Family-Friendly Adventures in Alexandria Bay, New York!

Boldt Castle

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to Boldt Castle

Embark on an enchanting family adventure to Boldt Castle, located on Heart Island in the Thousand Islands of the Saint Lawrence River. Here’s a perfect plan to make your visit memorable:

Morning Departure

Start your day early by driving to Alexandria Bay, New York, which is the primary access point to Heart Island. Secure a spot on one of the several boat tours available; Uncle Sam Boat Tours and Clayton Island Tours offer engaging trips to the island, complete with captivating stories of the area’s history.

Arriving at Heart Island

Upon docking, you"ll be greeted by the stunning view of Boldt Castle’s grand architecture. George C. Boldt originally built this castle at the turn of the 20th century as a testament of love for his wife, Louise. Tragically, she passed away suddenly, and the castle was left unfinished for over 70 years before being restored by the Thousand Islands Bridge Authority.

Explore the Castle

Tour the castle at your own pace with a self-guided tour, ideal for families. Discover the rich history as you wander through the restored rooms. Don’t miss the beautiful stained glass dome in the grand entry hall, and the heart motifs throughout the castle that symbolize George Boldt"s love for his wife.

Picnic and Activities

Enjoy a family picnic on the castle grounds with a view of the river. Bring your own food or grab some snacks at the castle"s snack bar. Children will love exploring the lush gardens and spotting the whimsical gazebos around the island.

Return Journey

Conclude your visit by taking a late afternoon boat ride back to Alexandria Bay. The relaxing journey back is the perfect end to an exciting day of exploration and learning.

By visiting Boldt Castle, you not only witness a monument of timeless love but also create lasting memories with your family in this unique historical setting.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Thousand Islands

Why Visit?

Embark on a captivating family adventure in the enchanting Thousand Islands, a picturesque archipelago straddling the U.S.-Canada border in the Saint Lawrence River. Begin your journey in Alexandria Bay, New York, easily accessible by car or a short ferry ride, serving as a perfect base for exploration.

Day 1: Castle Exploration

Start with a visit to the iconic Boldt Castle on Heart Island — reachable by a short boat tour from Alexandria Bay. The castle is a testament to a love story from the Gilded Age and offers a fascinating glimpse into early 20th-century opulence. Children will be thrilled by the grandeur and the tales of the castle"s history, making it a perfect blend of education and entertainment.

Day 2: Outdoor Fun and Learning

On your second day, take a guided boat tour from Alexandria Bay to explore more islands and the famous Rock Island Lighthouse. Kids can participate in a Junior Lighthouse Keeper program, making the experience both interactive and memorable. Enjoy a picnic on one of the serene beaches or designated picnic areas along the river.

Day 3: Nature and Wildlife

Dedicate your last day to reconnecting with nature. Visit Wellesley Island State Park, accessible by car via the Thousand Islands Bridge. The park offers easy hiking trails, a nature center, and abundant wildlife, providing plenty of opportunities for bird watching and spotting local fauna. It"s an ideal setting for children to learn about ecology and conservation in an engaging way.

Throughout your tour, indulge in local cuisine at family-friendly restaurants, many of which offer fresh seafood and views of the river. Each stop on the itinerary is facilitated by short, scenic boat rides or drives, making transport part of the adventure. This trip not only promises a breathtaking natural backdrop but also educational encounters with history and wildlife, ensuring that every family member returns home enriched and inspired.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Frederic Remington Art Museum

Why Visit?

Embark on a captivating journey through the Frederic Remington Art Museum located in the picturesque town of Ogdensburg, New York. Ideal for a family trip, this museum is dedicated to preserving the life and works of Frederic Remington, an artist renowned for his depictions of the Old American West.

Start Your Day: Arrival and Orientation

Begin your adventure by arriving at the museum, which is housed in the historic Parish Mansion at 303 Washington Street. There’s ample parking available, and the museum is easily accessible by car via State Route 37. Upon entry, grab a museum map and check out the upcoming guided tours and events.

Morning Exploration: The Art Galleries

Dive into the museum"s extensive collection of Remington’s art in the Newell Galleries. You"ll see iconic bronze sculptures like "The Broncho Buster" and lush oil paintings depicting dramatic scenes of cowboys and Native Americans. These vivid portrayals are not only artistically significant but also provide a glimpse into the historical narratives of the American West.

Interactive Fun: The Education Room

After immersing yourselves in art, head to the Education Room specially designed for families. Engage in hands-on activities such as sketching and sculpting, which are great for kids and help deepen their appreciation of Remington"s techniques.

A Scenic Break: Lunch and the Grounds

Pack a picnic to enjoy in the museum"s serene garden, or dine at one of the nearby local eateries in Ogdensburg. Post-lunch, stroll around the museum grounds to see the beautifully preserved architecture of the Parish Mansion.

End the Day: The Museum Gift Shop

Conclude your visit by stopping by the gift shop. It"s a perfect place to pick souvenirs like postcards, books, and replicas of Remington’s works, ensuring your family takes a piece of the Old West back home.

This one-day itinerary at the Frederic Remington Art Museum offers a mix of educational and engaging activities suitable for all ages, making it a memorable family outing.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.