Alexandria Bay, New York: Thousand Islands

There really are a thousand islands in the Thousand Islands area of New York State/Ontario. In fact, there are about 1,700 such islands, a few of which are pictured above. This is taken at Alexandria Bay.

What was striking about the region is that there is much around the river itself; the terrain is rather boring. That makes the initial view that much more spectacular. You can take boat tours of the region, which is probably the best way to see it.

The Boldt Castle might be the most famous structure in the region. The mansion was never quite completed or occupied, but restoration efforts continue.

Oh, and in case you were wondering, Thousand Islands salad dressing really was invented up here as a treat for a party.