The Thousand Islands is a region located in the Saint Lawrence River, on the border of Canada and the United States. The region is composed of over 1,800 small islands, some of which are privately owned and some of which are open to the public.
The area has a rich history, dating back to the indigenous peoples who first inhabited the islands. The Haudenosaunee, or Iroquois, were the primary inhabitants of the region until the arrival of Europeans in the 17th century.

Late 18th and early 19th centuries, the Thousand Islands became a popular summer destination for wealthy Americans and Canadians, who built grand homes and cottages on the islands. Many of these structures still exist today, and the region is known for its historic architecture.

During the Prohibition era in the United States, the Thousand Islands became a popular site for smuggling illegal alcohol across the border. Rumrunners used the numerous small islands and secluded coves to evade law enforcement and transport alcohol to speakeasies in major cities.

The region has also been the site of several notable shipwrecks throughout history, including the 1912 sinking of the steamship “SS Kingston,” which resulted in the loss of over 1,000 lives.

Today, the Thousand Islands remains a popular tourist destination, with visitors drawn to the area’s natural beauty, historic sites, and recreational opportunities such as boating and fishing. The region is also home to several state and national parks, which protect and preserve the islands and their unique ecosystem.

19 fun and best things to do in The Thousand Islands.

1. Visit Boldt Castle: This magnificent castle was built by George C. Boldt, a wealthy hotelier, as a tribute to his wife. Today, it is open to the public for tours and offers stunning views of the St. Lawrence River.
2. Take a boat tour: Take a boat tour of the islands and get up close and personal with their natural beauty. You’ll see breathtaking scenery and learn about the history of the islands.
3. Go fishing: The Thousand Islands is a fisherman’s paradise, with an abundance of fish species to catch and stunning scenery to enjoy while you do it.
4. Visit Dark Island: This tiny island is home to the iconic Singer Castle, a beautiful stone castle that was once a hunting lodge. You can take a tour of the castle and explore the island’s lush forests.
5. Explore Thousand Islands National Park: This national park is positioned on the Canadian side of the islands and offers miles of hiking trails, scenic picnic areas, and a chance to see rare wildlife.
6. Visit the Antique Boat Museum: This museum is dedicated to the history of boating in the Thousand Islands and features a collection of antique boats, including classic wooden speedboats and elegant steam yachts.
7. Visit the Thousand Islands Bridge: This bridge connects the United States and Canada and offers stunning views of the islands and the St. Lawrence River.
8. Visit Wellesley Island State Park: This state park is located on the largest of the Thousand Islands and offers hiking trails, picnic areas, beaches, and a marina.
9. Go kayaking or canoeing: Rent a kayak or canoe and explore the islands from the water, taking in the stunning scenery and getting up close and personal with nature.
10. Visit the Thousand Islands Playhouse: This historic playhouse is located in the heart of the islands and offers live theater performances throughout the summer months.
11. Visit the Thousand Islands Winery: This winery is located on the mainland and offers tastings of their delicious wines, made from locally grown grapes.
12. Explore the Village of Clayton: This charming village is located on the mainland and offers a range of shopping and dining options, as well as a beautiful waterfront park.
13. Take a scenic drive: Drive along the scenic routes that crisscross the Thousand Islands, taking in the stunning scenery and stopping at the many parks and attractions along the way.
14. Visit the Minna Anthony Common Nature Center: This nature center is located on Wellesley Island and offers a range of educational programs and activities, including guided hikes and wildlife watching.
15. Visit the Ivy Lea Club: This historic club is positioned on the Canadian side of the islands and offers a range of recreational opportunities, including golfing, boating, and dining.
16. Visit the Thousand Islands Arts Center: This arts center is located in Clayton and offers a range of exhibitions, classes, and events, showcasing the work of local artists.
17. Visit the Thousand Islands Museum: This museum is located in Clayton and offers a range of exhibits, showcasing the history and culture of the Thousand Islands.
18. Visit the Grass Point State Park: This state park is located on the mainland and offers a range of recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, and boating.
19. Visit the Thousand Islands Lighthouse Museum: This museum is located on the mainland and features a collection of lighthouses from the Thousand Islands, as well as interactive exhibits and educational programs.

10 places similar to The Thousand Islands with their locations.

1. Muskoka Lakes, Ontario, Canada: This scenic region is located in central Ontario and is known for its stunning natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
2. Georgian Bay Islands National Park, Ontario, Canada: This national park is located on the Georgian Bay and offers miles of hiking trails, scenic picnic areas, and stunning views of the water.
3. Lake Tahoe, California and Nevada, United States: This stunning lake straddles the border between California and Nevada and is known for its crystal-clear waters and scenic beauty.
4. Lake Placid, New York, United States: This scenic region is located in the Adirondacks and is known for its stunning natural beauty and recreational opportunities, including boating, hiking, and skiing.
5. Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, United States: This picturesque lake is located in southern Wisconsin and is surrounded by rolling hills and charming towns.
6. Finger Lakes, New York, United States: This scenic place is located in significant New York and is thought of for its stunning natural splendor and recreational possibilities, which includes boating, fishing, and trekking.
7. Lake Superior, Ontario and Quebec, Canada, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan, United States: This big lake straddles the border between the US Canada and offers lovely surroundings and recreational possibilities.
8. Lake Champlain, Vermont and New York, United States: This scenic lake is located in the northeastern United States and is surrounded by rolling hills and charming towns.
9. Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire, United States: This picturesque lake is located in southern New Hampshire and is surrounded by rolling hills and charming towns.
10. Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri, United States: This scenic lake is placed in significant Missouri and is thought for its stunning herbal beauty and recreational possibilities, together with boating, fishing, and trekking.