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Thousand Islands-Seaway

Water defines the Thousand Islands-Seaway region. Nearly 2,000 islands rise in a scenic 50-mile stretch of the St. Lawrence River.

Bring your camera! Here you’ll see some of the world’s most splendid scenery—nearly 2,000 islands, the shimmering blue bays of Great Lake Ontario, sparkling rivers and streams, and hundreds of miles of picturesque coastline. Discover cultural treasures and boundless adventures on land, water and air: from fairy tale castles, to trophy fishing, to balloon rides over Alexandria Bay.

The fishing is amazing! Anglers come from around the world for salmon, walleye and trout on Lake Ontario. The St. Lawrence is famous for muskie, pike, bass and perch. Fishing guides will show you where the biggest ones bite. Cedar Point is one of the region’s 28 state parks ideal for fishing, boating, swimming, hiking and camping with spectacular views. Wellesley Island also features a wonderful nature center.

Unique places to stay include historic Singer Castle on Dark Island and the Victorian-era lightkeeper’s quarters at Tibbetts Point Lighthouse, standing where Lake Ontario meets the St. Lawrence River. Visit the Antique Boat Museum in Clayton to stroll amid more than 100 classic and antique wooden boats. In Alexandria Bay, take a tour boat, shuttle or private boat to explore Boldt Castle, a magnificent 120-room landmark with lush Italian gardens. Or try wild whitewater rafting in the world-famous Black River canyon, near Watertown.

War of 1812 history comes to life at Fort Ontario, in Oswego, and Sackets Harbor Battlefield. In Sackets Harbor, the Great Lakes Seaway Trail Discovery Center highlights regional history and attractions along the scenic byway. Named one of the Top 9 Great American Drives by Budget Travel, the 518-mile route connects historic lighthouses, quaint villages, wineries, the impressive Eisenhower Lock, and great outdoor activities from bird-watching to scuba diving in the St. Lawrence’s crystal-clear waters.