1000 Islands Tower — Attraction in Leeds and the Thousand Islands

If you're planning a trip to the 1000 Islands region, a visit to the 1000 Islands Tower is a must. Located on Hill Island, the tower offers breathtaking panoramic views of one of the most beautiful natural landscapes in North America. Standing at 400 feet tall, the observation deck provides a stunning 360-degree view of the islands, the St. Lawrence River, and the surrounding areas of both Canada and the U.S. It’s a sight that truly gives you a sense of the vastness and unique layout of this region.

The elevator ride to the top takes less than a minute, and once you’re up there, the views are nothing short of spectacular. There are three observation decks, including an open-air platform that allows you to take in the fresh air and uninterrupted scenery. Informational signs help identify the islands and landmarks you’re seeing, and the staff is friendly and happy to answer questions.

It’s a fantastic spot for photography, especially at sunrise or sunset. Whether you're a nature lover, history enthusiast, or just someone looking for a peaceful scenic stop, the 1000 Islands Tower is worth the visit. Don’t forget your camera and binoculars—and try to go on a clear day for the...

I visited this amazing tower in June 1994, and I'm very happy to see that it's still up and running. Scared me to death (very, very afraid of heights), but I thought it might mellow out my daft father after he freaked out at the Canadian Customs Office - for showing off, totally his fault! (See my review of the Canadian Border/Customs Office for how kind and patient they were with my idiot elder - forever thankful).

The lady who took us up in the elevator was ever so kind and considerate when she realised how ill being that high up made me. My father couldn't care less! She told me to sit on a chair, with the back against the central shaft, to focus solely on her, and just talk about anything.

My father took his time (as you should), spending about twenty minutes getting some incredible footage of the whole Thousand Islands area, and when I saw it on the video, it was magnificent. Truly a beautiful place to see - even if I had to see it on a screen instead of the huge purpose-built viewing area!

If you do drive either from NY state into Canada, or vice versa, it's well worth a visit. Just make sure you have a good head...

The 1000 Islands Tower is a very tall lookout tower on the Canada (Ontario) side that looks out at all the the surrounding islands on both sides of the border. It really is a beautiful sight to see!! Depending on the season, you might see a huge variety of wildlife, or clear blue skies with beautiful lines of sight into the nearby islands and forests, or your might see the fall foliage! Unfortunately, they are closed in the winter (I believe from November till late April).

There is only 1 way up and down and that's through their elevator (approx. $20 CAD per person). The stairs are only for emergency evacuation.

Once you get to the top, you'll have plenty to learn and see! There are 3 levels up top, each accessible by stairs (after you exit the elevator). Each level has a few placards for you to read and learn while looking out into the beautiful landscape. For example, there are technically 997 islands in the region but 1000 is just more convenient and impressive to say.

Entry tickets are available for purchase at the gift shop. Plenty of parking...