If You're NearbyNatureIslandsCastles

The Thousand Islands

New York

Nearly 2,000 islands in the St. Lawrence River, with a heartbreaking castle and the namesake salad dressing.

Photo: Roy Googin · CC BY 3.0

George Boldt, the Waldorf-Astoria's owner, began a Rhine-style castle on Heart Island for his wife, then stopped forever when she died in 1904. Boats tour the islands, past homes that take up whole rocks.

Best Time
June–September
Time Needed
1–2 days
Cost Level
$$$$
Open
Check before you go; hours vary by season
Getting There
About five hours by car from New York City.

What to See

0 of 2 are free
2 hours

Boldt Castle

A vast unfinished castle on Heart Island.

2 hours

River Boat Tours

Past mansions, and Singer Castle.

Know Before You Go

  • Going over the Canadian side requires a passport.

Where to Stay

Stay in Alexandria Bay or Clayton.

Where to Eat

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Last checked 2026-11-02. Part of the Northeast list.