Places to stay near Thousand Islands

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Your guide to Thousand Islands

All About Thousand Islands

The Thousand Islands are an archipelago situated on the border of northern New York and southern Ontario, comprising more than 1,800 islands ranging in size from 100 square kilometres to tiny rock outcroppings inhabited only by birds. People on both sides of the US-Canada border visit in the warmer months to spend time in its serene bays, where you can rent a boat and paddle through labyrinthine waterways that connect the islands, stopping to explore castles, national parks, and an open-air cathedral carved into ancient glacier rocks.

The best way to experience all the islands have to offer is to tour some of the charming towns and villages. Cape Vincent boasts endless cycling trails and an 1854 lighthouse while Alexandria Bay is popular for its fishing charters and golf courses. No matter your adventure, you’re likely to hear stories of the islands’ colourful history, with tales of pirates, bootleggers, and the rich and famous. And be sure to slather your salad, burger, and fries in the famous Thousand Island dressing, which was invented here by fishermen trying to make the most of their lunch rations.


The best time to stay in a vacation rental in Thousand Islands

The Thousand Islands shine brightest when the weather is warm. Summer is ideal for swimming off the coast of any one of the islands, while early autumn is also a fun time, when the water temps are still warm, the leaves begin to change colour, and there’s less traffic on the waterways. The winter months bring cool coastal winds and freezing temperatures. Many of the top tourist spots will be closed for the season, and snow is a regular visitor to the islands. The crowds tend to disappear during winter months, making it a great time to rent a Thousand Islands cabin for a peaceful, quiet vacation.


Top things to do in Thousand Islands

Boldt Castle

The opulent Boldt Castle stands as a living relic of the 19th century, when the Thousand Islands were the playground of the rich and famous. Tour the grounds, the Boldt family’s private bowling alley, and the many gardens, including the renovated Italian Gardens with beautiful marble statuary representing the four seasons and its own fountain centerpiece.

Kayaking

The best way to get a lay of the land here is by taking to the water. Rent a kayak and explore at your own pace or follow one of the many guided tours through the maze of islands, making pit stops to scope out the shops, restaurants, and museums you’ll come back to visit during the rest of your stay.

Thousand Islands Playhouse

This 360-seat theater sits on the banks of the St. Lawrence River and is the largest theatre located between Toronto, Ottawa, and Montreal. It showcases largely Canadian talent and produces a wide-ranging repertoire that includes musicals, comedies, and dramas, as well as hosting visiting companies from Canada and all over the world.

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