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Antique Boat Museum Clayton

4.8
·736 reviews·Clayton, United States

Explore a stunning collection of antique freshwater boats, from sleek speedboats to a 1903 houseboat. Experience the St. Lawrence River on a classic b...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer Mornings

Calmer waters for river rides

CrowdMedium
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Boat in Yacht house

Antique Boat Museum Clayton

Best Time

Summer Mornings

Calmer waters for river rides

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore a stunning collection of antique freshwater boats, from sleek speedboats to a 1903 houseboat. Experience the St. Lawrence River on a classic boat ride.

4.8
(736 reviews)

"Absolutely fantastic boat museum. This was my first time visiting Clayton NY and so many people recommended a stop here."

Vertical photo
TIP

Book Boat Rides Ahead

Limited spots on Hacker Craft & La Duchesse tours. Book early to avoid disappointment! :ticket:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking between buildings and exhibits. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Hacker Craft River Ride

Hacker Craft River Ride

St. Lawrence River

Experience the St. Lawrence River on a classic Hacker Craft. A 45-minute smooth ride with local history shared by the captain.

Reddit
La Duchesse Houseboat Tour

La Duchesse Houseboat Tour

Museum Docks

Step aboard the unique 1903 La Duchesse houseboat for a special, intimate tour. A must-see for its historical significance.

Reddit
Race Boat Building

Race Boat Building

Museum Exhibit Hall

Witness the evolution of speedboat design, from early wooden racers to modern marvels. A fascinating look at maritime engineering.

Reddit
Wooden Boat Collection

Wooden Boat Collection

Museum Docks & Exhibit Halls

Marvel at a stunning array of meticulously maintained antique wooden boats, showcasing craftsmanship and history.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Book Your River Ride in Advance

The Hacker Craft and La Duchesse houseboat tours are popular and have limited capacity. Booking ahead ensures your spot on these unique experiences, especially during peak season. Check the forecast for the best river ride conditions! Reddit

Allocate Ample Time for Exploration

What seems like a quick visit can easily turn into hours. The museum's expansive collection, spread across multiple buildings, offers a deep dive into maritime history. Don't rush your exploration of the antique wooden boats and race boats. Reddit

Best Times

When
Summer Mornings
Why
Calmer waters for river rides
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday Afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed pace
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Wooden Boat Wednesday: Antique Boat Museum in Clayton, NY (1000 Islands). Over 300 boats in our collection. Photo Credit: Jim Scherzi

Book Boat Rides Ahead

Limited spots on Hacker Craft & La Duchesse tours. Book early to avoid disappointment! Reddit :ticket:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking between buildings and exhibits. :athletic_shoe:

reddit.com

Visiting 1000 islands, what to eat, do, and visit? (near the ledges and marina)

reddit.com

Wooden Boat Wednesday: Miss 1000 Islands II - 30' Hacker Craft that's available for rides at the Antique Boat Museum in Clayton, NY

Check River Ride Forecast

River rides are best on calm, less windy days. Plan accordingly for the best experience. Reddit

Allow 3+ Hours

Don't rush! The collection is vast and fascinating. You'll want time to explore it all. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

Book Boat Rides Ahead

Limited spots on Hacker Craft & La Duchesse tours. Book early to avoid disappointment! Reddit :ticket:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking between buildings and exhibits. :athletic_shoe:

Check River Ride Forecast

River rides are best on calm, less windy days. Plan accordingly for the best experience. Reddit

Allow 3+ Hours

Don't rush! The collection is vast and fascinating. You'll want time to explore it all. Reddit

Don't Miss the Boatcar

See a rare Boatcar, a unique amphibious vehicle. A surprising and interesting exhibit. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(736 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Antique Boat Museum for its vast and impressive collection of antique boats, particularly the stunning wooden vessels and the exciting race boat exhibits. The unique river rides on Hacker Crafts and the La Duchesse houseboat are frequently highlighted as must-do experiences. While generally well-received, some note that the river ride experience can be weather-dependent.

"We stopped at the Antique Boat Museum, a sprawling complex featuring everything from small leisure vessels to impressive speedboats. The speedboat building was a definite highlight.
​We opted for the river ride (an added fee) aboard a Hacker Craft, which lasted about 45 minutes. Though the water was a little choppy and windy on the day we went, it was still nice and relaxing. Our captain shared some local history along the way. While the weather is out of the operator's control, this ride would be even better on a calmer, less windy day. Be sure to check the forecast, as the river ride is seasonal."

M. Klein

"A must when visiting Clayton. My boyfriend surprised me with a trip to this quaint little town. This was definitely a highlight. We made the last river boat tour and the weather was perfect. The river boat can only take 6 passengers and tour is 45mins long. It’s a fast, smooth ride!

The museum was nice with multiple areas to explore. We called ahead and the staff was able to accommodate us with a La Duchesse tour. Highly recommend doing this as it’s one of a kind!"

mk Lemon

"Gorgeous gorgeous boats – the place defies words. If you like boats, it's a must see! Took us about three hours - do the La Duchesse houseboat tour...she's pretty special and only adds $3.00! 🙂"

Tina F

What People Like

Impressive boat collection
Unique river rides
Historical exhibits

What People Dislike

Weather-dependent rides

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Antique Boat Museum is located in Clayton, NY, a popular destination in the 1000 Islands region. If driving, it's accessible via local roads. Many visitors combine a trip here with other 1000 Islands activities. Parking is generally available nearby. Reddit

Public transportation options directly to the museum are limited. Most visitors arrive by car. If you're exploring the 1000 Islands, consider boat tours that might dock near the museum or offer transportation. Reddit

Clayton is a walkable town, especially the waterfront area where the museum is located. For exploring further afield or accessing different parts of the 1000 Islands, a car is most convenient. Boat tours are also a popular way to see the area. Reddit

Yes, many 1000 Islands boat tours pass by or dock in Clayton, making it easy to combine a visit to the Antique Boat Museum with a scenic river cruise. Some tours may even offer specific stops or packages. Reddit

There is typically parking available in the vicinity of the museum in Clayton. Street parking and designated lots are common options for visitors arriving by car. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission prices can vary, and it's best to check the official Antique Boat Museum website for the most current rates. General admission typically covers access to the museum exhibits and buildings. Reddit

While not always mandatory, purchasing tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak season or for special events. This can save you time and guarantee entry. Reddit

Absolutely! The museum offers popular river rides on a Hacker Craft and tours of the historic La Duchesse houseboat. These often have separate fees and limited capacity, so booking ahead is highly advised. Reddit

Operating hours can be seasonal. It's crucial to check the Antique Boat Museum's official website for their current hours of operation before your visit, as they may differ throughout the year. Reddit

The museum may offer discounts for seniors, children, or military personnel. Check their website or inquire at the ticket counter. Membership options might also provide benefits like free admission. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Most visitors find that 3-4 hours is a good amount of time to explore the extensive collections, including the race boat building and the various exhibit halls. Some may even spend longer if they take a boat ride. Reddit

Highlights include the race boat building showcasing the evolution of speedboats, the meticulously restored wooden boats, and the unique La Duchesse houseboat. The rare Boatcar is also a crowd-pleaser. Reddit

Generally, photography for personal use is allowed inside the museum. However, it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions on flash photography or tripods. Reddit

While the museum focuses on historical preservation, the sheer scale and variety of boats can be captivating for children. The boat rides also offer an engaging experience. Check their website for any specific family programs. Reddit

The museum strives to be accessible. Many exhibit areas are on the ground floor, but it's advisable to contact the museum directly to inquire about specific accessibility features and any potential limitations. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The museum itself may have a small gift shop that offers some snacks or beverages. For a full meal, you'll find numerous restaurants and cafes in downtown Clayton, a short walk away. Reddit

Clayton offers a variety of dining experiences, from casual waterfront eateries to more upscale restaurants. Seafood, particularly local fish, is a popular choice given its location on the St. Lawrence River. Reddit

Yes, Clayton has many family-friendly dining options. Look for places with varied menus that cater to different tastes, often featuring classic American fare and kid-approved choices. Reddit

Typically, outside food and beverages are not permitted inside museum exhibit areas. There might be designated areas for picnics if you plan to bring your own food. Reddit

Given its location, Clayton is a great place to enjoy fresh seafood. Ask locals or check online reviews for recommendations on restaurants known for their fish fries, lake perch, or other local catches. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The docks with the boats in the water, the beautifully restored wooden vessels, and the unique architecture of the exhibit buildings offer great photo opportunities. The river rides also provide scenic views. Reddit

Tripod usage policies can vary. It's best to confirm with the museum staff upon arrival or check their website for any restrictions on tripods to avoid any issues. Reddit

Flash photography is often discouraged or prohibited inside museums to protect the artifacts and exhibits. Always look for signage or ask a museum attendant if you're unsure. Reddit

Morning light can be beautiful for capturing the boats on the water. Late afternoon light can also create a warm glow. Consider the weather for the best overall photographic conditions. Reddit

The rare Boatcar, the intricate details of the antique wooden boats, and the perspective from a river ride offer unique photographic subjects that stand out. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Antique Boat Museum offers a visually engaging experience for families. The sheer size and variety of boats, from sleek race boats to grand houseboats, can capture children's imaginations. The Hacker Craft River Ride is a highlight, offering a fun and scenic adventure on the water. Reddit

While there might not be dedicated interactive play areas, the visual appeal of the boats and the opportunity to learn about maritime history can be educational. Encourage kids to spot different types of boats and imagine life on the water. The gift shop also offers souvenirs that can serve as lasting reminders of the visit. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

While admission fees apply, the Antique Boat Museum offers significant value, especially if you plan to spend several hours exploring. The La Duchesse Houseboat Tour is a particularly affordable add-on that provides a unique experience for a small extra fee. Reddit

To maximize your budget, consider packing your own snacks or a picnic to enjoy in a nearby park, rather than purchasing all meals at restaurants. Visiting on a weekday can also mean fewer crowds, potentially leading to a more relaxed and enjoyable experience without additional cost. Reddit

❤️ Couples & History Buffs

For couples and history enthusiasts, the Antique Boat Museum is a treasure trove. The intimate La Duchesse houseboat tour offers a romantic and historical glimpse into a bygone era. The Hacker Craft River Ride provides a scenic and memorable shared experience on the St. Lawrence River. Reddit

History buffs will be captivated by the extensive collection of antique wooden boats and the detailed exhibits on race boat evolution. The museum's commitment to preserving these maritime artifacts offers a deep dive into the region's rich boating heritage. Allow ample time to absorb the stories and craftsmanship. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Thrill of Speed: Race Boats

The Race Boat Building at the Antique Boat Museum is a testament to the evolution of high-speed maritime craft. Visitors can trace the development of race boat design from the early 20th century through to the present day. This section showcases dozens of relics, illustrating how designers pushed the boundaries of speed and engineering using wood and then transitioning to other materials. It's a fascinating look at a competitive and innovative aspect of boating history. Reddit

The sheer variety and historical significance of these vessels are astounding. You can see how innovations in engine technology and hull design dramatically changed the performance and appearance of these boats over time. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in the technical and competitive side of boating. Reddit

A Ride Through Time: Experiencing the St. Lawrence River

The Hacker Craft River Ride offers a unique opportunity to experience the St. Lawrence River aboard a classic wooden runabout. These 45-minute tours provide a relaxing yet exhilarating way to see the Thousand Islands from the water. The captains often share local history and insights, adding an educational layer to the scenic journey. Reddit

Booking this ride in advance is highly recommended due to limited passenger capacity. While the experience is enjoyable in most weather, a calmer, less windy day will undoubtedly enhance the smoothness and overall enjoyment of the ride. It's a seasonal offering, so be sure to check availability during your visit. Reddit

Similarly, the La Duchesse Houseboat Tour provides an intimate glimpse into life on the water over a century ago. This 1903 houseboat is a rare and special vessel, offering a unique perspective on historical living arrangements. It's a short but memorable tour that adds a distinct historical dimension to your museum visit. Reddit

Craftsmanship on Display: The Wooden Boat Collection

The Antique Wooden Boat Collection is the heart of the museum, showcasing an incredible array of meticulously maintained vessels. From elegant runabouts to sturdy workboats and delicate canoes, the craftsmanship is evident in every plank and curve. Seeing these boats floating in the water under the sheds offers a realistic perspective on how they were meant to be viewed and used. Reddit

The diversity is staggering, with over 100 canoes alone, ranging from traditional birch bark designs to more modern interpretations. This collection truly highlights the artistry and dedication of boat builders throughout history, making it a captivating experience for anyone who appreciates fine woodworking and maritime heritage. Reddit

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