Thousand Islands Vacation Rentals

As a favourite vacation destination for over a century, the Thousand Islands are especially popular with outdoor enthusiasts and anyone wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of the big city. Straddling the US-Canadian border in the Saint Lawrence River, this archipelago of some 1,864 islands offers a large number of vacation rentals. Thousand Islands cottage rentals include some truly beautiful and spacious lakeside cabins, with many accommodating large groups.

Fresh Local Fish, Craft Beverages, and Legendary Dressing

When you hear "Thousand Islands," you're likely to think of the dressing of the same name. The legendary dressing was invented here, though its exact origins are somewhat disputed. The best-known story suggests that while cruising the islands, a ship steward invented a dressing of local ingredients when faced with a shortage of ingredients on board. The owner of one of the island's best-known landmarks and that yacht, George Boldt, then took the dressing back to his hotel in New York City, where it became famous.

Local culinary delights in the Thousand Islands go far beyond this famous dressing. The area is full of craft wineries and breweries, such as the Grindstone Island Winery and the Wood Boat Brewery in Clayton. The region's abundance of freshwater fish also means you can sample some amazing fish dishes. Catch and prepared your own meal or treat yourself at Coleman's Dock of the Bay or Cavallario's Steak and Seafood.

Culture and History: Historic Mansions and Fairytale Castles

The Thousand Islands have a long history, and you can discover it at their many historic and cultural attractions during your vacation. After being the traditional home of the Iroquois and Ojibwe people, the islands became a celebrated summer vacation destination area for the wealthy in the 19th century.

The rich visitors to the Thousand Islands built some impressive mansions and even a few fairytale castles, such as Boldt Castle on Heart Island, New York. Visit and admire this amazing medieval European-style structure built in 1900, which hosts events such as weddings.

To discover more about the area's rich maritime history, head to the Antique Boat Museum in Clayton, New York. Here, you can see North America's largest collection of antique and classic boats, all showcasing the Thousand Islands' rich fishing, boating, and military past. You can also visit military sites and old fortifications along the region's shorelines, remnants from the War of 1812.

Family Fun in the Thousand Islands: Nature, Animals, and Underwater Environments

If you're looking to teach your children about nature and animals, look no further than the region's farms. Visit some of the area's many farms and local producers, such as Old McDonald's Farm at Sackets Harbor or the historic Burrville Cider Mill in Watertown, where the whole family can get a taste of rural life and local produce and see farmyard animals up close.

Another great family-friendly attraction, even on rainy days, is Wellesley Island State Park. This New York park has an educational, hands-on nature center that's a great learning experience for kids. On the west side of the island, there's also a Victorian-era village, which makes a lovely place for a stroll.

You can also take a day trip across the border to Tall Ships Landing in Ontario and visit the Aquatarium. This learning and discovery center aims to teach visitors of all ages about the region's natural environments and attractions. The center includes aquariums and an educational theatre.

Great Outdoor Excursions: Hiking, Picnicking and Snowsports

The Thousand Islands draw hundreds of thousands of visitors every year looking to enjoy nature and participate in outdoor activities. There are more than 15 state parks in the area, offering a range of outdoor activities in all seasons. You can also take a day trip to the Canadian side of the islands to visit the Thousand Islands National Park, a highly popular spot with locals and visitors alike. Along with hiking trails and picnic areas, the park offers exhibits focusing on regional fauna such as coyotes, deer, beavers, skunks, and raccoons.

For the more adventurous, freshwater fishing and white-water rafting are also possibilities. And the Thousand Islands aren't just popular in summer – the area also has a lot to offer in winter, when the nature trails on the shorelines become enchanting cross-country ski trails.

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