Went on a tour of Boldt Castle/Heart Island this past weekend and it was easily the most beautiful architecture I've seen with my own eyes. The entire island is perfectly maintained with vibrant flowers and gardens that looked immaculate even in late September. There is so much to see and its much bigger than it looks. There is so much attention to detail you can still miss things even after walking around for hours. I saw a couple get married while I was there and I can't even imagine how stunning those photos will turn out! A lot of people have already mentioned the beautiful and tragic history of this castles creation. I love that you can still go tp the upper floors of the castle that are not yet renovated and see the graffiti and signs of decay. The layout of the castle really tells a story and the classical music played in the background really adds to the immersion. There are also audio tours available. So much love was put into the original vision and execution of this project as well as the restoration. There are even heats all over the island. 10/10 would recommend spending a few hours here if you're ever visiting the area. read more

Always have to go see the castle. It's very beautiful and the boat ride over is breathtaking :) read more

Boldt Castle - Museums Near Me - Alexandria Bay, New York

My first trip to the 1000 islands would not be complete without a tour of this place! George C Boldt, millionaire and proprietor of the world famous Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City, set out to build a full size rhineland castle in Alexandria Bay, on picturesque Heart Island. The grandiose structure was to be a display of his love for his wife, Louise. Hearts are all over this island, it became a game to fu d as many as you could. The grounds are spectacular, well maintained with flowers and bushes everywhere. We started our tour at the children's playhouse and tower. Loved seeing where the bowling alley used to be. The main castle has several floors, from a tunnel with an indoor pool to suites, dining and kitchens. All set up to resemble what they looked like back on the day. I loved the balconies off some of the bedrooms. The tunnel takes you to the powerhouse. Very interesting to read and see the photos of the past. Absolutely stunning place to visit. They seem to be doing some work keeping up with renovations. read more

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Took a tour of Boldt Castle and it was very enjoyable. The history of this majestic castle is bitter sweet and a must see. At the turn-of-the-century, George C. Boldt, millionaire proprietor of the world famous Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City, set out to build a full size rhineland castle in Alexandria Bay, on picturesque Heart Island.  The structure was to be a display of his love for his wife, Louise. Beginning in 1900, the Boldt family spent summers in the 1000 Islands at the Boldt Family's Wellesley House near Mr. Boldt's Wellesley Island Farms while 300 workers including stonemasons, carpenters, and artists fashioned the six story, 120 room castle, complete with tunnels, a powerhouse, Italian gardens, a drawbridge, alster tower (children's playhouse) and a dove cote. Not a single detail or expense was spared. In January 1904, tragedy struck. Boldt telegraphed the island and commanded the workers to immediately "stop all construction." Louise had died suddenly. A broken hearted Boldt could not imagine his dream castle without his beloved. Boldt never returned to the island, leaving behind the structure as a monument of his love. One thing you have to realize about this castle....as opulent as the mansions are in Newport, Rhode Island, this castle was constructed on an island and not on the mainland. The views alone are amazing. What you'll witness, that was built by human hands, will leave you in awe. The ride out to the castle takes about 50 minutes and you'll pass many of the 1,000+ islands that encompass this gorgeous region. Once on the island, you'll have plenty of time to walk through the castle and surrounding grounds. You'll also be able to purchase food/beverages on site, as well. There are plenty of picnic tables and locations to enjoy your purchase. I hope that everyone will get to experience this worthwhile tour and appreciate the love that made this all possible. read more

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The progress being made on restoration is amazing! The history behind the making of the castle is very interesting! The castle grounds and views are stunning and the interior is fabulous! I have been here a few times over the years and the progress made is quite noticeable. read more

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What a beautiful story about millionaire George Boldt (Waldorf- Astoria Hotel) building this beautiful castle for his wife who sadly passed away (at 42) before it was finished, never to be occupied. Take the time while you're here to watch the 15 minute film (offered on the 2nd floor) to hear more details about their lives and the building process. Fast forward to today. Much of the castle has been completed and restored to it's original intended grandeur. There's so much to see besides the spectacular interior. Don't skip the higher floors to see how it was abandoned and then ruined by vandals. Check out the basement where the swimming pool is. Check out the playhouse with a bowling alley and theater. The grounds and gardens are beautiful. Check out all the hidden hearts everywhere. The treasures go on and on. We spent about 2 1/2 hours here but left because of a fast approaching storm, but honestly could have stayed longer. One of my favorite stops in a long time. Check it out. You won't be sorry. 2023-72 read more

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Went to Boldt Castle on a recent visit to Thousand Islands/Alexandra Bay. It's amazing how much they have done since starting restoration. The grounds outside the castle have lush gardens and with the exception of some areas on the top floor of the castle (still being restored), it looks like people could live there. It's fully furnished with period furnature. We took The Uncle Sam's tour boat out there and back. If you are looking for something different to do, this is it. read more

Boldt Castle - Museums Near Me - Alexandria Bay, New York

Who knew there was a castle that looks like it was straight out of Europe in upper state New York?!? This was an excellent ferry trip destination that was filled with great historical information. It was a great walking experience but I think it would be really tough for people who have a hard time with steps. read more

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The castle and its grounds are amazing. Wear comfy shoes because you'll be doing a lot of walking. read more

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Tragic love story behind this most impressive and lovely, fairytale castle in the most beautiful setting on the St. Lawrence River. The iconic landmark of the Thousand Islands. A must-see. You'll come away in awe of this incredible restored castle. I sure did- it exceeded my expectations! I could have spent all my vacation days in the Thousand Islands right here. Wish I had planned to arrive earlier in the day so I had more time to relish this beauty. The interior of the Castle is grand, opulent but classy. Over 100 rooms (not all are restored or open to the public) and maybe just as many fireplaces - just incredible. The landscape abutting the River, floral displays, water fountain, and greenery surrounding the Castle is breathtaking and sublime. I'm most definitely coming back to Heart Island to visit the Boldt Castle. Just want to soak it in! Current admission is $12.50 adult and $9.00 child (US dollar). Visit to the Yacht house is an extra fee. Short season to visit-May to October, don't miss it! read more

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The top thing to do when you visit the 1000 Islands and I see why. We were treated to a tour and private boat ride when we visited for a wedding. Block out some time and take a shuttle boat over to visit this gorgeous restored property. You probably need about 3 hours to get there and walk through. There are tours available and an extra excursion to the private yacht house as well if you are interested. There is a lot of history about the Boldt Family, the 1000 Islands area and the construction of the castle. read more

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I have been coming to Boldt castle since I was a little kid, so seeing it transform into what it is today is amazing. I remember walking around with the graffiti walls and open elevator shaft you could look down, etc. Thirty plus years of improvements is impressive. The story of the castle is always interesting and I enjoy exploring the castle and seeing all the improvements. Part of me misses seeing the original view of the castle and how it was left. I do hope they keep the plans Boldt had wanted. I still can't wait to see what they do with the top floors. we took our young son to the castle to show him and tell him the history. It will always be a place that I love visiting no matter how old I get read more

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Such a stunning castle, grounds, and landscape. I highly recommend touring this island! Start with watching the movie on the history of the castle. It's on the 2nd floor of the castle. Then you'll appreciate so much more as you walk around. Worth every penny! read more

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Beautiful. If you're in the Thousand Islands region, there's no reason not to go here. It's the defining attraction of the area - castle built as a Valentine's Day gift. The audio tour is extremely helpful. The staff is knowledgeable. Everything is very well maintained. The grounds are great for a gentle stroll. I'd go with back with other family members. read more

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Absolutely AMAZING!!! I would go back here with others just so they can experience it as well! Sunny who was the Playhouse tour guide was amazing! She knew a lot about the location and was very knowledgeable and helpful. Thank you for a wonderful experience! From Virginia read more

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We had a nice time touring Boldt Castle and spending a weekend in Alexandria Bay. The castle tour takes about an hour and a half. It's fun to be able to explore the castle and hear the story. They had a short video that we watched that was informative. It was a very hot day so touring the grounds wasn't too enjoyable because it was just too hot, but I think on a cooler day it would have been great to be able to spend more time looking at the land. The landscaping was gorgeous. It was fun to see how multiple floors were not renovated yet, while others were. Fun 3.5 hrs. trip from Buffalo. read more

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We had a great time exploring Boldt Castle! I am recovering from foot surgery and using a knee scooter and I was able to navigate most of the areas very well and take it all in. We came from a boat tour, but you can also reach the castle by driving to the Boldt Yacht House on Wellesley Island and using the shuttle to see the castle if you'd like a more leisurely visit. read more

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Amazing! Bridge port authority run - amazing! Have gone three times with as many boyfriends,.. can't wait to take my 4th! read more

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A must see. Beautiful grounds and the boat ride out to the island on the St. Lawrence River was very nice. read more

Boldt Castle - Entrance to Boldt Castle - Museums Near Me - Alexandria Bay, New York

We had a lot of fun here! It was confusing to plan though. Basically all you need to do is arrive at the Uncle Sam's Boat Tours and pay for a boat shuttle to the castle as well as castle admission and you're good to go - the website doesn't make this very clear. Note that Uncle Sam's also has an overflow lot a few miles outside of town which is RV friendly and they have a free shuttle bus going back and forth to bring people into town to catch the shuttle boats. You could easily spend several hours here. Multiple buildings to see and LOTS of rooms in the main castle to explore and learn about. Personally, I don't understand why people bring children here, especially in strollers, because it feels like a more grown up attraction to me. There aren't a ton of food and drink options (one inside the gate and one outside the gate). You can download the app to guide you on your self guided tour! I've learned this is pretty common up north, but don't expect air conditioning. We were still comfortable for the most part, but I wouldn't recommend going on a hot day. read more

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Absolutely you should take a trip to Boltcastle in the history of this wonderful love story that never never came to fruition. Take a look at all the renovations and all the work that's gone and restoring this place I learned something about the local area you're in. read more

Beautiful castle and interesting story I was amazed at the grounds and architecture of Boldt Castle on Heart Island. Well worth the time and money. The castle is beautiful! Each room has its own personality, with beautiful draperies and exquisite furnishings. Even the ceilings were uniquely designed for each room. The main staircase is quite a structure alone. The architecture is amazing and there is such an interesting story behind the home. Make sure you have adequate time to explore the main house and the grounds and other buildings. Bolt Castle is worth the trip to the Thousand Islands alone. The entry fee is only $8-10. So quite low. The castle, with its 365 windows, is stunningly beautiful. As an aside, the Boldt Yacht House is a tour worthy add-on. Just a short shuttle ride from the castle grounds it's a building worth seeing. Built-in 1903 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. There is a love story as well. The castle was built as a summer home for his wife who passed away before the castle was completed. Mr. Boldt was so grief-stricken, he stopped the construction and the castle was never completed. There is a lovely heart shaped garden that reminds us of the original intent of the structure. Bolt Castle is a worthy place for a visit and the camera loves this place. read more

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Even during Covid this is a great place to visit. They have taken many measures to ensure everyone's safety while visiting the island. I saw no less than 5 locations offering hand sanitizer. Watched the video and all chairs were properly space. Download app to listen to the info provided at many locations through the castle. It's a great place to tour and the Clayton Island tour gave us 1.5 hours to tour. read more

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BEaytifully restored castle located on the St Lawerence River in Alexandria Bay, NY part of Thousand Islands. Uncle Sam Boat Tours were phenomenal in service and price...shuttles ran from 10 am to 6 pm plus your tour admission to castle for $19.50...toured and explored on self guided tour for 2 1/2 hours great deal. read more

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Interesting location with an interesting history. We came while in town to check it out and thought it was interesting. The castle is only minimally restored, but the areas completely restored are really well done. The exterior architecture is unique (read - odd) and the story about the castle is intriguing. I don't think it was interesting enough to return again, but I could see that it's worth the trip to learn a little about the history of 1000 Islands region. In fact, not including this as part of the story would be lacking. It's also clear that they genuinely are trying to keep things progressively toward restoration, which must be incredibly challenging based on costs and logistics since it's in an island. read more

Absolutely stunning from start to finish! The boat ride over was wonderful! We used uncle Sams. The castle is beautiful as you approach it and the grounds are absolutely gorgeous! First thing we did after getting off the boat was get some Hershey's ice cream and it was delicious and a very large scoop for $2.50! I recommend at least three hours to tour everything. This way you're not rushed through as there is so much detail to look at! The moldings in the woodwork inside the castle are absolutely breathtaking! The guest castle blew our mind! There's even a bowling alley in it! In the castle there is an inground swimming pool. I know they never lived there but boy what a life it would've been had they! Highly recommend visiting if you are in the thousand Islands region. The cost of admission is really reasonable and although you have to pay for a ferry to get there it's very reasonable as well. We will definitely be back to visit again! Oh and you must see the Yacht House too! It is so huge! And full of antique boats. You also get to see how the caretaker lived which was very nice! read more

Boldt Castle - Boldt Castle from the Yacht House - Museums Near Me - Alexandria Bay, New York

8-13-19 Beautiful from the outside. First couple floors are beautiful. The upper levels are just all torn up. The castle was vacant 30 years and people came in and vandalized it. They are in the process of remodeling it all. Gonna take a long time. You are free to roam the whole castle. If you have never been to a castle it would be great. Make sure to add on the boat house across the water. read more

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I hate to be "that person" and leave a bad review, but I feel like I should be honest about my experience visiting Boldt Castle during the COVID-19 pandemic. The reason I'm leaving this review is because mask policies and social distancing policies were not properly enforced at Boldt Castle on 07/18/20. If it hadn't been for that, I would give a 5-star review; the castle and grounds are absolutely gorgeous and well-kept. Anyway, here are my reasons for the one-star review: -Although there are signs that state that masks must be worn inside the buildings on the island, the policy was not enforced. Once we got inside the castle and other buildings it on the island, plenty of patrons inside did not have masks on, or their masks were not worn properly (ie. masks being worn under the nose, on the chin, around the neck, etc.). We saw a worker standing right next to two patrons who were not wearing masks, but in the ten or so minutes we were in that area, we did not see the worker tell them to put their masks back on. -The biggest issue I witnessed inside the castle regarding masks was in the theater during the fifteen-minute film. Thirteen out of the eighteen people inside the theater (a small, enclosed room) were not wearing their masks, or were wearing them under their noses or on their chins. I'm sorry, but that is NOT safe in an enclosed area during a pandemic. One man without a mask was standing about arms-length away from me (certainly not six feet) and the attendant saw him there but did not tell him to find an empty seat or stand at a safer distance. The attendant came into the theater partway through the film and did not tell the patrons to put their masks back on until AFTER the film ended. -Social distancing was also not enforced in the line to enter/exit the theater. People were standing much closer than 6 feet in line. There were no markers on the floor to designate a 6 foot distance in the area where people lined up to enter the theater, so people packed together in line. -Social distancing was not enforced in the lines to board the shuttle off the island, either. I would say there were at least sixty people standing right next to each other (probably a foot or two away from each other) in the line for the shuttle off the island. Many of them were not wearing masks. My family and I had chosen Boldt Castle as a fun day trip because we'd read on their website that they were doing all they can to ensure the safety of their guests during the pandemic. I am sorry to say that the Boldt Castle staff really dropped the ball. We thought it would be a safe, fun trip (we kept our masks on, even outside), but now we are left to worry if we've been exposed to the virus due to the carelessness of other patrons and the staff at Boldt Castle. read more

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This castle is a must-see if you're in the 1,000 Islands area. It's on Heart Island and is accessible only by boat. Admission prices are reasonable. It has a super depressing love story background. George Boldt wanted to build the castle for the love of his life, Louise, so his contractors were all happily building away with the finest items the world could offer ... and then a couple weeks before her birthday (when he was to present the finished product to her), she suddenly died. Boldt then told his men to cease all work, and they left the island. George never returned to Heart Island, they say. Sad music here. Seventy years went by and then the Thousand Islands Bridge Authority took ownership. Since then, they've been restoring away, room by room. So that part is nice. They were actually working on the children's playhouse while we were there. Spoiled rich kids, they sure were! They were to have a bowling alley and all. Walking through this half elaborate-half a work in progress stunning structure is an experience of its own. I definitely recommend checking out the theater room to learn more about the Boldt family story. It's surprisingly a pretty interesting short film! This is the type of place where children visit for field trip days (ahem, the day I was there..), but it's a great day trip for all ages. read more

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This Visit to Bolts Castle was Special!!! I really liked the story and history of Bolts Castle. It's real and inspiring! My favorite part of Bolts Castle was the Dovecote and Italian Gardens! Talk about a #1 rated wedding spot!!! The drawbridge, floral landscape, and sculptures are beautiful together. Bolt's Yacht house is a must see! A whole collection of boats. My overall experience was amazing! read more

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Such a beautiful and scenic place. Definitely worth the money. Bring good shoes it is a little bit of walking. I do give them a lot of praise for their handicap accessibility. Everyone should be able to enjoy this beauty, kudos to Boldt castle. read more

A favorite of mine. My mom first brought me here when I was a teenager. So nice to see the changes and improvements. Was happy to being my boyfriends girls here and they loved it. Will gladly return for many years to come. read more

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Beautiful restoration of an architectural masterpiece. The grounds were immaculate and well landscaped. Well with the price of admission. They offer a free self guided tour trough a phone app. read more

08/27/2022 This review is focused on the "Castle Cafe and Hot Dog Stand". As a cooks and sanitation EXPERTS (my wife and I), we had the joy of taking a river tour. We stopped at the castle and were ready for some lunch. One person in our party (of 5) ordered french fries which came in not fully cooked, cold and greasy. I told him to return the fries. The "older lady" at the counter took them and brought them to the what seemed to be a disgruntled lady cook. What took place next left me in HORROR. The "counter lady" (with no gloves) reached in my friends french fries, ate one, then went in for another! Then had the audacity to say "they were fine" ???? HUH? I proceeded to tell my wife not to eat there and explained to her what I had just seen. We're "Serve Safe" educators/proctors and have restaurant food safety and handling at the top of our list. This is one MAJOR reason we don't like eating out and in this case, right before my very eyes witnessed what is a MAJOR health and safety issue. The Lewis County Health Department will be notified however; on their website, the reviews seem to be equally ignored. Pity. read more

Very disappointing experience. For three, tickets with a very short boat ride, it was $61. The 3rd and 4th levels were closed and so was much of the other areas. The castle was remodeled during the 2000s and a lot of it isn't historically accurate, I know this because I live in a house built during that era. The side walks were full of moldy duck and bird poop, full of weeds, and very uneven. It is not handicap accessible and would be bad if you have any medical conditions from back and knee problems or respiratory issues. The staff was unhelpful and only handed us a map, there was only one older gentleman that was welcoming. They also literally dust off metal gates outdoors but don't clean up bird feces all over the sidewalks. The signs are also good unclear. One will say enter and when you walk up two steps it says do not enter. Very disappointing and not worth the money. read more

Absolutely beautiful. Wonderful thing to do when visiting the Thousand Islands. Fantastic history and beautiful restoration. read more

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"A castle built to honor one mans love. Darling, we need to have a serious chat!" A majestic home, built for love, and located on the most beautiful setting imaginable. This you gotta see. The home itself comprises the main castle, the power house, dove cote, adult 'playhouse', and some truly incredible grounds. The inside is in the process of being renovated with the first two floors currently completed. And what a renovation it is, with a fire burning in the magnificent fire place in the Grand Hall, it's a sight to behold. WOW! However, what made this home even more fascinating were the floors that weren't yet renovated. In our experience most historic buildings in the process of renovations don't allow visitors access to the 'works in process'. That isn't the case here and what a smart thing to do. Allowing visitors a dynamic look at the buildings potential and ensuring a real appreciation of the labor of love that's bringing this home back to life. As an aside, the Boldt Yacht House is a tour worthy add on. Just a short shuttle ride from the castle grounds it's a building worth seeing. Built in 1903 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Housing some of George Boldts' price collection of boats, which are works of art in their own right, this building is magnificent and worth seeing! There are several options for ticket prices: $9 just for the self-guided house tour, $12 dollars which includes entrance to the boat house *yea you gotta do it, and $22 buys you the self-guided, boat house, and a souvenir audio tour that allows visitors to get all the behind the scenes details. We went for broke and did the larger package mainly because we've realized when walking through historic buildings/museums audio tours are a great way to get a more in-depth experience. As a side note, the audio tours were just added this year, and they're single use. We'd highly recommend to management a more recyclable or reusable method of delivery instead. Special Notes: Plan on spending at least 2 hours here and if the weather is good,bring a lunch/snack as picnic opportunities abound. There is food to purchase at the concession area on the boat dock, but the food leaves a LOT to be desired. The Uncle Sam's company in Alexandria Bay offers shuttle service through the day, so you can spend as much time as you'd like! read more

Boldt Castle - Beautiful Stained Glass over the Grand Hall. WOW! - Museums Near Me - Alexandria Bay, New York

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Beautiful spot to spend the day on the River. Plenty of history to explore all across the grounds, and comfortable shady spots to take it all in. Perfect date location. read more

While on the ferry you can already see the picturesque beauty of Hart Island. Before coming here read the history about the place so you can appreciate it a little more. Upon arriving at the dock you have to pay for admission. $8.50 for adults if you want to just check out the island and the Boldt castle's interior, and $11.50 of you want to include the yacht house that houses antique yachts which is in another island. Beautifully manicured lawns. They really spent a lot of money and time to restore this place to the magnificence it was suppose to have. Great place for weddings or just to take engagement pictures. You can bring your own food too and have picnics at the grounds. read more

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Absolutely stunning castle sitting in the 1000 islands area near Brockville, Canada. I saw this from a charter cruise around the islands and I highly recommend you do the same! Random tip, eh: You need a passport to enter this small island, as US border patrol deems this island worth checking, while the majority of the southern US border goes unchecked (and it's attached to the actual USA). read more

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