The 1000 Islands is a sightseer’s paradise and a popular destination for those looking for an authentic outdoor vacation. Located along the peaceful border between Northern New York State (United States) and Southeastern Ontario (Canada), the 1000 Islands is a region of endless shorelines, rich history and unique culture.
There are many exciting ways to tour the beautiful 1000 Islands from Clayton, NY. For a bird’s eye view, climb aboard a helicopter or hot air balloon. The many boat tours originating from the waterfront are a great way to get a close-up view of the islands and their sites, including the famous Boldt Castle and Millionaire’s Row. Take a lunch or dinner cruise or hop a shuttle over to the castle.
The young and young at heart can indulge in mini-golf, batting cages, go-karts, arcades and a hedgerow maze. Water activities include boating, guided fishing charters, castle tours and swimming. From Clayton there is easy access to municipal golf courses and tennis courts and eight state parks. Dock in our Village and spend the day.
Millionaire George C. Boldt—proprietor of the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York City—set out to build a full-sized Rhineland-style castle on Heart Island for his beloved wife Louise. Construction began in 1900 on a six-story, 120-room castle, complete with a drawbridge and Italian gardens. Then in 1904 tragedy struck.
Boldt telegrammed the island and commanded the workers to “stop all construction.” His wife had died unexpectedly. Boldt never returned to the island. The castle remained vacant for 73 years. Since 1977, tens of millions of dollars have been invested in the restoration of the Heart Island structures and the Yacht House on Wellesley Island.
Boat tours from both the US and Canada stop at Heart Island and extensive docking is available for private water craft. A shuttle runs from Heart Island to the Boldt Yacht House.
TOURISM LINKS
1000 Islands International Tourism Council
Alexandria Bay Chamber of Commerce
Cape Vincent Chamber of Commerce
Clayton Chamber of Commerce