1000 Islands, Gananoque: Your Ultimate What to Do, Eat, and Stay guide.Gananoque, Ontario.
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I recently experienced 1000 Islands, Gananoque: your ultimate guide for what to do, eat, and stay. It is located in one of Ontario’s hidden gems. Gananoque, Ontario, is nestled in this beautiful region. It offers breathtaking landscapes and charming gardens. The welcoming locals made me feel right at home. One even invited me to help with their garden, wine in hand!
1. Soar Above the Islands with a Helicopter Tour
Start your adventure with a thrilling helicopter tour of the 1000 Islands and Boldt Castle, my favourite Gananoque, Ontario activity. With Kouri’s Fly 1000 Island Helicopter Tours, a $99 investment offers an unforgettable experience.
The next day, we took a double ride over the Black Creek Rodeo at Lansdowne Fairgrounds. It offers spectacular views you won’t find anywhere else. Fly 1000 Islands Instagram
2. Savour Dinner at The Purple House Cafe (Pizzeria), Gananoque, Ontario
For dinner, head to the Purple House Cafe (Pizzeria), where you’ll enjoy a delightful meal in a cozy, vibrant setting. Their wood oven pizza is the show’s star, complemented perfectly by a fresh side salad. The outdoor pizza oven adds a unique touch to this charming eatery. It makes the delicious aroma and taste worth every visit.
3. Stroll Through Gananoque’s Charming Streets
Take a leisurely walk around the city to explore local shops, galleries, and ice cream parlours. The locals are friendly and often out-tending to their beautiful gardens, making great conversations. I always appreciate a good chat and the chance to admire a well-curated garden in full bloom.
4. Experience the Rodeo at Lansdowne Fairgrounds
New this year: The highlight of my stay was the Black Creek Rodeo. It was a two-day event. The event brought together rodeo athletes, a funny rodeo clown, and some of the best riders in the area. The energy was electric, and the kids on the rodeo grounds were the best part! The rodeo was first held in the Thousand Islands area in 2024, and it was a fantastic experience. Stay tuned for the 2025 edition!
5. Explore the Islands with a Rockport Boat Tour
A boat tour with Rockport Cruises offers stunning views of Boldt Castle and the surrounding islands. I opted for a shorter tour, having explored the islands before, but it’s a must for first-time visitors. If you’re up for more, visit Boldt Castle itself—remember, it’s on American soil, so a valid passport is required. The history within its walls is fascinating and located right here in 1000 Islands, Gananoque!
6. Experience Vintage Charm: Ride the Skiffy at 1000 Islands, Gananoque’s Waterfront Boat Museum
If you’re a fan of vintage boats, take advantage of the Boat Museum, located right on the water. Weather permitting, you can even book a ride on the Skiffy boat, a student-built masterpiece. It’s one of those unique experiences you can only find in Gananoque, Ontario.
7. Where to Stay: Comfort Inn, Gananoque
For accommodations, I stayed at the Comfort Inn, one of Gananoque Hotels. The hotel offers spacious rooms and free breakfast. It also features a refreshing pool. It has a central location within walking distance of all the town’s attractions. It’s the perfect base for exploring everything Gananoque has to offer.
1000 Islands, Gananoque deserves more attention with its blend of natural beauty, rich history, and warm hospitality. You might soar above the islands by helicotper. A stop to savour delicious pizza. Or you can even enjoy a day at the rodeo. There’s something here for everyone. Check out more ideas for Gananoque from my 2023 blog!
Until our next visit!
Roland
