Enjoying a Weekend Visit to Gananoque, Ontario

Visiting the 1000 Islands Region and St Lawrence River

Jan 16, 2009 Allison Anthony

Gananoque and the 1000 Islands Region can be an ideal weekend getaway for visitors and residents of southern Ontario any time of the year.

Known as the Canadian gateway to the 1000 Islands and Canada’s vacation destination, Gananoque is a three hour drive from the Greater Toronto Area.

Its location along the St. Lawrence River makes this town a popular destination during the summer boating season, but a visit during the winter also has its advantages.

Residents admit that Gananoque is a “quiet, sleepy little town in the winter" but they are quick to point out that most of the restaurants and shops are open all year round as well as the Thousand Islands Charity Casino. It’s helpful to have a car as the surrounding area is filled with hiking trails, conservation areas and cross country skiing.

Winter Activities

Book a tour with Vanridge ATV Tours & Trails- 1-866-269-2554- Open seven days a week, priced at $50.00 per hour including All Terrain Vehicle use and there six ATVs available.
Skate at the Gananoque Recreation Center- 613-382-2248- It’s $2.00 or less with special hours for seniors and young children. **Please note: Skate rentals are NOT available. **
Visit the spa at the Gananoque Inn- 1-800-465-3101- Try the ultimate indulgence and book the Aroma Mineral Body Treatment ($125.00 for an hour) that finishes with a “light sprinkling of gold dust” for a whole body glow.

Summer Activities

Take a boat cruise with Gananoque Boat Line- 1-888-717-4837- They offer three different lengths of cruises around the 1000 Islands and the dock is centrally located at the town’s waterfront.
See a theatrical production at Thousand Islands Playhouse- 1-866-382-7020- Enjoy a play in the Firehall Theatre or a Broadway style musical at the Springer Theatre. Both venues have incredible views of the St. Lawrence River and are on the waterfront. Season runs May to October.
Visit Bolt Castle on Heart Island, U.S.A. - 1-800-847-5263- George C. Bolt of the famed Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City built this castle for his wife in 1899. The ongoing restorations to the house make it a worthy day trip when visiting the area. **Please Note: Bolt Castle is only accessible by water and a valid passport is required to visit. **

Restaurants & Pubs

Have fish and chips at Paddy’s Pub- 613-382-1760- Converted from a two car garage in 2002, the Irish Style pub is a lively place for a pint. Every Thursday is Open Mic Night and bands play live most weekends. Paddy’s is closed Sunday to Wednesday during the winter.
Try the Tummy Buster burger at Anthony’s Family Restaurant- 613-382-3575- Open seven days a week from 8 am until 8 pm but may close early on quiet winter nights. This small restaurant has a family style atmosphere and very generous portions on the plate. **No relation to author**
Enjoy the Fisherman’s Favourite, of Ontario pickerel, served atMuskie Jake’s Tap and Grill- 1-800-465-3101- The restaurant is attached to The Gananoque Inn & Spa and Muskie Jake’s even sell their own fishing lure that is guaranteed to catch a fish. Locals warn that during the summer it’s best to wait to be seated and avoid being scolded for choosing a table personally.

Regardless of the season, a visit to Gananoque, Ontario, and the 1000 Islands Region is an enjoyable and relaxing destination for a weekend getaway.

Sources

1000 Islands Gananoque Chamber of Commerce- 1-800-561-1595
Town of Gananoque Official Website
Tourism Information, Town of Gananoque, Town Hall- 1-613-382-2149

The copyright of the article Enjoying a Weekend Visit to Gananoque, Ontario in E Canada Travel is owned by Allison Anthony. Permission to republish Enjoying a Weekend Visit to Gananoque, Ontario in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.