Thousand Islands scenery

Fly & Drive guide

Fly into ART, drive to Thousand Islands

45 min drive35 milesNo entry permit

Your route

ART

Watertown International Airport

Thousand Islands

About 45 min · 35 mi by car, no stops. Estimate only.

Your arrival plan

Before you land

Reservations

Historic Island Access and Seasonal Tour Planning

Access to Heart Island and Dark Island is restricted to operating seasons, typically mid-May through October. While no park entry permit is required, boat tour tickets and castle admission are separate costs and often sell out during summer weekends. State park camping at Wellesley Island can book out nine months in advance, requiring an official New York State Parks check.

Official reservation info

Best time to fly in

June – September

Quick answers

What is the closest airport to Thousand Islands?

Watertown International Airport (ART) is the nearest commercial airport we route from.

How long is the drive from ART to Thousand Islands?

Roughly 45 min (about 35 miles) by car, without stops. Times are estimates.

Do I need a reservation to visit Thousand Islands?

Access to Heart Island and Dark Island is restricted to operating seasons, typically mid-May through October. While no park entry permit is required, boat tour tickets and castle admission are separate costs and often sell out during summer weekends. State park camping at Wellesley Island can book out nine months in advance, requiring an official New York State Parks check.

Keep planning