Nestled in the heart of the 1000 Islands region of the St. Lawrence River is the small town of Thousand Islands, Ontario. This quaint town is a popular tourist destination due to its natural beauty and abundance of things to do.
- Thousand Islands history
- Top Attractions & Tours on Thousand Islands
- Kayaking Tours
- Thousand Islands Helicopter Tours
- 1000 Islands Sightseeing Cruise & Boat Tours
- Ghost Tour of Fort Henry National Historic Site
- Walking & Hiking Tours
- Skydive Gananoque
- Scuba Diving at St. Lawrence River
- Biking
- Fishing on 1000 Islands
- Best Places to See in Thousand Islands
- Thousand Islands Museum
- Thousand Islands Boat Museum
- Boldt Castle
- Brockville Railway Tunnel
- Thousand Islands Playhouse
- 1000 Islands Tower
- Thousand Islands Bridge
It is a popular summer vacation destination for boaters, fishermen and nature lovers. The area is home to many species of wildlife, including bald eagles, ospreys and peregrine falcons. This is a natural wonder. Here are the best things to do in Thousand Islands, Ontario with family and kids.
Thousand Islands history
The Thousand Islands consists of more than 1,800 islands, most of which are uninhabited. The largest island in the region is Wolfe Island, home to about 2,500 people. Other important islands include Howe Island, Constance Island and Wellesley Island.
The Thousand Islands region was originally inhabited by a people called the Iroquois. In 1615, French explorer Samuel de Champlain became the first European to visit the region. British and American colonizers later settled in the region. Today, the population of the Thousand Islands region is a mix of Canadian and American citizens.
Top Attractions & Tours on Thousand Islands
The Thousand Islands region is a popular tourist destination in Ontario, Canada. There are many things to see and do in the area, including taking scenic boat tours of the islands, visiting historic castles, and hiking through the scenic forests.
Kayaking Tours
Kayaking is one of the best ways to explore the Thousand Islands. With the clear waters and interesting rock formations of the Thousand Islands, kayaking is a beautiful way to get close to nature. There are many different kayaking routes you can take throughout the islands such as 1000 Islands Kayaking.
These tours are great for nature lovers and gives you the chance to see wildlife up close. If you’re looking for a more adventurous kayaking experience, consider a tour of Boldt Castle. This historic castle is located on an island in the middle of the St. Lawrence River and can only be reached by boat. Kayaking to Boldt Castle is a great way to see this magnificent structure up close.
Half-day or full-day kayaking tours are available to take in the breathtaking scenery in person. Check which months kayaking tours are available. Whether you are looking for a leisurely paddle or an adventurous journey, kayaking in Thousand Islands is sure to be an unforgettable experience. If you wish, you can also choose canoe tours with accommodation by examining the tour programs.
Thousand Islands Helicopter Tours
Soar above the picturesque Thousand Islands on a helicopter tour! Thousands Island is a place of natural beauty that everyone can enjoy.
Helicopter tours are the best way to see the island and its many attractions from 1500 feet up. Especially in the fall season, the different colors of the trees can make you feel like you are in a dream.
The best known helicopter tour company in Ontario is Fly1000 Islands. Based in Gananoque, Fly1000 Islands offers both private and group tours to the Thousand Islands.
It is the largest helicopter tour operator in the region with a fleet of four helicopters, each of which can accommodate up to seven passengers. You can find detailed information about helicopter tours and prices on their website.
Helicopter tours depart from Gananoque and have programs of 10-30 minutes. There are also longer programs. Helicopter tours allow you to see the islands and many famous and historical buildings from above.
1000 Islands Sightseeing Cruise & Boat Tours
Ship or boat trips are another way to enjoy the natural beauty of this unique region and see the islands up close. I am sure you will enjoy spending time on the water and taking in the spectacular views of the Thousand Islands.
Uncle Sam Boat Tours and 1000 Islands Scenic Boat Tours have different tour options. This diversity means that there are tours that can cater to your personal tastes. For a relaxing experience, try a leisurely cruise on a calm day.
If you are looking for something a little more exciting, there are also cruises that offer commentary from knowledgeable guides and opportunities to see wildlife up close. Food, entertainment, history-themed tours make for an incredible day out.
The tours are several hours long. If you’re interested in history, you’ll want to visit some of the area’s historic castles. Boldt Castle is a beautiful example of Beaux-Arts architecture, and it’s located on Heart Island in the St. Lawrence River. Singer Castle is another popular option, and it’s located on Dark Island in the river. Both of these castles offer tours that will give you a glimpse into their fascinating histories.
Ghost Tour of Fort Henry National Historic Site
Fort Henry National Historic Site is a well-preserved 19th-century fort located in Kingston, Ontario. The fort was built to defend the Rideau Canal and the city of Kingston from attack by the United States. Today, the fort is a popular tourist destination, and its ghost tour is one of the most popular things to do in Thousand Islands, Ontario.
The ghost tour of Fort Henry National Historic Site takes visitors through the dark and haunted corners of the fort. Visitors will hear stories of ghosts that are said to haunt the fort, and they will even get a chance to see some of the fort’s dark and hidden places. The tour is led by a knowledgeable guide who will ensure that everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience.
Walking & Hiking Tours
There are plenty of walking and hiking trails in the Thousand Islands region, so you can easily find one that suits your fitness level. On each route, there is a lot of historical heritage and culture to explore.
These tours allow you to learn about the history and culture of the region as well as see the spectacular landscapes of the Thousand Islands. Many of the trails are located along the St. Lawrence River, which offers stunning views of the water and nearby islands.
Skydive Gananoque
If you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping activity during your visit to Thousand Islands, Ontario, look no further than Skydiving Gananoque! This small town is home to a highly respected skydiving school, where you can receive expert training before taking the plunge.
During your skydiving experience in Gananoque, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the Thousand Islands region from up high. You’ll also get to enjoy the rush of excitement that comes with leaping out of an airplane and freefalling through the sky!
Scuba Diving at St. Lawrence River
The area is known for its clear waters and beautiful reefs. There are many dive shops and schools in the area, Dive Brockville is one of them. It is therefore easy to find a place to rent equipment or take lessons.
There are several dive sites in Thousand Islands, Ontario. Being a transit channel, for centuries wooden ships loaded with coal and grain have passed through here, and in the 19th century warships, some of which were sunk. Some of the dive sites are The Conestoga, The Robert Gaskin and The Lillie Parsons. These sites offer a variety of diving experiences from beginner to advanced.
Biking
There are plenty of biking trails in Thousand Islands region, perfect for a leisurely ride or a more strenuous workout. The Thousand Islands Parkway is a scenic route that winds its way through the islands and offers stunning views of the St. Lawrence River.
For mountain bikers, there are several trails to explore in Frontenac Provincial Park. And for those who want to take it easy, there are plenty of flat, paved trails along the water’s edge.
Fishing on 1000 Islands
Few things are as relaxing as a day spent fishing. The Thousand Islands region is world famous for its fishing. With many lakes and rivers to choose from, it is a favored location for freshwater fishing.
The best time to go fishing is in the spring or fall months when the water is cool and the fish are active. There are also guided fishing trips in the Thousand Islands.
Best Places to See in Thousand Islands
There are plenty of places to see in Thousand Islands, Ontario. From the world-famous Thousand Islands Bridge to the picturesque Boldt Castle, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Thousand Islands Museum
The Thousand Islands Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of the area. The museum chronicles the lives of the people who have called the Thousand Islands home over the centuries, and features exhibits on everything from early Native American life to the rise of tourism in the region.
Visitors can explore the museum at their own pace, or take part in one of the many guided tours offered throughout the day. There is also an on-site gift shop, which sells a variety of local art and souvenirs.
Thousand Islands Boat Museum
The Thousand Islands Boat Museum is the perfect place to learn about the history of boating in the area. The museum has a wide variety of exhibits, including boats from the early 20th century, as well as a variety of interactive displays.
The museum is also home to a number of educational programs, which make it the perfect place to take the family for a day trip.
Boldt Castle
Boldt Castle is a beautiful, historic castle located on Heart Island in the Thousand Islands region of Ontario. The castle was built in the early 1900s by millionaire George C. Boldt as a summer home for his family. Today, Boldt Castle is a popular tourist destination, and visitors can explore the castle grounds, tour the inside of the castle, and even stay overnight in one of the castle’s guest rooms.
Brockville Railway Tunnel
The Brockville Railway Tunnel is a 2,200-foot long tunnel that was built in 1860 to allow the Brockville and Ottawa Railway to pass under the St. Lawrence River. The tunnel is now part of the Thousand Islands Parkway and is open to pedestrians and cyclists.
The Brockville Railway Tunnel is one of the oldest railway tunnels in North America and is designated as a National Historic Site of Canada. The tunnel has a unique history; it was used as a filming location for the 1980 horror film “Terror Train” starring Jamie Lee Curtis.
Thousand Islands Playhouse
Thousand Islands Playhouse is a professional theater company located in Gananoque, Ontario. The company produces several main stage productions each season, as well as a number of special events and educational programs.
Thousand Islands Playhouse produces a mix of comedies, dramas and musicals each season. The company also offers a variety of special events throughout the year, including backstage tours, meet and greet opportunities with cast and crew, and post-show discussions with directors.
1000 Islands Tower
The 1000 Islands Tower is a must-see when visiting Thousand Islands, Ontario. Standing at over 200 feet tall, the tower offers stunning views of the St. Lawrence River and the 1000 Islands region.
Visitors can take an elevator to the top of the tower for a birds-eye view of the area, or enjoy a meal or drink at the on-site restaurant or bar. 1000 Islands Tower is a great way to experience the beauty of the Thousand Islands region.
Thousand Islands Bridge
The Thousand Islands Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in Thousand Islands, Ontario. The bridge spans over the St. Lawrence River and connects the United States and Canada.
The Thousand Islands Bridge is a must-see for every visitor to Thousand Islands, Ontario. By climbing the 1000 Islands Tower, you can see the bridge from a higher vantage point.
Vineyard & Winery near Ontario
Scheuermann Vineyard and Winery
If you’re a vineyard and wine enthusiast, you might want to stop by Scheuermann’s. Scheuermann Vinyard and Winery is a family-owned winery that has been producing wine in the Thousand Islands region of Ontario for over 35 years.
The vineyard and winery are located on the north shore of Lake Ontario, in the heart of the Thousand Islands. The vineyard produces a variety of red and white wines as well as fruit wines. The winery offers tours, tastings and special events throughout the year.
Where to stay in Thousand Islands, Ontario?
There are many different places to stay when visiting Thousand Islands. For those who want to be close to the city center, staying in Kingston is an ideal option. There are many hotels in the area, as well as restaurants and shops. For those looking for a more relaxing vacation, staying at one of the many resorts along the St Lawrence River is also an option. There are also many camping and caravanning options in the area.
Best and Private 1000 Island Campgrounds
Thousand Islands is a beautiful place to visit and there are plenty of campsites to choose from. But with so many options, it can be hard to know where to start. In this blog post, we will give you an overview of some of the best campgrounds in Thousand Islands. We’ll talk about what makes each one special and what you can expect to find there.
Thousand Islands is a Canadian archipelago located in the Saint Lawrence River. As the name suggests, there are more than 1,000 islands in this region. Camping in the Thousand Islands is a popular activity as it allows visitors to explore the many islands and experience everything this beautiful region has to offer.
The following campsites are similar in terms of the services they offer, so I didn’t want to write down all the features separately. Each has a website with accommodation rates, check-in and check-out times, contact details and a booking form. You can stay overnight or rent for a week, month or season.
Cosmo Camping
Cosmo Camping is one of the campgrounds in Thousand Islands, Ontario. It is a beautiful area with lots of trees and greenery. If you are looking for a natural and rustic campground, you will find it at Cosmo Camping. There are both tent facilities and RV sites for couples, friends and families. You can also stay in areas called cabins, which include services such as mini-fridges, coffee makers, picnic tables and dining tents.
Happy Green Acres Campground
Happy Green Acres campground is located on the east side of the island. Despite this, it is a 30-minute drive to Gananoque. It is 15 minutes from Brockville and 20 minutes from Rockport. It is a place where you can add more color to your day with boat tours, zip lining and fishing activities. The campground has features such as a pool with heated water, a badminton area, and an area where your pets can run around.
Ivy Lea Koa Campground
Ivy Lea Koa is located on the Thousand Islands Parkway, which runs through the center of Thousand Islands. With its large grounds and different accommodation options, this campground offers services such as a dog park, sauna, pool, free wifi.
Pleasure Park RV Resort
Pleasure Park RV Resort is a family-friendly campground located in the heart of Thousand Islands, Ontario. With easy access to the best that Thousand Islands has to offer, Pleasure Park RV Resort is the place to set up camp and explore all that this beautiful region has to offer.
Whether you want to fish in the St. Lawrence River, hike in the Thousand Islands National Park, or just relax and enjoy the spectacular scenery, Pleasure Park RV Resort could be the perfect place for your next camping vacation. With full hookups available for your RV, as well as a variety of on-site amenities, Pleasure Park RV Resort has everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable stay. There is also an on-site swimming area with a pier, slide and water trampoline.
No matter where you choose to camp in Thousand Islands, you are sure to have an enjoyable and unforgettable experience. This is a unique destination that offers everything from outdoor enthusiasts to those who just want to relax and soak up the natural beauty of this Canadian destination. With so many beautiful places to explore, you’ll never get bored while camping here.
How to get to Thousand Islands, Ontario?
The Thousand Islands region is located on the St. Lawrence River, between Canada and the United States. Visitors can reach this region by car, bus or train.
- By car: The Thousand Islands region is accessible by several highways. Interstate 81 runs north-south through the region, while New York State Route 12 and Ontario Provincial Highway 401 run east-west. Visitors from the north can take Highway 401 to Gananoque and then follow the signs to the Thousand Islands Bridge. Those coming from the south can take I-81 to Watertown and then follow NY-12 eastward.
- By bus: Several bus companies serve Gananoque and other towns in the Thousand Islands region. Greyhound Canada operates buses from Toronto, Kingston and Ottawa, while Coach Canada operates buses from Toronto and Montreal. Both companies have stations in Gananoque where passengers can connect to local buses or taxis.
- By train: Amtrak’s Maple Leaf train runs daily between Toronto and Niagara Falls, stopping in Cobourg, Kingston and Brockville. From Brockville, visitors can take a taxi or local bus to reach their destination in the Thousand Islands region.
Conclusion
Overall, these experiences in Thousand Islands, Ontario, bring about being at one with nature and enjoying the quiet beauty of the region. From kayaking on calm waters to hiking through lush forests, there are many options that this Canadian destination can naturally satisfy.
