Clayton is a very busy boating community with a long history of catering to boating needs. Clayton Harbor Municipal Marina is a new public facility with lots of amenities and easy access to historic downtown Clayton offering charm and hospitality with restaurants, specialty boutiques and museums.

Soon after it was settled in 1822, Clayton became a major shipbuilding and lumbering port. Dozens of charming buildings from this magnificent era remain. Pick up a Historic Walking Tour brochure at the Clayton Chamber of Commerce office at 517 Riverside Dr. (315-686-3771) to explore on foot. For some local flavor, stop at one of Clayton's fine restaurants for some St. Lawrence River cuisine. Hear Irish, jazz and bluegrass concerts on the waterfront. Swim in an Olympic-sized pool or take part in some of the activities at Cerow Recreation Park.

Your stay should include a visit to the Antique Boat Museum at 750 Mary St. where a collection of over 200 freshwater recreational boats includes the gilded-age houseboat LaDuchesse in port, plus ample opportunities to explore on the water in various beautifully restored classics. Take a speedboat ride in a triple cockpit mahogany runabout Pardon Me (the world's largest) or row a classic St. Lawrence skiff to explore French Creek. Every August, the museum hosts the nation's oldest antique boat show. Day dockage is free for Antique Boat Museum visitors.

The Thousand Islands Arts Center supports the heritage arts at 314 John St. with a year-round arts curriculum, a permanent textile collection and library, and two studios dedicated to weaving and pottery. The Thousand Islands Museum at 312 James St. is famous for decoys, muskies and the rich heritage of river life. The Clayton Opera House at 403 Riverside Dr. also offers concerts and other events in a unique setting.