
Shorelines Casino Thousand Islands
A lively entertainment hub in Gananoque, offering gaming, dining at the Windward Restaurant, and a secure environment.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed

Shorelines Casino Thousand Islands
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A lively entertainment hub in Gananoque, offering gaming, dining at the Windward Restaurant, and a secure environment.
"Windward Restaurant is a hidden gem with fair prices and great food, a must-try in Gananoque."

🍽️ Dine at Windward Restaurant
Enjoy comfort food and cocktails; praised for fair prices and good portions. :forkandknife:
⏳ Be Patient at Cashier
Wait times can be long; plan accordingly. :hourglassflowingsand:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Windward Restaurant Dining
Attached to the casino
Enjoy comfort food and cocktails in a relaxed atmosphere with fair prices and generous portions.

Slot Machine Wins
Casino floor
Experience the thrill of hitting a jackpot, with friendly cashiers ready to celebrate your winnings.

Friendly Security Presence
Casino exterior and interior
Feel secure with courteous security guards who ensure a safe and orderly environment for all guests.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Casino Etiquette & Expectations
Beyond the Gaming Floor
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Things to do in Gananoque/Thousand Islands/Kingston
🍽️ Dine at Windward Restaurant
Enjoy comfort food and cocktails; praised for fair prices and good portions. :forkandknife:
⏳ Be Patient at Cashier
Wait times can be long; plan accordingly. :hourglassflowingsand:
anyone familiar with Gananoque/Thousand Islands?
Thousand Islands
🐶 Pet-Friendly Vibes
Emotional support dogs are respected if quiet and well-behaved. :dog:
🛡️ Feel Secure
Courteous security guards ensure a safe environment. :shield:
Poker at the Rideau-Carleton Raceway?
Tips
from all over the internet
🍽️ Dine at Windward Restaurant
Enjoy comfort food and cocktails; praised for fair prices and good portions. :forkandknife:
⏳ Be Patient at Cashier
Wait times can be long; plan accordingly. :hourglassflowingsand:
🐶 Pet-Friendly Vibes
Emotional support dogs are respected if quiet and well-behaved. :dog:
🛡️ Feel Secure
Courteous security guards ensure a safe environment. :shield:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Shorelines Casino Thousand Islands offers a mixed bag of experiences. While the Windward Restaurant is frequently praised for its food, prices, and service, and security is noted as courteous, some guests have reported significant issues with cashier wait times and unprofessional conduct from management and certain security personnel. The casino provides a lively atmosphere for gaming and entertainment.
"Today my partner and I went on a double date with our mutual friends to the Windward Restaurant (the restaurant attached to the casino). I’m new to the area, so it’s only my second time dining at the Windward. The prices are super fair for the food quality and portion size. They have a moderate selection of food with lots of comfort food choices. Their selection includes pizza, pasta, sandwiches, burgers, salads, appies, and a few other items. They have a large selection of cocktails as well. Additionally, our server Mark W. was friendly, incredibly knowledgeable, efficient, and had great timing. He would check in with us at all the right moments without feeling overbearing. Overall, I would say this restaurant is a hidden gem and a must try if you’re visiting Gananoque, ON."
Christine Parsons
"To: Management, Shorelines Casino Thousand Islands
Subject: Formal Complaint – Unacceptable and Unprofessional Experience on July 20, 2025
Dear Shorelines Casino Management,
I’m writing to express my deep frustration and disappointment with the unacceptable level of service I received during my visit to your Gananoque location on the evening of July 20, 2025.
I have been a loyal patron of your casino since the day it opened. Over the years, I’ve witnessed a steady decline in both the professionalism of your staff and the overall customer experience — but what happened during my most recent visit crossed a line I never thought I’d see in an established gaming facility.
At around 7:30 p.m., I approached the cashier’s cage to cash out $125 in chips. I waited for over 12 minutes with absolutely no staff in sight. Eventually, I noticed a sign saying someone would return at 7:45 p.m. — meaning a single guest, at the end of their evening, is expected to wait 15 minutes (or longer) just to cash out. This is not a corner store — it’s a casino. And leaving a cashier’s cage unattended during operating hours is not only unprofessional, it’s absurd.
When I flagged down a manager — a woman with dark hair and heavily tattooed arms — her response was equally appalling. Rather than apologizing or making any effort to assist, she became defensive and dismissive, telling me the cashier was on her 15-minute break and that they “don’t have the staff.” I told her I had already been waiting nearly 20 minutes, and that this was simply unacceptable — to which she offered no solution, no accountability, and certainly no professionalism.
Let me be clear: it is not the customer’s responsibility to adjust to your staffing shortages. And it is not acceptable for a guest to wait half an hour to cash out, only to be met with attitude and excuses from a manager. If this is how your leadership handles a simple service breakdown, it’s no wonder the experience at this casino has deteriorated so badly.
The message this sends is loud and clear — your staff’s time matters, but your guests’ time does not. That is a fatal flaw in any service industry, let alone one that relies on customer loyalty.
After decades of visiting your casino, I will not be returning. I hope you take this feedback seriously, because what I experienced was not just poor service — it was a complete failure of basic operational and managerial competence.
0/10
D-"
Alex Kingston
"We went on Friday of the Easter weekend. We ate dinner in the restaurant there. I asked about gluten-free food, and the lovely waitress brought us a piece of notebook paper with handwritten food they serve. Mostly desserts. I ordered plain chicken wings. Very clean. I'd give our waitress a 5 star if I could. She has been working there for a year. Anyways, she was so lovely, personality wise.
We headed to the slots, and my guy won some. His winnings totaled $666, good laugh with the super friendly cashier about that total. When I went outside for a cig, the security guards were present and quite courteous. I felt safe going outside by myself.
Great place to be if you want to get out."
Heather Sauve
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Shorelines Casino Thousand Islands is located in Gananoque, Ontario. It's accessible by car, with ample parking available. For those exploring the Thousand Islands region, it's a convenient stop if you're traveling by road.
Information on direct public transportation routes to the casino is limited. It's best to check local Gananoque transit schedules or consider ride-sharing services if you are not driving.
If coming from Kingston or Brockville, driving is the most straightforward option via Highway 401. The casino is well-signposted from the highway exits.
While the Thousand Islands region is famous for boat tours, direct boat access to the casino is not a common mode of transport. It's primarily a land-based destination.
Yes, Gananoque offers several hotels and accommodations within close proximity to the casino, making it convenient for an overnight stay.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, there is no admission fee to enter the casino floor. You can walk in and explore the gaming areas.
Operating hours can vary, but casinos typically open in the morning and remain open late into the night. It's advisable to check their official website for the most current hours of operation.
Yes, you must be of legal gambling age, typically 19 years old in Ontario, to enter the casino and participate in gaming activities.
While walk-ins are common, especially during off-peak hours, it's a good idea to call ahead or check their reservation policy for the Windward Restaurant, particularly for weekend evenings.
Casinos often host various events and promotions. Keep an eye on their website or social media for announcements regarding live entertainment, tournaments, or special offers.
🎫 🎰 Onsite Experience
The casino offers a variety of slot machines and table games. Specific offerings can change, but typically include popular slot titles and classic table games.
There is generally a casual dress code. However, it's best to avoid overly revealing or offensive attire. Smart casual is usually a safe bet.
Information on public Wi-Fi availability is not widely advertised. It's recommended to have your mobile data plan ready or inquire upon arrival.
While the Windward Restaurant is a primary dining spot, there might be bars or lounges offering snacks and drinks. Check with the casino for current offerings.
Customer service reviews are mixed. While some staff, like servers, are praised, other guests have reported unprofessional interactions with management and security.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary. Generally, photos are permitted in public areas, but it's often prohibited on the gaming floor to protect player privacy. Ask staff if unsure.
The exterior of the casino, especially during evening hours when lights are on, can be photogenic. The entrance area and any decorative elements might also be good spots.
Absolutely! Gananoque and the Thousand Islands region offer stunning natural beauty. Consider a boat tour for incredible photos of the islands and waterfront.
For general exploration, a versatile zoom lens is useful. If you plan on capturing landscapes or boat tours, a wide-angle lens can be beneficial.
You can likely photograph your food and the restaurant's ambiance, but always be mindful of other diners and ask permission if photographing staff.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For dining, the Windward Restaurant might be suitable for a family meal, offering a range of comfort foods. While the casino floor is off-limits to minors, the general atmosphere might be manageable for older children accompanying adults, provided they are supervised and understand the casino environment is for adults. Always check specific venue policies regarding minors in non-gaming areas.
💰 Budget Travelers
However, be mindful of the allure of gaming. Setting a strict budget for slot machines or table games is crucial to avoid overspending. If your goal is entertainment without significant expense, focus on enjoying the ambiance, perhaps having a reasonably priced meal, and exploring the free attractions in the surrounding Thousand Islands region, such as scenic drives or public parks.
couples
For a more romantic experience, consider combining your visit with a sunset boat cruise in the Thousand Islands. This offers a beautiful and memorable experience that can be enjoyed before or after your casino visit, providing a perfect blend of entertainment and scenic beauty.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Dining at the Windward Restaurant
While the restaurant is generally well-regarded, it's worth noting that some guests have sought out specific dietary options, such as gluten-free choices. In one instance, a waitress provided a handwritten list of available gluten-free items, indicating a willingness to accommodate. Overall, the Windward Restaurant appears to be a hidden gem for those looking for a satisfying meal without venturing far from the casino's entertainment. It's a place where good food and attentive service can make a visit memorable.
Casino Operations and Customer Service
Further reviews mention unprofessional and disrespectful behavior from specific security guards, who were perceived as 'trolling' guests and making 'snarky comments,' contradicting the casino's stated policies of respect and professional conduct. Attempts to address these issues with management reportedly met with 'attitude and zero accountability.' These accounts suggest that while the casino aims for a positive atmosphere, there are inconsistencies in staff training and management oversight that can lead to unpleasant and frustrating experiences for patrons. It's advisable for visitors to be aware of these potential service variations.
Exploring the Thousand Islands Region
Beyond boat tours, the region provides opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Activities like hiking and biking are available, and a visit to Wolfe Island is suggested as a pleasant day trip, accessible by car or bike. For those not focused on nightlife or casinos, the broader Gananoque and Thousand Islands area offers a wealth of out-doorsy and interesting sights that complement a visit to the casino or can be enjoyed as a standalone experience.




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