For Canadians who dream of getting a taste of the fairy-tale life you might only find in Europe but prefer to stay closer to home, we have great news for you: you can visit a majestic castle near Ontario and get a small taste of Europe without leaving the country.
If you're ready for an Ontario adventure, a road trip to the Thousand Islands region is calling calling your name, with Boldt Castle waiting to be discovered.
Located near Alexandria Bay, NY in the famed Thousand Islands, Boldt Castle is preparing to open its doors for the 2023 season next month. From both Canada and the US, visitors may find transportation on either a tour boat or by personal pleasure craft.
On a warm sunny day, pack the car and head to the Thousand Islands, where you can catch a ferry to embark on an unforgettable adventure through the intricate network of islands. During your boat ride, you will pass a smaller land mass named Heart Island, which is home to Boldt Castle, a breathtaking full-scale Rhineland palace.
The history of Boldt Castle is both romantic and heartbreaking. Mr. George C. Boldt built the grandiose structure, which rivals those of Europe, built on the St. Lawrence River, in the 1900s as a display of his love for his wife, Louise and to serve as their dream summer home. However, in 1904 Louise passed away suddenly, and brokenhearted Boldt abandoned the construction of the castle and never returned to the island.
For years, the castle sat untouched until 1977 when the Thousand Islands Bridge Authority acquired the property and preserved the castle for future generations. Today, visitors are invited to explore the opulent castle and the pristine grounds. So, pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure. The Thousand Islands region and Boldt Castle are calling your name.
Boldt Castle and the accompanying Boldt Yacht House open to the public on May 13th, 2023 through October 9th from 10:30 am to 6:30 pm.
Passengers arriving from Canada must provide proper identification, such as a valid passport.
Admission (Prices in US dollars):
Boldt Castle:
- Adults: $12.50 (13+ years)
- Children: $9.00 (5-12 years)
- Infants: Free $0.00 (4 years and under)
Yacht House:
- Adults: $7.00 (13+ years)
- Children: $5.00 (5-12 years)
- Infants: $0.00 (4 years and under)
