Singer Castle
Explore a 28-room castle on Dark Island, featuring secret passageways and rich history. A unique Thousand Islands gem.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Singer Castle
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a 28-room castle on Dark Island, featuring secret passageways and rich history. A unique Thousand Islands gem.
"A guided tour reveals fascinating history and secret passages, making it a must-see in the Thousand Islands."
🎯 Book Boat & Castle Tour
Combine your castle visit with a boat tour for a seamless experience. Uncle Sam's Boat Tours is a popular choice! :ferry:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of stairs and walking! You'll want good footwear for exploring all the nooks and crannies. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Secret Passageways
Throughout the castle
Discover hidden doors and passages that add an element of mystery and intrigue to your castle exploration.
Royal Suite
Upper floors
Imagine life in luxury in the opulent Royal Suite, a testament to the castle's grand past.
Castle Grounds & Views
Exterior and waterfront
Enjoy breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River and the surrounding Thousand Islands from the castle's scenic exterior.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour in Advance
Prepare for Stairs & Pace
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Boat & Castle Tour
Combine your castle visit with a boat tour for a seamless experience. Uncle Sam's Boat Tours is a popular choice! :ferry:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of stairs and walking! You'll want good footwear for exploring all the nooks and crannies. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Water (with cap)
Stay hydrated, but remember only capped water bottles are allowed inside the castle. :water_wave:
💰 Overnight Stay is Pricey
An overnight stay offers exclusive access but comes with a high price tag. Consider it for a truly unique experience. :moneybag:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Boat & Castle Tour
Combine your castle visit with a boat tour for a seamless experience. Uncle Sam's Boat Tours is a popular choice! :ferry:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of stairs and walking! You'll want good footwear for exploring all the nooks and crannies. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Bring Water (with cap)
Stay hydrated, but remember only capped water bottles are allowed inside the castle. :water_wave:
💰 Overnight Stay is Pricey
An overnight stay offers exclusive access but comes with a high price tag. Consider it for a truly unique experience. :moneybag:
📸 Capture the History
The castle's architecture and artifacts offer fantastic photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Singer Castle for its fascinating history, unique architecture, and the intrigue of its secret passageways. The guided tours are informative, and the opportunity for an exclusive overnight stay is a highlight for many, despite the high cost. Some reviews mention that the castle could benefit from more upkeep and that tours can be fast-paced.
"Singer castle is definitely worth a look see but it's a shame to see it falling into disrepair and not being cared for like it used to be in the past. lots of dirt lots of cob webs. It's not getting the attention it deserves. The history is very interesting and the two castle tour is a nice tour on Sam's. This is a guided tour.You cannot go off on your own and you cannot bring anything except a bottle with the cap water to the grounds. There are.
Also restrooms and a small gift shop on the grounds. It's cool to see all the special secret passageways woven into the castle."
SHARON K
"Viewing this castle requires being part of a tour. There are a lot of stairs and it's very fast paced. Tour guide was informative and the castle was stunning with unique history. Uncle Sam's boat tours out of Alex. Bay does a great tour to the island."
Kimber Beck
"We experienced the overnight stay. Other than the caretaker, the castle is all yours to explore. The dinner was excellent and although the cost is expensive ($1k), it is well worth the experience and memories. You receive a private tour of the castle which is very long. If we were to do it again, I would recommend staying two nights. You have the castle to yourself from evening to early morning. The views are unbelievable. In addition, I would recommend fall versus summer. It was over 90 degrees with no wind or a/c."
Frank Kendralla
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Singer Castle is located on Dark Island in the Thousand Islands, New York. The most common way to reach it is by boat tour. Uncle Sam's Boat Tours from Alexandria Bay is a highly recommended option that includes access to the island. Private boat rentals are also possible, but check docking availability.
While there isn't a dedicated shuttle service directly to the island, most visitors arrive via organized boat tours. These tours depart from nearby towns like Alexandria Bay and Clayton, providing transportation to Singer Castle.
No, Singer Castle is on an island and is not accessible by car. You must arrive by boat. Plan your transportation accordingly, with boat tours being the most convenient option.
Uncle Sam's Boat Tours is frequently mentioned as a great option for visiting Singer Castle, offering informative guided tours to the island. Other local tour operators may also offer trips to Dark Island.
Yes, Singer Castle is a prominent attraction within the Thousand Islands region and is often included in various 1000 Islands cruise itineraries. Many tours specifically highlight Singer Castle on Dark Island.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to Singer Castle is typically through a guided tour, which has a fee. Prices can vary, so it's best to check the official Singer Castle website or your chosen boat tour operator for current rates.
Yes, advance booking for Singer Castle tours is highly recommended, especially during the busy summer months. This ensures you secure your spot on a guided tour and avoid disappointment.
Singer Castle operates seasonally, typically from May through October. Hours for tours can vary, so it's essential to check the official website for the most up-to-date information on tour times and availability.
No, access to Singer Castle is exclusively through guided tours. You cannot wander freely; a guide will lead you through the castle's rooms and history.
The guided tour of Singer Castle covers its history, architecture, and unique features, including secret passageways. You'll see many of the 28 rooms and learn about the Vanderbilt family who once owned it.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside Singer Castle, you'll find 28 rooms filled with historical artifacts, antique furnishings, and intricate architecture. Highlights include the grand ballroom, the library, and the famous secret passageways.
Absolutely! One of the most exciting features of Singer Castle is its network of secret passageways, which are a key part of the guided tour experience.
While children can visit, the fast-paced nature of the tour and the many stairs might be challenging for very young ones. The historical content is engaging, but supervision is key.
There are restrooms and a small gift shop available on the grounds of Singer Castle. Food and drink options are limited, so plan accordingly.
Photography is generally allowed inside Singer Castle, but it's always best to confirm with your tour guide. Be mindful of others and the historical artifacts.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Dining options directly at Singer Castle are limited to a small gift shop. Some overnight stays may include dinner, which has been described as excellent. It's advisable to eat before or after your visit.
You can bring a capped water bottle for hydration. However, extensive food and drink are generally not permitted inside the castle during tours.
The nearest dining options are in Alexandria Bay or Clayton, the towns from which most boat tours depart. These towns offer a variety of restaurants and cafes.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of the castle with the St. Lawrence River as a backdrop is stunning. Inside, focus on architectural details, the grand rooms, and any visible secret passageway entrances.
Yes, photography is generally permitted inside Singer Castle during tours. However, always check with your guide for any specific restrictions.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for both interior shots and wider exterior views. A wide-angle lens can be great for capturing the scale of the rooms.
Drone usage is likely restricted due to it being a private property and a historical site. Always check local regulations and obtain permission before flying a drone.
Interior lighting can be dim in some areas, so a camera with good low-light performance or a tripod might be beneficial. Natural light from windows also provides beautiful illumination.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a tour during a less crowded time, like a weekday afternoon, to allow children a bit more space. While there are restrooms and a small gift shop, bringing snacks and drinks (capped water bottles only) is advisable, as dining options on the island are limited. The historical context can spark imagination, making it a memorable outing if managed with the right expectations.
💰 Budget Travelers
Opt for a boat tour that offers a good balance of duration and cost. Pack your own snacks and water to avoid purchasing them on the island. While an overnight stay is a luxury experience, the day tour provides a substantial glimpse into the castle's history without the high price tag.
💍 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Even for a day visit, the castle's architecture, the scenic St. Lawrence River views, and the sense of history create a charming atmosphere. Consider visiting during the fall for potentially fewer crowds and beautiful autumn foliage, adding to the romantic ambiance.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Singer Castle
After the Bourne family, the castle changed hands several times. It was eventually purchased by the Stahl family, who began offering guided tours and overnight stays, allowing the public to experience its historical grandeur. Despite its historical significance, the castle has faced challenges related to upkeep and preservation, with some visitors noting areas that could benefit from more attention. However, the core historical experience and the unique architecture remain a major draw for visitors to the Thousand Islands region.
Experiencing an Overnight Stay
An overnight stay typically includes a private, extended guided tour of the castle, a gourmet dinner, and breakfast. Guests have the freedom to explore the castle at their leisure during their private hours, making it feel like stepping back in time. Reviews suggest that a two-night stay might be ideal to fully appreciate the experience. It's important to note that the castle lacks modern amenities like air conditioning, so visiting during warmer months can be quite hot.
Navigating the Guided Tours
Visitors are not permitted to explore independently; you must stay with your group and guide. This structured approach ensures the preservation of the castle and provides a curated historical narrative. Comfortable footwear is essential due to the numerous stairs and the brisk pace. Remember to bring only capped water bottles, as other food and drinks are restricted.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit