Gananoque, Gateway town to Thousand Islands in Ontario, Canada
Gananoque sits at the meeting point of the St. Lawrence River and the Gananoque River, giving the town access to multiple water routes in the region. The downtown area spreads along the waterfront, with marinas and boat launches serving visitors looking to explore the islands and waterways.
Colonel Joel Stone founded the town in 1789 after receiving land for his service with the Loyalist militia during the American Revolution. The settlement grew from this founding into a trading post that connected the St. Lawrence River route to inland markets.
The Thousand Islands Playhouse hosts performances throughout the year that draw crowds from across the wider region. These shows reflect the town's role as a cultural gathering place for the surrounding area.
Highway 401 runs nearby, making it easy to reach from larger towns across Ontario. Boat rentals, restaurants, and shops line the waterfront and are within walking distance of the main downtown area.
The name Gananoque comes from an indigenous word meaning water flowing over rocks, a reference to the rapids and currents that shaped the local rivers. This connection between the town's name and its natural setting is something many visitors discover while exploring the waterfront.
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