Looking for the best things to do in Alexandria Bay NY? Keep reading to find out 25 amazing things to do in Thousand Islands NY that will make for a completely unforgettable trip!
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Where is Alexandria Bay NY?
Before we jump into all the best things to do in Alexandria Bay, you may be wondering where exactly this destination is located.
Alexandria Bay is a small village located in Jefferson County, New York.
The village is located in the heart of the 1000 Islands, and it is a popular summer vacation destination for both New York residents and those in surrounding states.
The area is actually so close to the Canadian border that you may even notice your cell phone lose connectivity from time to time while you’re out on the water!
With a number of unique attractions and beautiful waterfront views, a trip to Alexandria Bay is the perfect way to spend a long weekend during the warmer months in New York.
Where to Stay in Alexandria Bay | Alexandria Bay Hotels
When it comes to where to stay in Alexandria Bay NY, there are a number of hotels to choose from.
One of the most well known Alexandria Bay hotels is Bonnie Castle Resort & Marina, which notably features a restaurant, an on-site bar, and a banquet hall.
We personally loved our stay at Captain Thomson’s, which is conveniently located right in the village and within walking distance to most of Alexandria Bay’s shops and restaurants. The waterfront views from our balcony were also hard to beat, too.
Other motels/resorts you may want to check out include the Otter Creek Inn, Rock Ledge Motel, and the Riveredge Resort Hotel.
15 Amazing Things to Do in Alexandria Bay NY (Thousand Islands NY)
Now let’s get into what you really want to hear…the 15 best things to do in Alexandria Bay NY!
1. Do a Self-Guided Tour of Boldt Castle at Heart Island
Of all the things to do in Alexandria Bay, taking a tour of Boldt Castle and Heart Island is by far the most popular attraction in the area.
Just a quick ferry ride away from Alexandria Bay, you can be instantly transported back to the Gilded Age with a self-guided tour of this famously unfinished masterpiece.
Commissioned at the turn of the century, millionaire proprietor of the Waldorf Astoria Hotel George C. Boldt set out to build a full size Rhineland castle on Heart Island.
This castle would serve as a symbol of his love for his wife Louise, and it would be a six story, 120 room summer home for the family.
After four years of construction though, Boldt sent a telegram to the workers at the castle to “stop all construction”.
With work on the castle 95% complete, Louise tragically had passed away.
Grief stricken, Boldt himself never returned to the castle during his lifetime and the once grand building sat vacant for the next 73 years — ravaged by the rain, snow, ice, and vandals.
Since 1977 though, an amazing restoration project has been underway in an attempt to return the castle to the state that it was in right before Louise Boldt’s passing.
You’ll love the self-guided tour of the castle’s interesting history, along with wandering the beautifully manicured grounds of Heart Island.
It’s a special opportunity to visit a historic restoration in progress, and this is definitely not one of the things to do in Alexandria Bay you will want to miss!
Related: The 12 Most Unique Things to Do in Saratoga Springs, NY
2. Explore Millionaire’s Row With Uncle Sam’s Boat Tours
Cruise along the most historic portion of the Thousand Islands on a tour of “Millionaire’s Row” with Uncle Sam’s Boat Tours.
On this tour, you’ll see the most famous islands purchased by some of the wealthiest families in the late 1800’s and early 1900’s, along with the lavish mansions that still stand today.
You’ll also experience countless other historical sights such as the wreck of the Roy A. Jodrey, and the rumored hiding place of Pirate Bill Johnston during the Patriot’s War of 1837 — Devil’s Oven.
If Millionaire’s Row doesn’t pique your interest though, don’t worry. Uncle Sam’s offers a number of additional boat tours to suit almost any interest in exploring the Thousand Islands.
3. Grab Breakfast at Coffeepot Cathy’s
If you’re a coffee lover, Coffeepot Cathy’s is likely going to be one of your favorite stops in Alexandria Bay.
This small, local eatery and coffee shop is perfect for grabbing a quick breakfast, and they offer a variety of delicious coffees for sale as well.
Be sure to order the quiche of the day, too! They’re homemade in individual muffin pans, and they’re downright delicious.
4. Shop in the Village
The village of Alexandria Bay isn’t huge, but there are a good number of local boutiques you can enjoy shopping.
From homemade candy to unique gifts, there’s something for everyone in this charming town.
5. Get Handmade Candies from Lil’ River Fudge Co.
Speaking of homemade candy, you can’t miss a trip to Lil’ River Fudge Co. while you’re in Alexandria Bay.
This family owned candy shop offers fresh homemade fudge and a variety of other sweet treats to indulge in.
We especially loved the sugared fruit wedges and salted caramels, which were a fantastic after-dinner treat during our stay.
6. Take a Tour of Singer Castle
Boldt Castle may be the most popular attraction in Alexandria Bay, but it’s certainly not the only castle in town!
If you love architecture and historical tours, a tour of Singer Castle is another one of those things to do in Alexandria Bay that you won’t want to miss.
Uncle Sam’s Boat Tours does offer a boat ride to Singer Castle that includes a guided tour throughout the property.
The ferry usually stops at Boldt Castle on the way back, so this is a great opportunity check two unique attractions off your bucket list in one trip.
Beware though, if you want to tour both castles this is likely going to eat up most of your day in Alexandria Bay!
There’s a lot to see and learn, but we think it’s totally worth it.
Related: Live Like Gatsby in This 1920s Era Glens Falls Hotel
7. Go to the Drive In Movies
Alexandria Bay is a surprisingly lively town in the evening, with several bars, nightclubs, and live music venues located right in the village.
If that isn’t your scene though, or you’re simply looking for something different to do, head on down to Bay Drive-In Theatre.
Just a few minutes outside of Alexandria Bay, this gem features several different movies per night and plenty of delicious snacks and drinks.
It’s the perfect way to unwind after a long day on the bay.
8. Fine Dine at Cavallario’s Steak House
When it comes to Alexandria Bay restaurants, don’t sleep on Cavallario’s Steak House.
Their blue cheese stuffed filet is to die for, along with their mouthwatering prime rib, provolone, and hot pepper crispy rolls (served with the best creamy horsey sauce).
This is a great place if you’re sick of bar food and are craving a quality sit down meal.
9. Go Scuba Diving
Did you know that one of the most popular things to do in Alexandria Bay is scuba diving?
That’s right, scuba diving isn’t just for Caribbean vacations anymore!
Thousands Islands NY is actually known for a number of ship wrecks, making it an interesting location for scuba diving, snorkeling, etc.
You will also be surprised at how many different underwater species you can find here along the St. Lawrence River, with it’s impeccably clear waters and rich history to uncover.
10. Hangout at Riley’s on the River
For a quick bite to eat and a good drink, make sure to stop by Riley’s on the River.
We love especially love their crab dip, and we’ve also been told this is a fun place to hangout around the bar as well.
11. Rent A Jet Ski
There’s no better way to spend a day in the Thousand Islands than being out on the water.
Exploring the area by jet ski is not only efficient, but of course a lot of fun.
Just make sure you get you take the NYS Boater Safety Course ahead of time, as that is required in order to be able to pilot a jet ski in New York State!
12. Visit the History Museum
If you’re history lover, make sure you stop by the Cornwall Brothers Store and Museum.
The last surviving historic waterfront building in Alexandria Bay, this former general store now operates as a history museum documenting the area’s local lifestyle from the early days through the 1950s.
And the best part? Admission is totally free!
Related: 34 Amazing Things to Do Around Times Square
13. Enjoy the Waterfront
When all else fails, head down to the waterfront.
You really can’t go wrong hanging out at the many local docks, several of which offer picturesque views of Boldt Castle and the surrounding islands near Alexandria Bay.
Whether you’re looking for the perfect photo op (hint: try to catch the sunset if you want to grab a totally Insta-worthy landscape pic) or just in need of a bit of relaxation after a busy day, this is the ideal spot to relax and unwind.
14. Check out Nearby State Parks
Another budget friendly way to enjoy Thousand Islands NY is by visiting one of the several nearby state parks.
Keewaydin State Park is a popular option close to Alexandria Bay, and it is equipped with a swimming pool, plenty of hiking trails, and docks for fishing and swimming.
Wellesley Island State Park offers the largest camping complex in the region and is particularly well known for its excellent fishing.
The park also includes a sandy beach on the river that’s perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
15. Do a Wine Tasting
If you enjoy wine, you’re in luck when visiting Alexandria Bay.
The area offers several different venues for wine tastings, several of which are known for their refreshing wine slushies.
Located close to town, Dark Island Spirits is a particularly popular venue that offers wine tastings, wine slushies, and a variety of NYS craft beers.
There are a number of local wineries in this area though, so why not try them all?
What are your favorite things to do in Alexandria Bay NY? Are there any things to do in Thousand Islands NY that should be added to this list?
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