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    Recommended Reviews - Boldt Castle

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    Jose P.

    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.

    Pool
    Brooke F.

    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.

    Map of island
    Linda M.

    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

    Frank M.

    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.

    Angela B.

    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.

    Louise Boldt's bedroom

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

    Kinnie I.

    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!

    Crystal G.

    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.

    Katie M.

    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

    Sarah T.

    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!

    Eric C.

    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.

    Jenn W.

    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

    Jen E.

    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.

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