Hues of blues surrounded by golds and reds - so beautiful!
The breathtaking fall scenery includes nearly 2,000 islands, the shimmering blue bays of Great Lake Ontario and hundreds of miles of picturesque coastline ablaze with autumn colors. From fairy-tale castles to world-class fishing and whitewater rafting, you’ll find boundless adventures.
Some of the most popular attractions here are scenic cruises. Boat lines offer a variety of choices—from paddle-wheel riverboat tours to a vintage-speedboat ride at Clayton’s Antique Boat Museum, home of the nation’s largest collection of antique and classic boats. Watch for waterfowl and songbirds amid brilliant red, yellow and orange foliage on a nature cruise with Clayton Island Tours.
Uncle Sam Boat Tours stop at Heart Island’s magnificent 120-room Boldt Castle, a “must see” for any visitor. For an uplifting view of the autumn scenery, float above Alexandria Bay with Champagne Balloon Adventures. If you’d like a challenging adventure, head to Watertown and ride the world-famous Black River canyon with Black River Whitewater Rafting tours.
The fishing is amazing! Anglers come from around the world for trophy-sized catches on Lake Ontario, the St. Lawrence River and smaller lakes and streams. Check out the Salmon River Festival, in Pulaski September 29 to October 3, featuring music, art and craft shows, and fly-fishing for kids.
The region’s 28 state parks provide four-season fun. Ideal for canoeing and kayaking, Wellesley Island State Park has hundreds of campsites, a wonderful nature center and family activities at the annual Autumn Festival on October 6. Cedar Point, another treasure, features trails along a sandy beach, a fishing pier and camping with spectacular views.
The Frederic Remington Arts Festival in Canton celebrates the area’s famous artist with an art show, children's activities, and a farmers market. For a unique place to stay, reserve a room at historic Singer Castle on Dark Island or the Victorian-era lightkeeper's quarters at Tibbetts Point Lighthouse, standing where Lake Ontario meets the St. Lawrence River.
Named one of the Top 9 Great American Drives by Budget Travel, the Great Lakes Seaway Trail leads to historic lighthouses and great outdoor activities, from bird-watching to golf and waterside biking. You can watch history come to life at Fort Ontario in Oswego and Sackets Harbor Battlefield.
For more ideas and information, see Thousand Islands-Seaway’s Culinary, History & Culture, Outdoors and Water listings.
View: Thousand Islands Regional Video
Find more information at: 1000 Islands Regional Tourism Office