Things To Do
in Thunder Bay
Thunder Bay sits at the head of Lake Superior, where the city blends Indigenous heritage with a strong frontier-town spirit. Surrounded by forests, waterfalls, and vast water horizons, it’s a gateway for outdoor adventures and northern culture. The city’s waterfront, historic sites, and parks offer a mix of urban and wilderness experiences.
With pronounced seasonal changes, Thunder Bay is a destination that invites year-round exploration and discovery.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Thunder Bay Museum, where you can learn about the city's rich history through engaging exhibits. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll down Red River Road, admiring the beautiful architecture of the historic buildings. Don’t forget to grab a coffee at a local café to energize yourself for the day ahead.
In the afternoon, visit Fort William Historical Park, a reconstructed fur trading post that offers interactive exhibits and costumed interpreters. Enjoy a guided tour that showcases the life of the early fur traders and the importance of the fur trade to the region. Afterward, have lunch at the park’s café, sampling traditional fare inspired by the era.
Wrap up your day with dinner at one of Thunder Bay's local restaurants, where you can savor regional specialties like walleye or bison. After dinner, enjoy a leisurely walk along the waterfront at Marina Park, taking in the stunning views of Lake Superior at sunset. Finally, consider catching a live performance at the Thunder Bay Community Auditorium for a taste of local culture.
Begin your adventure with a hearty breakfast at a local diner before heading to Sleeping Giant Provincial Park. Upon arrival, take in the breathtaking views as you prepare for a hike along one of the park's well-marked trails. The Giant’s Trail is particularly popular, offering panoramic vistas that make the early morning trek worthwhile.
After hiking to the lookout point, take a break for a packed lunch amidst nature, surrounded by the tranquility of the forest. Spend the afternoon exploring the park further, maybe even taking a dip in the refreshing waters of Marie Louise Lake or enjoying some birdwatching in the area. The diverse flora and fauna will keep you captivated as you immerse yourself in the beauty of the outdoors.
As the sun begins to set, make your way back to Thunder Bay, where you can enjoy a relaxed dinner at a lakeside restaurant. Savor the flavors of local cuisine while gazing out over the shimmering waters of Lake Superior. End your day with a leisurely walk on the shoreline, absorbing the peaceful ambiance of the evening.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or small drink | $3-6 |
| 🏠1-bedroom apartment (city centre) | $900-1,400 |
| 🚌Public transit pass (monthly) | $60-80 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural landscapes and access to Lake Superior
- Strong maritime and Indigenous culture, friendly communities
- Cold winters and limited direct domestic flight options year-round
- Smaller urban center; some services require a drive to surrounding areas
Places to Visit in Thunder Bay
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic streets and period architecture provide dynamic, story-rich compositions, especially in early morning light.
Powerful falls and lush forest surroundings offer dramatic long-exposure opportunities and misty portraits.
Sunsets over Lake Superior, boats, and skyline silhouettes create classic lakefront photography moments.
Panoramic city and lake views from the lookout provide sweeping landscape shots, especially at dawn or dusk.
A distinctive horizon feature across the water; best captured in calm evenings with golden light.
Food in Thunder Bay
Thunder Bay Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Often prepared grilled or pan-seared, showcasing fresh fish from Lake Superior with simple, seasonal sides.
Must-Try!
A hearty meat and vegetable baked pastry, a staple in many Northern Ontario communities and widely available in Thunder Bay cafés and bakeries.
Seasonal desserts featuring local berries like blueberries and cranberries, frequently found in bakeries and family-owned restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering local produce, baked goods, preserves, and crafts; a good spot to sample regional treats and chat with growers.
Occasional waterfront pop-ups and seasonal vendors offering quick bites, coffee, and snacks with lake views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly greeting goes a long way; small talk is common in casual settings; punctuality is appreciated.
Acknowledge local history and Indigenous spaces; ask before taking photos in certain sacred or community areas.
Safety
Tipping in Thunder Bay
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard in Canada: 15-20% at restaurants for good service; modest tipping for takeout or basic service, higher for exceptional service.
Widespread acceptance of debit and credit cards; many places also accept tap payments and mobile wallets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days, cooling lake breezes, and long daylight hours; ideal for waterfront activities, hiking, and photography from outdoor viewpoints.
Changing leaves and cooler temperatures; perfect for forest hikes, photography of fall colors, and seasonal festivals.
Cold, snowy days with potential for ice roads and Northern lights on clear nights; dress in layers and enjoy snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and hot beverages after outdoor time.
Mild temperatures with budding trees and thawing landscapes; great for birding, waterfalls in full flow, and outdoor strolls.
Thunder Bay at Night
Hiking in Thunder Bay
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A premier hiking area with scenic lake views, forest trails, and rock outcrops; suitable for day trips from Thunder Bay.
Waterfall trails and forest walks just west of the city; easy to moderate hikes with photo opportunities.
Parks and riverside trails offering more secluded hiking experiences a short drive from the city.
Airports
How to reach Thunder Bay by plane.
Primary airport serving the region; offers domestic flights to major Canadian cities and some seasonal connections. Short drive or taxi ride to the city center.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Significant Anishinaabe presence with cultural contributions and ongoing collaborations with the city.
Historically strong Finnish, Italian, and other European diaspora influences in neighborhoods and cuisine.
A mix of immigrants and university students contributing to a diverse, evolving city culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A major regional sport with local leagues and community rinks; many residents are fans and participants.
Seasonal sport with accessible clubs; popular in winter months.
Local leagues and parks provide opportunities for viewing and participation in summer.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Thunder Bay.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer hearty vegetarian dishes; ask for vegetable-forward mains, salads, grain bowls, and seafood options if pescatarian-friendly.