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Shorelines Casino Thousand Islands

3.8
·2k reviews·Gananoque, Canada

A lively entertainment hub in Gananoque, offering gaming, dining at the Windward Restaurant, and a secure environment.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
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Shorelines Casino - table games area

Shorelines Casino Thousand Islands

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A lively entertainment hub in Gananoque, offering gaming, dining at the Windward Restaurant, and a secure environment.

3.8
(2k reviews)

"Windward Restaurant is a hidden gem with fair prices and great food, a must-try in Gananoque."

Vertical photo
TIP

🍽️ Dine at Windward Restaurant

Enjoy comfort food and cocktails; praised for fair prices and good portions. :forkandknife:

⏳ Be Patient at Cashier

Wait times can be long; plan accordingly. :hourglassflowingsand:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Windward Restaurant Dining

Windward Restaurant Dining

Attached to the casino

Enjoy comfort food and cocktails in a relaxed atmosphere with fair prices and generous portions.

Slot Machine Wins

Slot Machine Wins

Casino floor

Experience the thrill of hitting a jackpot, with friendly cashiers ready to celebrate your winnings.

Friendly Security Presence

Friendly Security Presence

Casino exterior and interior

Feel secure with courteous security guards who ensure a safe and orderly environment for all guests.

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Casino Etiquette & Expectations

While Shorelines Casino Thousand Islands offers entertainment, reviews suggest inconsistent service. Be prepared for potential wait times at the cashier and understand that staff availability can vary. It's wise to manage expectations regarding immediate assistance, especially during peak hours.

Beyond the Gaming Floor

If gambling isn't your primary focus, consider the Windward Restaurant for a potentially pleasant dining experience, praised for fair prices and good food. For those seeking outdoor activities, explore nearby Gananoque and the Thousand Islands region, as the casino itself is primarily an entertainment venue.

Best Times

When
Weekday evenings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend afternoons
Why
Lively atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Things to do in Gananoque/Thousand Islands/Kingston

🍽️ Dine at Windward Restaurant

Enjoy comfort food and cocktails; praised for fair prices and good portions. :forkandknife:

⏳ Be Patient at Cashier

Wait times can be long; plan accordingly. :hourglassflowingsand:

reddit.com

anyone familiar with Gananoque/Thousand Islands?

reddit.com

Thousand Islands

🐶 Pet-Friendly Vibes

Emotional support dogs are respected if quiet and well-behaved. :dog:

🛡️ Feel Secure

Courteous security guards ensure a safe environment. :shield:

reddit.com

Poker at the Rideau-Carleton Raceway?

Tips

from all over the internet

🍽️ Dine at Windward Restaurant

Enjoy comfort food and cocktails; praised for fair prices and good portions. :forkandknife:

⏳ Be Patient at Cashier

Wait times can be long; plan accordingly. :hourglassflowingsand:

🐶 Pet-Friendly Vibes

Emotional support dogs are respected if quiet and well-behaved. :dog:

🛡️ Feel Secure

Courteous security guards ensure a safe environment. :shield:

What Travellers Say

3.8
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Shorelines Casino Thousand Islands offers a mixed bag of experiences. While the Windward Restaurant is frequently praised for its food, prices, and service, and security is noted as courteous, some guests have reported significant issues with cashier wait times and unprofessional conduct from management and certain security personnel. The casino provides a lively atmosphere for gaming and entertainment.

"Today my partner and I went on a double date with our mutual friends to the Windward Restaurant (the restaurant attached to the casino). I’m new to the area, so it’s only my second time dining at the Windward. The prices are super fair for the food quality and portion size. They have a moderate selection of food with lots of comfort food choices. Their selection includes pizza, pasta, sandwiches, burgers, salads, appies, and a few other items. They have a large selection of cocktails as well. Additionally, our server Mark W. was friendly, incredibly knowledgeable, efficient, and had great timing. He would check in with us at all the right moments without feeling overbearing. Overall, I would say this restaurant is a hidden gem and a must try if you’re visiting Gananoque, ON."

Christine Parsons

"To: Management, Shorelines Casino Thousand Islands
Subject: Formal Complaint – Unacceptable and Unprofessional Experience on July 20, 2025

Dear Shorelines Casino Management,

I’m writing to express my deep frustration and disappointment with the unacceptable level of service I received during my visit to your Gananoque location on the evening of July 20, 2025.

I have been a loyal patron of your casino since the day it opened. Over the years, I’ve witnessed a steady decline in both the professionalism of your staff and the overall customer experience — but what happened during my most recent visit crossed a line I never thought I’d see in an established gaming facility.

At around 7:30 p.m., I approached the cashier’s cage to cash out $125 in chips. I waited for over 12 minutes with absolutely no staff in sight. Eventually, I noticed a sign saying someone would return at 7:45 p.m. — meaning a single guest, at the end of their evening, is expected to wait 15 minutes (or longer) just to cash out. This is not a corner store — it’s a casino. And leaving a cashier’s cage unattended during operating hours is not only unprofessional, it’s absurd.

When I flagged down a manager — a woman with dark hair and heavily tattooed arms — her response was equally appalling. Rather than apologizing or making any effort to assist, she became defensive and dismissive, telling me the cashier was on her 15-minute break and that they “don’t have the staff.” I told her I had already been waiting nearly 20 minutes, and that this was simply unacceptable — to which she offered no solution, no accountability, and certainly no professionalism.

Let me be clear: it is not the customer’s responsibility to adjust to your staffing shortages. And it is not acceptable for a guest to wait half an hour to cash out, only to be met with attitude and excuses from a manager. If this is how your leadership handles a simple service breakdown, it’s no wonder the experience at this casino has deteriorated so badly.

The message this sends is loud and clear — your staff’s time matters, but your guests’ time does not. That is a fatal flaw in any service industry, let alone one that relies on customer loyalty.

After decades of visiting your casino, I will not be returning. I hope you take this feedback seriously, because what I experienced was not just poor service — it was a complete failure of basic operational and managerial competence.

0/10
D-"

Alex Kingston

"We went on Friday of the Easter weekend. We ate dinner in the restaurant there. I asked about gluten-free food, and the lovely waitress brought us a piece of notebook paper with handwritten food they serve. Mostly desserts. I ordered plain chicken wings. Very clean. I'd give our waitress a 5 star if I could. She has been working there for a year. Anyways, she was so lovely, personality wise.
We headed to the slots, and my guy won some. His winnings totaled $666, good laugh with the super friendly cashier about that total. When I went outside for a cig, the security guards were present and quite courteous. I felt safe going outside by myself.
Great place to be if you want to get out."

Heather Sauve

What People Like

Windward Restaurant dining
Friendly security staff
Lively casino atmosphere

What People Dislike

Long cashier waits
Unprofessional management
Inconsistent service

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Shorelines Casino Thousand Islands is located in Gananoque, Ontario. It's accessible by car, with ample parking available. For those exploring the Thousand Islands region, it's a convenient stop if you're traveling by road. Reddit

Information on direct public transportation routes to the casino is limited. It's best to check local Gananoque transit schedules or consider ride-sharing services if you are not driving. Reddit

If coming from Kingston or Brockville, driving is the most straightforward option via Highway 401. The casino is well-signposted from the highway exits. Reddit

While the Thousand Islands region is famous for boat tours, direct boat access to the casino is not a common mode of transport. It's primarily a land-based destination. Reddit

Yes, Gananoque offers several hotels and accommodations within close proximity to the casino, making it convenient for an overnight stay. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Generally, there is no admission fee to enter the casino floor. You can walk in and explore the gaming areas. Reddit

Operating hours can vary, but casinos typically open in the morning and remain open late into the night. It's advisable to check their official website for the most current hours of operation. Reddit

Yes, you must be of legal gambling age, typically 19 years old in Ontario, to enter the casino and participate in gaming activities. Reddit

While walk-ins are common, especially during off-peak hours, it's a good idea to call ahead or check their reservation policy for the Windward Restaurant, particularly for weekend evenings. Reddit

Casinos often host various events and promotions. Keep an eye on their website or social media for announcements regarding live entertainment, tournaments, or special offers. Reddit

🎫 🎰 Onsite Experience

The casino offers a variety of slot machines and table games. Specific offerings can change, but typically include popular slot titles and classic table games. Reddit

There is generally a casual dress code. However, it's best to avoid overly revealing or offensive attire. Smart casual is usually a safe bet. Reddit

Information on public Wi-Fi availability is not widely advertised. It's recommended to have your mobile data plan ready or inquire upon arrival. Reddit

While the Windward Restaurant is a primary dining spot, there might be bars or lounges offering snacks and drinks. Check with the casino for current offerings. Reddit

Customer service reviews are mixed. While some staff, like servers, are praised, other guests have reported unprofessional interactions with management and security. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can vary. Generally, photos are permitted in public areas, but it's often prohibited on the gaming floor to protect player privacy. Ask staff if unsure. Reddit

The exterior of the casino, especially during evening hours when lights are on, can be photogenic. The entrance area and any decorative elements might also be good spots. Reddit

Absolutely! Gananoque and the Thousand Islands region offer stunning natural beauty. Consider a boat tour for incredible photos of the islands and waterfront. Reddit

For general exploration, a versatile zoom lens is useful. If you plan on capturing landscapes or boat tours, a wide-angle lens can be beneficial. Reddit

You can likely photograph your food and the restaurant's ambiance, but always be mindful of other diners and ask permission if photographing staff. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Shorelines Casino Thousand Islands is primarily an adult entertainment venue, so it's not ideal for families with young children looking for kid-specific activities. However, if you're visiting the Gananoque area, the Thousand Islands region itself offers plenty for families. Consider taking a family-friendly boat tour of the islands, which are often captivating for all ages. Reddit

For dining, the Windward Restaurant might be suitable for a family meal, offering a range of comfort foods. While the casino floor is off-limits to minors, the general atmosphere might be manageable for older children accompanying adults, provided they are supervised and understand the casino environment is for adults. Always check specific venue policies regarding minors in non-gaming areas. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, Shorelines Casino Thousand Islands can be a mixed bag. Entry to the casino floor is typically free, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere without spending money on gaming. The Windward Restaurant is often cited for its fair prices and good value, making it a more affordable dining option compared to some upscale establishments. Reddit

However, be mindful of the allure of gaming. Setting a strict budget for slot machines or table games is crucial to avoid overspending. If your goal is entertainment without significant expense, focus on enjoying the ambiance, perhaps having a reasonably priced meal, and exploring the free attractions in the surrounding Thousand Islands region, such as scenic drives or public parks. Reddit

couples

Shorelines Casino Thousand Islands can offer a fun night out for couples looking for entertainment. You can enjoy a dinner at the Windward Restaurant, which has been praised for its ambiance and food quality, followed by trying your luck at the slot machines or table games. The lively atmosphere of the casino can be exciting for a date night. Reddit

For a more romantic experience, consider combining your visit with a sunset boat cruise in the Thousand Islands. This offers a beautiful and memorable experience that can be enjoyed before or after your casino visit, providing a perfect blend of entertainment and scenic beauty. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Dining at the Windward Restaurant

The Windward Restaurant, located within Shorelines Casino Thousand Islands, is frequently highlighted for its dining experience. Reviews suggest it offers a moderate selection of comfort food, including pizzas, pastas, burgers, and salads, at fair prices for the quality and portion sizes. Many patrons appreciate the generous cocktail menu and the overall value for money. The service, particularly from individual servers like 'Mark W.', has been lauded for being friendly, knowledgeable, and efficient, contributing to a positive dining experience. Reddit

While the restaurant is generally well-regarded, it's worth noting that some guests have sought out specific dietary options, such as gluten-free choices. In one instance, a waitress provided a handwritten list of available gluten-free items, indicating a willingness to accommodate. Reddit Overall, the Windward Restaurant appears to be a hidden gem for those looking for a satisfying meal without venturing far from the casino's entertainment. It's a place where good food and attentive service can make a visit memorable. Reddit

Casino Operations and Customer Service

Experiences at Shorelines Casino Thousand Islands regarding operations and customer service present a mixed picture. While some guests report friendly and courteous staff, particularly mentioning security guards and waitstaff, others have encountered significant issues. A notable complaint detailed a prolonged wait time at the cashier's cage (over 12 minutes) with no staff present, followed by an unprofessional and dismissive response from management when the issue was raised. This incident highlighted concerns about operational efficiency and leadership's handling of customer complaints. Reddit

Further reviews mention unprofessional and disrespectful behavior from specific security guards, who were perceived as 'trolling' guests and making 'snarky comments,' contradicting the casino's stated policies of respect and professional conduct. Attempts to address these issues with management reportedly met with 'attitude and zero accountability.' Reddit These accounts suggest that while the casino aims for a positive atmosphere, there are inconsistencies in staff training and management oversight that can lead to unpleasant and frustrating experiences for patrons. It's advisable for visitors to be aware of these potential service variations. Reddit

Exploring the Thousand Islands Region

While Shorelines Casino Thousand Islands offers its own form of entertainment, the surrounding Thousand Islands region is a significant draw for visitors. Many travelers recommend exploring the natural beauty of the area, with boat cruises being a highly popular activity. These tours offer stunning views of the islands, historic sites, and the unique waterfront landscape. Reddit

Beyond boat tours, the region provides opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Activities like hiking and biking are available, and a visit to Wolfe Island is suggested as a pleasant day trip, accessible by car or bike. Reddit For those not focused on nightlife or casinos, the broader Gananoque and Thousand Islands area offers a wealth of out-doorsy and interesting sights that complement a visit to the casino or can be enjoyed as a standalone experience. Reddit

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