As exciting as all of New York’s big and bustling cities may be, there’s nothing quite like taking the time to truly explore our state’s small towns. Within every region of the Empire State, you can find all sorts of quaint little destinations that have so much to offer, but there’s one place, in particular, that’s situated right along the water and will steal your heart away. Some might even say that this is one of the best small towns in New York. If you’re ready to plan your next waterfront getaway, keep scrolling to see why you’ll want to visit Alexandria Bay In New York.

Situated up along the St. Lawrence River in the heart of New York's Thousand Islands Region, the small village of Alexandria Bay is one of the most breathtaking destinations that you'll ever have the pleasure of exploring.
Duncan Rawlinson - Duncan.co/Flickr
While you'll find plenty of amazing towns to visit in New York that reside along the St. Lawrence River, there's nothing like paying Alexandria Bay (population 1,000) a visit - and all it takes is one trip to see why!
For residents and out-of-state friends who have never explored this region of New York, one of your first stops can be to head on over to the North Country Welcome Center.
North Country Welcome Center/Facebook
The North Country Welcome Center has its own iconic 'I Love New York' sign situated out front that your whole family can take pictures with, as well as a Taste NY Market inside where you can shop for all sorts of locally-made goods, and of course, you'll find plenty of information on the Thousand Islands at the ready here.

To find out more, click here.
Out of all the attractions that you can visit within the village of Alexandria Bay, you'll frequently hear people talking about Heart Island and Boldt Castle.
Gary Paakkonen/Flickr
A historic gem of not only the Thousands Islands but all of New York State, Boldt Castle can be found out on Heart Island and is one of the most romantic attractions that you'll ever visit. All of Heart Island is well-kept and landscaped as though it was plucked right out of a fairytale, with tours available of the castle available during select times throughout the year.

To find out more, click here.

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If you're someone who's seeking out an attraction that offers a bit more excitement and you're ready to experience unforgettable fun with the whole family, then the next stop you'll want to make in town is over to the Alex Bay 500 Go-Karts - the longest go-kart track in our state!
Alex Bay 500 Go-Karts/Google
That's right, all the way up in Alexandria Bay is where you'll find New York State's longest go-kart track and boy is it fun to go for a ride on!

To find out more, click here.
While you'll find plenty of places to visit in town, like restaurants and shops that are right out near the water, there's nothing quite like getting out onto the water with one of the area's local boat tours.
Uncle Sam Boat Tours/Facebook
Thanks to local companies like Uncle Sam Boat Tours, you can get out onto the St. Lawrence River and explore the area's breathtaking scenery from out on the water. You can't make a trip to this riverfront village without enjoying one of these boat tours!

To find out more, click here.
Last but not least, when the sun begins to set and you're wondering what else there is to do in town before you head back home, consider enjoying the timeless activity that is visiting the Bay Drive-In Theatre!
jmedley38/Google
That's right, the village of Alexandria Bay truly has it all! Right along NY-26, the Bay Drive-In Theatre is officially open for the year and ready to welcome visitors. So, what're you waiting for?

To find out more, click here.

So, what do you think about Alexandria Bay as one of the best small towns in New York? Have you ever visited this small town? Make sure to share with us your experience in the comments section!

If you’re ready to spend more time by the water here in the Empire State, then be sure to also check out this article: Follow The River On This Simple 2-Mile Hike Through The Woods In New York!

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More to Explore

Best Small Towns In New York

Marisa Roman | August 09, 2021

What are the most charming small towns in New York?

When you visit Alexandria Bay in New York, you’ll realize just how amazing some of these small towns truly are. There is nothing like taking a trip and exploring the more quaint side of the Empire State. In fact, we have a list of the most charming small towns in New York to start planning a trip. Have you ever been to Aurora on the shores of Cayuga Lake? How about one of New York’s most iconic towns - Woodstock?

What is the most naturally beautiful town in New York?

Anyone who wants to escape the city life and explore a more natural side of New York should check out the scenic town of Ticonderoga. Located on the eastern border of our Adirondack Park, this incredible town is surrounded by natural beauty. Actually, many people flock to this small town because of Fort Ticonderoga, America’s Most Historic Landscape.

What are the most unique things to do in New York?

Out of all of the things to do in New York from the cityscapes to the mountains, what are a few unique things that remain out-of-the-box? We love the attractions that are NY-specific, like the weird and wonderful places that you can’t find anywhere else. For example, Prophet Isaiah's Second Coming House in Niagara Falls is an attraction that will certainly catch your eye. Or how about the upside-down traffic light in Tipperary Hill? Check out these unusual unique things to do in New York that will certainly be an experience.

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Alexandria Bay, NY, USA