Alright, guys, planning a trip to the beautiful Alexandria Bay in New York? Awesome choice! This charming village, nestled in the heart of the Thousand Islands, is a gem. But before you can soak in the stunning views and explore the St. Lawrence River, you need to figure out how to get there. No sweat! This guide will give you all the essential directions and tips to make your journey smooth and stress-free. Whether you're driving, flying, or taking public transport, we've got you covered. So, buckle up and let's get started on your adventure to Alexandria Bay!

Driving Directions to Alexandria Bay

Driving is probably the most common way to get to Alexandria Bay, and it offers the flexibility to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace. Depending on where you're coming from, you'll likely be using a combination of major highways and scenic local roads. Let's break down the directions from a few key locations:

From New York City:

If you're embarking on a road trip from the Big Apple, here’s what you need to know:

1. Start on I-95 N: Get on I-95 North towards New Haven.
2. Merge onto I-87 N: Continue onto I-87 North, also known as the New York State Thruway.
3. Take Exit 36 for I-81 N: Merge onto I-81 North towards Watertown.
4. Take Exit 50N for NY-12 N: Follow NY-12 North towards Alexandria Bay.
5. Arrive in Alexandria Bay: Continue on NY-12 N until you reach the village. You'll find it well-signposted.

The entire trip is approximately 300-350 miles and usually takes around 5-6 hours, traffic permitting. Remember to factor in breaks for food and rest stops along the way. The journey itself is quite scenic as you approach the Thousand Islands region, offering glimpses of the Adirondack Mountains and the St. Lawrence River. Keep an eye out for charming small towns and roadside attractions.

From Syracuse, NY:

For those driving from Syracuse, the route is relatively straightforward:

1. Take I-81 N: Head north on I-81 towards Watertown.
2. Take Exit 49 for US-11 N: Follow US-11 North towards Watertown.
3. Merge onto NY-12 N: Follow NY-12 North towards Alexandria Bay.
4. Arrive in Alexandria Bay: Continue on NY-12 N until you reach the village.

This trip is much shorter, usually taking around 2-2.5 hours, covering a distance of about 120 miles. It’s a pretty drive, especially as you get closer to the St. Lawrence River. Be sure to check out the local diners and ice cream spots along the way for a taste of upstate New York.

From Ottawa, Canada:

If you're coming from our neighbors to the north, here's how to get to Alexandria Bay:

1. Take ON-416 S: Head south on ON-416 towards the Ogdensburg-Prescott International Bridge.
2. Cross the Ogdensburg-Prescott International Bridge: After crossing the bridge, you'll be in Ogdensburg, New York.
3. Take NY-37 S to NY-12 S: Follow NY-37 South to NY-12 South towards Alexandria Bay.
4. Arrive in Alexandria Bay: Continue on NY-12 S until you reach the village.

This drive usually takes around 2-3 hours, depending on border crossing times. Make sure you have all your necessary documents for crossing the border. Once you’re in the US, the drive to Alexandria Bay is quite scenic, with beautiful views of the St. Lawrence River. Don't forget to enjoy the duty-free shopping at the border!

Flying to Alexandria Bay

While Alexandria Bay doesn't have its own commercial airport, the closest option is Watertown International Airport (ART), which is about a 30-40 minute drive away. From there, you can rent a car or take a taxi/rideshare to reach Alexandria Bay. Here’s a breakdown:

Watertown International Airport (ART):

Watertown International Airport is serviced by Cape Air, with connections to Boston. While it's not a major airport, it offers a convenient option if you prefer flying closer to your destination. From the airport, you can:

• Rent a Car: Several car rental companies operate at the airport, giving you the flexibility to explore the region.
• Taxi or Rideshare: Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are available, but it’s always a good idea to check availability and pricing in advance.

Another option is Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR), which is a larger airport with more flight options. However, it’s about a 2-hour drive from Alexandria Bay.

Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR):

Syracuse Airport is a larger hub with more flight options. If you find a better deal or prefer a wider range of flight times, this might be a good choice. From Syracuse, you can:

• Rent a Car: Pick up a rental car at the airport and enjoy the scenic drive to Alexandria Bay.
• Shuttle Services: Some shuttle services offer transportation from Syracuse Airport to the Thousand Islands region, but these should be booked in advance.

Public Transportation to Alexandria Bay

Public transportation to Alexandria Bay is limited, but not impossible. The most feasible option involves a combination of bus and taxi services. Here’s how you can make it work:

Bus Services:

Greyhound and Trailways are two major bus companies that serve the region. You can take a bus to a nearby city like Watertown and then take a taxi or rideshare to Alexandria Bay. This option requires careful planning and coordination, as taxi/rideshare availability in Watertown can be limited, especially during off-peak hours.

Train Services:

Unfortunately, Alexandria Bay doesn't have a train station. The closest Amtrak station is in Syracuse, which, as mentioned earlier, is about a 2-hour drive away. If you’re a fan of train travel, you could take the train to Syracuse and then rent a car or arrange for a shuttle to Alexandria Bay. However, this would add considerable time and cost to your journey.

Tips for Your Trip to Alexandria Bay

Now that you know how to get to Alexandria Bay, here are a few extra tips to make your trip even better:

• Check the Weather: The weather in upstate New York can be unpredictable, so 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, so it's best to book your accommodation well in advance to avoid disappointment.
• Plan Activities: There's plenty to see and do in Alexandria Bay, from boat tours of the Thousand Islands to exploring historic Boldt Castle. Plan your activities in advance to make the most of your time.
• Pack Essentials: Don't forget essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, comfortable shoes, and a camera to capture all the beautiful scenery.
• Enjoy the Local Cuisine: Alexandria Bay has a variety of restaurants and eateries serving everything from fresh seafood to classic American fare. Be sure to try some of the local specialties!

Conclusion

So there you have it – your comprehensive guide to getting to Alexandria Bay, New York! Whether you're driving, flying, or braving public transport, with a little planning, you can reach this stunning destination with ease. Once you arrive, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking scenery, charming small-town vibes, and a plethora of activities to enjoy. Get ready to explore the Thousand Islands, soak up the sun, and create unforgettable memories. Safe travels, and see you in Alexandria Bay!