beautiful scenery. Located between Grass and Butterfield lakes and including more than 5 miles of shoreline, Grand Lake offers five trails totaling more than 6 miles.
Operation Season: Year Round
Marc A.F. Baker Island Preserve
Burns Road
Redwood, NY 13679Phone: 315-482-4757[email protected]www.indianriverlakes.org
A remarkable property located on Grass Lake with more than 2.5 miles of undeveloped shoreline. Just a short paddle from the Grass Lake boat launch, the preserve is reachable only by water. The trail begins and ends at the dock located on the north end of the island. This easy hike affords multiple views of the western end of Grass Lake and surrounding wetlands. Hikers often see osprey, common loons and great blue herons. Maintained by the Indian River Lakes Conservancy.
Operation Season: Year Round
- Sackets Harbor, NY
The Gallery – Fine Art
115 W. Main St.
Sackets Harbor, NY 13685Phone: 315-323-1242[email protected]http://www.thegalleryfineart.com
Gallery featuring original pastels, giclee prints, etchings and oil paintings by local Sackets Harbor resident, Lawrence C. Barone. Most of the works on display and available for sale are original, with some giclee print reproductions. Works are also sold as blank greeting cards. Daily 10am-5pm, year round.
Operation Season: Year Round
- Theresa, NY
Home Again Alpaca Farm
37098 Schell Rd
Theresa, NY 13691Phone: 315-628-5302[email protected]http://www.homeagainfarmalpacas.com
Come fall in love with curious and gentle alpacas. Slow “drive-by” viewing is encouraged, or you may call ahead for an appointment for a full farm tour and personal introduction to alpacas of various ages, colors and personalities. The 50-acre farm includes a vineyard and is located on the Seaway Wine Trail – Route 26 between Theresa and Philadelphia. Also visit the retail store of alpaca goods and soft yarn.
Operation Season: Year Round
- Watertown, NY
⇧Disabled Persons Action Organization Concerts
617 Davidson St.
PO Box 222
Watertown, NY 13601Phone: 315-782-0444Toll Free: 800-533-2859[email protected]http://www.dpao.org
The DPAO Foundation brings in top name concerts and events throughout the year in Jefferson County, New York. DPAO features country, classic rock, comedy, children’s shows and special events. Past acts have included: Lady Antebellum, Brantley Gilbert, Jeff Dunham, Heart, Blake Shelton, Sugarland, Keith Urban, Journey, Alan Jackson, Reba, Jack Hannah, the Laurie Berkner Band, Steve Martin and Bill Engvall.
Operation Season: Year Round
Dry Hill Ski Area
18160 Alpine Ridge Rd
Watertown, NY 13601Phone: 315-782-8584Toll Free: 800-379-8584[email protected]http://www.skidryhill.com
The Dry Hill Ski Area offers affordable family skiing, night skiing, snowboarding and snowtubing. Instruction, rentals, food service and lounge are also available. We are conveniently located just south of Watertown. Wed-Thurs 5pm-10pm; Fri Noon-10pm; Sat 10am-10pm; Sun 10am-5pm.
Operation Season: December - March
Escape the Mystery Room
21182 Salmon Run Mall Loops West
Watertown, NY 13601Phone: 315-681-6343Toll Free: 844-502-5546[email protected]https://allinadventures.com/locations/watertown-ny/
Escape the Mystery Room offers our guests the chance to become real-life detectives during an interactive and immersive escape room experience! With 50 minutes on the clock, guests must find clues, solve puzzles, and decipher hidden codes to escape the themed room of their choice.
Operation Season: Year Round
Fun Xcape
223 JB Wise Place
Suite 20
Watertown, NY 13601Phone: 315-405-8629[email protected]https://www.facebook.com/Fun-Xcape-459675427566572/
Indoor family fun center with toddler play area, multi-level play space, climbing wall, arcade, lazer tag, cafe and party rooms. Toddler and multi-level play areas are designed to help children with development of muscle coordination and motor skills. The arcade features kid-friendly games including mini-basketball, Jurassic Park, Skee-Ball and a life size Angry Birds attraction.
Open Tuesdays through Saturdays. Open 10am-6pm Tuesdays-Thursdays plus Sundays; open 10am-8pm Fridays and Saturdays. Closed Mondays and for (U.S.) Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Operation Season: Year Round
Jefferson County Historical Society
Paddock Mansion
228 Washington St
Watertown, NY 13601Phone: 315-782-3491[email protected]http://www.JeffersonCountyHistory.org
19th Century mansion, log cabin, one-room schoolhouse and Victorian gardens. Collections include Tyler coverlets, Native American artifacts, 1910 Babcock automobile made in Watertown.
Operation Season: Year Round
Roswell P. Flower Memorial Library
229 Washington St.
Watertown, NY 13601Phone: 315-785-7705[email protected]http://www.flowermemoriallibrary.org
Historic library hosting tours by request that has more than 190,000 volumes, including collections of DVDs, videos, audio books and large print. Computers available for public use. Genealogy department, local history collection and a meeting rooms on site.
Operation Season: Year Round
Sci-Tech Center
154 Stone St.
Watertown, NY 13601Phone: 315-788-1340[email protected]http://www.scitechcenter.org
A hands-on science museum for all ages, including school tours, birthday parties, workshops and outreach science presentations. Saturday children’s strategy game club and monthly astronomy observing nights.
Open Friday and Saturday, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, all year long. Also open additional hours during school breaks, Monday Holidays and summer months.
Operation Season: Year Round
Skewed Brewing
21182 Salmon Run Loop
Watertown, NY 13601Phone: 315-788-2337[email protected]https://www.skewedbrewing.com/
We brew all Skewed Brews on site! Stop in for a bite to eat and watch the magic happen! Our tap selection changes regularly. We serve food highlighting local produce and products. From our brick-oven pretzels with house-made beer cheese, to our local grass-fed strip steak, we’re Skewing traditional pub fare!
Operation Season: Year Round
The Escape Works
140 Stone St.
Watertown, NY 13601Phone: 315-771-0787[email protected]www.theescapeworks.com
An escape room is a physical adventure game where you and your friends have to work together to solve puzzles, find clues, and escape within 60 minutes. Our games are very immersive with themed rooms that go along with the story-line of your adventure!
Operation Season: Year Round
Thompson Park
1 Thompson Park
Watertown, NY 13601Phone: 315-785-7775https://www.watertown-ny.gov/index.asp?NID=140
Historic city-owned park overlooking Watertown from atop a hill with multiple access points. The park was designed by Frederick Law Olmstead, the architect who designed Central Park in New York City. Thompson Park has acres of picnic and open space, is home to the New York State Zoo, an 18-hole golf course, playground, stone stairways and pavilions, tennis courts, walking and cycling trails and an outdoor skating area. Picnic areas can be reserved for gatherings. The park contains the Thompson Park Vortex, a constantly relocating location said to mysteriously teleport visitors to other areas of the park without explanation – a favorite among spooky enthusiasts. The park is open 7 a.m.-9 p.m., year-round.
Operation Season: Year Round
Tug Hill Region – NYS Tug Hill Commission
317 Washington St.
Watertown, NY 13601Phone: 315-785-2380[email protected]http://www.tughill.org
Tug Hill is a 2,100-square-mile rural and remote region of New York State, located between Lake Ontario and the Adirondacks. The region is heavily forested and receives the heaviest snowfall in the eastern United States. The headwaters of several major rivers spring from the region’s core forests. The region consists of 41 towns (containing 19 villages) in portions of Jefferson, Lewis, Oneida, and Oswego counties. With just over 100,000 people, about 50 people per square mile, one of Tug Hill’s most notable characteristics is its relative lack of people.
Operation Season: Year Round
Zoo New York
1 Thompson Park
Watertown, NY 13601Phone: 315-782-6180[email protected]http://www.nyszoo.org
The world’s only zoo dedicated to New York’s wild animals and wild places! Located in the heart of historic Thompson Park in Watertown, NY, the zoo mission is to provide the knowledge and motivation to conserve nature in the Empire State through science-based natural and cultural experiences. Animals, including wolverines, black bears, eagles, mountain lions, Canada lynx, grey wolves and more make their home at the 32-acre Zoo. Open daily April through October; Saturdays and Sundays November through March, plus school breaks.
Operation Season: Year Round
- Wellesley Island, NY
Cross Island Farms
44301 Cross Island Rd
Wellesley Island, NY 13640Phone: 315-482-FOOD(3663)[email protected]http://www.crossislandfarms.com
Farm tours by appointment on 102-acre organic vegetable and livestock farm. Learn about organic farming. Collect fresh eggs, pet a baby goat and see sustainable energy projects. Learn about permaculture and U-pick berries in season by appointment in the “Enchanted Edible Forest Garden.” Parties of 10 or more receive 20 percent off. Certified Organic, Fruits, Vegetables, Eggs, Meats, Farm Tours, U-Pick.
Operation Season: Year Round
Minna Anthony Common Nature Center
44927 Cross Island Rd
Wellesley Island, NY 13640Phone: 315-482-2479http://www.nysparks.com
The Nature Center covers 600 acres within Wellesley Island State Park. We have 9 miles of trails that are open year round and the 3500 square foot Nature Center is full of family friendly exhibits, including live animals. Other attractions at the Nature Center include our butterfly house that is open in July and August. We have programming year round for both children and adults and are happy to design specialized programming to suit the needs of any group. Our annual Autumn Festival is the Saturday of Columbus Day weekend. Call 315-482-2479 or view our website for information on current programs.
Operation Season: Year Round
Wellesley Island State Park
44927 Cross Island Rd
Wellesley Island, NY 13640Phone: 315-482-2722Toll Free: 800-456-2267www.nysparks.com
Minna Anthony Common Nature Center and hiking trails are located inside the park. Open most days from 8am-4pm. Please call 315-482-2479 to confirm the Nature Center is open
Operation Season: Year Round
- Alexandria Bay, NY