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Family-Friendly activities in the 1000 Islands

Family-Friendly

Because hearing the words “I’m bored” gets old quickly.

50,000

the average number of visitors to the 1000 Islands each year

37 km

the total kilometres of the 1000 Islands’ Waterfront Trail

26

the number of islands to explore at the Thousand Islands National Park

Overview

Give your kids memories that will last a lifetime. The 1000 Islands is a child-friendly destination that has lots of ways to keep every member of the family entertained. Just want to tire them out so you can enjoy some peace and quiet? We’ve got you.

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Cruise the islands

Point out the natural landmarks for a geography lesson they’ll never forget and spot real-life castles that look like they’re straight out of a children’s fairy tale.

We assure you: there are plenty of ways to go all in on adventure. And fill your Instagram feed with amazing pics.

The clear waters of the St. Lawrence River make for some of the best freshwater swimming in the world. With plenty of shady, sandy beaches, you can dive in and enjoy the clear waters that make swimming here a must. 

Here, you can spot landmarks with wee ones from a tower that stretches into the clouds, trek through treetops for a sky-high adventure, or take a first-class tour aboard a helicopter. Whatever you choose, we assure you it’ll be the height of your vacation.

Check out exhibits, activities and more that are geared towards providing immersive experiences that showcase local art, history and more in fun and memorable ways. Just want to sit back and take in a movie on the big screen? Grab your popcorn.

Kids will be fascinated by the tragic story of Boldt Castle, which features six stories and 120 rooms. For extra-adventurous fun, be sure to check out the tunnels, drawbridge and children’s playhouse.

Get back to basics with authentic, farm-fresh experiences that give kids the chance to taste locally-grown produce, pet farm animals, or pick their own veggies and fruit.

This is one of the best ways to explore the St. Lawrence River, even if you have wee ones in tow. Explore the area on your own or take advantage of guided tours. If you’re feeling adventurous, check out overnight camping adventures.

Want to make the most of your time in the 1000 Islands?

Check out these other great ideas and get your adventure on.

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“This area is one of the signature tourism spots in Eastern Ontario and in Canada. The natural beauty is astounding with rock outcrops and the beauty of the thousands of islands.”

“This is the most beautiful place on earth. This is where heaven meets earth. You can visit is a hundred different ways and enjoy it just the same. Come by water, air or land. Enjoy a day paddling, swimming or fishing.”

Anonymous

“We didn’t really know what to expect, but our family was enchanted by the town, the scenery, and the region. We had planned a quick overnight stay, but ended up staying two nights and could have stayed longer.”

James

“What a beautiful part of Ontario. We drove along the Ivy Lea Parkway, stopped and had a picnic lunch, took a boat cruise out of Gananoque, and strolled along the waterfront in Gananoque.”

Andrew

« Cette région a quelque chose pour tout le monde. Il y a d’excellentes possibilités de baignade et de navigation de plaisance, de bonnes randonnées pédestres et des pistes cyclables, des routes panoramiques à proximité et des tonnes de beaux endroits où passer du temps sur l’eau. »

“This area has something for everyone. Excellent swimming and boating, good hiking and cycling trails, scenic drives are nearby and tons of beautiful places to spend time on the water.”

Michael A.

“I could go back over and over again and still be amazed by this beautiful scenery. Not only can you go there to relax but there is so much to do such as kayaking, biking, walking, discovering, etc. It is a must!”

Catherine

“There is no place like the 1000 Islands.We travel a lot and we are always trying to find a better place for the view but we have never been able to find it.”

Julie

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