Hey guys! Planning a trip to the beautiful Alexandria Bay in New York? That's awesome! This charming village, nestled in the heart of the 1000 Islands, is a gem. But before you can soak in the stunning views and explore the islands, you gotta get there, right? Don't worry; I'm here to help. This guide will give you detailed directions to Alexandria Bay, plus some handy travel tips to make your journey smooth and enjoyable. Whether you're driving, flying, or considering other modes of transport, I've got you covered. So, buckle up and let’s get started on planning your trip to this amazing destination!

Driving Directions to Alexandria Bay

Okay, let's dive into the most common way to reach Alexandria Bay: driving! Whether you're coming from the east, west, north, or south, I'll break down the routes for you. Knowing the best route will save you time and stress, leaving you more energy to enjoy your vacation. You might want to use your favorite GPS app like Google Maps, Waze, or Apple Maps. But keep in mind that cell service can be spotty in certain rural areas, so it's always a good idea to have a backup plan, like a printed map or downloaded offline maps. Trust me, it’s better to be safe than sorry!

From the East (e.g., Syracuse, NY)

If you're driving from Syracuse, NY, or any other point east of Alexandria Bay, here’s the lowdown:

1. Start by hopping on I-81 North. This is your main artery, and it’s a pretty straightforward drive.
2. Stay on I-81 North for a good stretch, about 120 miles. Enjoy the scenery as you cruise through upstate New York.
3. Take Exit 49 for NY-12 toward Alexandria Bay/Clayton. Keep an eye out for this exit; it’s easy to miss if you’re not paying attention.
4. Merge onto NY-12 North. Follow NY-12 for approximately 7 miles. This scenic route will give you a taste of the 1000 Islands region.
5. As you approach Alexandria Bay, follow the signs to the village center. You'll arrive right in the heart of the action!

The total drive time from Syracuse is usually around 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic and any stops you make along the way. It's a good idea to check traffic conditions before you leave, especially during peak travel times.

From the West (e.g., Rochester, NY)

Coming from Rochester, NY, or points west? Here’s how to get to Alexandria Bay:

1. Get on I-90 East (New York State Thruway). This is the major east-west highway in New York.
2. Drive east on I-90 until you reach Exit 36 for I-81 North toward Watertown. This is a crucial exit, so don't miss it!
3. Merge onto I-81 North and continue for about 70 miles.
4. Take Exit 49 for NY-12 toward Alexandria Bay/Clayton. Just like if you were coming from the east, this is your exit to the village.
5. Merge onto NY-12 North. Follow NY-12 for approximately 7 miles until you reach Alexandria Bay.

The drive from Rochester typically takes around 3 to 3.5 hours, depending on traffic. The Thruway can get busy, especially during summer weekends, so plan accordingly.

From the South (e.g., New York City)

If you're embarking on a road trip from New York City or other southern locations, get ready for a longer haul:

1. Take I-87 North (New York State Thruway) toward Albany.
2. Continue on I-87 North to I-90 West toward Buffalo.
3. Merge onto I-90 West and follow it to I-81 North.
4. Take I-81 North to Exit 49 for NY-12 toward Alexandria Bay/Clayton.
5. Merge onto NY-12 North and follow the signs to Alexandria Bay.

This journey can take anywhere from 6 to 8 hours, depending on traffic and how often you stop. It’s a long drive, so consider breaking it up with an overnight stay along the way. Albany or Syracuse could be good halfway points.

From the North (e.g., Ottawa, Canada)

For those coming from the north, like Ottawa, Canada:

1. Take ON-401 East toward Gananoque.
2. Exit onto Thousand Islands Parkway.
3. Follow the Parkway to the customs border crossing at the 1000 Islands Bridge.
4. After crossing into the U.S., you’ll be on I-81 South.
5. Take Exit 50 for NY-12E toward Alexandria Bay.
6. Follow NY-12E into Alexandria Bay.

Make sure to have your passport and any necessary documentation for crossing the border. The drive from Ottawa is usually around 2 to 2.5 hours, but border crossing times can vary.

Flying to Alexandria Bay

Okay, so driving isn't your thing? No worries! Flying is another option, although it requires a little more planning. The closest major airport to Alexandria Bay is Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR). From there, you’ll need to rent a car and drive to Alexandria Bay.

Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR)

SYR is about a 2 to 2.5-hour drive from Alexandria Bay. All major rental car companies operate out of the Syracuse Airport, so you’ll have plenty of options. Once you have your rental car, follow the driving directions from the east (as described above) to reach Alexandria Bay.

Other Airport Options

Another option, though slightly further away, is Watertown International Airport (ART). This airport is serviced by Boutique Air with flights to and from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI).

Other Transportation Options

Alright, let's talk about some other ways to get to Alexandria Bay. While they might not be as common as driving or flying, they're still worth considering, especially if you're looking for a unique travel experience.

Train

Unfortunately, Alexandria Bay doesn't have a direct train station. The closest Amtrak station is in Syracuse. From there, you would need to rent a car or use a ride-sharing service to complete your journey to Alexandria Bay. This option might be a bit cumbersome, but it could be a good choice if you enjoy train travel and don't mind the extra steps.

Bus

Similar to train travel, there isn't a direct bus route that takes you right into Alexandria Bay. You could take a Greyhound or Trailways bus to a nearby city like Watertown or Syracuse, and then find alternate transportation to Alexandria Bay. Again, this might involve renting a car, taking a taxi, or using a ride-sharing service. It's definitely doable, but it requires some extra planning and coordination.

Ride-Sharing Services

Services like Uber and Lyft are available in the larger cities surrounding Alexandria Bay, such as Syracuse and Watertown. However, finding a ride directly to Alexandria Bay might be challenging, especially during off-peak seasons. You might have better luck arranging a ride in advance or coordinating with a local driver. Keep in mind that ride-sharing availability can be unpredictable in more rural areas.

Essential Travel Tips for Alexandria Bay

Before you hit the road, here are some essential travel tips to keep in mind for your trip to Alexandria Bay:

• Check the Weather: The weather in the 1000 Islands region can be unpredictable, especially during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall). Be sure to check the forecast before you go and pack accordingly. Layers are always a good idea!
• Book Accommodation in Advance: Alexandria Bay is a popular tourist destination, especially during the summer months. To ensure you get your preferred accommodation, book well in advance. This is especially important if you're traveling during peak season or a major event.
• Pack Bug Spray: Mosquitoes and other biting insects can be prevalent in the area, especially near the water. Pack plenty of bug spray to keep those pesky critters at bay.
• Bring Your Camera: With its stunning scenery and charming atmosphere, Alexandria Bay is a photographer's dream. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture all those memorable moments. And be sure to share your photos on social media using #AlexandriaBay!
• Explore the 1000 Islands: No trip to Alexandria Bay is complete without exploring the 1000 Islands. Take a boat tour, go kayaking, or visit one of the many islands that are open to the public. Each island has its own unique charm and history.

Wrapping Up

So there you have it – a comprehensive guide to getting to Alexandria Bay, NY! Whether you choose to drive, fly, or explore other transportation options, I hope this information has been helpful in planning your trip. Alexandria Bay is a truly special place, and I'm sure you'll have an amazing time exploring all that it has to offer. Safe travels, and I'll see you in the 1000 Islands!