The Aqua Zoo is on New York State Route 12 in Alexandria Bay and is the only family-owned and operated aquarium in the United States, according to the facility's website as of October 2010. Visitors can view 50 aquarium tanks, the largest of which hold 1,500 gallons of water. The exhibits feature fish, coral, plant-life and other creatures from both salt and freshwater habitats. A collection of fossils and a gift shop are also on-site. The Aqua Zoo operates only during the spring and summer months.
The Aqua Zoo
43681 New York Rt.e 12
Alexandria Bay, NY 13607
315-482-5771
aquazoo.com
The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation operates Wellesley Island State Park, which is located in the Thousand Island community of Fineview. The park has the largest campground area of any of the state parks in the Thousand Island regions with a total of 429 campsites for recreational vehicles and tents. The Minna Anthony Common Nature Center at the park has a museum that features exhibits about local habitats. Eight miles of hiking and seven miles of cross-country trails wind their way around the Nature Center as well.
The St. Lawrence River flows through Wellesley Island State Park, and boaters can access the waters through the park's marina. Fishing is a common pastime at the park, particularly during the fall when muskie fish abound. A public beach lines the river area for sunbathing and swimming. The park also serves as home to a nine-hole golf course. The park operates year-round.
Wellesley Island State Park
44927 Cross Island Rd.
Fineview, NY 13640
315-482-2722
nysparks.state.ny.us
The Thousand Islands-Seaway Wine Trail begins in Alexandria Bay and continues for 78 miles through the Thousand Island region. The trail launched officially in 2007 and serves as an opportunity for visitors to enjoy a scenic drive while stopping to sample locally-made wines at five different wineries. These facilities are Coyote Moon Vineyards, Thousand Islands Winery, Yellow Barn Winery, Otter Creek Winery and Seaway Cold Hardy Grapes & Vineyard. Visitors can obtain a map of the Trail online or at any of the stops. Hours and days of operation for the vineyards vary by season; call ahead to ensure all of the destinations are open before visiting.
Thousand Islands-Seaway Wine Trail
43298 Seaway Ave.
Suite #1
Alexandria Bay, NY 13607
315-489-1518
thousandislandsseawaywinetrail.com
The Thousand Island village of Clayton serves as home to the Antique Boat Museum. The museum area covers four and a half acres of ground and features 100 pleasure boats that together provide a picture of local and worldwide boating history. The museum also hosts special events like regattas, boat shows and children's programs during the summer and early autumn months. The Antique Boat Museum exhibits are open year-round. Guided tours of the museum's collection are available.
Antique Boat Museum
750 Mary St.
Clayton, NY 13624
315-686-4104
abm.org
