Boldt Castle, located on Heart Island in the Thousand Islands | Photo from the Boldt Castle Website
Few places in New York are as closely associated with the water as Jefferson County. Home to a significant portion of the famed Thousand Islands Region, the county serves as a gateway to the St. Lawrence River and some of the state’s most recognizable waterfront destinations. Communities such as Alexandria Bay, Clayton, and Sackets Harbor have long welcomed visitors drawn by the area’s islands, river views, and maritime heritage.
Among the county’s most iconic attractions is Boldt Castle, the historic island estate located on Heart Island. Accessible only by boat, the castle has become one of the Thousand Islands’ best-known landmarks and offers visitors a unique glimpse into the region’s history. Beyond Boldt Castle, the St. Lawrence River provides endless opportunities for sightseeing, recreational boating, fishing, paddling, and touring the many islands that give the region its name.
While the waterfront often takes center stage, Jefferson County’s communities contribute just as much to its identity. Watertown, the county seat, serves as a regional hub for commerce, culture, and community life. Its historic downtown features local shops, restaurants, museums, and public spaces that remain active throughout the year. Nearby Sackets Harbor preserves important chapters of New York’s military history, while historical societies and museums across the county help tell the story of life along the St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario.
For decades, Fort Drum has been an important part of America’s military strength, helping ensure our armed forces remain prepared to respond wherever they are needed. Its continued role as home to the 10th Mountain Division reflects the installation’s lasting importance to military readiness and effectiveness.
Together, the Thousand Islands, historic communities, and waterfront landscapes create an experience unlike anywhere else in New York State. We’re pleased to feature Jefferson County in this month’s Member Spotlight and highlight the destinations and traditions that continue to make it one of northern New York’s most recognizable regions.
