Fort Drum in Jefferson County, New York, may be stereotyped as the coldest place in America. At least that's what I heard before I moved here. I promise you, there are so many fun things to do near Ft. Drum in the spring and summer
Once it starts to heat up and the snow melts, it's like a totally different place! Here are a few of my favorite things to do in the North Country:
Uncle Sam's Boat Tours: There are a couple of different tours you can choose from. We've taken the Millionaires Row and Two Nation Tour. You'll cruise the 1,000 Islands as history is narrated and you travel through US and Canadian waters. The houses you see are unreal! There are also luncheon and dinner cruise options as well.
{Aboard Uncle Sam's Boat Tour}
Boldt Castel: Located on Heart Island in Alexandria Bay, you can either take a ferry over to see the castle by itself, or conclude your Uncle Sam's Boat Tour here. It's filled with rooms, tunnels and luxurious pieces. There is so much history surrounding it's origin and I highly recommend checking it out for yourself. Sackets Harbor: Also a little town near the water, Sackets Harbor is filled with restaurants and other little shops. There's Sackets Harbor Brewing Company, Lake Ontario Playhouse , and the best breakfast place I've ever eaten, Tin Pan Galley.
{Sackets Harbor Sunset}
Splash parks: On post, there are two splash parks for the children to cool off during the hot and humid days. There are buckets, squirt guns, and water fun galore!
Drive-Ins: There are two drive-ins located near Fort Drum; Alexandria Bay (45 min) and Black River (5 min). We've have not been to the one in Black River but we LOVE the one Alexandria Bay. There are two screens that each play two back to back features, as well as a fully stocked snack bar. Tickets are very reasonably priced and we love the ability to take our little one with us!
Wescott Beach State Park: Some might not consider this a "real beach" since it's on Lake Ontario instead of an ocean, however it's a great compromise and it's the next best thing. This beach offers public access, picnic areas, and volleyball courts. It's a short drive past Sackets Harbor but if you're looking for a "summer" experience, this is your go-to.
Wineries: Although upstate New York wouldn't be pegged as "Wine Country", there are a TON of wineries around the Thousand Islands region. One of my favorite wines is from Thousand Islands Winery, and although I've never been to the actual winery, I'm hoping to get there this spring! If you're interested in the all of the wineries in the area, be sure to visit the Thousand Islands Seaway-Wine Trail website.
White Water Rafting: The Black River runs right outside post and is full of fun for all ages! I've been dying to go white water rafting, but you can also go kayaking, mountain biking, and so much more! Check out more info on that here.
Farmers' Markets: One of my favorite things about living here is the Farmers' Markets in the spring and summer. Different vendors and farmers bring fresh produce, bakery, breads, etc along with craftsmen of all sorts. I love fresh fruits and veggies and I can always find a unique gift for friends and family.
As you can see, each post can be what you make it. There are a ton of different options and adventures for you to take, you just have to keep an open mind and ask around! Hope you'll take a look at a few of these for yourself!
Other Resources:
Find more fun things to do, read our on and off base review for Ft Drum!
