Gananoque Inn and Spa Getaway Packages for a Perfect Break

Located in the picturesque town of Gananoque, Ontario, The Gananoque Inn and Spa offers a historic setting along the St. Lawrence River in the heart of the Thousand Islands. With its waterfront location, distinctive accommodations, and on-site dining, the inn has long been an option for travellers looking for a getaway close to home.

I haven’t stayed at the inn in a while, but my husband and I have fond memories of celebrating our 23rd wedding anniversary there. We spent two nights at the property, enjoyed dinner at Muskie Jake’s Tap & Grill, and experienced the warm hospitality that made our anniversary weekend memorable.

This review reflects our experience during that visit. Room features, services, dining arrangements, and prices may have changed since then, so I recommend checking the inn’s website before planning a stay.

A Look at the Gananoque Inn’s History

The Gananoque Inn is a historic property with roots in the town’s industrial past. The building originated as a carriage factory before becoming an inn, and the property has welcomed travellers for generations. The inn identifies its hospitality history as dating back to 1896.

Its character is part of the appeal. Rather than a modern chain hotel, the property offers a collection of rooms with different layouts and features, along with views of the surrounding gardens and waterfront.

During our visit, I enjoyed learning about the inn’s history and seeing how its older character contributed to the atmosphere. For travellers who appreciate historic accommodations, this is one of the things that makes the property distinctive.

A Waterfront Location in the Thousand Islands

One of the inn’s most appealing features is its location on the St. Lawrence River. The waterfront setting provides a lovely backdrop for a relaxing getaway, while the town’s attractions are close enough to make exploring convenient.

The Gananoque Boat Line is a popular option for visitors interested in sightseeing cruises through the Thousand Islands. Depending on the season and the cruise selected, visitors can enjoy views of islands, historic properties, and the international waters surrounding the region.

Gananoque also has shops, restaurants, Confederation Park, and the Thousand Islands Playhouse. Whether you prefer a leisurely walk through town, an afternoon on the water, or an evening at the theatre, there are several ways to fill a weekend.

Before visiting, check seasonal attraction schedules and cruise availability, particularly if you are planning your trip around a specific activity.

Our Anniversary Weekend at the Inn

My husband and I celebrated our 23rd wedding anniversary at the Gananoque Inn, and we had a delightful time. We appreciated the friendly service and the attention we received during our stay.

We stayed in two different accommodations over our two nights. Our first room had two queen beds, a fireplace, and a comfortable sitting area. We also had access to the lawns and gardens, which added to the appeal of the room.

The bedding was comfortable, and the room had a welcoming atmosphere. It was a pleasant place to relax after spending time exploring the area.

For our second night, we stayed in the Prime Minister’s Suite. It was considerably more spacious, with a king-sized bed positioned in front of a stone fireplace and a comfortable sitting area.

The suite had plenty of windows, and I particularly liked the California shutters, which provided privacy while allowing natural light into the room. The balcony overlooked the pond garden and the river, making it a lovely place to pause and enjoy the surroundings.

The bathroom was another highlight. It featured a large jet tub, a separate shower, double sinks, heated flooring, and a dressing area.

Both rooms had their own appeal, but the suite felt especially suited to an anniversary getaway.

Hospitality and Guest Comfort

What I remember most about our stay was the welcoming service. The staff were friendly and accommodating, helping make our anniversary feel special.

One thoughtful touch was the homemade cookies available at the front desk in the afternoon. When a member of staff learned that we were celebrating our 23rd anniversary, a complimentary bottle of wine was sent to our room on behalf of the staff.

It was a lovely gesture that made us feel appreciated.

The room amenities we encountered during our visit included toiletries, bathrobes, a hairdryer, a television, coffee-making facilities, and Wi-Fi. The specific amenities available can vary by room, so it is worth confirming what is included when booking.

The inn also offered spa services at the time of our visit, although we did not use them. Travellers interested in massage treatments or other spa services should contact the property to confirm its current offerings and availability.

Dining at Muskie Jake’s Tap & Grill

Dining was another enjoyable part of our anniversary weekend. We ate at Muskie Jake’s Tap & Grill on both evenings, choosing sirloin steak and finishing our meals with dessert.

The atmosphere was relaxed, the staff were welcoming, and the service was prompt. It was a convenient option because we could enjoy dinner without leaving the property.

During our visit, we also learned about the story behind the restaurant’s name.

Clarence, known as Muskie Jake Huntley, was a well-known local fishing guide who spent decades introducing visitors to muskie fishing in the Thousand Islands. The pub was named in his honour, recognizing his connection to the region and its fishing traditions.

The inn’s website currently lists Muskie Jake’s Tap & Grill and the Watermark Restaurant among its dining options. Restaurant hours and menus can vary by season, so check directly with the property before making plans.

The meal package we purchased during our anniversary weekend was an offer available at that time. I would not rely on the same package or pricing being available today.

A Relaxing Escape by the River

The waterfront setting was one of my favourite aspects of the Gananoque Inn. The property has lawns and outdoor spaces overlooking the river, and its private dock adds to its connection with the water.

For travellers who enjoy boating, the inn also advertises docking facilities for guests. Anyone arriving by boat should confirm the current arrangements and availability before travelling.

The property also offers event facilities for weddings, meetings, and other gatherings. Its historic atmosphere and river views make it an interesting setting for special occasions.

As with any older property, travellers should consider their room requirements before booking. The inn’s main historic building does not have an elevator, according to its accommodation information. If you need a ground-floor room or have mobility requirements, contact the property in advance to discuss suitable options.

Is the Gananoque Inn Worth Considering?

Our anniversary weekend at the Gananoque Inn and Spa was a memorable experience. I appreciated the distinctive accommodations, the waterfront setting, the meals at Muskie Jake’s, and the thoughtful service we received.

Although I haven’t returned in some time, the inn remains a property worth considering if you are planning a getaway in Gananoque and prefer historic accommodations with access to the St. Lawrence River.

Before booking, review the current room descriptions, rates, dining hours, and available services. If you have particular needs concerning accessibility, room location, or amenities, confirm those details directly with the inn.

For travellers exploring Ontario’s Thousand Islands, Gananoque offers a combination of scenic waterways, local attractions, and small-town charm. Our anniversary stay gave us a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the area, and it remains a trip my husband and I remember fondly.

Planning a visit? Visit The Gananoque Inn’s official website for current accommodation information, dining details, and reservations.

As a travel writer, I believe that choosing the right accommodation can make a meaningful difference to a trip. Sharing our experiences is one way I hope to help other travellers discover places worth considering across Ontario.