+21 Awesome Things to do in the Thousand Islands Ontario

One of the best Ontario road trip destinations is the Thousand Islands! This south eastern Ontario gem is home to 1864 islands that are a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. With its convenient location close to the US border, it’s also a great weekend getaway location from New York State. Visitor will find a long list of fun things to do in the Thousand Islands region of Ontario! There’s something to suit everyone’s interests, from boat tours to theatre and hiking to charming small towns.

Every time I visit the 1000 Islands region, I always discover more incredible attractions, great restaurants and hidden gems. So, if you’re looking for a one of the coolest places in Canada to explore, I’ve got the perfect Thousand Island travel guide to help you plan an epic trip!

Where are the Thousand Islands?

The Thousand Islands are a group of islands in North America that are located between Ontario and New York State in the St. Lawrence River. Running from Kingston to Brockville, the Thousand Islands are a 3-hour drive from Toronto and 1.5 hours from Ottawa. This makes it an ideal addition to an Ottawa road trip.

For those planning a road trip to Montreal, the 1000 Islands region is a great stop as it’s half way between Toronto and Montreal.

Alternatively, if you’re looking for great road trips to Canada from New York, the 1000 Islands are a wonderful option. Sharing the Thousand Islands International Bridge, its 3.5 hours from Albany and 6.5 hours from New York City to the Thousand Islands.

Bolt Castle while on a Thousands Islands Boat Cruise
Bolt Castle from a Rockport boat cruise

16 Top Things to do in Thousand Islands

Cruise the 1000 Islands

One of the best ways to experience the 1000 Islands Ontario is on a boat cruise! They leave out of a few different ports including Gananoque, Ivy, and Rockport. The boat tours generally run from May through October.

A 1000 Islands Gananoque cruise is one of the most popular. There are a number of boat tours to choose from, including one hour, three hours, and a five-hour cruise. Depending on which one you choose, you’ll see a variety of the top sights in the Thousand Islands. Plus, you’ll hear all about the area, its history, and interesting facts.

On many of the cruises the boat passes generational cottages, the Statue of St. Lawrence, and the 1000 Islands Tower. There’s even a Millionaire’s Row, just like the ones found on a Muskoka boat cruise, where you’ll see stunning summer homes. Plus, keep an eye out for a wealth of bird life like osprey, cormorants, and the occasional eagle.

A top 1000 Islands Gananoque cruise is the 5-hour boat tour that includes a stop over at Bolt Castle. This tour includes all of the top sights and lets you explore the grounds and famous castle on Heart Island. However, a valid passport is needed as the castle is part of the United States.

Another great spot to explore the islands on a boat cruise is from Rockport. This charming village boasts a number of boat tours as well. You can choose between a 1 hour, 2 hours, or the 4-hour Boldt Castle Tour which includes a stopover to explore the island. Plus, there’s also a sunset cruise available.

Travel Tip: The parking lot for the Gananoque cruises requires payment. However, parking at the Rockport cruise port is free.

1000 Islands Helicopter Tour

Soar high above on one of the 1000 Islands Helicopter Tours! If you’re looking for unique things to do in the Thousand Island then a helicopter tour is it. Get a bird’s eye view of the islands, Bolt Castle, the 1000 Islands Tower, and more cool sights.

Taking a helicopter tour gives you a new perspective of the area. Plus, you can’t beat those views! They run year-round, so it doesn’t matter when you visit.

Like the boat tours, there’s a number of tours to choose from. The classic Bolt Castle & Thousand Islands Tour offers all the classic sights. But there’s one called Aerial Views and Seaway Hues which sounds awesome! Along with seeing Bolt Castle from above, you’ll also get to see Singer Castle as well as the Pentland and F.A. Georger shipwrecks.

If you’re looking for bucket list things to do in Ontario, a helicopter ride over the Thousand Islands is a top contender!

people sitting in red Parks Canada chairs at the Jones Creek Trails Lookout
Dad & I sitting in red Parks Canada chairs at the Jones Creek Trails Lookout

Hike the Thousand Islands National Park

Nestled within the region is the Thousand Islands National Park. Comprised of a group of around 20 islands as well as mainland, this park is full of awesome places to hike. Along with many of the islands being home to trails, you’ll find various places to hike along the 1000 Islands Parkway.

Fun Fact: The islands are the tops of ancient mountains that have worn-down over time.

Jones Creek Trails

One of the best places to hike in the Thousand Islands National Park is the Jones Creek Trails. There are 12 kilometers of trails, each range from easy to moderate. You’ll find a mix of terrain, including various tree species, rugged rock walls, wetlands, bird and wildlife, as well as scenic views. Each of the trails are named after animals to pay respect to the clans of the Haudenosaunee people.

There are two access points to Jones Creek Trails. One is off of County Road 5 and the other is off of the 1000 Islands Parkway. I highly recommend the one off the Parkway. You can manage the looping trails in roughly 2 hours. Make sure to soak in the lookout from the Heron Loop. Sit in the Parks Canada red chairs and look out over the wetlands.

Landon Bay Lookout
Landon Bay Lookout

Landon Bay

Another great place to hike is Landon Bay which is 10 minutes east of Gananoque. The park showcases the best of the Frontenac Arch Biosphere that the National Park is part of. Landon Bay is home to 7 trails. A great one that passes many of the park’s highlights is the Donevan Trail. At 4.3 km, this loop trail brings you over a lover’s bridge and by a Wishing Tree, which is much different than the one in Sudbury. Plus, you can do the short detour to the lookout.

If you’re looking for a quick hike, then you can do the lookout in under an hour. Take the trailhead next to the old stone arch. While mostly all uphill, the views from the top are awesome! The Landon Bay lookout is one of the best views of the Thousand Islands. Standing atop a giant rock, the view sweeps over the bay and the islands.

Mallorytown Landing

At the Thousand Island National Park Visitor Centre is where you’ll find two more trails. There are two Mallorytown Landing trails. One is the Smoky Fire Trail and the other is the Six Nations Trail. Both are short, at roughly 1 km.

Confederation Park in Gananoque
Confederation Park in Gananoque

Explore Gananoque

The heart of the Thousand Islands is Gananoque. Known as one of the most charming Ontario towns, Gananoque is the best place to base yourself while exploring the region.

You’ll find many of the region’s attractions in town like cruises, museums, and more. There are so many fun things to do in Gananoque, that you’ll want to spend a few days.

A great start is a wander along King Street to explore downtown Gananoque. Downtown is full of fabulous restaurants, coffee shops, and cool shops. I love browsing all the vintage boutiques like Drawing Room Vintage. If you’re a book lover like me then be sure to pop into Beggars Banquet Books.

Another must stop in town is Confederation Park. The park is located downtown and runs along the Gananoque River. Dotting the park is the Sculpture Gallery, which is the largest outdoor contemporary art exhibit in Canada. Created by local artists, each piece symbolizes the history or environment of the town and region.

Street art fans keep an eye out! Downtown Gananoque is home to a number of cool murals. A walkway beside Pho Hut is home to a few pieces and more can be found flanking the Visitor’s Center. Plus, there’s more scattered around town.

As one of the towns along the St. Lawrence River, Gananoque has a picturesque waterfront too! Take a stroll along the water for views of the river and islands. At the bottom of Main Street stroll west along the water towards Joel Stone Park. This quaint park is home to an adorable lighthouse and a great spot to soak in a sunset.

tickets for the Sound of Music at the Thousand Islands Playhouse Theatre
tickets for the Sound of Music at the Springer Theatre

See a Show at Thousand Islands Playhouse

CBC Radio said the Thousand Islands Playhouse is, “the most charming theatre in Canada.” To which I wholeheartedly agree! Sitting in our seats, my father and I felt like we were surrounded by a thriving community. Everyone knew everyone. My Dad even tapped a lady on the shoulder in front of us to introduce ourselves. As someone who’s a big fan of theatre, this was a completely different buzz than others I’d attended. The atmosphere was a warm and welcoming, with a real homey vibe.

The Thousand Islands Playhouse is a seasonal theatre company located on the shores of the St. Lawrence River. Sharing live performances for over 40, it’s known as Canada’s dockside theatre. So, if you’re visiting the area by boat then arrive by water and pull on up to the theatre dock!

Along with a dock, the Playhouse is home to two of the longest waterfront patios in Gananoque! Sit and enjoy a drink before the show and soak in those sweeping water views.

There are two theatres at the Playhouse, each with a unique history. The Firehall Theatre is set within the old Gananoque Armories building which dates to 1913. Built in 1909, the Springer Theatre, the larger of the two, was originally the home of the Gananoque Canoe Club.

During my visit, my father and I saw The Sound of Music. We were blown away by the immense talent found on stage. The vocals and the passion were astounding!

If you’re looking for things to do in the Thousand Islands at night, taking in a performance at the Thousand Islands Playhouse is the perfect way to end your day!

The theatre generally runs between June and November. Other performances taking place in 2023 include Intimate Apparel, Once, and The Runner.

Kayak the Thousand Islands National Park

Along with exploring the National Park by foot, a great way to experience it is by kayak. Being part of the Frontenac Arch Biosphere Reserve, the park is home to a diverse mix of wildlife that are a treat to see on the water. While paddling you can spot herons fishing along the shore. Other wildlife that calls the area home include beaver, mink, loons, turtles, and more.

Visitors will find a number of access points to launch a kayak, if you have your own. However, there are a few companies that offer rentals and guided tours. One is 1000 Islands Kayaking. Whether you’re an avid paddler or beginner, 1000 Islands Kayaking has a tour for you!

They have half day and full day tours available. By booking a guided kayak visitors an opportunity to paddle around the Admiralty Islands. Along the tour you’ll learn about the area’s history and geology. Plus, it’s a great way for beginners to feel comfortable out on the water with the guidance of experienced paddlers.

For those looking to enjoy some quiet time exploring the park by water, a self-guided kayak is ideal. Rent a kayak and set off to explore the islands. You can paddle over shipwrecks or through tranquil coves. The possibilities are endless.

Travel Tip: 1000 Islands Kayaking tours are available from mid-May through October.

view from the 1000 Islands Tower
enjoying the view from the 1000 Islands Tower

1000 Islands Tower

Built in 1965, the 1000 Islands Tower is one of the top attractions in the Thousand Islands. Perched atop Hill Island in Canada, the tower is under 700 meters from the New York State border.

Also known as the Skydeck, this concrete observation tower stands 130 metres (426 feet) and commands one of the best views of the region.

You’ll start your visit at ground level in the tower’s gift shop. Browsing the shop, you’ll find an array of fun Canadian souvenirs. There’s everything from plush beavers to Thousand Islands dressing.

As someone who is not the fondest of heights, I was a bundle of excited nerves. However, I have to give a big thank you to the kind staff. I spoke to a lovely woman working the counter who quickly eased my nerves.

Next up is the 40 second elevator ride that delivers you to the first of three observation decks. The first is enclosed in glass. It features a variety of information about the sights and history of the area and tower. For the next two viewpoints you’ll ascend a few flights of stairs. Both of these are open air lookouts that give you an epic 360-degree views. On a clear day you can see for 60 km, with views of both Ontario and New York!

I am so thankful I did it and felt beyond comfortable on each of the three observation decks! So, if you’re afraid of heights, please don’t let that stop you from experiencing these incredible views!

The tower is open seasonally from May through October.

Travel Tip: To access the 1000 Islands Tower you have to cross the Thousand Islands International Bridge. It’s a toll bridge with a cost of just under $5 CAD.

aboard the Limit Up on an antique boat tour with Thousand Islands Boat Museum
aboard the Limit Up on an antique boat tour with Thousand Islands Boat Museum

Take an Antique Boat Tour

Gananoque is home to a couple of great museums. One of them is the Thousand Islands Boat Museum. The museum has a perfect location on the waterfront. Across four buildings, the Boat Museum celebrates Gananoque’s history of boat building. There’s a boat building workshop, children’s activity center, and exhibit galleries. This hands-on museum is great to visit for all ages!  

The best feature of the museum is the In-Water Gallery where you’ll find over 20 antique wooden boats floating in the water. Next each boat you’ll find information plaques sharing their history and story. During my visit I was able to hop aboard the 1935 Windswept III that spent most of its life in the Muskoka lakes. This stunning boat has bedrooms, a kitchen, and separate quarters for the staff.

But that’s not the coolest part of this museum! The museum offers one of the most unique things to do in the Thousand Islands, take a tour of the islands on an antique boat! My father and I thoroughly enjoyed our tour aboard the Limit Up! This speedy little craft is one of the best examples of recreational boats. At 22 feet long, a beautiful Mahogany hull, and a 275-horsepower V8, the Limit Up blends stunning design with speed. Oh, and the emerald green seats are some of the most comfortable I’ve ever sat in!

You can book a boat tour through the museum too! Tours take you around the islands near Gananoque. You’ll have a knowledgeable local guide to share all the fun and interesting details about the islands, cottages, and the people who have and still call the area home.

pizza at The Purple House Cafe in Gananoque
pizza at The Purple House Cafe

Dine at the Best Restaurants

With all the fun activities in the Thousands Islands you’re going to need fuel. If you’ve based yourself in Gananoque you’ll be delighted with the diverse range of places to eat. There’s a place to suit everyone’s appetite and dietary needs.

One of the best Gananoque restaurants is Riva! Set in a stunning historic building, this Italian restaurant features two dreamy garden patios as well as an interior dining room with a fireplace and various cozy spots. Along with a long wine list, the menu boasts an array of dishes that include pastas, meats and pizzas.

However, the best pizza in Gananoque is at The Purple House Cafe! This vibrant and colourful building has a cool interior space and an outdoor pizza oven. I highly recommend sitting on their gorgeous garden patio that’s lit by fairy lights at night.

For a mix of Canadian classics and Czech cuisine head over to the Maple Leaf Restaurant. This homey restaurant serves the best schnitzel I’ve had outside of Europe! For over 30 years the restaurant has been a staple in downtown Gananoque.

If you’re looking for a light lunch or some delicious baked goods then there are a few cafes to choose from. My favourite is Pistachio Café for their sandwiches, sweet treats, and local gelato. Plus, they have such a cool vibe inside and a huge patio. Another great choice is Panache Bakery & Café! While they aren’t open for indoor dining, you’ll find a variety of tasty take away options. I loved their Danishes!

Salad with Thousand Islands Dressing
Salad with Thousand Islands Dressing from the Maple Leaf Restaurant

Eat a Salad with Thousand Islands Dressing

It’s not surprising that the best salads with Thousand Islands dressing I’ve eaten have all been in the region! So, celebrate the quirky salad dressing by adding it to your menu while visiting. I suggest ordering it at the Maple Leaf Restaurant, mine was fantastic!

But do you know where the dressing originated? There are a variety of stories, all with a common theme that it was first made in the region of the 1000 Islands.

The most famous story is that George Bolt, the man behind Bolt Castle and the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel, was served it by his chef while summering in the region. It’s said that he enjoyed it so much that when he returned to the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel he instructed them to put it on the menu.

Thousand Islands Parkway lookout
Thousand Islands Parkway lookout

Take a Scenic Drive Along the Thousand Islands Parkway

One of the best scenic drives in Ontario is along the Thousand Islands Parkway! The scenic route hugs the northern shore of the St. Lawrence River. Running between Gananoque and Brockville, it’s home to many of the top things to do in the 1000 Islands region!

The Parkway is approximately 40 km and travel through the Frontenac Arch Biosphere Reserve as well as the Thousand Islands National Park. Dotting the road are lookouts, historic plaques, small towns, and so much more!

If you’re travelling from Gananoque the perfect first stop is Gray’s Beach Lookout. The riverside park has picnic tables and a lovely little beach. However, if you’re looking for some beach time, get there early to grab a spot.

Next up along the parkway is Landon Bay. I highly recommend tackling the short lookout hike for panoramic views! Another one of the must-stops on the Thousand Islands Parkway is Mallorytown Landing. Here you’ll find the Thousand Islands National Park Visitor’s Centre as well as a couple of short and easy hiking trails.

Two other places along the Parkway is the charming riverside community of Rockport and the 1000 Islands Tower.

1000 Islands History Museum

Never have I been so impressed with a small local museum then I have with the 1000 Islands History Museum. Set along the picturesque waterfront in Gananoque, the museum is located within a stunning Victorian home known as the Arthur Child building.

Inside you’ll find a number of floors that showcase the stories and history of the 1000 Islands and Gananoque. The History Museum takes visitors back 10,000 years ago to when the area was the traditional territory of the Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee First Peoples.

Following along through the well laid out museum, that’s filled with fun interactive exhibits, you’ll learn about so much more. There are exhibits on everything from the War of 1812 to the wealth of wildlife found in the region.

views from Rockport
views from Rockport

Visit Rockport

One of my favourite places in the Thousand Islands is Rockport! This charming riverside village is one of the hidden gems in southeastern Ontario.

Known as the ‘Heart of the 1000 Islands,’ Rockport is surprisingly full of things to do! Along with being one of the places to board a boat cruise, there’s a few of great restaurants, Cornwall’s Pub, Island View Waterfront Restaurant, and the Boathouse Country Inn.

Rockport also has some cute little hiking trails. There are four loop trails, each highlight the village’s history as well as viewpoints. I loved the St. Brendan’s Loop that leads you up to an adorable church, who’s named after the patron saint of sailors, as well as a great lookout.

Keep an eye out for murals too! The most iconic one is of a ship’s haul being built. The mural pays homage to Andress Boat Works, a local builder that was established in 1921 and is still in business today.

I also recommend browsing the Rockport General Store. Built in 1905, the store was vital in the community. Now the general store is more of a gift shop with a variety of souvenirs, local treats, and other items.

Travel Tip: If you’re looking for a fun Thousand Islands day trip from Ottawa, Rockport is the perfect place. It’s a 1.5-hour drive and gives you a taste of what the region has to offer.

Joel Stone Beach in Gananoque
Joel Stone Beach

Have a Beach Day

Planning to visit in the summer? If you’re looking to soak in some sun then you’ll love the variety of beaches in the Thousand Islands!

One of the best beaches is Joel Stone Beach. Located just minutes from downtown Gananoque, this beach is great for a number of reasons. It’s close to other attractions and restaurants. Plus, there’s a splash pad and public washrooms.

Along the Thousand Islands Parkway are a few other beautiful sandy beaches. Gray’s Beach is a short drive from downtown Gananoque and a favourite of locals. The park features a picnic area, lookout and free parking. However, the beach is small, so be sure to arrive early during peak season.

In Mallorytown, across from the Jones Creek Trails, is Brown’s Bay. This sandy beach slopes into the St. Lawrence River and is another great one for families. Amenities in the park include picnic tables, washrooms, and more. Plus, you can see Singer Castle from the beach!

ArBru Brewery in Mallorytown
ArBru Brewery in Mallorytown

Drink at a Solar Powered Brewery

Did you know that the Thousand Islands is home to Canada’s first solar powered brewery? In the community of Mallorytown sits an unassuming barn. If you peek around the corner, you’ll see a large patio, a set of solar panels and hops growing. This gem is ArBru, one of the most unique breweries in Ontario!

Owner Phil Audet studied sustainable energy engineering in Ireland and went on to own a solar power installation company. But he also had a passion for craft beer. So, it’s no surprise he created a fully off grid brewery.

Inside you’ll find a cool and eclectic vibe. ArBru serves up a variety of unique beers that come poured, by the can, or in a flight of four. A favourite is their Summer Blonde, which is a refreshing beer with a hint of citrus. They also have one called Stands with Ukraine that has $1 for each can sold going to the Gananoque Refugee Settlement.

This eco-conscious brewery is committed to the planet and doing more than using solar power. For every beer purchased a tree is planted!

Along with beer, ArBru serves up some of the best pizza in the area. You can choose from a long list of tasty wood fired pizza as well as other snacks like wood-fired soft pretzels.

Travel Tips: ArBru is open Wednesday through Sunday, so plan your trip accordingly. And is dog friendly!

The Tipsy Goat Market in Lansdowne
The Tipsy Goat Market in Lansdowne

Explore Lansdowne

Another one of the adorable villages in the region that beg to be explored is Lansdowne! Located north of County Road 2, Lansdowne is surrounded by rural country roads filled with farms and wild turkeys. Yes, I saw plenty of baby turkey chicks while driving nearby!

In the heart of the village, you’ll find a cute red shop called Hilltop Coffee Stop. Pop in to grab a cup of Joe and wander town. You’ll find a couple of great shops like Gramma Had That, an antique store. One shop that is a must visit is the Tipsy Goat Market.

The Tipsy Goat Market is run by a lovely couple that are the perfect blend of Canada meets the US. Leah, the resident artist is originally from Kingston and her husband, Dan, is the resident BBQ sauce junkie from Kansas City. Their shop is set within a historic building that’s seen a variety of businesses including menswear and hardware store. It’s now a welcoming shade of purple!

Inside you’ll find a mix of products that include antiques, local artisan items, and cool international finds. There’s everything from clothing to jewelry and locally made soaps to the best barbeque sauce.

There are more fun things to do in Lansdowne! If you’re visiting during the summer, plan your trip around the Lansdowne Fair. In addition, you can also do a self-guided historic walking tour of Lansdowne.

Lansdowne is also home to a one of the best Ontario parks in the region, Charleston Lake Provincial Park. The park is home to campgrounds, beaches, and awesome hiking trails. One must hike is the Blue Mountain Trail that takes you to the highest point in the county. Plus, on a clear day you can see the Adirondack Mountains!

Mallory Coach House Museum
Mallory Coach House Museum

More Fun Things to do in the 1000 Islands Ontario

Cycle the Waterfront Trail – Running between Gananoque and Brockville is the 1000 Islands Parkway Trail. This 37 km path is part of the Waterfront Trail and popular with cyclers. Pack a lunch and enjoy the scenic views as you cycle along the St. Lawrence River. It takes roughly 2 to 3 hours to cycle on way.

Go Scuba Diving – The 1000 Islands are home to 1,800 shipwrecks, making it a fabulous place to go scuba diving in Ontario! Along with spotting wrecks, you’ll see a wealth of wildlife and underwater mountains with clarity. Thousand Island Pleasure Diving can help guide you on your journey under water.

Treetop Trekking 1000 Islands – Families visiting and looking for things to do in the Thousand Islands with kids will love Treetop Trekking! The 1000 Islands site has a variety of things to do for all ages. There’s ziplining, a Discover Kids course, a Treewalk Village, and more. Zipline across 5 lines, with the longest totaling 1000 feet, for awesome views of Jones Creek.

Mallory Coach House – A great place to visit in the Thousand Islands is Mallorytown. Located 25 minutes east of Gananoque, you’ll find a variety of things to do and see. One of which is the Mallory Coach House that dates to 1853. The building has been everything from a hotel to a doctor’s office and is now a history museum. Plus, the gardens behind it are often the site of community events.

Get a Selfie with Leaping Muskie Fish Statue – Who can resist roadside attractions!? There’s one at the eastern end of Gananoque’s King Street. Be sure to take a selfie with the Leaping Muskie statue!

Berry Homestead Farm – If you’re looking for unique things to do in the Thousand Islands visit Berry Homestead Farm. Located in Lyndhurst, this off the grid farm offers a variety of fun activities with their donkeys. You can meet the donkeys, go hiking with them and more!

Itinerary for Thousand Islands in 3 Days

How many days do I need in 1000 Islands?

I recommend spending a minimum of 3 days in the Thousand Islands Ontario. With three days you’ll be able to see the top 1000 Islands attractions, dine at a number of the best restaurants, and enjoy a exploring a few small towns.

In addition, if you’re short on time, the Thousand Islands is one of the best day trips from Ottawa by car. A car ensures you can get quickly to various attractions and make the most of a day.

Day 1

  • Arrive in Gananoque around noon and dine at one of the many Gananoque restaurants.
  • After lunch take a scenic drive along Thousand Islands Parkway, making stop along the way at lookouts.
  • Visit the 1000 Islands Tower and enjoy epic views.
  • Head back to Gananoque to browse the shops before dinner.
  • Enjoy your evening meal at one of the waterfront restaurants like Watermark.
  • Take in a sunset at Joel Stone Park.
  • Turn in for the night at your hotel.

Day 2

  • Start your day with breakfast in Gananoque at Purple House Cafe.
  • Hop aboard a 1000 Islands cruise.
  • Stroll through Gananoque’s Confederation Park.
  • Enjoy lunch at Pho Hut
  • Soar above the region with a 1000 Islands helicopter tour.
  • Visit the 1000 Islands History Museum
  • Take a kayaking tour of Thousand Islands National Park
  • Grab an early dinner at Maple Leaf Restaurant
  • Enjoy a performance at the Thousand Islands Playhouse.

Day 3

  • Start your day with breakfast at Pistachio Café
  • Explore the Thousand Islands Boat Museum
  • Then hop aboard one of their antique boats for a boat tour
  • Grab lunch at Moroni’s and snacks from Panache Bakery & Cafe
  • Head to Thousand Islands National Park for a couple of short hikes
  • Hike one of the Jones Creek Trails
  • Hike the Lookout Trail at Landon Bay
  • Indulge at Riva for dinner
room at the Gananoque Inn
room at the Gananoque Inn

Where to Stay in the Thousand Islands

Visitors will find a long list of bed and breakfasts in historic homes and traditional hotels in the Thousand Islands. I highly recommend basing yourself in Gananoque for your visit. It offers close proximity to various top attractions and is the heart of the Thousand Islands regions.

One of the best places to stay in the Thousand Islands is the Gananoque Inn & Spa. Set on the shores of the St. Lawrence River, this historic inn dates to 1896. The Inn features a full-service spa and two restaurants that overlook the water. Rooms at the Gananoque Inn are spacious with comfortable beds. Some even boast fireplaces and balconies with river views.

I loved my stay at the Inn; the front desk staff were helpful and friendly. Even though my room didn’t have a balcony, my window offered a view of the river. A couple of things to note, there is no elevator and no fridge in the room.

Final Thoughts on Things to do in the Thousand Islands Ontario

I truly love the Thousand Islands! There’s such a diverse mix of Thousand Islands things to do that every traveller will find activities to suit their interests. With a stunning landscape that includes islands, waterways, and rugged hillsides, it’s a top destination in Canada for outdoor enthusiasts. However, there’s a rich history to be found too by exploring the numerous museums and historic walking tours. So, whether you’re an adventure seeker or culture buff, you’ll love a getaway to the Thousand Islands Ontario!

Frequently Asked Questions about Thousand Islands Ontario

What is Thousand Islands known for?

The Thousand Islands are known for their abundance of natural beauty, castles, lighthouses, charming small towns and waterside theatre.

Is 1000 Island worth visiting?

Yes, the 1000 Islands of Ontario are worth visiting! The 1000 Islands are home to a long list of things to do that include outdoor activities, incredible restaurants, and cultural attractions.

What is the best time to visit Thousand Islands?

The best time to visit Thousand Islands is during the summer, between June through August, to enjoy all of the attractions and ensure the best weather.

Do you need a passport for Thousand Islands Ontario?

No, you do not need a passport if you are travelling within Ontario to see the Thousand Islands, only if you plan to cross the border into the United States.

What Canadian towns are near the Thousand Islands?

There are a number of Canadian towns near the Thousand Islands worth visiting, which include Gananoque, Rockport, Lansdowne, and Mallorytown.

How do you spend a day in Thousand Islands?

A few top things to do in Thousand Islands in one day include taking a 1000 Islands boat cruise, explore downtown Gananoque, and visit the 1000 Islands Tower.

Where to stop at Thousand Islands?

There are plenty of places to stop in the Thousand Islands including Gananoque, Landon Bay, 1000 Islands Tower, and Thousand Islands National Park.

Disclaimer: This post was created in partnership with 1000 Islands Tourism. While I was paid for my time, all opinions expressed are my own.

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Things to do in the Thousand Islands Ontario

Stephanie

I'm a Canadian gal with a passion for travel, the great outdoors as well as coffee and books. I hope to inspire others to feel the same way! Traveling mostly solo, I love to explore my own backyard of Ontario as well as exotic cities around the world.

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