Thousand Islands History Museum
Discover the maritime heritage of the Thousand Islands through fascinating boat exhibits and local history displays.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit.
Thousand Islands History Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed visit.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the maritime heritage of the Thousand Islands through fascinating boat exhibits and local history displays.
"A wonderful visit, full of stories and fun facts that bring the town alive!"
🎯 Support with Donations
Admission is by donation; your contribution helps preserve local history. :heart:
⏰ Shop Before 4 PM
The gift shop closes at 4 PM, so plan your souvenir shopping accordingly. :alarm_clock:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Restored Wooden Boats
Main Exhibit Hall
Step back in time with beautifully restored wooden boats, showcasing incredible craftsmanship.
Local History Exhibits
Second Floor
Discover artifacts and stories that shaped life along the St. Lawrence River.
Waterfront Veranda
Outdoor Area
Enjoy scenic views of the St. Lawrence River from this charming spot.
Gift Shop Treasures
Ground Floor
Find unique Canadian-made goods and souvenirs, including model ships.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Donation-Based Admission
Timing is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Support with Donations
Admission is by donation; your contribution helps preserve local history. :heart:
⏰ Shop Before 4 PM
The gift shop closes at 4 PM, so plan your souvenir shopping accordingly. :alarm_clock:
🚤 Enhance Your Cruise
Visit after a boat cruise to truly appreciate the town's maritime heritage. :ship:
📜 Explore Second Floor
Don't miss the interesting posters and artifacts on the second floor. :scroll:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Support with Donations
Admission is by donation; your contribution helps preserve local history. :heart:
⏰ Shop Before 4 PM
The gift shop closes at 4 PM, so plan your souvenir shopping accordingly. :alarm_clock:
🚤 Enhance Your Cruise
Visit after a boat cruise to truly appreciate the town's maritime heritage. :ship:
📜 Explore Second Floor
Don't miss the interesting posters and artifacts on the second floor. :scroll:
🤝 Friendly Staff
Expect a warm welcome; staff are often happy to share stories and facts. :handshake:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Thousand Islands History Museum for its friendly staff, interesting exhibits on local maritime heritage, and beautifully presented model ships. The donation-based admission is appreciated, though some note that certain areas might be undergoing renovation or are designed primarily for school groups. The waterfront location and gift shop are also highlighted as positive aspects.
"First of all, the staff were friendly and helpful. It was really interesting to learn more about the history of the 1000 Islands. The exhibits are beautiful and well presented. Make sure to visit before 3 p.m., as the store closes at 4 p.m. Please consider donating to this wonderful museum, they truly deserve it! 🫶🏻"
Johanne
"Highly recommended! We had a wonderful visit, thanks to Julie who gave us a guided tour full of stories and fun facts 👍
You can do it before or after the City Cruise 🚢 We did it after the cruise and it really brought it (the town) alive for us!!
Enjoy 😊"
Wendy Sun
"What a warm and friendly welcome from the staff! It’s a small area but covers a lot of ground. The museum has no entrance fee but relies on donations from its patrons. There’s a gift shop as well that features a lot of locally-made items. The model ships are extraordinary! A lot of history to take in all at once; it’s nice to feel a part of something “big”."
Emily Howard
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is conveniently located next to the docks in Gananoque, Ontario. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Many visitors combine a trip to the museum with a Thousand Islands boat cruise.
Yes, there is typically parking available near the docks and the museum in Gananoque. It's advisable to check local signage for any specific restrictions or fees.
Absolutely! Many visitors find it's a great idea to visit the museum either before or after a Thousand Islands boat cruise. It really helps bring the history of the region to life.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The museum operates on a donation basis, meaning there's no set entrance fee. Visitors are encouraged to donate what they feel the experience is worth to support the museum's operations.
The museum is open for visitors, but it's important to note that the gift shop closes at 4 p.m. It's best to plan your visit to allow time for both exhibits and shopping.
No, advance booking is not typically required as admission is by donation. You can usually walk in and make your contribution upon arrival.
Yes, some exhibits are designed with school groups in mind, offering educational insights into local history.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore beautifully restored wooden boats, learn about the history of the St. Lawrence River, and view artifacts. The second floor features interesting posters on local history.
The museum sometimes features temporary exhibitions on the ground level, so it's worth checking if there's anything new during your visit.
While not explicitly a children's museum, the hands-on exhibits and visually engaging displays of boats can be interesting for younger visitors.
Many visitors recommend visiting after a boat cruise to connect the exhibits with the actual landscape. Engaging with the friendly staff can also enrich your visit.
Yes, the museum features a waterfront veranda offering pleasant views of the St. Lawrence River.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum itself does not have a restaurant, but there are dining options available in Gananoque near the docks. The gift shop offers souvenirs, not food.
Gananoque has several restaurants and cafes located close to the museum and the waterfront, offering various dining experiences.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted for personal use inside the museum, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific signage regarding flash photography or restricted areas.
The restored wooden boats, the waterfront veranda with river views, and the unique items in the gift shop are all great subjects for photos.
The waterfront area around the museum and docks offers scenic views of the Thousand Islands, perfect for capturing the essence of the region.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While it's not a dedicated children's museum, the museum's location by the docks and the stories of the St. Lawrence River can make for an interesting educational outing. Consider visiting after a boat tour to connect the exhibits with the real-world environment. 💰 Budget Travelers
🚢 Cruise Passengers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of Thousand Islands Maritime Heritage
What truly sets this museum apart is its community-driven approach. Operating on a donation-based admission, it relies on the generosity of its patrons to continue its work. This model fosters a sense of shared ownership and appreciation for the history being preserved. The friendly and helpful staff often enhance the experience, sharing stories and insights that bring the exhibits to life.
Beyond the main exhibits, the museum offers a waterfront veranda providing scenic views, and a gift shop stocked with unique Canadian-made goods. It's a place where history, community, and the natural beauty of the Thousand Islands converge, offering a memorable and enriching experience for all who visit.
Navigating Your Visit: Tips from Travelers
Pay attention to the gift shop's closing time, which is 4 p.m. If you're keen on picking up local souvenirs or unique Canadian-made items, ensure you allocate time for this before the shop closes.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit