A vibrant sunset sears the sky from Joel Stone Park in the 1000 Islands.

I’ve been fortunate to visit the 1000 Islands numerous times in my career. It’s a three-ish hour drive from my place in Mississauga and can easily be done on one tank of gas, also known via my other platform, Modern Mississauga Media, as a One Tank Trip.

Each time I’ve been to the 1000 Islands, something different captures my eyes and attention. Whether it’s from the sky, land or water, I still feel I haven’t fully experienced this remarkable region of Canada.
I’ve done the usual attractions; the helicopter tour, kayaking and the longer boat tours and while they’re all special, this time I wanted something different.
I decided to delve into the thriving art scene. They’re not quite, pardon the overused term, “hidden gems” but rather, ones worth purposely seeking.

I get giddy when I plan a visit to the 1000 Islands, which I attribute to being a Pisces. Yes, I live 15 minutes from Lake Ontario but here, it’s something magical.
It’s peaceful, exciting, slower, captivating, enthralling, calm and ever-impressive, every single time.

With that, let’s get you up to speed on how to enjoy the art scene, while having fun and feasting on food over a few days in the 1000 Islands.

Where to stay in Gananoque and the 1000 Islands

The historic Gananoque Inn in the 1000 Islands.

It was my first time at the historic Gananoque Inn and was given a water-facing room on the third floor. The King bed was comfortable and a great place to relax and recharge between days.
It’s been modernized and still retains just enough historic charm to create an appealing balance.
Muskie Jake’s is on site, there’s parking aplenty and wander to the rear of the building, toward the dock for wonderful views of the water.
Note that there are no elevators here.

Where to enjoy art in Gananoque and the 1000 Islands

Art Apothecary

Opened in the spring of 2026, pop in and see a collection of various types of art from Canadian artists. The walls are lined with creativity, and owner Meli has done excellent work in bringing a new art outlet to Gananoque.

Gananoque Arts Network

The GAN, also know as Gananoque Arists Network.

Also going by GAN, this not-for-profit organization brings a cool vibe to the community and their website says, their “single focus is transforming our community and lives through the power of creative expression.”

VAGA Gallery

The Visual Artists of Gananoque Area has been around for over 30 years and impressively, showcases the works of up to 30 artists which call the 1000 Islands region home.
From large to small, there’s a size of art for all.

Thousand Islands Playhouse

Celebrating their 45th year in 2026, the Springer Theatre has seen hundreds of performances, hundreds of thousands of guests and, simply put, is something everyone should experience at least twice. There’s no bad seat, the views from the dock are majestic and the performances are splendid.

J2 Gallery & Studio

This contemporary gallery and studio, owned by Jean and Lee Jewer, showcase abstracts, large and small scale pieces and is a key cog in the artistic wheel in the 1000 Islands.

The Sculpture Gallery at Confederation Park

The Sculpture Gallery at Confderation Park in the 1000 Islands.

Spend some time outdoors and experience Canada's largest outdoor contemporary art exhibit along the Gananoque River. There are plenty of pieces to take in, places to sit and it’s a cool spot to capture pictures.

Public Murals

As part of five new murals in the cheerful downtown area in 2022, one of them include a large mural on the side of the Visitors Centre. It adds to the long-standing one at the TD Bank, plus others scattered throughout the area. Can you find them all?

The Gananoque Craft Market

Saturday’s in the town square is home to a cool craft market, paired with live music. There are numerous vendors with an array of creative goods for you to peruse and purchase. Support local artists and you just might find your next favourite addition for your home.

Things to do in Gananoque and the 1000 Islands

Boat cruises

City Cruises offers an excellent one-hour boat tour in the 1000 Islands.

There are plenty of boat cruises in the area and I’ve done them all. If you’ve got a full day but want to take a tour, hop on the one-hour tour via City Cruises. You’ll see quite a bit in an hour, including my favourite A-frame cabin. There are three decks to chose from but why limit yourself? Get views from all three throughout the tour.

Thousand Islands Boat Museum

The Thousand Islands Boat Museum pairs cool boats in the water with an educational aspect, with plaques along the walls with boating history and old school tools. Be sure to walk on the dock when you’re done for terrific views.

Live music at The Stonewater Pub

Across the street from the Gananoque Inn, catch some live music here and I can say with certainty that chicken wings (or whatever food you order) tastes a bit better with live music.

Take a load off at the Town Hall

New Muskoka Chairs are in the town square in Gananoque.

In early June 2026, the Town of Gananoque purchased 12 colourful Muskoka chairs and put them in the common area. Grab a seat as you sip on a drink or enjoy a snack from one of the many locally owned joints in town. Or read more great articles and watch videos from Modern Traveller.

Sunsets at Joel Stone Park

Serenity comes through a spectacular sunset at Joel Stone Park. The vibrant colours, the elegant, oh-so slight movement of the water, the trees, the boats and the feeling of peace all come by standing at the end of the dock. The sky was bursting with colours and my heart was full.

Great places to eat in Gananoque and the 1000 Islands

1000 Curry

This is my absolute favourite Indian restaurant and 1000 Curry is one of the best restaurants I’ve experienced in my nearly two decades of being a professional traveller.
The chicken biryani is what sold me. It’s been consistently delicious for the past five years, the service is great and they’re locally owned. Tell Ben I said hi!

Bar Petunia

A quaint spot with a good indoor space and outstanding outdoor back patio. I’ve only gone at night and the strand lights, excellent service and delicious drinks make for a picturesque and perfect night.

Pistachio Cafe

This vegetarian cafe serves up good grilled cheese sandwiches and if you’re like me and have a penchant for peppers, get the jalapeño grilled cheese and if the weather is favourable, enjoy it on their patio.

Muskie Jakes

Located in the Gananoque Inn, there’s a large indoor section and great patio overlooking the water. Classic pub fare is on the menu and if you eat too much like I sometimes do, and you’re staying here, it’s a short jaunt back to your room to relax.

Purple House

Aptly named due to it’s colour, the fresh made, stone baked pizza’s are what they’re renowned for. I timed it right and saw my Hawaiian pizza come out of the oven, put on a tray and brought to my table. And yes, pineapple is totally cool on pizza.

Pump House Creamery

Summer and ice cream pair as well as me and a kayak and wings. Located at the left of the entrance to Confederation Park, this small shop serves up fresh ice cream with just enough flavours to make you second guess your choice, which is a good thing! Get a second scoop if you can’t decide. Plus, they use locally sourced ingredients!

Use what you’ve read here as a guide or visit 1000 Islands Tourism for more ways to experience this radiant region of Canada.

Art, Fun & Food in Gananoque and the 1000 Islands