The Best Hotels in Thousand Islands, New York

Sitting adjacent to the main shipping channel of the Saint Lawrence Seaway, a stay here provides a perfect opportunity to see a variety of “lakers,” “salties” and tour boats pass close by from your nautical themed room – what else could a lake-lover need? From its location in downtown Alexandria Bay, directly across from Boldt Castle on Heart Island, you can sign up to one of five package choices to hop onto your very own cruise experience and be taken on a journey through the islands.

As one of the most recognised names in hotel history, you know what you’re getting at a Hilton – great service and great comfort. Just a short drive from Lake Ontario, look back on your snaps in the outdoor garden, laze and reflect under the gazebo, or toast your toes by the fire pit. An onsite Great American Grill will continue to show what this all-American area has to offer with a list of well-executed dishes by Chef Hudson. Pick the blueberry pancakes for a side of Instagram likes and a few seconds of foodie-fame.

You won’t be bored at this conveniently-placed hotel. Within just 10mi (16km) of your hotel room, you’ll find jet-skiing, hiking trails, miniature golf and river rafting. A welcoming lobby with exposed-brick and a built-in fireplace will ease you back into the evening – just try not to get frustrated when hunger strikes and you have to narrow down the large restaurant choice sitting on your doorstep. A short walk and you can find yourself choosing between Texas Roadhouse where you pick out your own steak on your way to your table to almost as-good-as-mom’s homestyle meals prepared from scratch at Cracker Barrel. Good luck!

There are four seasons of fun when you stay at this Holiday Inn with nearby downhill and cross-country skiing, white water rafting, museums, maple sugaring tours, lighthouses and more. Take a self-guided tour of an 1812 historic battlefield and visit a restored 1850s Navy Yard. Don’t leave before trying at least one of the 15 delicious wing sauces at Buffalo Wild Wings restaurant – how spicy can you go? Once back to the room expect polished interior: think refreshingly-white linen and mahogany brown furnishings lit by lamps for a peaceful and restful end to your retreat.

With reinstated wide plank pine floors, gracious antiques and original doors, you’ll be stepping back in time to 1856 when Captain Elisha W. Visger, creator of the first island tours, lived here with his family when the house was first built. The Italianate Victorian house sits a few steps from the US banks of the Saint Lawrence River, which connects the Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean and forms part of the boundary with Canada. It’s easy to explore both sides of the river – just don’t forget your passport!