Day Trips from Swan Bay Resort & Marina: Exploring the Thousand Islands
Swan Bay Resort in Alexandria Bay, NY, is the perfect home base for exploring the beauty and charm of the Thousand Islands region. Whether looking for history, adventure, or serene natural landscapes, you’ll find plenty of options for memorable day trips within a 75-mile radius. Here are some fantastic day trip itineraries to make the most of your stay:
Sackets Harbor Battlefield State Historic Site
Distance: 37 miles
Travel Time: 45 minutes by car
If you’re a history buff, spend the day exploring Sackets Harbor, a village steeped in military history. Visit the Sackets Harbor Battlefield State Historic Site, which was critical during the War of 1812. Guided tours and exhibits will immerse you in the region’s past, including its naval legacy.
After your historical tour, stroll through the village, which features charming boutiques, local eateries, and scenic views of Lake Ontario. The area’s peaceful ambiance and small-town charm make it a perfect day-trip destination.
Cape Vincent & Tibbetts Point Lighthouse
Distance: 30 miles
Travel Time: 40 minutes by car
Drive along the scenic Lake Ontario shoreline to the village of Cape Vincent, where the St. Lawrence River meets Lake Ontario. Start with a visit to the Tibbetts Point Lighthouse, which offers breathtaking views of the lake and river and a small museum. This is an excellent spot for photography or simply soaking in the serene coastal atmosphere.
Cape Vincent also offers great local dining options, including fresh seafood, which is perfect for a relaxed lunch before returning to Swan Bay Resort.
Kingston, Ontario
Distance: 45 miles (passport required)
Travel Time: 1 hour by car and ferry
If you’re looking for an international day trip, take the scenic route to Kingston, Ontario, across the U.S.-Canada border. Start by taking the ferry from Cape Vincent, NY, to Wolfe Island, and then drive or take another ferry to Kingston. Known for its rich history and stunning waterfront, Kingston offers a mix of museums, historic sites like Fort Henry, and lively downtown shops and restaurants.
Enjoy lunch at one of Kingston’s many waterfront cafés, and if you’re a history fan, visit the Kingston Penitentiary Museum for an inside look at Canada’s oldest maximum-security prison.
The Frederic Remington Art Museum
Distance: 45 miles
Travel Time: 50 minutes by car
Art enthusiasts will love the Frederic Remington Art Museum in Ogdensburg, NY, which celebrates the work of Frederic Remington, one of America’s most famous artists of the Old West. The museum showcases Remington’s iconic paintings, sculptures, and personal artifacts. It’s a perfect stop for those looking to appreciate a blend of art and history while learning more about this legendary artist’s life and work.
Wolfe Island (Canada)
Distance: 30 miles (including ferry, passport required)
Travel Time: 45 minutes by car and ferry
Take the scenic ferry ride from Cape Vincent to Wolfe Island, the largest island in the Thousand Islands chain. This Canadian island offers beautiful rolling farmlands, quiet beaches, and charming small-town vibes. Rent a bike to tour the island, visit one of its lighthouses, or simply relax along the shores of Lake Ontario. It’s a peaceful escape that makes for a great day of exploration.
Whitewater Rafting on the Black River
Distance: 27 miles
Travel Time: 35 minutes by car
For thrill-seekers, the Black River offers some of the best whitewater rafting in the region. Professional guides will take you through exciting rapids, providing a day of adventure and stunning views of the gorge and surrounding forests. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rafter, the Black River is known for its exhilarating rapids, especially in the spring and summer.
The Natural Bridge Caverns
Distance: 65 miles
Travel Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes by car
If you’re willing to venture a bit further, the Natural Bridge Caverns near Watertown offer a fascinating underground experience. The cavern system is filled with stunning rock formations, including stalactites, stalagmites, and large underground chambers. Guided tours provide insight into the region's geological history, making it a perfect day trip for those interested in nature and geology.
Indian River Lakes Conservancy
Distance: 24 miles
Travel Time: 30 minutes by car
The Indian River Lakes Conservancy is a hidden gem for hikers and wildlife enthusiasts. With over 1,000 acres of conserved land and numerous lakes, the area offers peaceful trails perfect for spotting birds, wildlife, and diverse plant life. Explore the trails, kayak on the lakes, or pack a picnic for a day immersed in nature’s tranquility.
Tug Hill Vineyards
Distance: 44 miles
Travel Time: 50 minutes by car
Venture south to Tug Hill Vineyards, an estate winery offering locally produced wines, cider, and spirits tastings. Nestled in the foothills of the Tug Hill Plateau, the vineyard boasts beautiful vistas and a charming rustic atmosphere. Enjoy a guided tour, sample their award-winning wines, and pick up a bottle or two to return to the resort.
Southwick Beach State Park
Distance: 32 miles
Travel Time: 45 minutes by car
Located on the shores of Lake Ontario, Southwick Beach State Park is known for its expansive sandy beach and calm waters, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or simply relaxing. This park also has hiking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and picnic areas. It’s a perfect destination for a relaxing beach day in a scenic, peaceful environment.
Eisenhower Lock & Visitor Center
Distance: 66 miles
Travel Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes by car
A trip to the Eisenhower Lock offers a fascinating glimpse into large-scale shipping on the St. Lawrence Seaway. At the visitor center, you can watch massive ships as they pass through the lock, lowering or raising them by as much as 40 feet to navigate between Lake Ontario and the Atlantic Ocean. The lock is a marvel of engineering, and the viewing platforms provide an up-close look at the action.
Otter Creek Horse Trails
Distance: 65 miles
Travel Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes by car
If you’re an equestrian enthusiast looking for a unique outdoor adventure, head to the Otter Creek Horse Trails in the western Adirondacks. This extensive network of trails is perfect for horseback riding, and many local stables offer rentals and guided trail rides. The trails wind through beautiful forests, streams, and open meadows, making for a peaceful and scenic day out.
Thousand Islands Arts Center
Distance: 8 miles
Travel Time: 10 minutes by car
For a cultural experience, visit the Thousand Islands Arts Center in Clayton, NY. The center features a fascinating collection of regional art and textiles and often hosts rotating exhibitions, workshops, and classes in traditional arts and crafts. It’s a great spot to connect with the local art scene and maybe even pick up a unique souvenir.
Endless Adventure Awaits Near Swan Bay Resort
With so many diverse attractions within a short drive from Swan Bay Resort, the Thousand Islands region is an adventurer’s playground. Whether you’re into history, nature, art, or simply relaxing, these day trips will make your stay even more memorable. Plan your itineraries and explore all the beauty and wonder Northern New York offers!