15 Things to Do in Alexandria Bay, NY (That Locals Actually Recommend) - Karta.com

15 Things to Do in Alexandria Bay, NY (That Locals Actually Recommend)

Trip Ideas Jun 2, 2025

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.

Whether you’re spending a weekend here or adding it to a larger Thousand Islands road trip, 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.

From heart-thumping adventures to serene scenic spots, here are 15 top things to do in Alexandria Bay that bring this river town’s story to life—one island, museum, and memory at a time.

💡
DID YOU KNOW?

The famously romantic Boldt Castle was abandoned mid-construction in 1904 after the owner’s wife died — and sat untouched for over 70 years?

1. Explore Boldt Castle on Heart Island

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

Fun Fact:

The heart-shaped island was renamed “Heart Island” by Boldt himself and designed to reflect the theme of romance—even the landscaping forms a heart when viewed from above.

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.

Important Information:

Best for: History lovers, romantics, photographers, families
Hours: Daily, mid-May to mid-October, 10am–6:30pm (varies by season)
Admission: $11.50 adults, $8.50 children (ages 5–12); under 4 free; boat transport extra
Parking: Free lots at boat tour departure points in Alexandria Bay
Accessibility: Main floor wheelchair accessible; upper levels and tower not
Amenities: Gift shop, snack bar, picnic areas, restrooms
Tip: Arrive early to beat tour groups, or visit in the late afternoon when the light on the castle is perfect for photos

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)

Fun Fact:

The Boldt Yacht House is one of the only remaining wooden yacht houses in the United States still housing antique boats in their original setting.

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.

Important Information:

Best for: Maritime history buffs, architecture lovers, castle-goers
Hours: Same seasonal hours as Boldt Castle (mid-May to mid-October); accessible via combo boat tour
Admission: Included with Boldt Castle ticket; boat fare may include additional fee for Yacht House stop
Parking: Park in Alexandria Bay and take boat tour
Accessibility: Limited; multiple steps and uneven surfaces inside
Amenities: Informational signage, photo ops, rest area dock
Tip: Choose a boat tour that includes both Heart Island and the Yacht House for a full Gilded Age experience

💡
DID YOU KNOW?

You can cross an international border by boat right from Alexandria Bay? It’s just a short cruise to Canada’s Thousand Islands region.

3. Embark on a Thousand Islands Boat Cruise

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

Fun Fact:

There are actually 1,864 islands in the Thousand Islands region—not just 1,000. To count, an island must stay above water year-round and support at least one living tree.

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.

Important Information:

Best for: First-time visitors, families, photographers, romantic travelers
Hours: Varies by tour company; most run May–October, 9am–sunset
Admission: $25–$50 per person depending on tour length and features
Parking: Paid lots and street parking near boat docks
Accessibility: Most large tour boats are wheelchair accessible
Amenities: Restrooms onboard, snack bars, narrated tours, indoor/outdoor seating
Tip: Book online during peak season—midday and sunset cruises fill fast

4. Relax at Scenic View Park

Address: 8 Fuller St, Alexandria Bay, NY 13607

Fun Fact:

The park sits on the site of a former riverside casino that was once part of Alexandria Bay’s Gilded Age heyday.

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.

Important Information:

Best for: Families, casual walkers, picnickers, sunset chasers
Hours: Open daily, sunrise to sunset
Admission: Free
Parking: Free lot and street parking nearby
Accessibility: Paved paths and ramps make the park wheelchair accessible
Amenities: Picnic tables, restrooms, beach area, walking bridge, seasonal lifeguards
Tip: Pack a meal and plan your visit around sunset—the views are stunning, and it’s far less crowded than the castle or boat docks

5. Visit the Cornwall Brothers Museum

Address: 36 Market St, Alexandria Bay, NY 13607

Fun Fact:

The Cornwall Brothers Store is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has served as everything from a government office to a post office.

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.

Important Information:

Best for: History buffs, culture seekers, rainy-day explorers
Hours: Memorial Day–Labor Day, Tues–Sat, 10am–4pm
Admission: Free (donations encouraged)
Parking: Free street parking nearby
Accessibility: Main floor accessible; upper floors limited
Amenities: Restrooms, brochures, friendly staff for questions
Tip: Spend 30–45 minutes here before or after your boat tour—it deepens your appreciation for the river’s cultural and economic past

💡
DID YOU KNOW?

The waters around Alexandria Bay hold dozens of shipwrecks, making it a top spot for cold-water scuba diving?

6. Enjoy Go-Karting at Alex Bay 500

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

Fun Fact:

Alex Bay 500 has been operating for over 25 years and is one of the few outdoor go-kart tracks in the North Country region.

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.

Important Information:

Best for: Families, kids 7+, competitive friends, active travelers
Hours: Daily in summer, 10am–10pm (weather dependent); weekends only in spring/fall
Admission: ~$8–$10 per ride; group discounts available
Parking: Free on-site parking
Accessibility: Outdoor-only venue; limited wheelchair access
Amenities: Small snack bar, arcade games, picnic seating
Tip: Go early in the day to avoid long lines, especially on weekends. Close-toed shoes required to race

7. Taste Wines at Thousand Islands Winery

Address: 43298 Seaway Ave, Alexandria Bay, NY 13607

Fun Fact:

Thousand Islands Winery is the largest farm winery in Northern New York, producing over 50,000 gallons of wine annually.

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.

Important Information:

Best for: Wine lovers, couples, group outings, scenic chill time
Hours: Daily, 10am–6pm (later hours on event nights)
Admission: Free entry; tastings ~$6–$10 for 5 pours
Parking: Free, spacious lot on-site
Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible
Amenities: Restrooms, gift shop, picnic tables, food trucks on event days
Tip: Ask for a wine slushie if visiting in summer—it’s a refreshing local favorite

8. Explore Wellesley Island State Park

Address: 44927 Cross Island Rd, Fineview, NY 13640

Fun Fact:

Wellesley Island State Park is one of the few parks in the state to offer both cabin rentals and traditional campsites—perfect for travelers who like their nature with a touch of comfort.

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, full-service marina, and spots to launch your own 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.

Important Information:

Best for: Hikers, campers, nature lovers, families
Hours: Open year-round; day-use areas typically 8am–sunset
Admission: $7 vehicle fee (free with Empire Pass); camping rates vary
Parking: Multiple lots throughout the park
Accessibility: Visitor center and some cabins are accessible; trails vary in difficulty
Amenities: Showers, restrooms, picnic areas, beach, boat launch, camp store
Tip: Reserve campsites or cabins early—summer weekends book up fast. Bug spray is a must from late spring to mid-summer

9. Attend Bill Johnston’s Pirate Days

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

Fun Fact:

Bill Johnston was a real pirate who once declared himself “King of the Thousand Islands” during the 1830s—and he actually hid out on nearby islands while being hunted by U.S. and Canadian forces.

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.

Important Information:

Best for: Families, costumers, history lovers, fun-seekers
Hours: Events run all day and into the evening during festival week
Admission: Most events are free; some ticketed ($5–$20)
Parking: Paid and free lots throughout downtown; fills quickly
Accessibility: Events held outdoors on mostly walkable surfaces; some venues have stairs
Amenities: Public restrooms, food vendors, live music stages, seating areas
Tip: Dress up! Pirate attire is encouraged—and makes you part of the fun. Arrive early for the sea battle reenactment; it draws the biggest crowds

10. Visit the Holland Library

Address: 7 Market St, Alexandria Bay, NY 13607

Fun Fact:

The Holland Library was a Carnegie library, part of the wave of public libraries funded by philanthropist Andrew Carnegie in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

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.

Important Information:

Best for: Architecture lovers, local history buffs, casual strollers
Hours: Mon–Fri, 9am–4pm (Chamber of Commerce office hours)
Admission: Free
Parking: Free street parking nearby
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible via side entrance
Amenities: Visitor info, public restrooms, shaded seating outside
Tip: Combine your visit with nearby shops or a walk to Scenic View Park—everything downtown is within easy walking distance

11. Experience the Bay Drive-In Theatre

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

Fun Fact:

The Bay Drive-In is one of the few remaining two-screen drive-ins in New York State, and it operates from spring through fall without losing its retro charm.

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.

Important Information:

Best for: Families, couples, film fans, nostalgia lovers
Hours: Open nightly in summer; Fri–Sun in spring/fall; gates typically open at 7pm
Admission: $9 adults, $4 kids (ages 7–11); under 6 free; cash only
Parking: On-site gravel lot; spots fill fast on weekends
Accessibility: Cars can be accommodated based on mobility needs; restrooms are wheelchair accessible
Amenities: Concession stand, FM radio audio, picnic tables, outdoor seating
Tip: Bring cash, bug spray, and a blanket. Arrive early for the best viewing spots, especially if you want front-row for the second screen

💡
DID YOU KNOW?

There's a pirate festival every August where locals and visitors dress up, row boats, and party like it’s 1710?

12. Discover Keewaydin State Park

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

Fun Fact:

The name “Keewaydin” is derived from a Native American term meaning “northwest wind.”

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.

Important Information:

Best for: Campers, anglers, birdwatchers, families looking to unwind
Hours: Daily, 8am–sunset (campground and pool seasonal)
Admission: $7 vehicle fee; pool entry may have small fee
Parking: On-site lots near pool and campground
Accessibility: Limited; trails are natural and uneven, but some picnic areas are accessible
Amenities: Pool, playground, picnic tables, restrooms, boat launch, tent/RV sites
Tip: Bring your own food—no concessions available. Sunset over the river here is one of the most peaceful in the region

13. Explore Longue Vue Island

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

Fun Fact:

The original owner imported Italian stoneworkers and French artisans to complete the island’s construction—essentially building a European retreat in the heart of upstate New York.

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.

Important Information:

Best for: Sightseers, architecture fans, boat cruisers
Hours: Viewable year-round via boat tour; no public access
Admission: Included in most Thousand Islands tour packages ($25–$50)
Parking: Use public lots in Alexandria Bay for cruise departures
Accessibility: Boat tours typically wheelchair accessible
Amenities: No public facilities on the island; photography allowed from boats
Tip: Choose a cruise that includes Millionaire’s Row—Longue Vue is usually the highlight stop

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 racing 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.

Fun Fact:

In recent years, the event has raised over $500,000 for children’s hospitals and regional nonprofits, blending adrenaline with altruism.

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)

Fun Fact:

The center’s outdoor sculpture garden includes a replica of the iconic Thousand Islands Bridge and interpretive signs about the river’s role in North Country history.

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.

Important Information:

Best for: First-time visitors, road-trippers, families, planners
Hours: Daily, 8am–6pm (varies by season)
Admission: Free
Parking: Ample free parking for cars, RVs, and tour buses
Accessibility: Fully ADA accessible
Amenities: Restrooms, EV charging, vending machines, picnic area, pet relief area
Tip: This is a great place to pick up official tourism brochures, last-minute gifts, or just stretch your legs before diving into A-Bay adventures

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.

So if you're looking for things to do in Alexandria Bay, know this: you won’t just leave with photos. You’ll leave with a deeper breath, a slower heartbeat, and a story or two you didn’t see coming.

Enjoy amazing deals on Alexandria Bay vacation Rentals from Karta.

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.

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Emily Carter

With over 10 years of experience, Emily is a seasoned expert in planning bespoke tours across the United States and Canada, with a specialization in eco-tourism and adventure travel.