CLAYTON, N.Y. (WWTI) – The Antique Boat Museum in Clayton will once again welcome the community for its annual 1000 Islands Family Free Day on Saturday, June 7, offering free admission for visitors of all ages from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Now in its 26th year, the event began in 1997 with the goal of making the museum more accessible and inviting to the local community. That mission remains central to the celebration today.
This year’s Family Free Day will feature a variety of hands-on activities, live entertainment, and educational exhibits, including:
- Antique speedboat rides ($5 per person)
- Paddle painting workshops
- Rowing sessions in traditional skiffs
- Cardboard boat races
- An interactive obstacle course hosted by soldiers from Ft. Drum’s 2nd Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment
- Children’s crafts and games
- Guided tours of La Duchesse, the historic houseboat of George Boldt
- Live performances by the 10th Mountain Division Band and local group Bad Husbands Club
In addition to the day’s festivities, several regional organizations will be on-site to share information about their summer programming. Participating groups include Zoo New York, Clayton Fishing Guides Association, JCC Zootechnology, Clayton Opera House, Thousand Islands Arts Center, Save The River, and the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary.
A special highlight of the event will be the presence of the Great International Steamboat Flotilla, docked at the museum throughout the day. This rare opportunity allows guests to view the vessels up close and speak with their crews. The Antique Boat Museum will host the flotilla from June 7 through June 13, but Family Free Day offers the best opportunity to explore the ships before they continue their journey through the 1000 Islands.
The museum’s trustees, staff, and volunteers invite the public to enjoy a day of family fun, exploration, and waterfront heritage.
