The Thousand Islands region has been a major summer resort/destination area since the late 1800’s and into the 20th century, Attracting regional residents from New York as well as vacationing families from Pittsburgh, Cleveland, and Chicago. Tourism related development followed this migration of vacationers and continues to this day. The archipelago of 1,864 islands between the shores of Upstate NY and Canada on the St. Lawrence River, are all rich with history and culture and surrounded by beautiful views.

The crystal-clear water with the island bluffs off the main shoreline create a sense of beauty felt by all who visit the Thousand Island Region. The St. Lawrence seaway connects the Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean and is used to transport goods up and down the channels. Hopewell Hall was owned by George Boldt and family for over 100 years, and was a part of the original “Millionaire’s Row.” George Boldt had made his fortune from the Waldorf Astoria in NYC and the Bellevue-Stratford in Philadelphia. Once he was a prominent hotelier, Boldt purchased Hopewell Hall as a wedding gift for his daughter Louise Clover, after she passed it went to his granddaughter, Clover. Boldt was also the owner of the famous Boldt Castle, which he had built as a token of love for his wife, Louise.  Almost fully restored to it's former beauty, Boldt Castle still stands and is just a few islands away!

Millionaire’s row of lavish homes and castles was inhabited by several other affluent families such as the John Rockefellers, the Pullmans (Pullman railroad car), the Bournes (Singer Sewing Machine), Edward Noble (Life Saver’s candy), Andrew McNally (Rand McNally maps) and others, who traveled from New York City and Chicago alike to find a peaceful and beautiful area for their summer homes. The scenic views at these homes are virtually unmatched and the Upstate NY area soon became very popular for a summer escape.

The St. Lawrence River and the Thousand Islands blur the border between NY and Canada, and provide a great place to fish and watch cargo ships pass. The area is also a great place for scuba diving, white water rafting, bird-watching, biking, hiking, as well as numerous wintertime activities. With all the outdoor activities, there is no shortage of culture in the surrounding areas. Hopewell Hall and Millionaire’s Row is just a day trip from both Kingston and Ottawa in Canada.