Although it's called the "Thousand Islands," there are actually more than 1,800 sub-continental pieces of land that make up the region. These islands located in the St. Lawrence River straddle the border of the U.S. and Canada and the region is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts.
But the area also teems with history, which can be explored in places like Gananoque. The Victorian town, located in Ontario, is often called the gateway to the 1,000 Islands- thanks to its location on the Gananoque and St. Lawrence rivers. Settled in 1892 by United Empire Loyalists, Gananoque played an important role as a vital staging ground during the War of 1812.
Ready to explore? Here are several must-see experiences in this historic town.
Gananoque Boat Line
When in a place called the 1,000 Islands a boat tour should be first on your list. Try a one-hour tour with Gananoque Boat Line (departing from Ivy Lea) to experience traveling under the spans of the 1,000 Islands International Bridge, which connects Southeastern Ontario and Northern New York.
A major highlight is circling the massive Boldt Castle and crossing over to American water to do so, seeing more fabulous cottages and multi-million dollar homes lining both sides of the water along the way. Tours also pass a UNESCO biosphere, the Frontenac Arch Biosphere, a granite bridge that spans the northern Canadian Shield to the Adirondack Mountains in the United States.
These tours are offered by a family-run local company. Neil McCarthy, whose family has been in the region since 1886, helms the company that also makes a point to build the 350-passenger boats in a shipyard in Gananoque, thus helping invigorate the local economy.
1,000 Islands Helicopter Tour
The only thing better than seeing the islands from the water is seeing them by helicopter. Getting a feel for the massive landscapes can really only be experienced from above. Try the Castle Tour with 1,000 Islands Helicopter Tours. These are limited to just three passengers, so everyone is guaranteed a window seat-one person sits shotgun while the other two sit in back. The tours fly over the famous Boldt Castle, on the American side.
Flying in you can see the different colorations in the water marked by deep blue water and bright green patches of land. Keep an eye on the white streaks of boats marking the water and leading your eyes to some of the privately owned islands and the massive multi-million dollar mansions sitting dead center.
Rideau Tours
Another 1,000 Islands must see is the Rideau Canal, the world's oldest continually operated waterway. The UNESCO World Heritage Site, built by the Royal British Engineers between 1826 and 1832, was once used as a trade route between Montreal and Kingston. Today it connects the Ottawa River to Lake Ontario and is used by both commercial and private boats.
To see the most of the canal, book the pedal picnic tour with Rideau Tours, which incorporates eating and cycling. The adventure begins with a picnic from Chaffey's Locks, packed in a wicker basket and served on a red and white-checkered tablecloth. Afterwards, you'll jump on a bike and pedal down the canal past boats cruising, people kayaking and canoeing and coolest of all to witness: lockmasters operating gates the same way they have for more than a century.
Gananoque Inn
If you want a waterfront room in Gananoque, there is one place to stay.
"There are 16 waterfront rooms in Gananoque. And fortunately, we have them all," John Keilty owner of the Gananoque Inn and Spa, is proud to say.
The Inn, on the banks of the St. Lawrence River, has been popular since the days of Al Capone, who has slept here. So did Thomas Edison, Jr. and a few Canadian prime ministers, sports greats and movie stars. The building was once home to the Gananoque Carriage Company, which made sleighs and buggies, one of which you can spot one in the lobby.
It later became an Inn and modern touches have since been added. It offers easy access for water activities like boating and for catching fish like pike and bass. For dining, check out the pub fare at Muskie Jake's Tap & Grill, where the largest musky ever caught in Canada is mounted on the wall. It's also walking distance to the downtown area and offers easy access to the Gananoque Trail System.
Book a room in the main part of the building or splurge and stay in Cedar Knoll, a gingerbread-trimmed Victorian home beside the main Inn. Both the upper and lower suites have views of the Thousand Islands, a full kitchen, additional bedrooms and plenty of space to entertain.
Dinner & Brews on Gananoque's Main Street
For a night out, head to the quaint Gananoque Main Street. Start at the Socialist Pig, which serves as both a coffee shop (with a barista counter made of old books) and restaurant (featuring more rustic décor). On the menu you will find a selection of BBQ, tacos, burritos, salads and sandwiches all served in a creative way.
Afterwards head to the Gananoque Brewing Company, where founder Bruce Davis, make beer such as the Black Bear, using a process where the beer is made stronger by freezing it. This allows the water to melt, leading to a beer that also has higher alcohol content. Black Bear comes in at 6.5 per cent ABV. Sit outside at the community table, make new friends and enjoy other beers with names like the Thirty Pike and Naughty Otter, made with a local heirloom variety grain grown by a member of the Board of Directors. The brewery is located in an 1860s carriage parts factory and features an open layout so guests can see where beer is brewed.
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