Close to Home Far from Ordinary: Gananoque & the 1000 Islands

Gananoque is the gateway to the 1000 Islands, located only 3 hours from Toronto and approximately 2 hours from Ottawa.  With a small population of just over 5,000 people, Gananoque is the ideal summer destination for those seeking an authentic outdoor experience.

Gananoque Inn & Spa

Nestled on the bank of the St.Lawrence River, The Gananoque Inn provides guests with superior accommodation, warm hospitality and peaceful waterfront views. Their Watermark Restaurant specializes in regionally-inspired seasonal menus and relies on quality ingredients some of which are harvested from their on-site garden. This quaint Inn has a long history that dates back to the late 1800’s when it was converted from a carriage factory to a hotel. For the last 7 years, The Gananoque Inn has received Trip Advisor’s Certificate of Excellence.

Thousand Island Boat Museum

Take a journey back in boat history at the Thousand Islands Boat Museum. Here you will find an iconic collection of boats that tell the stories of local boat builders including Charlie Cliffe, Boby Gerard and many more! Explore the interior of a cottage preserved from the 1800’s or visit the Boatbuilding Shop for some woodworking lessons.

With the help of the community the Thousand Islands Boat Museum has recently invested in a dock project that will make possible an expanded outdoor boat show featuring in-water floating exhibits. The Thousand Islands Boat Museum is truly a hands-on experience that connects you to the roots of the river.

Riva Restaurant

Located in a restored century-old building, Riva serves contemporary Italian cuisine paired with a nautical twist! Try their tasty antipasto platter, wood fire pizza or seafood pasta on their spacious patio or inside their cozy coastal-themed dining room.

Thousand Islands Playhouse

Commonly referred to as Canada’s dockside theatre, the Thousand Islands Playhouse is Canada’s most scenic theatre offering six months of engaging entertainment. This 2018 season’s remaining lineup of exceptional live theatre includes Harvest, The Canadian, Midsummer, Prairie Nurse and Shirley Valentine. The Playhouse has two theatres – the Springer Theatre and the Firehall Theatre – which continue to showcase a handful of productions that are uniquely Canadian.  If you arrive early enough you can even participate in their doc talks – a pre-show opportunity to chat with the cast.

1000 Islands Boat Cruise

A family run business since 1951, the Gananoque Boat Line provides passengers with a rich history of the St.Lawrence River. Their crew is highly trained and each vessel is certified through Transport Canada to the highest standards. There is no better way to explore the more than 1800 islands than on one of the boat line’s triple decker vessels.  Navigate the Island channels and cruise by Island cottages on the 1 hr cruise, or stopover at Boldt Castle to explore its romantic legend on the 5hr cruise. The boat line caters to the interests and schedules of voyagers by offering four cruises that vary in length. From the colourful and confusing names of each island to castles and shipwrecks, the Gananoque Boat Line offers a comprehensive narrative of the 1000 islands and breathtaking views for all those onboard.

Bike Tour of the Town

If you would prefer to experience the 1000 Islands by bike instead of boat, their newly paved bike path is just what you’re looking for! The Thousand Islands Bike Co. believes the best way to discover the Gananoque region is by bicycle. With over 15 years of experience, the 1000 Island Bicycle Co. offers a personalized tour of the picturesque region from its backstreets to its waterfront.

Conveniently located and complete with things to do, there is a little piece of history everywhere you go in the town of Ganaoque.