If you’re looking for a hidden gem in upstate New York, look no further than Clayton. This charming village is located on the St. Lawrence River and offers a wide range of activities for all types of travelers. From outdoor adventures to cultural immersion, Clayton has something for everyone. Read on to discover the top attractions, food scene, budget-friendly tips, and more in this comprehensive travel guide.
Top Attractions
One of the top attractions in Clayton is the Antique Boat Museum. This museum features a collection of over 300 boats and thousands of artifacts related to boating history. Another must-visit attraction is the Thousand Islands Art Center, which showcases the work of local artists and offers workshops and classes. If you’re interested in history, make sure to visit the Clayton Island Tours, which offers tours of the St. Lawrence River and the surrounding islands.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, head to Grindstone Island. This island is only accessible by boat, but it’s worth the trip for its secluded beaches and hiking trails. Another hidden gem is the Thousand Islands Winery, which offers tastings and tours of their vineyards. Finally, make sure to check out the Clayton Farmers Market, which features local produce and handcrafted goods.
Food Scene
Clayton has a vibrant food scene, with a variety of options for all tastes and budgets. For a casual meal, head to the Clipper Inn for their famous burgers and fries. For a more upscale dining experience, try the 1000 Islands Harbor Hotel’s Seaway Grille, which offers a farm-to-table menu and stunning views of the river. For dessert, make sure to stop by the River Rat Cheese Store for their famous fudge.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Clayton can be a budget-friendly destination if you know where to look. One tip is to take advantage of the free attractions, such as the Clayton Farmers Market and the Clayton Island Tours. Another tip is to pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it at one of the many public parks in the area. Finally, consider visiting during the off-season, when prices are lower and crowds are smaller.
Outdoor Adventures
If you love the great outdoors, you’ll find plenty to do in Clayton. The St. Lawrence River is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and kayaking. For hiking, head to the Minna Anthony Common Nature Center, which offers over 600 acres of trails and wildlife viewing. Finally, make sure to check out the Thousand Islands National Park, which offers camping, swimming, and hiking.
Historical Landmarks
Clayton is rich in history, with several landmarks that are worth a visit. One of these is the Boldt Castle, a stunning mansion that was built in the early 1900s. Another landmark is the Tibbetts Point Lighthouse, which dates back to 1854 and offers stunning views of Lake Ontario. Finally, make sure to visit the Thousand Islands Bridge, which spans the St. Lawrence River and offers breathtaking views.
Family-Friendly Activities
If you’re traveling with kids, Clayton has plenty of family-friendly activities. One of these is the Clayton Island Adventures, which offers pirate-themed boat rides and treasure hunts. Another activity is the Aqua Zoo, which features over 100 species of fish and other aquatic life. Finally, make sure to check out the Clayton Youth Center, which offers a variety of programs and activities for kids of all ages.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something unique, try the Thousand Islands Helicopter Tours. These tours offer stunning views of the river and the surrounding islands. Another off-the-beaten-path experience is the Thousand Islands Seaway Wine Trail, which features several wineries and vineyards in the area. Finally, make sure to visit the Thousand Islands Park, a quaint community that dates back to the late 1800s.
Natural Wonders
Clayton is home to several natural wonders that are worth exploring. One of these is the Rock Island Lighthouse State Park, which features a historic lighthouse and stunning views of the river. Another natural wonder is the Thousand Islands, a group of islands that offer some of the best boating and fishing in the area. Finally, make sure to visit the Wellesley Island State Park, which offers over 2,000 acres of hiking trails and wildlife viewing.
Vibrant Nightlife
Clayton may be a small village, but it has a vibrant nightlife scene. One of the top spots is the Coyote Moon Vineyards, which offers live music and wine tastings on the weekends. Another popular spot is the Wood Boat Brewery, which features craft beer and a fun atmosphere. Finally, make sure to check out the Clayton Opera House, a historic venue that hosts a variety of performances and events.
Local Markets
Clayton is home to several local markets that offer fresh produce and handcrafted goods. One of these is the Clayton Farmers Market, which is held every Saturday from May to October. Another market is the Alex Bay Farmers Market, which is held every Sunday from June to October. Finally, make sure to visit the Thousand Islands Winery, which offers tastings of their award-winning wines.
Beaches and Mountains
Clayton is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, including beaches and mountains. For a day at the beach, head to the Grass Point State Park, which features a sandy beach and a playground for kids. For a hike in the mountains, head to the Adirondack Park, which offers over 6 million acres of hiking trails and wildlife viewing. Finally, make sure to visit the Thousand Islands National Park, which offers camping, swimming, and hiking.
Cultural Immersion
Clayton is a great destination for cultural immersion, with several museums and cultural centers in the area. One of these is the Thousand Islands Art Center, which showcases the work of local artists and offers workshops and classes. Another cultural center is the Frederic Remington Art Museum, which features the work of the famous artist and sculptor. Finally, make sure to visit the Clayton Opera House, a historic venue that hosts a variety of performances and events.
Art and Music Scene
Clayton has a thriving art and music scene, with several venues and galleries in the area. One of these is the Thousand Islands Art Center, which showcases the work of local artists and offers workshops and classes. Another venue is the Clayton Opera House, a historic venue that hosts a variety of performances and events. Finally, make sure to check out the Coyote Moon Vineyards, which offers live music and wine tastings on the weekends.
Walking Tours
If you’re looking for a leisurely way to explore Clayton, try a walking tour. One of the top tours is the Clayton Walking Tour, which takes you through the historic village and offers insights into its rich history. Another tour is the Thousand Islands Winery Walking Tour, which takes you through the vineyards and offers tastings of their award-winning wines. Finally, make sure to check out the Thousand Islands National Park Walking Tour, which offers stunning views of the river and the surrounding islands.
Architectural Marvels
Clayton is home to several architectural marvels that are worth a visit. One of these is the Boldt Castle, a stunning mansion that was built in the early 1900s. Another marvel is the Clayton Opera House, a historic venue that features stunning architecture and hosts a variety of performances and events. Finally, make sure to visit the Thousand Islands Bridge, which spans the St. Lawrence River and offers breathtaking views.
Historical Sites
Clayton is rich in history, with several landmarks and sites that are worth a visit. One of these is the Boldt Castle, a stunning mansion that was built in the early 1900s. Another site is the Tibbetts Point Lighthouse, which dates back to 1854 and offers stunning views of Lake Ontario. Finally, make sure to visit the Clayton Island Tours, which offers tours of the St. Lawrence River and the surrounding islands.
Biking Routes
Clayton is a great destination for biking, with several routes in the area that offer stunning views and challenging terrain. One of these routes is the Thousand Islands Seaway Trail, which takes you through the scenic countryside and along the St. Lawrence River. Another route is the Adirondack Park Loop, which offers over 100 miles of paved and unpaved trails through the mountains. Finally, make sure to check out the Thousand Islands National Park, which offers several biking trails for all skill levels.
Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking for a wellness retreat, Clayton has several options that offer relaxation and rejuvenation. One of these is the River Yoga Studio, which offers yoga classes and workshops in a peaceful setting. Another option is the 1000 Islands Harbor Hotel’s spa, which offers massages, facials, and other spa treatments. Finally, make sure to visit the Wellesley Island State Park, which offers over 2,000 acres of hiking trails and wildlife viewing.
Village of Clayton Map from www.1000islandsrun.com
