Discover Brockville's Star Attractions
Plan your perfect 1000 Islands getaway by exploring the many attractions, festivals and events that will make your visit to Brockville one to remember. One of the most picturesque areas in the world, the 1000 Islands is world famous for its beauty, rich landscape, compelling history, and its many waterfront attractions and events. Crystal clear waters and famous sunken ships make the 1000 Islands one of the best fresh water scuba diving sites in the world.
Brockville is rich in culture and heritage and is proud to have numerous museums and attractions to showcase the wonders of our magical region. Be sure to take time to learn about the history of Brockville; appeal to your senses and incorporate an arts, culture or history experience into your visit; take in a live theatre performance, or attend one of the many festivals and events in the region.
Enjoy the serenity of the 1000 Islands with its hidden island coves, granite cliffs and scenic sunrises. Explore miles of scenic trails as you get closer to nature or practice your golf swing. The 1000 Islands and the St. Lawrence River is a playground for both the young and the young at heart.
The Brockville & 1000 Islands Star Attractions include:
The Aquatarium (opening in 2015!)
The Aquatarium will inspire all ages to further explore the 1000 Islands region. The 26,000 square-foot Discovery Hall contains ever-changing family activities that make every visit different. For example, during a showcase film in the interactive theatre, you will discover, through live video feed, a diver exploring a shipwreck. You will be able to ask questions and share in the underwater experience.
The 1000 Islands
The ‘1000 Islands’ is actually made up of 1,864 islands that straddle the Canada-U.S. border in the St. Lawrence River as it emerges from the northeast corner of Lake Ontario. They stretch for about 80 km downstream from Kingston, Ontario. The 1,864 islands range in size from over 100 km2 to smaller islands occupied by a single residence, or uninhabited outcroppings of rocks that are only home to migratory waterfowl.
Islands in the 1000 Islands are owned by a number of different parties – some are privately owed by both Canadian and American residents, 29 are owed by the City of Brockville for day use, picnicing, docking and overnight camping, and some are National Park Islands managed by Parks Canada. Experience the islands yourself by personal watercraft or by taking a 1000 Islands Cruise to tour the waterfront.
Some masonry “castles” remain as international landmarks. The most famous extant examples are “The Towers” on Dark Island, now called Singer Castle, and Boldt Castle on Heart Island (these castles can be visited during the summer months by boat or by boat cruise).
Boat Cruises
Discover the 1000 Islands and Brockville’s waterfront with a cruise. Enjoy a 1 hour, 2 hour, 3 hour, or full day cruise to explore the region, admire the properties and cottages on the islands and riverfront, and learn about the history and beauty of the islands. With many different cruise lines to choose from, you can find the perfect cruise for you and your family to enjoy.
Historic Sites
In a city steeped in history, Brockville is home to Fulford Place National Historic Site and the downtown core boasts historic buildings, both businesses and private homes. Just 20 minutes down the road in Prescott is Fort Wellington National Historic Site where you can explore what it would be like to live in a real fort from the War of 1812.
Outdoor Beauty
The scenery in the region is picturesque and completely unique. From outdoor trails, paved walking and cycling paths, paddling routes, island camping, golf courses, cross country skiing and snowshoe trails, to world-famous fresh water scuba diving, there is something to impress any outdoor enthusiast. No matter how you enjoy the outdoors, Brockville has something to offer.
Live Theatre
Located in the heart of historic downtown Brockville, the Brockville Arts Centre is recognized as one of the finest medium sized historic theatres in Canada. Hosting live theatre, musical headline acts, and cinema, there is something to see year round.
Nearby in Prescott, the St. Lawrence Shakespeare Festival presents Shakespeare outdoors on the banks of the St. Lawrence River annually during the summer months.