Top 5 Thousand Islands Car Tours: Explore Scenic Routes

Thinking of hitting the road and soaking in the sights around the beautiful Thousand Islands? Well, that area’s gorgeous scenery and unique charm makes it truly the kind of destination that’s perfect for a driving tour. That is, if you are looking for picturesque views and neat historic spots, this place has it all. So, too it’s almost why I put together what could be called your go-to guide. That gives you the lowdown on five driving routes around the Thousand Islands that just might make your next road trip totally unforgettable.

1. The Seaway International Bridge Route

Starting off is the Seaway International Bridge Route that gets you cruising across an engineering marvel. Basically, you are on this bridge that links the US and Canada, and believe me, the views? Stunning. Anyway, it’s almost perfect, like your kick-off point, that is, to checking out what the Thousand Islands region’s all about. As a matter of fact, you’ll want to make some stops. How about checking out the Eisenhower Lock? Watching giant ships glide is pretty cool, after all. Or, you know, just hanging out in the charming town of Clayton, where you can browse interesting shops and enjoy the local vibe, seemingly the route’s pretty good.

But hold on, and as a matter of fact there’s more. And so you’ll also get a peek into some really cool history. That could be by popping over to the Antique Boat Museum or wandering around the historic downtown area of Prescott. This trip offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural experiences. By the way, if you need to grab some chow, Clayton has your back with all sorts of restaurants.

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2. The Thousand Islands Parkway

So, the Thousand Islands Parkway’s pretty legendary, too. That winds right alongside the St. Lawrence River, almost. Like your picture-perfect postcard? I guess that’s kinda what it is. Anyway, if you’re into stopping and gawking at views, you’re in luck because there’s lookouts aplenty here. More or less, this route is all about soaking up the charm of the islands.

As I was saying, if you have the chance, pull over at one of the many scenic spots, like the Landon Bay Centre, as a matter of fact where you can get a really terrific view of the water. A little stop in Gananoque is just possibly something you’ll also appreciate. By the way, you are able to stretch those legs with a riverside walk or maybe go ahead and grab a bite to eat, obviously that’s what many do.

But now picture this. And stuff like you cruising down the parkway, getting the full experience of the Thousand Islands’ amazing beauty. Too, if that’s not an awesome experience, I’m just not quite sure what is. Very, very simply said.

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3. The Great Lakes Seaway Trail

And as for a scenic drive that shows off both history and what one might consider remarkable lake views? Oh boy, so too it’s almost what makes the Great Lakes Seaway Trail perfect. Frankly, you’ll cruise by places filled with maritime lore, not to mention see all kinds of ships cruising by, I am only thinking, anyway, this spot offers loads to explore and experience, right.

But, you know, if you want something chill, think about stopping in Oswego, so you could, possibly even check out Fort Ontario State Historic Site there. It’s a historic site with a crazy history dating way back to the 1700s, you know. Too it’s almost so interesting.

Too, if that isn’t your thing? And so I’ll propose that Sackets Harbor Battlefield is just right up your alley. A little history buff paradise with roots running deep into the War of 1812. Still, whether you want historic sites, old towns, or great chow spots? That said, if it sounds kinda good to you, well it should because this trip brings it all, basically. Almost literally.

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4. Route 12: Alexandria Bay to Cape Vincent

But I will now suggest something for those with, too, almost, you know, something of a shorter trip in mind. Anyway, there’s always New York’s Route 12 that goes all the way between Alexandria Bay and Cape Vincent, and wow, does it bring some amazing vistas! As a matter of fact, you are driving right by the water most of the time, that’s the St. Lawrence. Anyway, as you make way from town to town, you’ll soak up the charm and be treated with scenic views all the way.

For instance, you should certainly go and check out Boldt Castle over on Alexandria Bay if you have the chance, seeing as it’s a real piece of history and you will capture fantastic pictures. So I think it is all about that if that is even possible.

And of course there is the Tibbetts Point Lighthouse found in Cape Vincent; as a matter of fact you could capture gorgeous views with an historic backdrop for added flavor. And there are spots to see wildlife as well; anyway, I mean the area teems with photo ops just for the asking!

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5. The Lake Ontario Wine Trail

Looking to throw in a twist of flavor to your Thousand Islands driving tour? Like one to explore the local wineries and breweries? Just a little? Basically, you may enjoy the Lake Ontario Wine Trail, so very different from the traditional road trip but with, more or less, no compromise in regard to stunning natural setting. But this journey, it really does give the visitor something additional by way of sampling fantastic local wines coupled to delicious brews.

In the meantime you might think of calling into one of these attractions that dot the path, such as the Casa del Autore Winery and Vineyard. They’re known in those parts for being warm and personable places serving great vino. Well and while out enjoying your sampling opportunities, the vineyards provide some stupendous scenery to kick back alongside. More or less a bit of touring perfection if that really exists, more or less.

Still? That way the scenery combines so very effortlessly in these parts, right there alongside the samples, is very noteworthy; that in mind you’re very certain in some ways to find each taste almost an explosion of local color. Just about!

Read our full review: Lake Ontario Wine Trail Full Review and Details See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Lake Ontario Wine Trail Tour)