Boldt Castle

The Basics

The best way to experience Boldt Castle is on an excursion along the Saint Lawrence River, leaving from either the American or the Canadian side. Most itineraries include a scenic cruise through the Thousand Islands with a stop at the castle grounds. To see the castle from a different perspective, opt for a helicopter tour of the region; you’ll get a bird’s eye view of Boldt Castle, Singer Castle, and the Thousand Islands Bridge.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Canadian citizens are required to show photo identification upon arrival at Heart Island.

• Visitors will find a cafe, a hot dog stand, and picnic tables on the grounds; outside food and drinks are welcome.

• Much of the castle is accessible to wheelchairs.

How to Get There

You can reach Heart Island by boat from either the US or Canada, and private boats dock for free. The most convenient way to reach the site is on a guided tour.

When to Get There

The castle is open for self-guided tours from mid-May through mid-October; opening hours vary by month, with the longest hours in June, July, and August.

Yacht House

Boldt Castle has its own yacht house on nearby Wellesley Island. A free shuttle connects the yacht house to Heart Island, so after visiting the grounds, you can head over to see the imposing structure (where the Boldt family would have stored their sizable houseboat and family yachts) and the collection of antique boats that is now housed there.

Ways to explore

Boldt Castle is only accessible by water, so one of the best ways to see it is by booking a boat trip along the St. Lawrence River. You can leave from either the American or the Canadian side, and these tours often have onboard guides who explain the history of the region. In addition to stopping at Boldt Castle for a self-guided visit, these tours also showcase views of Millionaire’s Row, as well as the Thousand Islands Bridge. Longer excursions may also include a picnic lunch and admission to Rock Island Lighthouse.

Accessibility

The castle’s lower levels are accessible to wheelchair users, but some of the upper floors and older sections may not be.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Passport/ID if crossing from Canada, small bag, camera

What to wear

Layered clothing, comfortable shoes

Not allowed

Outside food and drink in the castle buildings, pets (apart from service animals), littering

Amenities

Restrooms, gift shop, café

Address 

Boldt Castle is located on Heart Island, which is only accessible by boat. Visitors typically come here by ferry, water taxi, private boat or on a guided sightseeing cruise.

Driving

It’s not possible to drive to Boldt Castle, as you can only get there via the water. Instead, you can drive to Alexandria Bay, the main departure point for US ferries, or Gananoque to catch a boat from Canada.

Public transportation

The best way to get to Boldt Castle is to travel to a departure port—typically Alexandria Bay in the US or Gananoque in Canada—and board a ferry or boat tour to the castle.

Best times to visit

A morning visit is a good way to avoid the afternoon crowds, and enjoy a more peaceful atmosphere at the castle.

Best days to visit

It’s best to come on a weekday—such as Mondays through Thursdays—as weekends can get busy.

Best months to visit

The castle is usually open for self-guided tours from mid–May through mid–October, but July and August can get busy so it’s best to come in the other months.