Picture perfect, so take your best shot!
This water wonderland has breathtaking scenery—nearly 2,000 islands, the shimmering blue bays of Lake Ontario, sparkling rivers and hundreds of miles of picturesque coastline. Boundless summer adventures include fairy-tale castles, trophy fishing and balloon rides over Alexandria Bay.
Some of the most popular attractions are scenic cruises—from waterfowl watching with Clayton Island Tours to vintage-speedboat rides at Clayton’s Antique Boat Museum. Don’t miss their 48th annual Antique Boat Show & Auction, from August 3 to 5, or the thrilling Raceboat Regatta, August 17 to 19. Uncle Sam Boat Tours visit Boldt Castle, Singer Castle and Millionaires' Row. For an uplifting view, sail over Alexandria Bay with Champagne Balloon Adventures.
The fishing is amazing! Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River attract anglers from around the world. Summer fishing season starts the first Saturday in May with northern pike and walleye, followed by smallmouth bass and muskellunge opening the 3rd Saturday of June. The region’s many fishing charters and Alexandria Bay Fishing Guides Association know where the biggest ones bite.
Napoleon leads the grand parade at Cape Vincent’s 44th annual French Festival, July 14 and 15. Festivities include Cajun music, costumed reenactors, artisan vendors and French food specialties. Lake Ontario provides the backdrop for Oswego’s 25th Harborfest, July 26 to 29. The city-wide extravaganza features art, crafts, conga dancing, and top entertainers like Kenny Loggins. Don’t miss the Saturday night fireworks spectacular over the lake!
From August 10 to 19, Alexandria Bay celebrates legends of the notorious 1800s pirate, with Bill Johnston's Pirate Days. The air fills with smoke and the sound of musket fire as pirate ships “attack” the village. Everyone becomes a pirate for 10 days of family fun, sword-fighting demonstrations and special events.
Named one of the Top 9 Great American Drives by Budget Travel, the Great Lakes Seaway Trail leads to historic lighthouses and great summer fun, from amusement parks to scuba diving in the St. Lawrence’s crystal-clear waters. The region’s 27 state parks—ideal for fishing, boating, swimming, and camping with spectacular views—include Cedar Point and Wellesley Island, which has an amazing nature center.
For more ideas and information, see Thousand Islands-Seaway’s Culinary, History & Culture, Outdoors and Water listings.
View: Thousand Islands Regional Video
Find more information at: 1000 Islands Regional Tourism Office