+21 Great Things to do in Gananoque

Gananoque is one of the most charming small towns in eastern Ontario! Situated where the St. Lawrence River and Gananoque River meet, this small town is the perfect place to base yourself when visiting the Thousand Islands of Ontario! Visitors will find a wealth of things to do in Gananoque as well as the 1000 Islands region!

The 1000 Islands Gananoque area makes for an unforgettable Ontario road trip! The town of Gananoque is roughly 3.5 hours east of Toronto. Along with being the gateway to Ontario’s Thousand Islands, its a must stop on the scenic route to Ottawa from Toronto. Plus, it’s also within a few hours’ drive from Montreal and New York! This makes it the perfect weekend getaway destination!

Fun Fact: The Thousand Islands area is known as Manitouana, meaning “Garden of the Great Spirit,” by the Indigenous People.

15 of the Best Things to do in Gananoque Ontario

Some say Gananoque means “town of two rivers” and boy is it fitting! With such an incredible location, it’s the ideal place to base yourself while exploring the 1000 Islands in Canada. You’ll find plenty of things to see in Gananoque! There’s something for everyone here, from history to outdoor adventures. Plus, with Via Rail access, Gananoque is one of the best day trips from Ottawa by train.

This post contains affiliate links. By clicking through and purchasing through these links I may make a small commission to help run this blog, at no extra cost to you. Thx!

Explore Downtown Gananoque

Stroll along King Street through downtown Gananoque. The main street is lined with great restaurants, cafes, and shops to browse. Many of which showcase live music during the summer months too! You’ll also find many of the top Gananoque things to do here!

A great place to start is at the Gananoque Town Hall. This beautiful historic building was built in 1831 and still maintains its grandeur. Out front you’ll find a bandstand and lovely gardens. Check out the Gananoque Farmers Market in the Town Hall Park too! It runs on Thursdays from June to October.

One of the top Gananoque attractions can be found next door! Confederation Park runs along the Gananoque River and is home to winding pathways, ponds, and an old railroad engine. It’s also home to the largest outdoor contemporary art exhibit in Canada, the Sculpture Gallery. The various pieces are all commissioned by local artists. Each represents the history and environment of Gananoque and the 1000 Islands.

If you’re visiting Gananoque for the holidays then you’re in luck! Throughout town you’ll find one of Ontario’s best light displays as the downtown is dressed for the festive season. There’s Candy Cane Lane in Confederation, live music, photo opportunities, free hot chocolate at the Pumphouse Creamery, and more!

Browse for Books at Beggars Banquet Books

Wherever I travel to I’m always on the hunt for independent bookshops, especially those selling second hand books. A fantastic bookshop in downtown Gananoque is Beggars Banquet Books!

Beggars Banquet Books is home to over 150,000 new and used books. Wandering the aisles of towering shelves, you’ll find a book to fit your mood. They have a large children’s books section, which is great for families.

However, this bookshop goes beyond books! Inside you’ll find a variety of items that include records, puzzles, and so much more!

Shop Vintage & Other Fab Finds

I highly recommend shopping in Gananoque! Along King Street you’ll find a mix of shops that include everything from vintage and collectables to fun 1000 Islands souvenirs.

Shopping vintage is so fun! I love the fact that you can find unique, and sometimes one of a kind pieces that truly make a statement. My favourite vintage shop in Gananoque is Drawing Room Vintage! Inside you’ll find a variety of items for vintage clothing for men, women, and children, as well as retro home décor and more.

Another fun shop is Robeson’s Country General Store. For over 45 years, Robeson’s has been a staple downtown. They have a massive selection of vintage items and antique furniture. You’ll find a little bit of everything in here, from jukeboxes to Tiffany style lamps. Plus, they sell new pieces too, including garden décor as well as tasty baked goods.

However, if you’re looking for something other than vintage, there are plenty of other shops. A fun one is Steel Style Garage. This clothing store carries items for men and women as well as jewellery. Their jewellery is Canadian made by artists from Toronto to Montreal.

If you’re looking for great shops to buy souvenirs, then check out Island Memories Gift Shop and 1000 Islands Trading Co.

Visit the Oldest Shop in Gananoque

If you only visit one shop in Gananoque then make it Donevan’s Hardware! Walking inside you’ll be transported back in time.

The founder of Gananoque, Joel Stone opened a general store in 1795. Later, ownership was transferred to James Donevan and is still owned by the same family. When I visited and met Mary, the daughter of the now owner, Charles Donevan, I was blown away when she told me her father stilled worked the shop. As the grandson of James Donevan, he’s nearly 100 years old!

Donevan’s has that classic vintage feel. Just inside the door you’ll find family memorabilia. It’s a great spot to stop and reflect on this family’s history that’s now a part of Gananoque. They sell a wide assortment of things. There’s everything from vintage glassware to locally made goods like chocolate and jams.

1000 Islands Helicopter Tour

One of those bucket list things to do in Gananoque is hitting the skies with a helicopter tour! The 1000 Islands Helicopter tours offer epic views of Gananoque, Thousand Islands National Park, and other nearby attractions. This is a year-round tour! So, even if you’re looking for things to do in Gananoque in winter, a helicopter tour is available!

The roughly 20-minute helicopter tours with take you up and over Bolt Castle, the Thousand Islands Bridge, and pass by the 1000 Islands Tower. This is one of those incredible experiences that’ll remember for years to come. Plus, you can also purchase a video of your tour!

Take a 1000 Islands Cruise

One of the most spectacular waterways in Canada is the St. Lawrence River. Running between northern New York State in the United States and Southern Ontario in Canada, the St. Lawrence River is home to the 1000 Islands region. The 1000 Islands are made up of over 1800 islands, two castles, and countless birdlife. And one of the top things to do in Gananoque is aboard a cruise.

The 1000 Islands Gananoque Boat Line, which is now City Cruises Gananoque, offers an assortment of cruises to choose from. A few options include one-hour scenic cruises, two-hour tours like the Lost Ships of the 1000 Islands, or a five-hour scenic cruise that also stops at Boldt Castle for you to explore, and more.

Travel Tip: There are other places in the Thousand Islands region offering cruises, including Rockport and Ivy.

Visit the Thousand Islands National Park

Dotting the St. Lawrence River, between the Canadian Shield and the Adirondack Mountains, are a chain of granite islands that make up the Thousand Islands National Park. It was established in 1904 and was the first national park in Canada east of the Rockies!

The park is also a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. The Frontenac Arch Biosphere Reserve is one of Canada’s 16 UNESCO World Biosphere Reserves. It protects a swatch of land from Gananoque to Brockville.

Fun Fact: The Thousand Islands archipelago is actually home to around 1864 islands!

A visit to the Thousand Islands National Park is one of the top things to do in Gananoque! You can explore the park in a variety of methods like hiking, kayaking, or by boat. A great place to start is at the Visitor Centre at Mallorytown Landing. The centre offers a host of activities, programs, and exhibits. Plus, you can find all the information for hiking in the park.

The park is rich in biodiversity, including over 250 species of birds. I recommend setting aside at least a day or two to explore this wild gem.

Kayaking through the 1000 Islands is one of the most popular ways to explore the park. Cruise the tranquility of the waters, see the wealth of birdlife, and even cross over shipwrecks. 1000 Islands Kayaking offers half day and full day tours, lessons, and more.

Another great way to explore the park is by hiking. Two great places to hike include Jones Creek and Landon Bay Centre. Jones Creek is home to a variety of trails with names from the clans of the Haudenosaunee people. Its trails will take you through old-growth forests and wetlands, many with awesome views.

Landon Bay is also home to a few different trails. One of the best is the Landon Bay Lookout Trail. This trail will reward you with awesome views of Landon Bay and the St. Lawrence River!

Hike Gananoque Trails System

Gananoque is home to a trail system made up of a 12 kilometre perimeter hike. The trail takes you through the town, along its waterfront, into forests, and along the Gananoque River. It’s a great way for nature lovers to see the varying landscapes of the area.

The trail consists of three trails and takes approximately 4 hours to complete in total. Or you can choose to do the three trails separately. Each trail takes in a different landscape and can be done in a loop or linear.

Thousand Islands Playhouse Theatre

Many know that I’m a huge fan of theatre! Like Stratford, Gananoque is big on theatre. Thousand Islands Playhouse Theatre is a seasonal theatre company and has been around for over 30 years.

There are two different theatre houses. The Firehall Theatre is intimate, with 130 seats, and is set in the old Gananoque Armories. The building is from 1913 and then became the Fire & Police Station before becoming the Gananoque Playhouse.

The Springer Theatre is larger, with 360 seats, and is the original Playhouse Theatre. It’s also located in a heritage building. Built in 1909, it was originally home to the Gananoque Canoe Club. Remnants of the old Club can be seen in the beautiful lobby. Located on the waterfront, it has two of the longest decks in the region that showcase sweeping views of the St. Lawrence River and the 1000 Islands.

A visit to Gananoque isn’t complete without taking in a play or musical.

Address: 185 South St, Gananoque, ON K7G 1A1

1000 Islands History Museum

Small local museums don’t usually pack a punch like the  1000 Islands Gananoque History Museum does! Once known as the Arthur Child Heritage Museum, the 1000 Islands History Museum is located on the shores of the St. Lawrence in Gananoque’s Historic 1000 Islands Village.

The Village is also home to the Thousand Islands Boat Museum. The History Museum brings you through the history of the 1000 Islands. It will bring you back to 10,000 years ago and up to early settlers, and onwards. The Museum is well laid out and will bring you a better appreciation of the area.

Address: 125 Water St, Gananoque, Ontario K7G 3E3

Thousand Islands Boat Museum

Located on the waterfront in the Heritage Village, the Thousand Islands Boat Museum is a fun hands-on museum. Set across four buildings, the Boat Museum showcases boats from the past to the present as well as boat builders from the region. There’s a boat building workshop, antique boats, galleries, and even a children’s activity center.

Plus, if you’re looking for unique things to do in Gananoque then check out their boat tours! You can take a spin in an antique boat!

Address: 125 Water St, Gananoque, ON K7G 2M5

Heritage Walking Tour

Gananoque is full of historic and charming buildings. Getting to know them is easy through the Heritage Walking Tour. This is a self-guided tour. You can pick up the pamphlet with map at the Visit 1000 Islands Tourism office or download it from their website, and follow along. Each heritage building has a brief write up, in the pamphlet, sharing stories from its past.

Some highlights include; the 85 foot tall Clock Tower, the Woodchuck Gallery, which once housed the Bank of Toronto, and an old jail that now serves as an ice cream parlor.

Thousand Islands Parkway

If you love scenic lookouts then the Thousand Islands Parkway is a must! The Thousand Islands Parkway starts in Gananoque at Highway 401 and runs 40 kilometres east to Butternut Bay.

This scenic drive takes you through the Frontenac Arch Biosphere Reserve, the Thousand Island National Park, and runs along the shores of the St. Lawrence River.

Along the the Parkway you’ll find panoramic views of the river and the 1000 Islands region. It also takes you by charming riverside communities that are worth a visit, like Rockport.

There are three ways to enjoy the Thousand Islands Parkway. You can drive it, rent a bike from the 1000 Islands Tourism Centre in Gananoque, or hike. Hiking will take you along the Waterfront Trail. The Waterfront Trail runs all along the Canadian shore of Lake Ontario, from Niagara to Cornwall.

Joel Stone Heritage Park

A beautiful location in Gananoque to visit is the Joel Stone Heritage Park. This waterfront park is a must-visit for many reasons. It’s the perfect spot to watch the sunset after a day of exploring. There’s also an adorable little lighthouse at its point. Plus, there’s even a beach and splash pad for the kids!

The park was named after Joel Stone who is considered the founder of Gananoque. You’ll even find a plaque commemorating him in the Town Hall Park.

Every Friday and Saturday evening during the summer the park also hosts Gananoque’s Waterfront Concert Series. Here, you can enjoy live music put on by a range of artists!

Address: 125 Water St, Gananoque, ON K7G 2M5

Explore Gananoque Murals

For me, a small town comes alive when there’s street art and murals! And if you’re looking for free things to do in Gananoque and you’re like me, then you’ll love exploring the town’s murals.

There are a number of historic murals throughout downtown. One is on the Visitor’s Centre and other can be seen from the Moroni’s patio. Plus, there are a bunch of new ones scattered about, including on the side of the Ramada Inn.

One great place to find a few in one location is next to Pho Hut. Beside the restaurant is an alleyway that is now home to a few of the new murals. Each of them is bold in design and full of colour!

More Fun Things to do in Gananoque

Grab an Ice Cream

Is there anything more refreshing than indulging in a cone full of ice cream on a hot day? That’s why I think one of the top things to do in Gananoque in the summer is grab an ice cream!

The best part is that there are numerous fun places to grab an ice cream in Gananoque. One of the most popular places is the Pump House Creamery. Located downtown, next to the Visitor’s Centre, it serves up homemade ice cream and gelato. They source their ingredients locally, which adds to its fabulous taste.

Another fun spot is The Lock Up! Located just south of downtown, on Stone Street South, the ice cream shop is located in a historic building that dates to 1861. The building has a fun connection with the shop’s name, as it was once used as the town jail.

My favourite place to grab a gelato is at the Pistachio Café! This downtown café is known for their large patio, coffee, and sweet treats. Plus, they sell gelato that comes from Stella Luna in Merrickville.

Eat at the Best Gananoque Restaurants

If you’re looking for places to eat in Gananoque you’ll find something for everyone’s palate! There’s everything from pub grub to fine dining, and pizza too!

One of my favourite Gananoque restaurants The Purple House Café! Set in a bright purple home, the café has a stunning garden patio that also features items they use as ingredients like basil. They are best known for their epic wood fired pizzas that are made in the garden.

Moroni’s is a great spot that serves a mix of Greek, Italian, and Canadian fare. Two solid menu items are their chicken souvlaki and their pizzas. Speaking of international cuisine, I also recommend Maple Leaf Restaurant! I enjoyed the best schnitzel I’ve had outside of Europe there!

Another great option is The Old English Pub. Serving up traditional pub grub with a classic British atmosphere, try their fish and chips or pot pies.

For those looking for fine dining restaurants in Gananoque then reserve a table at Riva. This stunning restaurant is located in a historic building on the edge of downtown. They serve Italian cuisine and other fabulous dishes in a classy yet relaxed environment.

Enjoy a Drink at Gan Brewing Company

After all that eating, you’re going to be thirsty. Head over to the Gan Brewing Company, which is conveniently located downtown.

This micro-brewery has an epic location in the historic building that was the Axelworks and Spring Factory! In honour of the building’s history, they made a beer called Axleworks IPA, which is a crowd favourite. However, so is their Naughty Otter Lager.

Enjoy a flight of beers on their patio or in their masterful interior. If you’re visiting on the weekend, they also have live music.

Fuel up with Coffee

This caffeine junkie is always excited to find awesome places serving up a good cup of coffee! So, if you’re like me, one of the fun things to do in Gananoque is fuel up with coffee.

There are so many great coffee shops in Gananoque! One of the coolest is Laverne’s! Set in a historic building downtown, this café serves a variety of food items. But I love it as a spot to enjoy coffee. The vibe inside is retro and cozy. However, the vibe on the patio is fun with plants, a large Frida mural, and other cool details.

Along with being one of the best restaurants, The Purple House Café serves a fabulous cup of coffee. The best part is that they brew up sustainable, shade-grown, fair-trade coffee!

Two other great cafes for coffee are Hot Roast Company and Panache Bakery & Café. But another top contender is Pistachio Café! Serving up North Roast from Kingston, this cozy café is great for an iced coffee on the patio in the summer or a hot cup inside.

Hike Marble Rock Conservation Area

There are so many great places to hike in Gananoque! Beyond the trails in town and the Thousand Islands National Park, another great option is Marble Rock Conservation Area.

Ten minutes north of downtown, Marble Rock Conservation area is home to two loop trails that are connected. Hiking the park, you’ll find a mix of Canadian Shield and enchanted forests. There are lookouts, mushrooms, and plenty of birding opportunities.

Travel Tip: Be sure to pack bug spray and proper hiking boots, as the trail is rugged.

Stroll Kinsmen Park

A short walk from downtown visitors will find Kinsmen Park. Located on Stone Street North, the park hugs the shores of the Gananoque River.

If you’re looking for a quiet stroll, then consider wandering the pathway through Kinsmen Park. Thanks to the river, it’s a great spot to see various birds like herons and other waterfowl.

Kinsmen Park is also a wonderful place to enjoy a picnic. Grab some fabulous take out from one of the eateries downtown, then wander up to the park to sit and enjoy it.

Fun Things to do Near Gananoque

For those planning an extended stay in the Thousand Islands area and looking for things to do near Gananoque, you’ll find a boat load! Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities, bucket list adventures, or fun day trips, I’ve rounded up a few ideas for you.

1000 Islands Tower – One of the top nearby Gananoque attractions is the 1000 Islands Tower! This towering observation tower is located on the US and Canada boarder on Hill Island. Standing 130-metres tall (426 feet), the tower offers three observation decks. From the top visitors have 360 degree views of the 1000 Islands!

Rockport – A great short day trip from Gananoque is to the charming village of Rockport. Located along the Thousand Islands Parkway, it’s a must stop! You’ll find a cute general store with fun gift items and goodies. There are also a few fabulous restaurants with views of the water.

Cycle the Waterfront Trail – One of Ontario’s top trails runs along the Thousand Islands Parkway, the Waterfront Trail. The Great Lakes Waterfront Trail stretches 3600 kilometres across Ontario. A great way to enjoy the Waterfront Trail from Gananoque is by bike. If you don’t have a bicycle, you can rent one from the tourism office in town. The trail offers various lookouts and stops for scenic views of the St. Lawrence River and the Thousand Islands National Park.

Shorelines Casino Thousand Islands – For those looking for a little fun at the slots or gaming tables then head to the Shorelines Casino Thousand Islands in Gananoque. This small casino has over 400 slot machines as well as the Windward Restaurant where you’ll find a range of dining options.

Kingston – Another fabulous day trip you can make is from Gananoque to Kingston! Located 30 minutes west of Gananoque, Kingston offers a ton of fun things to do, historic attractions, and more. If you’re visiting in the summer it’s a great way to get a taste for the city and return for an incredible Ontario winter getaway!

Where to Stay in Gananoque

Visitors will find a range of accommodation in Gananoque. There’s everything from chain hotels to historic manor homes turned into bed and breakfasts. Plus, there’s something for everyone’s budget, whether you’re just looking for a clean room for the night or a luxury stay with dining and more.

Colonial Resort & Spa – I loved my stay here! The resort is set on 10 acres, just outside of downtown. Rooms are spacious and some have fireplaces and whirlpool tubs. There’s also a bar and pub, outdoor pool, tennis courts, and more! Spa treatments are also available and guests can enjoy an indoor pool, steam room, and sauna too!

Gananoque Inn & Spa – Close to all the attractions downtown, the Gananoque Inn is located along the shores of the St. Lawrence River. This historic 1896 hotel has cozy rooms, some come with fireplaces, balconies, and river views. There’s also a restaurant overlooking the waterfront, a private dock, and a full-service spa.

Ruby Manor Bed & Breakfast – Formally Sleepy Hollow B&B, this charming bed and breakfast is close to downtown. This beautiful yellow Victorian was built in 1905 and is heritage landmark. Each room has a spacious interior, its own en-suite, and comes with complimentary breakfast.

The Woodview Inn – Another beautiful Victorian house with an adjacent cottage, the Woodview Inn is a short ten-minute walk to downtown. Rooms are polished with period pieces and come with private bathrooms as well as a delicious gourmet breakfast. This is more than a bed and breakfast, it’s more like a boutique hotel. It’s also home to Graydon’s, a casual fine dining restaurant

Gananoque Bucket List

1000 Islands Cruise

1000 Islands Helicopter Tours

Thousand Island Playhouse Theatre

Thousand Islands Parkway

Thousand Islands National Park

Sculpture Park

Thousand Islands Boat Museum

1000 Islands History Museum

Heritage Walking Tour

Gananoque Trails

Final Thoughts on Things to do in Gananoque

Surrounded by incredible natural beauty, Gananoque is a great place to plan a getaway to in south eastern Ontario, especially for outdoor adventurers. Many of the top Gananoque tourist attractions involve the outdoors. However, even if you’re looking to relax while indulging in culture and history, you’ll love your time exploring this charming small town.

More Places to Visit in South Eastern Ontario

+15 Best Things to do in Picton

20 Priceless Things to do in Prince Edward County

Frequently Asked Questions About Gananoque

I was a guest of Visit 1000 Islands but as always all opinions are my own.

PIN IMAGE FOR LATER REFERENCE!