Ready to hit the road and find a part of New York you probably didn’t even know existed?
This trip is packed with cute towns, boat rides, castles (yep, real ones), and so many epic views, you’ll fill your camera roll in a single day.
You’ll cruise along a sparkling river, snack your way through cozy cafés, and maybe even cross into another country—how cool is that?
If you’re into hidden gems and road trips that feel like a summer adventure movie, you’re gonna love what’s coming next.
1. Watertown
Watertown is a small city in northern New York, just about 30 minutes south of the Thousand Islands and relatively close to the Canadian border.
It’s known for its huge mall, the scenic Black River (hello, whitewater rafting!), and Fort Drum, a major U.S. Army military reservation home to the 10th Mountain Division.
You can stroll through the pretty Thompson Park—designed by John Charles Olmsted, the nephew and adopted son of Central Park’s designer—and visit Zoo New York, which features animals native to New York State.
Fun fact: this place gets so much snow in winter, it once made national news for getting over 5 feet in just a few days—yep, snow lovers, this one’s for you.
2. Sackets Harbor
Just a short drive from Watertown, you’ll hit the charming village of Sackets Harbor, sitting right on the edge of Lake Ontario.
This little spot is packed with history—it was a big naval base during the War of 1812, and you can still walk around the old battlefield and barracks.
Today, it’s all about breezy lake views, cute cafés, wine tastings, and watching sailboats drift by from a waterfront bench (seriously, it’s like a postcard).
Don’t miss the 1812 Brewing Company—they serve craft beers brewed on-site and their lakeside patio is chef’s kiss in the summer.
3. Cape Vincent
Keep following the shoreline west and you’ll roll into Cape Vincent, a sleepy little town where the St. Lawrence River meets Lake Ontario.
It’s got major “end of the road” energy—in the best way—with seasonal ferry access to Canada and one of the prettiest lighthouses around, the Tibbetts Point Lighthouse.
This place is all about breezy bike rides, peaceful fishing spots, and watching massive cargo ships cruise by like floating skyscrapers.
If you’re into local charm, don’t skip the Cape Winery—it’s laid-back, family-run, and has a peaceful vibe that shows off the feel of a family farm winery.
4. Clayton
Next up is Clayton, a cute-as-can-be river town that you’ll absolutely fall in love with.
It’s packed with cool stuff like the Antique Boat Museum—where you can ogle shiny vintage boats and even take a ride in one if you’re lucky.
Downtown is super walkable with ice cream shops, art galleries, and waterfront restaurants that are perfect for lazy lunches with a view.
And if you’re up for a little extra fun, hop on a boat tour to check out the islands up close—some of them even have castles (yep, real ones).
Just a heads-up, the Antique Boat Museum typically closes during the winter season and reopens from May through October.
5. Thousand Islands Bridge
Just when you think this road trip can’t get any cooler, you’ll hit the Thousand Islands Bridge—aka the jaw-dropping gateway between the U.S. and Canada.
This isn’t just one bridge—it’s actually a whole series of them, stretching over sparkling blue water and tiny, pine-covered islands.
You can pull over at the scenic lookout point for some seriously epic photos, or just cruise across with the windows down and soak up those river views.
And fun fact: if you’ve got your passport, you can be in Canada in minutes—how’s that for a two-country road trip bonus?
6. Wellesley Island State Park
Next, make a pit stop at Wellesley Island State Park—this place is a total playground for nature lovers.
It’s the biggest camping spot in the Thousand Islands, with shady campsites, epic hiking trails, and a sandy beach where you can swim in the river.
The Minna Anthony Common Nature Center is a hidden gem here, with trails that lead to quiet coves, lookout towers, and even turtle-filled wetlands.
Whether you’re kayaking, birdwatching, or just chilling in a hammock by the water, this park brings all the peaceful island vibes without needing a passport.
7. Boldt Castle
Hop on a boat from Wellesley Island, and you’ll land at the crown jewel of the Thousand Islands—Boldt Castle.
This dreamy mansion sits on Heart Island and was built by hotel millionaire George Boldt as a wild love letter to his wife (spoiler: it’s both romantic and kinda heartbreaking).
You can wander through grand staircases, fancy ballrooms, and hidden passages like the tunnel connecting the basement to the Power House, making it feel like you’ve stepped into a fairytale—only it’s real.
Every detail, from the gardens to the stone arches, is extra, and yes, it’s totally worth the boat ride just for the brag-worthy photos alone.
Please be aware that the castle typically operates seasonally, with dates varying each year. It usually opens from May through mid-October, so be sure to check online before planning your visit.
8. Alexandria Bay
Just a short ride from Boldt Castle, Alexandria Bay is the laid-back river town that knows how to have a good time.
It’s got that classic summer-on-the-water vibe with boat tours, waterfront bars, and even a pirate festival every August (yes, costumes and all).
Main Street is packed with souvenir shops, snack shacks, and local joints where you can grab a burger and watch the boats cruise by.
If you’re into people-watching, sunset views, or just soaking up small-town energy with a side of fries, Alex Bay is your kind of place.
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