Take the train to Gananoque, a 1000 Islands gateway
A two-hour VIA Rail ride from Ottawa ($26 weekdays, $31 weekends) lands you in a waterfront town dating to the 1700s, full of theatre, kayaking, and boat cruises past historic castles.
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The town of Gananoque sits on the banks of the St. Lawrence River about an hour and a half from Ottawa, accessible by a two-hour VIA Rail train ride that costs $26 each way on weekdays or $31 on weekends. Known as the "Gateway to the 1000 Islands," it's an easy summer getaway that requires no car.
The historic town dates to the 1700s, when European settlers began establishing homes along the scenic St. Lawrence River. Today, its 18th-century buildings, lush gardens, and quaint streets draw visitors looking for waterfront charm with European vibes and outdoor adventure.
Once you arrive, the Gananoque train station is a 5-minute drive from downtown, so you'll want to book a taxi or shuttle to reach the core. From there, the town unfolds on foot. Visitors can kayak and hike along waterfront trails, explore the downtown core for shopping and restaurants, or catch live theatre at the Thousand Islands Playhouse on the waterfront. The playhouse, called "the most charming theatre in Canada," runs musicals, dramas, and comedies during its May-October season—and you can even dock your boat there while you watch a show.
For water-based exploration, City Cruises Gananoque, the oldest and largest cruise company in the region, offers one-hour to half-day adventures exploring the 1000 Islands. You'll sail past the iconic Boldt Castle and magnificent Singer Castle, viewing many other landmarks visible only from the water. Some cruises allow stopovers on the islands, though you'll need a passport since many are located in U.S. territory. The Dockside Restaurant, Patio & Ice Cream Stand sits right on the water for food before or after your cruise.
If you prefer to kayak, local outfitters such as 1000 Islands Kayaking offer expert-guided full-day and half-day trips for all levels, with all equipment included. Tours depart from the outfitter's central Gananoque location, a 4-minute drive or 15-minute walk from downtown.
For a dry-land perspective, visit the 1000 Islands Tower, a unique tourist attraction located between the spans of the 1000 Islands International Bridge on Hill Islands, less than 10 minutes from downtown Gananoque, offering views across the region.
The journey itself is the best part—no car needed means you can relax, watch the landscape roll past, and arrive ready to explore.