The town of Gananoque Ontario, (pronounced GAN-AN-OCK-WEE / GANANOCKWEE) is conveniently located adjacent to Hwy 401, and on the north shore of the St Lawrence River. The town serves as an entry point to the picturesque 1000 Islands. Gananoque & the 1000 Islands is an internationally renowned destination for tourists. The appeals of the region include its scenic beauty, recreational diversity and cultural activities. Visitors can fish, sail, golf, scuba-dive, cycle, hike, canoe, or just take in the beauty of the St. Lawrence River.
Things to do in Gananoque
Arthur Child Heritage Centre
Presenting Natural and Social Historical exhibits on the1000 Islands Region and its communities. The Gallery VAGA features original works of art by local artists and the art on display is based on a 1000 Islands and area theme and allows for considerable latitude for artistic interpretation. The works range from realistic paintings of wildlife, local heritage and landscapes to abstract and representational portrayals of the theme. Most media includes watercolour, oil, acrylic, ink, charcoal, sculpture are represented. There is something to suit every taste and every budget. Temporary exhibits are on display from local Museums. Come and enjoy our Canadiana Shop brimmed with distinctive gifts, clothing and souvenirs. Open May 1 - October 31 daily. Call 877-217-7391 for more information.
Boldt Castle
Boldt Castle is situated in the 1000 Islands Region of the St. Lawrence River. Today it stands as a remembrance of the magnificence of a bygone era and is a monument of love on Heart Island of George C. Boldt for his wife Louise. If you have not seen Boldt Castle then you really do need to visit this Castle! Visit Heart Island and just imagine the magnificence that might have been. Wander through Boldt Castle and let your thoughts take you into another world. This romantic Island provides the setting for the saddest true love story ever told- boat tours to Boldt Castle are available from both Canada and the U.S. Boldt Castle is located in the United States and passengers arriving from Canada must provide proper identification. Open early May – mid October daily 10am – 6pm; July & August 10am – 7:30pm. Call 315-482-9724 for more information.
Gananoque Boat Line 1000 Islands Tours
The 1000 Island Tour is offered by the largest tour company in the area. We feature 1 & 3 hour tours. All or our five vessels are triple-deck cruise ships. We have two full-service departure locations – one in Gananoque and the other in Ivy Lea. These tours are comprehensive tours of the 1000 Islands. Call 613-482-2144 for more information.
6 Water Street, Gananoque, ON
Gananoque Murals
In August of 2001, downtown Gananoque saw the unveiling of its first historical mural letting the visitors and residents relive Gananoque in 1920. October, 2001 saw a second historical mural unveiled that depicts an actual fall church service at famous Half Moon Bay. Eight faces have been purchased by local residents of Gananoque. We invite you to come and enjoy the heart of downtown Gananoque. Many more murals are being developed by the Gananoque Business Improvement Area and they are all created to tell a story of Gananoque’s History and will be displayed throughout the downtown core. Call 800-932-2131 for more information.
Hiking & Walking Trails
Experience the tranquility and sense of spiritual presence that can be found as you wander the gardens, fern glen, meadows and trails. Landon Bay offers visitors a selection of trails with interesting environmental features. The Landon Bay Centre is dedicated to protecting our natural environment with low impact facilities and activities. Facing the St Lawrence River, in the heart of the historic Thousand Islands region, the Barbara Heck Foundation promotes and maintains a 220 acre Ecological Reserve in the Canadian Thousand Islands-Frontenac Arch Biosphere Reserve.
Historic Half Moon Bay
For over 125 years, Half Moon Bay has welcomed visitors to worship services on Sundays afternoons at 4pm during summer months. Arrive early and listen to 15 minutes of music. You will find mostly small boats or dinghies anchor in the beautiful natural rock bay to sing hymns and listen to guest speakers in the non-denominational services. Half Moon Bay is on the south-east end of Bostwick Island in the Admiralty Island group about 2.5 km (1.5 miles) southwest from Gananoque. Call 613-382-4015 for more information.
Jorstadt Castle
Located on what the nautical charts refer to as Dark Island in the Thousand Islands region of the St. Lawrence Seaway. The Island was so named by early navigators to whom the Castle and areas appeared dark due to its high granite peak covered with giant pine trees. The Castle was built in 1896 for Commodore Frederick G. Bourne, fourth President of the Singer Sewing Manufacturing Company. Bourne, an avid hunter and fisherman, had purchased the island with the intent of having a hunting lodge built there. Today it is a private home and island and can no longer be accessed. For information on the history of this unique Castle visit the listed website.
Parkway Boatlines
The Island Cruise is a double decker with an enclosed main deck and open top deck that holds 48 passengers. Departing from the Ivy Lea Resort and Marina front dock. Located just 3 miles (4 km.) west of the 1000 Island Bridge and 6 miles (10 km) east of Gananoque Call 613 659 4622 for more information.
1000 Island Parkway, Gananoque, ON