Thousands of Adventures

No matter where you go in the Thousand Islands, water and boating are key. Boats have played an integral role in the history of the area for hundreds of years. Located on the St. Lawrence River and bordered by both Canada and the United States, the Thousand Islands consists of 1,864 islands. That includes Hub Island, also known as “Just Room Enough Island,” which is the smallest inhabited island in the world. To be considered an island it must be at least 1 square foot, be above water year round and have at least one tree. There are many private island retreats here — some small, some grand. The range of things to see and do in the Thousand Islands is extensive enough that many trips are warranted.

Brockville

At the far end of the St. Lawrence River is the charming town of Brockville, Ontario. Right at the river is Tall Ships Landing, where you can visit the Aquatarium. For good food and a magnificent view, go upstairs to Moose McGuire’s Pub. Further up the road you will find Court House Square and another fun restaurant, the Keystorm Pub. For more elegant dining there’s the Mill Street restaurant or the Buell Street Bistro, which has a very pleasant courtyard patio.

Brockville is home to the first Railway Tunnel in Canada, built in 1860, though today its rails have been removed so that it can be walked through. Multicolor LED lights and music make strolling through the tunnel a unique experience.

For culture lovers, Brockville has several galleries, including the Marianne Van Silfhout Gallery located at the St. Lawrence University, an excellent performing arts center, and the Brockville Museum. For the diving enthusiast, head to Centeen Park and the Underwater Sculpture Gallery, designed to help protect the fragile shipwrecks for novice divers.

While in Brockville, also check out Fulford Place, a magnificent Gilded Age home. The late 19th century saw the building of magnificent homes and castles by the rich elite on both sides of the river. Singer Castle on Dark Island is open to the public when it’s not being privately rented out. The most well-known is Boldt Castle on Heart Island near Alexandria Bay. You can take a ferry or boat tour to the castle or come by your own boat.

Alexandria Bay

Alexandria Bay, New York, is a village full of quaint stores, great dining, natural beauty and fun. Check out the Riverwalk, Scenic Park, Casino Island or the Cornwall Brothers Museum, which is inside a historic 1866 general store. Sunken Rock Lighthouse is still in use and is now solar powered.

Alexandria Bay is a fun town where numerous festivals take place, including Bill Johnston’s Pirate Days. Nightlife and live music are plentiful. For spirit lovers check out the “musically mature” offerings at Dark Island Spirits.

Gananoque

Gananoque, Ontario, is particularly special. Whether you visit by boat or land you are immediately struck by its charm. Many of the best places are within easy walking distance of the waterfront.

A good place to start your day is at the Bravo Family Restaurant for an excellent breakfast or brunch. Then on to tour the town. A stop into the tourism office and a walk through the riverfront park are good places to begin.

The Thousand Islands Museum has a permanent collection that teaches about both the natural and human history of the area. There are also seasonal exhibits and a gift shop. Right beside it is the Thousand Islands Boat Museum. More than just a place to look at old boats, it offers hands-on programs, boatbuilding and restoring, a boat show and parade, sailing lessons and docks for the museums.

Originally the Gananoque Carriage Works, the Gananoque Inn and Spa is located right on the water and has dockage for its guests. It features the Watermark Restaurant and Muskie Jake’s Tap and Grill. Muskie is just one of the fish that is found in the St. Lawrence River, known for its world-class fishing. In the summer enjoy the view from the patio. Across the street is the cozy Stonewater Pub. It may not be a large space but it still manages to feature entertainment.

Other options for a casual bite include — but are certainly not limited to — Mavericks, Nappo’s Sports Bar or The Old English Pub. Another option for beer lovers is the Gananoque Brewing Company. For more elegant dining check out Graydon’s Restaurant in the Woodview Inn or Riva.

Enjoy a water view at the Thousand Islands Playhouse. Originally the Gananoque Canoe Club, the lobby has retained a cottage feel. There are two theaters: The dockside Springer Theatre and the smaller Firehall Theatre, which was once the armory. Both offer top of the line productions. An added bonus is docking right at the theater, although it is limited.