15 Things To Do In Alexandria Bay, NY (That Locals Recommend)

Alexandria Bay, a tiny village in upstate New York, punches far above its weight. Set in the heart of the Thousand Islands, Alexandria Bay (or "A-Bay" to locals) is where natural beauty, riverfront adventure, and unexpected history all meet, with a dash of small-town charm.

Perched along the edge of the St. Lawrence River, Alexandria Bay draws summer crowds with its island-hopping cruises, waterfront taverns, and deep ties to Gilded Age grandeur. But beyond Boldt Castle and boat tours, there’s a lot more to uncover. Think hidden coves, quirky local shops, river kayaking, and classic Americana festivals where you’re just as likely to bump into locals as fellow travelers.

Alexandria Bay invites you to slow down and soak it all in. This is where mornings begin with fog lifting off the river, and end with golden sunsets over castle turrets.

1. Explore Boldt Castle on Heart Island

Address: Heart Island, Alexandria Bay, NY 13607
(Accessible only by boat; tours depart from downtown Alexandria Bay)

Few places in New York feel as romantic—and haunting—as Boldt Castle. Set on tiny Heart Island in the St. Lawrence River, this Gilded Age mansion is more than a castle—it’s a monument to love left unfinished. George C. Boldt, a millionaire hotelier and manager of the Waldorf-Astoria, began construction in 1900 as a gift for his wife, Louise. But when she died suddenly in 1904, he halted all work. For decades, the castle stood empty—a half-completed love letter suspended in time.

Today, the castle has been beautifully restored and reopened to the public. You can wander through its grand halls, take in sweeping river views from the balconies, and admire architectural details like Tiffany-style windows and carved stonework. Outside, lush gardens and quiet nooks make it easy to linger.

I spent a misty morning here and watched a wedding unfold on the lawn—proof that even heartbreak can bloom into something beautiful. Whether you're a history buff, architecture lover, or hopeless romantic, Boldt Castle is a must.

2. Tour the George C. Boldt Yacht House

Address: Wellesley Island, NY 13640
(Reachable via Uncle Sam Boat Tours or private watercraft from Heart Island)

If Boldt Castle shows you how the Gilded Age elite lived, then the George C. Boldt Yacht House shows you how they traveled. Located on Wellesley Island just across from Heart Island, this massive boathouse was designed to house the Boldt family’s extravagant yachts and houseboats, including one large enough to be considered a floating mansion.

The Yacht House, now part of the castle tour, showcases meticulously restored vintage vessels, wooden launches, and charming relics from turn-of-the-century maritime life. Inside the soaring structure, you’ll find everything from period boat accessories to vintage uniforms. Even the architecture—vaulted ceilings, ornate brickwork—feels like something out of a historical novel.

What struck me most was the scale. The boathouse isn't just big—it's cathedral-sized. It’s a celebration of excess and craftsmanship, but also a glimpse into a time when water wasn’t just transportation—it was luxury, status, and identity.

3. Embark on a Thousand Islands Boat Cruise

Departure Point: 45 James St, Alexandria Bay, NY 13607 (Uncle Sam Boat Tours & other operators)

You haven’t truly experienced Alexandria Bay until you’ve seen it from the water. A Thousand Islands boat cruise is the quintessential way to take in the area’s jaw-dropping scenery—think forested islets, castle-like cottages, and endless horizon lines where sky and water meet.

Tours range from quick one-hour loops to half-day excursions that glide past Millionaire’s Row, historic lighthouses, and even cross briefly into Canadian waters (bring a passport if you want to disembark). Some cruises offer glass-bottom boats for underwater views, while others lean into storytelling with onboard guides sharing fascinating bits of local history and river lore. If you time it right, sunset cruises add a golden glow that makes the islands shimmer.

On my last visit, I took a two-nation tour that sailed through narrow island channels just wide enough for a single boat. We passed homes so close to the water you could wave to their porch-sitters—and they waved back. It felt less like tourism and more like a friendly drift through someone else’s dream life.

4. Relax at Scenic View Park

Address: 8 Fuller St, Alexandria Bay, NY 13607

As the name promises, Scenic View Park delivers sweeping views of the St. Lawrence River, making it one of the best free spots in Alexandria Bay to just sit and soak it all in. Located right in the village, the park blends laid-back nature with local flavor—think picnic tables shaded by maples, kids chasing gulls along the shoreline, and the distant hum of tour boats cruising by.

From the park’s lookout point, you can spot Boldt Castle across the water and watch as river traffic glides through the international channel. A pedestrian footbridge connects to Casino Island, a smaller islet with even more grassy space and a sandy swimming area. It’s a favorite local gathering spot for low-key afternoons with a blanket, a book, or a camera in hand.

I stumbled on Scenic View Park during a quiet morning walk and ended up staying for hours, watching a group of kayakers paddle by and eating lunch from a nearby deli on a sun-warmed bench. It’s one of those spots that feels instantly familiar—even if it’s your first time there.

5. Visit the Cornwall Brothers Museum

Address: 36 Market St, Alexandria Bay, NY 13607

Before Alexandria Bay became a summer haven for castle-hopping and boat cruising, it was a rugged frontier village on the edge of the St. Lawrence River—and the Cornwall Brothers Store was at the heart of it all. Built in 1866 from local limestone, this historic building once served as a bustling general store and later as a U.S. Customs House. Today, it stands as the Cornwall Brothers Museum, a time capsule filled with exhibits that chart the rise of the town and the region.

Inside, you’ll find old photographs, antique fishing gear, ship logs, vintage postcards, and maps that tell the story of the Thousand Islands’ transformation from logging outpost to Gilded Age playground. There’s also a section dedicated to George Boldt and his grand vision for Heart Island, giving context to the romance and wealth that still define the area.

What I loved most? The sense of place. It’s not flashy, but every creaky floorboard and artifact tells a story—and the docents (often local volunteers) are full of colorful anecdotes that don’t make it into the guidebooks.

6. Enjoy Go-Karting at Alex Bay 500

Address: 46568 County Route 1, Alexandria Bay, NY 13607

Sometimes, you just want a little adrenaline, and Alex Bay 500 delivers. Just a short drive from downtown, this go-kart track has become a favorite among families, teens, and anyone who wants to trade river views for rubber tires and tight turns.

The course is simple but fast, with enough curves and straightaways to let both cautious kids and competitive adults have their fun. The karts are well-maintained, and the staff is friendly, making first-timers feel just as welcome as return racers. You can race solo or challenge your group to a few rounds (and yes, bragging rights are definitely on the line).

On a sunny afternoon, I stopped by and watched a family of five pull off a full-speed race, complete with cheering, light-hearted trash talk, and a dramatic last-lap overtake. No one left without a smile—and that’s kind of the point.

7. Taste Wines at Thousand Islands Winery

Address: 43298 Seaway Ave, Alexandria Bay, NY 13607

Just a few minutes outside of Alexandria Bay, Thousand Islands Winery invites you to slow down, sip, and savor the best of the region’s terroir. Set on a historic 40-acre farm near the banks of the St. Lawrence River, the winery offers tastings, tours, and stunning views that make it a favorite afternoon stop for couples, friend groups, and wine-curious travelers.

The tasting room, housed in a 19th-century barn, is cozy and welcoming—no wine snobbery here. You’ll find everything from crisp whites to sweet fruit wines and full-bodied reds, many made with cold-hardy hybrid grapes developed for the region’s northern climate. Popular picks include the Frontenac Red and their signature North Country Rosé. You can sip inside or bring your glass outside to enjoy the vineyard view.

I visited on a breezy fall day when the leaves were just beginning to turn, and the backdrop of vines against the golden sky was pure photo-op gold. Bonus: There’s often live music and seasonal events, including their famous Grape Stomp Festival.

8. Explore Wellesley Island State Park

Address: 44927 Cross Island Rd, Fineview, NY 13640

If you’re craving time in the wild, Wellesley Island State Park is your escape hatch. Located just across the bridge from Alexandria Bay, this sprawling 2,600-acre park is one of the largest in the New York State system and a paradise for outdoor lovers. Think hiking, fishing, kayaking, swimming, birdwatching, and some of the best camping in the Thousand Islands.

Miles of well-marked trails wind through hardwood forests and along rocky riverbanks, offering scenic lookouts and plenty of wildlife spotting. The park’s Minna Anthony Common Nature Center adds another layer, with educational exhibits, guided walks, and programs for families. There’s also a sandy swimming beach, a full-service marina, and spots to launch your kayak or canoe.

During one early morning hike here, I startled a white-tailed deer nibbling beside the trail and later watched osprey dive for fish from a lakeside bench. It’s the kind of place that doesn’t ask for attention but earns it.

9. Attend Bill Johnston’s Pirate Days

Location: Downtown Alexandria Bay (various venues and streets)
When: Annually in August (exact dates vary)

If you’re lucky enough to visit Alexandria Bay in August, you might stumble into a full-on pirate invasion—and we mean that literally. Bill Johnston’s Pirate Days is a beloved, weeklong festival that transforms the town into a playful, pirate-filled haven. Named after the real 19th-century river pirate Bill Johnston—part outlaw, part folk hero—the event blends living history with family-friendly theatrics.

Expect to see costumed pirates roaming the streets, sea battle reenactments on the river, cannon blasts, parades, and plenty of interactive fun for kids. There are pub crawls and scavenger hunts for adults, while little ones can enjoy treasure hunts, crafts, and storytelling. The energy is contagious, and downtown businesses join in with themed menus, decorations, and sales.

I attended one year and found myself caught in a mock pirate skirmish near the marina. Foam swords clashed, parents laughed over drinks, and a band played sea shanties by the waterfront—it was immersive, weird, and completely wonderful.

10. Visit the Holland Library

Address: 7 Market St, Alexandria Bay, NY 13607

Tucked along Market Street, the Holland Library is a striking reminder of Alexandria Bay’s storied past. Built in 1899, this Romanesque-style building features arched stonework, a red-tiled roof, and elegant details that feel more European manor than small-town library. Today, it serves as the home of the Alexandria Bay Chamber of Commerce, but the spirit of learning and legacy lives on.

Even if you’re not picking up a brochure or map, the building itself is worth a look. Architecture buffs will appreciate the original oak woodwork, stained glass, and turret-like features. For visitors, it’s a photogenic stop that connects you to the early civic pride of the village, when residents invested in public spaces that reflected both beauty and function.

I wandered in on a whim one afternoon and left with restaurant tips from the Chamber staff and a deeper appreciation for the town’s preservation efforts. It’s a quick stop, but a rich one.

11. Experience the Bay Drive-In Theatre

Address: 42735 NY-12, Alexandria Bay, NY 13607

There’s something magical about watching a movie from the comfort of your car, windows down, summer breeze drifting through. The Bay Drive-In Theatre, just a few minutes from downtown Alexandria Bay, has been delivering that magic since 1968. With two large screens showing double features of first-run films, it’s the perfect way to end a long day of sightseeing.

You’ll find families with kids in pajamas, couples sharing snacks in lawn chairs, and locals parked in vintage cars like it’s 1975. The concession stand is classic too—popcorn, soft pretzels, nachos, and root beer floats served with a smile. Tune in via FM radio or borrow an old-school speaker for that extra layer of nostalgia.

I caught a summer blockbuster here last July and stayed through the credits, watching as headlights blinked on one by one under a star-filled sky. It felt timeless—and wonderfully low-key.

12. Discover Keewaydin State Park

Address: 45165 NY-12, Alexandria Bay, NY 13607

For a quieter slice of nature just outside the hustle of Alexandria Bay, head to Keewaydin State Park. Perched right on the St. Lawrence River, this compact but scenic park offers some of the area’s best picnicking, fishing, and river views—plus a relaxed, uncrowded vibe that’s ideal for families or travelers looking to unwind.

There’s a small boat launch for paddlers, open grassy areas for tossing a frisbee or laying out a picnic, and a seasonal outdoor pool perfect for cooling off in summer. Anglers will find great fishing off the riverbank or from the nearby docks, and the campground is a hidden gem with shaded sites and easy river access.

I visited one golden hour evening and saw an osprey dive for fish while a family grilled hot dogs nearby—it was quiet, calm, and completely underrated. It may not have the flash of larger parks, but what it offers is something deeper: space to breathe.

13. Explore Longue Vue Island

Viewpoint: Best seen by boat (Thousand Islands cruises or private rentals)

In a region filled with fairytale homes and storybook settings, Longue Vue Island still manages to stand out. This striking, private island sits near Alexandria Bay and is famous not only for its dramatic chateau-style mansion but also for being the only completely man-made island in the Thousand Islands archipelago.

Constructed in the early 1900s, the island features ornate European-style architecture, complete with red tile roofing, manicured stonework, and sprawling patios that echo Old World elegance. While Longue Vue is privately owned and not open for public tours, it’s still a highlight of local boat cruises, especially those focused on historic estates. Passing by, it’s hard not to imagine garden parties from another era or the quiet hum of a gramophone drifting across the water.

I first saw Longue Vue from the upper deck of a sightseeing boat, and while cameras clicked all around me, I just stood still. There’s something cinematic about it—like stumbling on a hidden castle in the middle of a lake.

14. Attend the Thousand Islands Charity Poker Run

Location: Downtown Alexandria Bay & St. Lawrence River
When: Annually in July (dates vary)

Imagine dozens of high-powered performance boats roaring through the St. Lawrence River, their paint jobs gleaming and engines thundering like a symphony of horsepower. That’s the Thousand Islands Charity Poker Run, one of the biggest boating events in the region—and a spectacular summer tradition in Alexandria Bay.

Despite the flashy name, it’s not just about racing or gambling. This multi-day charity event raises hundreds of thousands of dollars for local causes while delivering action-packed fun for spectators and participants alike. The main attraction? Sleek boats race from checkpoint to checkpoint, collecting playing cards. The best poker hand at the end wins—but for the crowd, the thrill is in the spectacle.

From the shoreline or marina, you’ll catch colorful boats blasting through the water, crowds cheering, and music echoing from dockside bars. There’s also a street party, live entertainment, fireworks, and chances to meet the teams behind the boats. It’s one of the few times Alexandria Bay feels like a full-on waterfront festival.

15. Visit the North Country Welcome Center

Address: 43373 Collins Landing Rd, Alexandria Bay, NY 13607
(Just off I-81, near the Thousand Islands Bridge)

Whether you’re just arriving or heading out, the North Country Welcome Center is more than a pit stop—it’s a beautifully designed space that connects visitors to the rich culture, history, and charm of Alexandria Bay and the entire Thousand Islands region.

Step inside, and you’ll find interactive digital displays showcasing local attractions, maps to help you plan your route, and curated shelves filled with artisan goods, locally made snacks, and regional souvenirs. There’s even a life-sized replica of a tour boat inside, perfect for photo ops or keeping the kids entertained. Outside, a scenic patio overlooks the river with picnic tables and seasonal food trucks offering everything from ice cream to lobster rolls.

It’s clean, modern, and thoughtfully done—exactly the kind of place that makes road trips feel polished yet personal. I’ve stopped here multiple times, and every visit adds something new to my itinerary.

Conclusion

Alexandria Bay isn’t flashy. It doesn’t shout for attention. And that’s what makes it unforgettable.

In a world full of hyper-curated resorts and overbuilt tourist towns, Alexandria Bay offers something rare: authenticity. Here, you can start your day sipping coffee by the docks, wander castle ruins in the afternoon, and end with a movie under the stars or a stargazing session from a quiet island shore.

Whether you’re kayaking between islands, shopping downtown, or just watching the river do its thing, there’s a feeling in A-Bay that’s hard to name—but easy to love. It’s nostalgia and discovery. Stillness and spectacle. A little bit of summer camp energy, mixed with grown-up grace.

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FAQ

1. What is Alexandria Bay known for?

Alexandria Bay is best known as the gateway to the Thousand Islands region in northern New York. It’s home to the iconic Boldt Castle, historic boat tours, and waterfront activities like kayaking, fishing, and island hopping. Its romantic history and laid-back summer atmosphere make it a beloved escape for both couples and families.

2. When is the best time to visit Alexandria Bay?

The best time to visit is from late May through early October. That’s when attractions like Boldt Castle and boat cruises are in full swing. July and August bring peak crowds and warm weather, while September offers quieter streets and stunning fall colors without sacrificing access to key sights.

3. How far is Alexandria Bay from New York City?

Alexandria Bay is approximately 320 miles north of New York City, or about a 5.5 to 6-hour drive by car. It’s a popular long-weekend destination for travelers looking to unplug and explore upstate New York’s scenic lakefront and historic islands.

4. Do you need a passport to visit the Thousand Islands?

You won’t need a passport to explore the U.S. side of the Thousand Islands, including Boldt Castle. But if your boat tour crosses into Canadian waters or includes a stop at Singer Castle on the Canadian side, a valid passport is required for re-entry into the U.S.

5. Is Alexandria Bay good for families?

Yes, Alexandria Bay is a family-friendly destination with something for all ages. From pirate festivals and go-karts to sandy swim beaches and interactive museums, the village offers a great mix of fun, education, and outdoor play—most of it walkable from local hotels and restaurants.

6. Can you visit Boldt Castle year-round?

No, Boldt Castle is only open seasonally, typically from mid-May through mid-October. It sits on Heart Island and is accessible only by boat, either via guided tour or private vessel. During the off-season, the island is closed to the public and cannot be accessed.