1000 ISLANDS REAL ESTATE MARKET

The 1000 Islands real estate market is as diverse as its landscape, featuring everything from charming cottages and historic homes to luxurious waterfront estates on private islands. Properties here often boast unparalleled views of the St. Lawrence River, with many offering private docks, boat access, and direct water frontage—perfect for boating enthusiasts. The market is particularly appealing to buyers seeking vacation homes, retirement properties, or investment opportunities, as the area’s tourism draw ensures strong rental potential. Homes in villages like Clayton and Alexandria Bay are in high demand, often selling quickly due to the region’s unique appeal. Contact Move with Jackson - Your Upstate NY Realtor to explore 1000 Islands real estate, from cozy cabins to grand estates.

​

Families and retirees are drawn to the 1000 Islands for its tight-knit communities and slower pace of life. The region spans both Jefferson and St. Lawrence Counties, offering a mix of year-round residences and seasonal getaways. Whether you’re looking for a summer retreat or a permanent home with river views, the 1000 Islands delivers a lifestyle that’s both exclusive and welcoming.

​

​​

​

WHAT TO LOVE

​​

• Unmatched natural beauty with river and island views

• Access to boating, fishing, and watersports

• Close-knit, friendly communities

• A mix of historic charm and modern amenities

• Proximity to Watertown (30 minutes) and Syracuse (1 hour)

• Ideal for vacation homes or year-round living

​

​

​

LOCAL LIFESTYLE

The 1000 Islands is a haven for those who love the outdoors and a relaxed pace of life. Residents and visitors alike spend their days boating on the St. Lawrence River, exploring the islands, or simply soaking in the scenic views. The region is known for its vibrant summer season, with festivals, boat tours, and community events bringing the area to life. In the quieter months, the 1000 Islands transforms into a peaceful retreat, perfect for unwinding by the water or enjoying cozy evenings under the stars. Whether you’re strolling through Clayton’s historic downtown or kayaking around Heart Island, the 1000 Islands offers a lifestyle that celebrates nature and community.

​

​

​

​

DINING, ENTERTAINMENT, & SHOPPING

​

The 1000 Islands region offers a delightful mix of dining and entertainment experiences, often with a waterfront twist. In Clayton, The Clipper Inn remains a local favorite, serving upscale American cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood—think lobster bisque and pan-seared scallops. For a more casual vibe, Bella’s in Clayton offers riverside dining with homemade pastries and hearty breakfast options, perfect for a morning by the water. Also in Clayton, Di Prinzio’s Kitchen is a go-to spot for Italian comfort food, featuring classics like wood-fired pizzas and creamy pastas in a cozy, family-friendly setting. For a luxurious stay with dining, the 1000 Islands Harbor Hotel in Clayton provides an elegant experience with its on-site restaurant, Seaway Grille, offering stunning river views alongside dishes like grilled salmon and prime rib.

​

In Cape Vincent, Aubrey’s Inn is a beloved local gem, known for its warm hospitality and hearty meals like their famous fish fry and homemade pies, perfect for a comforting dining experience after a day on the water. Over in Alexandria Bay, The Dockside Pub offers a lively atmosphere with pub fare like burgers and wings, plus live music on weekends, making it a great spot for entertainment with a view of the St. Lawrence River.

​

Shopping in the 1000 Islands is quaint and charming. River Rat Cheese in Clayton is a must-visit for artisanal cheeses and local gourmet goods, perfect for a picnic by the river. Alexandria Bay’s downtown is dotted with boutique shops selling nautical-themed souvenirs, handmade jewelry, and local art, ideal for finding a keepsake from your visit. In Cape Vincent, Cape Vincent Arts & Crafts offers unique handmade goods, from pottery to paintings, showcasing the region’s creative spirit.

​​

​

​

​

THINGS TO DO

The 1000 Islands is an outdoor lover’s paradise, with activities for all ages. A visit to Boldt Castle on Heart Island is a must—tour the historic Gilded Age mansion and its stunning grounds, accessible by boat. For nature enthusiasts, Wellesley Island State Park spans over 2,600 acres, offering hiking trails, swimming beaches, and camping spots with panoramic river views. Boating is a way of life here—rent a kayak, paddleboard, or motorboat to explore the islands, or join a scenic boat tour with Uncle Sam Boat Tours to learn about the region’s history and see famous landmarks like the shortest international bridge in the world.

​

Families love the Thousand Islands Park on Wellesley Island, a historic community with Victorian cottages, playgrounds, and a quiet beach for picnicking. Fishing is also a popular pastime, with the St. Lawrence River known for its bass, pike, and muskie. In the winter, the region transforms into a snowy wonderland, perfect for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

​​

​

​

SCHOOLS

The 1000 Islands region is served by several school districts, ensuring quality education for families. Notable schools include:

• Thousand Islands Central School District (serving Clayton and nearby areas)

• Alexandria Central School District (serving Alexandria Bay)

• LaFargeville Central School District (serving parts of the region)
  These districts are known for their small class sizes, dedicated teachers, and strong community involvement, making them a great fit for families in the 1000 Islands.