7 Things to Do in the 1000 Islands This Spring (April Travel Guide)

1. Secure Your Seats for the 2026 Season at the 1000 Islands Playhouse

The return of the 1000 Islands Playhouse marks the start of spring in Gananoque. Booking tickets in April is an easy way to plan ahead for summer while enjoying the waterfront as the season begins. The 2026 lineup includes Women of the Fur Trade, Sugar Road, Grease, The Last Five Years, Murder at Ackerton Manor, Wonderful Joe, and Come From Away . Its waterfront setting makes it a natural evening option for couples or anyone looking for a quieter night out in the 1000 Islands.

The Details:

• Dates: Tickets are on sale now for the full 2026 season
• Location: 185 South St., Gananoque
• Opening Show: Women of the Fur Trade (May 1st, 2026)

Show Information & Tickets: 1000 Islands Playhouse

2. See the Islands from the Sky with a Helicopter Tour

One of the most memorable things to do in the 1000 Islands in spring is to see the region from the air. Departing from Gananoque, a 1000 Islands Helicopter Tours reveals the St. Lawrence River and its tapestry of islands.

Granite shorelines, historic estates, and quiet bays come into view, with landmarks like Boldt Castle, Singer Castle, and the Ivy Lea Bridge standing out along the river.

Tours are one of the fastest and easiest ways to understand just how vast and unique the 1000 Islands really are, offering a clear sense of scale that is difficult to experience from the shoreline.

The Details:

• • • Operator: 1000 Islands Helicopter Tours
    • Location: 88 County Rd 32, Gananoque
    • Experience: Scenic helicopter flights ranging from approximately 10 to 30+ minutes
    • Highlights: Boldt Castle, Singer Castle, Ivy Lea Bridge, and the islands of the St. Lawrence River
    • Pricing: Tours Start at $109 Per Person

3. Discover Local History at the 1000 Islands History Museum

For those looking for indoor things to do in the 1000 Islands in April, the History Museum offers a clear introduction to the region’s past.

Located along the Gananoque waterfront, the exhibits explore thousands of years of history, from Indigenous communities to early river trade and settlement. Interactive displays and hands-on elements make it especially well suited for families, particularly on cooler spring days.

The Details:

• Location: 125 Water St., Gananoque
• Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 10am to 4pm
• Admission: By Donation
• Contact: 613-382-2535 | 1000islandshistorymuseum.com

4. Explore Downtown Arts and Dining

Spring is a good time to explore the downtown cores of Gananoque, when shops, galleries, and restaurants are open but not yet at peak-season capacity. A walk along King Street or through historic streets reveals local art, independent shops, and places to stop for a relaxed lunch near the river. The slower pace makes it easy to explore at your own rhythm, whether you’re visiting with friends or family.

The Details:

• • Galleries: Art lovers can explore original Canadian works at O’Connor Gallery in downtown Gananoque or visit Heather Haynes Studio, where the internationally recognized artist displays her vibrant paintings inspired by the landscapes and waterways of the 1000 Islands.
  • Shopping: Browse the historic streets of Gananoque and stop at 1000 Islands Trading Co. for locally inspired gifts or Steel Style Garage for distinctive clothing and accessories. View the Shopping Directory.
  • Dining: After wandering through the galleries and historic streets of downtown Gananoque, stop for coffee or lunch at local favourites like Panache Bakery & Café, Riva Restaurant, or The Old English Pub, all just a short walk from the waterfront. View the Dining Directory.

5. Gear Up for “Halfway to Halloween”

If you are searching for spring events in the 1000 Islands, early May brings unique experiences like Halfway to Halloween in Gananoque.While the event takes place May 2 to 3, April is the time to plan ahead. With celebrity guests, themed vendors, and nostalgic film references, it adds a different energy to the season. The mix of pop culture and community atmosphere makes it appealing to both dedicated fans and curious visitors.

The Details:

• • Event Dates: May 2 to 3, 2026 (10am to 7pm)
  • Location: 600 King St. East (Gananoque Recreation Centre)
  • Tickets: Available now at Halfwaytohalloween.ca

6. Plan a Spring Reset Getaway

If you’re looking to slow things down, an overnight stay in Gananoque in April offers a quieter way to experience the 1000 Islands, with most accommodations close to downtown and the waterfront. Evenings are quieter along the St. Lawrence River, while mornings make it easy to start the day with coffee in town before heading back to the shoreline. An overnight stay works well for visitors looking to turn a day trip into a relaxed weekend getaway.

The Details:

• • Accommodations: Choose from waterfront hotels or historic inns in Gananoque. Explore All Accommodation Options

7. Evening Entertainment at the Casino

If you’re looking to shift gears after a day on the river, the Shoreline Casino Thousand Islands offers a more energetic way to end the evening. Located just outside Gananoque, it offers an energetic indoor atmosphere with gaming, table games, and casual dining. It’s a great way to cap off a day of exploring the quieter side of the river in spring.

The Details:

• • Location: 380 Highway 2, Gananoque
  • Features: Slots, table games, and on-site dining
  • Hours: Monday to Thursday (9:00 AM – 3:00 AM), Friday to Saturday (8:00 AM – 4:00 AM), Sunday (8:00 AM – 3:00 AM) 

FAQ: Visiting the 1000 Islands in Spring

Is April a good time to visit the 1000 Islands?

April offers a quieter way to experience the region, with fewer visitors and easier access to local attractions, dining, and accommodations.

What is open in Gananoque in spring?

Many year-round attractions remain open, including museums, galleries, restaurants, and accommodations, with seasonal activities beginning to return in May.

How many days should you spend in the 1000 Islands?

A one- to two-day visit works well in spring, with enough time to explore Gananoque, enjoy the waterfront, and experience local attractions at a relaxed pace.

Are there spring events in the 1000 Islands?

Yes. Events like Halfway to Halloween in early May mark the start of the season, with additional programming continuing into late spring and summer.

When should I book summer activities in the 1000 Islands?

Spring is one of the best times to book summer activities in the 1000 Islands. Many attractions open their full schedules in late spring, and popular experiences can fill quickly for July and August.

Booking early helps secure preferred times, especially for on-the-water and seasonal activities.

What to book ahead:

• Kayaking: 1000 Islands Kayaking opens May 9, with bookings already available
• Boat tours: City Cruises Gananoque and Rockport Cruises fill quickly in summer
• Attractions: Treetop Trekking and the 1000 Islands Tower open in May
• Drive-In Theatre: 1000 Islands Drive-In usually opens for the season in April and books ahead