How to Spend a Perfect Weekend in 1000 Islands

In this blog post, I will share with you how to spend a perfect weekend in 1000 Islands, based on my own experience. I will give you tips on where to stay, what to do, and what to eat in this amazing destination. Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, 1000 Islands has something for everyone.

Where to Stay in 1000 Islands

One of the best things about 1000 Islands is that there are so many options for accommodation. You can choose from cozy cottages, charming bed and breakfasts, luxurious hotels, or even camping on an island. No matter what your budget or preference is, you will find a place that suits you.

For my weekend trip, I decided to stay at the Gananoque Inn and Spa, a historic inn that overlooks the river and the marina. The inn has been welcoming guests since 1896, and it has a cozy and elegant atmosphere. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, with fireplaces, jacuzzis, and balconies. The inn also has a spa, a restaurant, and a pub on site.

The location of the inn is perfect for exploring 1000 Islands. It is just a few steps away from the Gananoque Boat Line, which offers cruises to see the islands and the castles. It is also within walking distance from the Arthur Child Heritage Museum, which showcases the history and culture of 1000 Islands. And it is only a short drive from the Thousand Islands National Park, which has hiking trails and picnic areas.

What to Do in 1000 Islands

There are so many things to do in 1000 Islands that you will never get bored. You can enjoy the scenery, the history, the wildlife, and the adventure that this region offers. Here are some of the highlights of my weekend itinerary:

• Take a cruise to see Boldt Castle and Singer Castle. These are two of the most famous attractions in 1000 Islands. Boldt Castle is a grandiose mansion that was built by George Boldt, a millionaire hotelier who wanted to surprise his wife with a gift of love. Unfortunately, his wife died before the castle was completed, and he abandoned the project. Today, you can tour the castle and see its restored rooms and gardens. Singer Castle is another impressive estate that was built by Frederick Bourne, the president of the Singer Sewing Machine Company. The castle has secret passages, towers, and dungeons that you can explore.

• Kayak around the islands. One of the best ways to experience 1000 Islands is by kayaking. You can rent a kayak from one of the many outfitters in the area and paddle around the islands at your own pace. You will see beautiful scenery, wildlife, and hidden gems along the way. You can also join a guided tour or a lesson if you prefer.

• Visit Fort Henry. If you are interested in history and military heritage, you should visit Fort Henry in Kingston. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back to 1812. It was built to protect Canada from an American invasion. You can tour the fort and see its cannons, barracks, museum, and exhibits. You can also watch live demonstrations of drills, muskets, and artillery.

• Go scuba diving or snorkeling. 1000 Islands is not only beautiful above water but also below water. The river is home to over 200 shipwrecks that span different eras and styles. You can dive or snorkel to see these underwater treasures and learn about their stories. Some of the most popular wrecks are the Keystorm, the America, and the Rothesay.

• Enjoy some local food. After a day of exploring 1000 Islands, you will surely be hungry and thirsty. Luckily, there are many options for dining and drinking in the area. You can try some local specialties, such as 1000 Islands dressing, cheese curds, maple syrup, and apple cider. You can also sample some fresh seafood, such as pickerel, perch, and mussels. And of course, you can’t miss the Canadian poutine, which is fries topped with cheese curds and gravy. For drinks, you can sip some local wine, beer, or spirits from the 1000 Islands Wine and Beer Trail.

• Watch a show at the Thousand Islands Playhouse. If you are looking for some entertainment and culture, you should check out the Thousand Islands Playhouse in Gananoque. This is a professional theatre that produces high-quality shows in a scenic setting. The playhouse has two venues: the Springer Theatre, which is a historic building that overlooks the river, and the Firehall Theatre, which is a former fire station that has a cozy and intimate atmosphere. You can watch comedies, dramas, musicals, and more at the playhouse.

• Relax at the spa. After a busy weekend of exploring 1000 Islands, you might want to treat yourself to some pampering and relaxation. You can visit one of the many spas in the area and enjoy a massage, a facial, a manicure, or a pedicure. You can also use the sauna, the hot tub, or the pool to unwind and rejuvenate. Some of the best spas in 1000 Islands are the Gananoque Inn and Spa, the Spa at Glen House Resort, and the Spa at 1000 Island Harbor Hotel.

Conclusion

As you can see, 1000 Islands is a perfect destination for a weekend getaway. You can experience nature, history, adventure, culture, and cuisine in this beautiful region. You can also find a variety of accommodation options to suit your needs and preferences. Whether you are traveling solo, as a couple, or as a family, you will have a memorable time in 1000 Islands.

I hope you enjoyed reading this blog post and that it inspired you to plan your own trip to 1000 Islands. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below. And if you liked this post, please share it with your friends and family.