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Famous Landmarks in Thousand Islands

Famous Landmarks in Thousand Islands

Thousand Islands Canada Travel Guide

Iconic Landmarks

These are the must-see locations influencing the region's identity.

Boldt Castle, the Thousand Islands National Park, and the Global Bridge are highlights of any visit.

Must-Visit Sites

  • Boldt Castle (Heart Island, USA): A lavish castle with a touching love story, open for tours. Access via Canada calls for crossing the US border with valid travel documents.
  • The Thousand islands archipelago National Park (Canada): Canada's smallest national park, with 21 islands for hiking, picnicking, and camping. It gives access to raw natural beauty.
  • The Thousand islands archipelago International Bridge: A striking bridge system offering spectacular panoramic views along the river and archipelago.
  • Rock Island Lighthouse (USA): A historic lighthouse museum, giving insight into nautical past. Access calls for a private boat or tour from the US side.

Visitor Information

Boldt Castle

  • Hours AND Charges: Typically open seasonally, May-October. An entry fee applies.
  • Guided Options: The castle has self-guided tours, letting visitors explore at their own pace.
  • Border Crossing: Access via Canada calls for US border crossing (valid passport/visa/ESTA).
  • Tickets: Check their official website for current pricing.
  • Season: Operations are seasonal.
  • Accessibility: Some areas might have limited accessibility.

Thousand Islands National Park & Boat Cruises

  • National Park: Available all year-round, but most services operate seasonally. A Parks Canada Discovery Pass or daily fee gives access.
  • Guided Programs: Interpretive activities vary by season.
  • Boat Cruises: Operators include Gananoque Boat Line, Rockport Cruises, and 1000 Islands Cruises - Kingston.
  • Cruise Prices: Range from $30-$70 CAD per person for standard tours. Schedules vary significantly by season. Book Your Cruise on GetYourGuide

Check specific websites for the most recent schedules and booking for every attraction.

Best Viewing & Photography Tips

  • Boat Cruises: Go on an early morning or late afternoon cruise for softer light and fewer crowds. Sit on the upper deck for unobstructed views.
  • Boldt Castle: Visit first thing in the morning to avoid largest crowds. A boat cruise passing Heart Island captures unique photos from a boat.
  • Thousand Islands Parkway: This scenic drive possesses many pull-offs and designated viewpoints. Stop for excellent photo opportunities.
  • Secret Viewpoints: Look for smaller, local parks or less-marked pull-offs along the Parkway for unique perspectives.

Less Crowded Times & Views

  • Shoulder Season:

    Visiting in May, early June, and September/October brings significantly fewer crowds for boat tours and attractions. The weather stays pleasant, and fall foliage contributes beauty.

  • Off-the-beaten-path Viewpoints:

    Consider a short hike on one of the smaller amount of-visited Thousand Islands National Park islands for unique perspectives and solitude. These often call for boat access.

  • Early Mornings:

    Sunrise over the St. Lawrence River from a waterfront park or the Scenic drive provides tranquil instances and stunning photo opportunities.

  • Off-Peak Hours:

    Visit famous places such as museums during opening or closing hours for a quieter experience.

  • Local Favorites:

    Explore smaller local art studios or farmers' markets for an authentic, less tourist-centric feel.

Museums & Cultural Institutions

The Thousand Islands region and nearby Kingston have a range of places of culture and museums that give insight into the area's history, ecology, plus creative works.

Major Museums & Galleries

  • Aquatarium at Tall Ships Landing (Brockville):

    Interactive discovery center concentrating on the St. Lawrence River and Great Lakes ecosystem. Features exhibits on ocean life and river history, where visitors interact with local species. A great option for families.

  • Arthur Child Heritage Centre (Gananoque):

    This local history museum explores the rich heritage of Gananoque and the larger The Thousand islands archipelago region.

  • Marine Institution of the The Laurentian great lakes at Kingston:

    Focuses on seafaring history of the Magnificent Lakes and St. Lawrence River. Its collection includes ship models and artifacts.

  • Penitentiary Museum (Kingston):

    Housed in the former warden's residence, this museum details the history of corrections in Canada. It gives a window into the country's penal system.

  • Local Art Galleries:

    Small, local galleries exist in Gananoque and Brockville, showing regional artists and unique local art and crafts.

  • The Thousand islands archipelago Playhouse (Gananoque):

    A professional theatre company presenting high-quality plays and musicals during the summer season in waterfront venues.

Specialized Museums

Brockville Railway Tunnel: Canada's first railway tunnel, restored and illuminated, letting visitors walk through its stunning length. AN extraordinary historical engineering marvel.

Cultural Centers

Brockville Arts Centre: Hosts a variety of live music, theatre productions, and community events throughout the year. Check for current shows.

Special Exhibits

Always check individual museum and venue websites for current exhibits, show schedules, and any special programming. Many institutions feature seasonal events that deepen the visitor experience.

Historical Sites

Discover the rich past of the Thousand Islands and nearby communities.

  • Fort Henry National Historical Landmark (Kingston): A 19th-century British military fortress and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors will see daily parades and historical reenactments, presenting a vivid look into 19th-century military life.
  • Brockville Railway Tunnel: This tunnel speaks to a significant piece of factory legacy, showing early Canadian engineering prowess in railway construction.
  • Historic Town Centers: Gananoque and Brockville downthe towns have well-preserved Victorian and Edwardian architecture. Kingston is known for its striking limestone buildings and university presence.

Natural Attractions

The Thousand Islands region is a natural playground, having different landscapes, scenic views, and animal watching opportunities.

Parks & Gardens

Explore the natural beauty through various parks.

Thousand Islands National Park

  • The park's islands have short hiking trails, picnic areas, and camping spots, mostly boat-accessible.
  • Mainland properties like Landon Bay (near Gananoque) have accessible trails and viewpoints.
  • Waterfront recreational areas in towns like Gananoque and Brockville are pleasant spots for walks by the water.

Wildlife Viewing Areas

Spot diverse wildlife in their natural habitats.

Thousand Islands National Park & Beyond

  • Birds: Home to diverse bird species, including waterfowl, raptors (osprey, eagles), and various songbirds.
  • Reptiles & Mammals: You often spot turtles basking on rocks and small mammals on islands or mainland trails.
  • Fish: The St. Lawrence River teems having a lot of fish species, creating ample opportunities for observation, especially for anglers.

Scenic Viewpoints & Wonders

Discover breathtaking panoramas and natural formations.

Skywood Eco Adventure Park Mallorytown

  • Known for zip lines and aerial games, also features hiking trails and a 1000 Islands Tower.
  • The tower has panoramic views of isles and landscape (seasonal operation).
  • A great location for aerial views.

The 1000 Islands Tower (Hill Island) has a 360-degree observation deck, featuring stunning, expansive views of the isles, bridge, and river.

Geological Features

Understand the ancient foundations of the region.

Canadian Shield & Frontenac Arch

  • The characteristic granite bedrock of from Canada Shield forms the base of the islands.
  • This old rock, part of the Frontenac Arch, shapes the region's rugged beauty and unique island landscape.

The Frontenac Arch is an uncommon geological corridor. Its influence is visible throughout the area.

Beaches, Lakes & Waterways

Enjoy diverse freshwater experiences in the region.

Water Activities

  • St. Lawrence River: The main waterway, with endless opportunities for boating and water activities.
  • Municipal Beaches: Small swimming beaches exist in provincial parks and local municipal parks, creating safe areas for an invigorating dip.
  • Charleston Lake: A large, clean lake north of Brockville, popular for swimming, boating, and fishing. It has a different freshwater experience.

Many municipalities have public parks along the river having picturesque vistas, like Blockhouse Island in Brockville and the Gananoque Waterfront, which are pleasant places for walks.

Hidden Gems

Off-the-Beaten-Path Attractions

Leaping Salmon Sculpture (Gananoque): A quirky, large salmon sculpture that appears to leap out of the ground near the Gananoque waterfront. It results in for a fun a good spot for a picture. Lost Lands (The Thousand islands archipelago National Park): Less-visited mainland properties of the national park, having quiet trails and unique ecosystems, giving a calm escape. Accessible by car, they often present good birdwatching. Delta Waterfowl Research Station (near Delta): Gives insights into waterfowl conservation efforts.

Local Favorites

Small local art studios/shops: Explore side streets in Gananoque and Brockville for independent studios selling pottery, paintings, jewelry, and wood crafts. These mean authentic souvenirs and a chance to meet local artists. Regional farmers' markets: Smaller local markets operate on specific days during summer, having authentic produce, baked goods, and a glimpse into local life.

Unique Photo Opportunities

Sunrise/sunset over the St. Lawrence River: Capture stunning light from the The Thousand islands archipelago Parkway or a park by the water. Intricate architecture of island cottages: Photograph varied and elaborate designs of personal island homes from a boat. Wildlife spotting: Capture photos of diverse bird species, basking turtles, or deer along routes or from your boat. Patience rewards you with great wildlife shots.

Attraction Tips

Visit Fort Henry for a living history experience. The military demonstrations and costumed interpreters bring the past to existence.

Travel along the Thousand Islands Parkway for stunning views. Stop at the many pull-offs for photos and to simply admire the scenery. Explore the 'lost lands' of Thousand Islands National Park. These mainland properties mean peaceful trails and a chance to see nature without the crowds.