THUNDER BAY EXPERIENCE ONTARIO CANADA ISSUE 17 | 2024 visitthunderbay.com | 1-800-MOST-FUN THUNDER BAY EXPERIENCE MAGAZINE PUBLISHER Tourism Thunder Bay EDITOR Karen Martin – Tourism Thunder Bay TOURISM MANAGER Paul Anthony Pepe ART DIRECTOR ART DIRECTOR Amanda Phillips – Generator Strategy Advertising ACCOUNT DIRECTOR Daniel Griffin – Generator Strategy Advertising PRINTING TC Transcontinental Printing COVER Shelby Gagnon and Lak Williams TOURISM THUNDER BAY WOULD LIKE TO ACKNOWLEDGE THE MANY CITY OF DEPARTMENTS AND THEIR STAFF, OUR LOCAL AND REGIONAL THUNDER BAY DEPARTMENTS AND THEIR STAFF, OUR LOCAL AND REGIONAL TOURISM PARTNERS AND ANY OTHERS NOT LISTED WHO HAVE CONTRIBUTED TO THE PRODUCTION OF THIS MAGAZINE. ADVERTISING SALES CONTACT Karen Martin (807) 625-3969 | karen.martin@thunderbay.ca The Thunder Bay Experience magazine is a local and area visitor magazine published yearly. Tourism Thunder Bay makes no representation or warranty, either express or implied, of any kind with respect to the contents of this publication. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, it is possible that the information in this magazine contains errors or omissions. Please verify information with the listed suppliers. While Tourism Thunder Bay takes reasonable care in selecting the listed suppliers, it does not have any control over them or their associated service providers. Tourism Thunder Bay cannot be responsible for any of the acts or omissions of any suppliers. © Tourism Thunder Bay. All rights reserved. Individual works are also copyrighted by their originators. Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without prior written permission. Tourism Thunder Bay Suite 701, 34 North Cumberland Street Thunder Bay, ON P7A 4L3 Toll-free: 1-800-MOST-FUN (667-8386) visit@thunderbay.ca visitthunderbay.com THUNDER BAY, ONTARIO, CANADA Built on the traditional lands of Fort William First Nation, signatory to the Robinson-Superior Treaty of 1850, and on historic Métis settlements. © Patrick Chondon ON THE COVER Led by the theme of "On the land, on the water, on the plate", local Indigenous artists Shelby Gagnon (@rootveggii) and Lak Williams created a visually stunning ode to the elements that make Thunder Bay so special for visitors. Keep a look out for their recent mural work adorned on the patio wall of Lakehead Beer Company (206 Park Ave) Grab a beer and some pizza and feast your eyes on the enormous and vibrant mural, created in collaboration with a number of other local artists. contents on the water 4 EXPLORING & ADVENTURE 24 GETTING HERE 3 PARKS + LEISURE 15 GOLF 22 ENTERTAINMENT 38 GALLERIES & STUDIOS 40 HISTORY, HERITAGE & MUSEUMS 42 DINING 47 SHOPPING GUIDE 52 ACCOMMODATIONS 55 WHAT'S ON IN SPORTS 60 TRAVEL INFORMATION 62 BEYOND THE CITY LIGHTS 66 EVENTS PAGE 34 12 - CITY OF CHAMPIONS 44 - your ultimate cycling destination 36 - WHERE TRADITION MEETS CULTURE MAPS 34 32 - discovery walks VISITTHUNDERBAY.COM ON OUR WEBSITE VISITTHUNDERBAY.COM YOU WILL FIND A FILTERABLE, SEARCHABLE DIRECTORY OF TOURISM BUSINESSES IN THUNDER BAY AND SURROUNDING AREA. USE IT TO FIND A PLACE TO STAY, A PLACE TO SHOP, AN EXPERIENCE TO TRY AND MUCH MORE. THUNDER BAY EXPERIENCE 2024 travel information GETTING HERE Thunder Bay is located in the geographic centre of Canada with the border to the United States just 50 km south. DRIVING IN If you’re travelling by road, Thunder Bay is found at the crossroads of Ontario Highways 11/17 & 61. This means those travelling across Canada or North from the U.S. will easily find the city. BOATING IN Located on the shores of Lake Superior, it is also possible to arrive in Thunder Bay by boat. There are Great Lakes cruises that come into port as well as facilities for private Captains to arrive with their passengers. FLYING IN The Thunder Bay International Airport is the fifth busiest in Ontario, servicing almost 800,000 visitors annually through four major and numerous small regional airlines. Getting here is easy with Air Canada, Bearskin, Flair, Porter, Wasaya and Westjet Airlines. Get real-time arrival and departure information at: tbairport.on.ca. AROUND THE CITY Visitors to Thunder Bay will find most major car rental agencies, limousine van, taxi services, and Uride, a ride-sharing service. Thunder Bay Transit provides public, accessible transportation throughout the city. The city boasts over 100 km of urban recreational trails for exploring on foot or by bike. MORE INFORMATION ON GETTING TO THUNDER BAY AND GETTING AROUND WHILE YOU’RE HERE (INCLUDING MAPS AND GUIDES) CAN BE FOUND AT: VISITTHUNDERBAY.COM/PLANYOURTRIP. FIND MORE INFORMATION ON CROSSING THE U.S./CANADA BORDER AT: CBSA-ASFC.GC.CA QUICK & EASY EXTEND YOUR TIME WITHOUT GOING BACK TOTHE CAR NO NEED FOR COINS Pay for Parking on the Parking App on the water ON THE WATER © Scott MacKay Located on the shores of the world’s largest freshwater lake, Lake Superior, Thunder Bay is the gateway to 150,000 lakes and rivers – we get water! Bring your own boat or hop aboard a boat tour once you get here. Local companies have canoes, kayaks, paddleboards and other required equipment for rent. Check out our Business Directory at visitthunderbay.com for a complete, up-to-date listing of them all. BOAT LAUNCHES There are six public boat launches in and near the city for your convenience. The City of Thunder Bay offers free public launch spots at Fisherman’s Park, McKellar Island and at the end of Mountdale Ave. There is also a launch at the Marina for a fee. Just outside city limits, boaters can use the launches provided by the Lakehead Regional Conservation Authority at Little Trout Bay or Silver Harbour. BOAT TOURS Experience the Big Lake, get up close to Salties and Lakers, and see the city from a whole new perspective on a Lake Superior Sail Boat Tour with Sail Superior. If you’ve got the need for speed, try the Superior Rocket – a 500HP Zodiac that will have the wind whipping through your hair as you fly across the surface of the water. For a longer adventure, try micro-cruising in Sail Superior’s catamaran, S.V. Welcome. It is spacious and elegantly furnished, offering both day and night space for 10 guests in five cabins with en-suite bathrooms: four double cabins and one cabin with bunk beds. Imagine a Caribbean Catamaran holiday in a wilderness setting. Explore Canadian history by travelling back in time while visiting Porphyry Island and Lighthouse – a volcanic island surrounded by turquoise waters. Head to the Island with Archie’s Charters, who depart from Silver Islet Harbour every Sunday at 9 am and returns before 4 pm. After visiting the historical Silver Islet General Store, a 20-minute trip to the lighthouse includes panoramic views of the Sleeping Giant, Silver Islet and Black Bay. Once at Porphyry Island, you will be given a guided tour before returning back to reality. CANOEING AND KAYAKING EPIC ADVENTURES Thunder Bay is the gateway to bucket list paddling destinations such as Lake Superior National Marine Conservation Area, Pukaskwa National Park, Quetico Provincial Park, Sleeping Giant Provincial Park, and Wabakimi Provincial Park. If you’re new to paddling or to paddling on Lake Superior, consider heading out with adventure company S.A.N.D – Such a Nice Day Adventures. PADDLE BACK IN TIME In a region largely discovered via canoe, you can paddle the same routes as historic voyageurs and fur traders. Visit Fort William Historical Park to learn more about this incredible history and to see (and paddle) authentic birch bark canoes. URBAN PADDLING Urban paddling opportunities can also be found throughout the city. On any summer day, you are sure to see kayaks and stand up paddle boards on Boulevard Lake and at the harbour. Kayaking on local rivers is also a popular activity. Try the McIntyre or the Kaministiquia (the Mac or the Kam) rivers. CRUISE SHIPS Thunder Bay is a vibrant port of call for Viking, Ponant, Hapag Lloyd, and Pearl Seas with day stops and turnarounds. See Superior differently! DIVING Lake Superior is regarded as one of the best sites to dive in the world. Explore shipwrecks, natural wonders and northern marine life while you dip beneath the surface of the largest of the Great Lakes. Equipment outfitting, lessons and guiding services are available from Thunder Country Diving in Thunder Bay and By the Bay Adventures in Nipigon, ON. FISHING The area around Thunder Bay has been a top destination for anglers for well over 100 years. Year-round, you can create a customized trip that combines excitement and relaxation. Try urban fishing in the city’s many waterways, or take a guided fishing trip on Lake Superior with Archie's Fishing Charters and Lighthouse Tours or Superior Fishing Charters. Just outside the city you will find thousands of inland lakes ready and waiting for you to cast a line; where guides and outfitters are also available. For those seeking the ultimate Northern experience, get on a float plane and venture deeper into the wilderness with a fly-in adventure with Wabakimi Wilderness Outfitters or Wilderness North; there are numerous lodges, cabins and resorts that you can use as your base camp. PADDLE BOARDING Stand Up Paddle Boarding (SUP) has quickly become a favourite pastime in Thunder Bay for residents and visitors alike. Local companies NatriBros and Superior Stand Up Paddleboarding offer lessons and equipment rentals. Rentals are also available from Wilderness Supply. Favourite spots include Boulevard Lake, Hazelwood Lake and the marina harbour. ROWING Located on the scenic banks of the Kaministiquia River, the Thunder Bay Rowing Club hosts recreational rowing and regattas throughout the season. With well over 10 km of rowable waterways, Thunder Bay waters provide a variety of routes for local rowers. In addition to North Western International Rowing Association (NWIRA) championships, local rowers have competed and medalled nationally, internationally, at the Olympics and at the Paralympics. Twenty local rowers have been inducted into the Northwestern Ontario Sports Hall of Fame. SAILING The best way to experience the Big Lake is in a sailboat! Sail Superior offers a wide variety of tour options including harbour tours and Wine and Cheese tours. If you’re looking to learn how to captain your own vessel, Sail Thunder Bay and the Thunder Bay Yacht Club both offer lessons. On Wednesday evenings, make your way to Prince Arthur’s Landing to watch the races. If you’re so inclined, you can wait at the “Crew Bench” and join in on the adventure. SWIMMING In the summer months, the City of Thunder Bay operates a number of outdoor pools, supervised beaches and splash pads to cool off in. There are also numerous public beaches nearby including Wild Goose Beach (in Shuniah, ON) east of the city and Sandy Beach (Chippewa Park) south of the city. Visit thunderbay.ca/swimming to see your options. SUMMER FUN In the summer months, boats fill the harbour, ocean-bound ships come and go, and the smells and sounds of many festivals and events fill the air. Families can enjoy the splash pad, and diners enjoy the restaurants and outdoor patios. Live on the Waterfront is a free concert series that is over 100 years old, where award-winning touring acts take the stage, entertaining the Thunder Bay crowds. Explore Lake Superior and Thunder Bay's waterfront area on a Sailboat Tour with Sail Superior. ALEXANDER HENRY MUSEUM SHIP The Alexander Henry was built in 1958 at the Port Arthur Shipbuilding Company. It was named after British-Canadian Alexander Henry, an explorer, pioneer and partner in the fur-trade’s North West Company. The ship contains nearly a dozen museum rooms where visitors can rediscover the area’s transportation history aboard an integral part of it. The Alexander Henry Museum Ship is located at the Pool 6 dock. PUBLIC ART WALKING TOUR Grab a map and wander the paths, admiring the many pieces of public art on display at Prince Arthur’s Landing. More information is available at thunderbay.ca/publicart and on the Thunder Bay Tours App. Keep your eyes peeled for the cruise ships as they roll into port – it's a larger than life experience! on the water © Superior Country © Goh Iromoto © Goh Iromoto on the water SURFING While Northern Ontario might not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of surf spots, Lake Superior is well known amongst North America’s surfing enthusiasts. The waves are their highest in the fall and winter, so beware; the water is very cold and proper equipment is absolutely necessary. Local surfers know all the hot spots, and NatriBros have instructors and rental equipment available. Check out the annual surfing festival Waasaashkaa, which happens each October in nearby Terrace Bay, ON. LAKE SUPERIOR © Superior Country on the water on the water © Chad Kirvan © Chad Kirvan Snow Birds at the Waterfront WATERFRONT Prince Arthur’s Landing at the Thunder Bay Waterfront is an area filled with year-round excitement and fun. Steps away from the shore you will find the Waterfront District, which is home to dozens of shops, restaurants, bars and more. FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT: VISITTHUNDERBAY.COM/WATERFRONT WINTER EXCITEMENT In the winter, the splash pad becomes an ice skating rink with a fireplace in the centre to warm you up. Take part in Winter FunDays every Sunday throughout the season where you can try snowshoeing, dog sledding, fat biking and more – all for free! Also check out the annual snow sculpture competition as part of SnowDay, which takes place on Family Day every February. © Chad Kirvan on the water PADDLE THE TOP OF LAKE SUPERIOR! Indigenous Peoples have been paddling this region for thousands of years, and there’s a reason that Kitchi-gami (the Ojibwe name for the lake) continues to inspire. Connect with spectacular vistas, unique paddling experiences, and beautiful blue waters. Start planning your #TopOfLakeSuperior adventure today! ABOUT THE MARINE CONSERVATION AREA Lake Superior National Marine Conservation Area (NMCA), once established, will be part of a nationwide system of protected areas managed by Parks Canada. It will be approximately 10,880 square kilometres in size, occupying almost 13% of the largest freshwater lake in the world by surface area. © Parks Canada SAFETY FIRST Lake Superior is a deep, cold and open lake. Conditions can change quickly on Lake Superior without a moment’s notice, so be prepared. Observe and listen to the lake before getting on the water and always stay in tune with the weather. Be mindful of your abilities before beginning any paddling or boating excursion. There’s plenty to do on shore if the wind picks up! GET OUT THERE! There are plenty of reasons to experience Lake Superior NMCA, and lots of ways to get there. You can start your paddling adventure from many north shore communities such as Silver Islet, Hurkett Cove, Red Rock, Nipigon, Rossport, Schreiber and Terrace Bay. SHARE THE CHAIR Parks Canada wants to share Canada’s most incredible places with you! You’ll find Red Chairs located across Lake Superior NMCA guiding you to stunning places this area has to offer. Find them all on Parks Canada's website and don’t forget to #ShareTheChair with us on social media! parks.canada.ca © Parks Canada on the water © Parks Canada on the water PADDLE THE ROSSPORT ISLANDS Rossport, ON is a paddler’s paradise. Scattered islands, sheltered coves and wildlife sightings make this a great place for your next paddle. Enjoy a short paddle to Quarry Island and hike to the top for some terrific views. A RUGGED SHORELINE A wild beauty is waiting to be discovered. These columnar basalts formed 1.1 billion years ago when conditions allowed lava to harden into many hexagon-shaped pillars. STAY A WHILE AT PORPHYRY ISLAND LIGHTHOUSE Visit one of Lake Superior’s best-kept secrets. Explore authentic lighthouse buildings and let new interpretive panels paint a narrative from the past. For a truly unique experience, stay the night under a starry sky. Visit clls.ca for more information. © Parks Canada © Parks Canada LACE UP THOSE HIKING BOOTS Prefer to stay on shore? No problem! Discover Lake Superior NMCA’s scenic coastline; hike the Casque Isles Trail – a 53 km route with 11 points of access that pass through the communities of Rossport, Schreiber and Terrace Bay. Test yourself with a multi-day journey or spend an afternoon hiking to one of many beautiful lookout points. For more information, check out the Casque Isles Trail Facebook page: @CasqueIsles. CHARTERS AND OUTFITTERS Being on the water is one of the best ways to explore Lake Superior NMCA. Whether you’re looking to canoe, kayak, sail, fish or find a guided trip, there’s a local outfitter that’s ready to make your plan a reality. © Parks Canada QUESTIONS AND INFORMATION Lake Superior National Marine Conservation Area 22 Third Street, P.O. Box 998, Nipigon, ON P0T 2J0 Tel: (807) 887-5467 | Email: superior-superieur@pc.gc.ca Website: pc.gc.ca/superior © Chad Kirvan on the water EXPLORE THE LAKEHEAD WATERSHED CEDAR FALLS Here you'll find a great spot for a short hike to a picturesque cascading waterfall. OPEN YEAR-ROUND The Lakehead Region Conservation Authority (LRCA) offers 10 recreational Conservation Areas, including access to Lake Superior and exciting events throughout the year! SILVER HARBOUR Provides guests with boat launch access to Lake Superior and offers great ice fishing opportunities. OPEN YEAR-ROUND HURKETT COVE One of the best birding spots in Northwestern Ontario. Located on Lake Superior, Hurkett Cove is also home to the Dorion Birding Festival each May. OPEN SEASONALLY MISSION ISLAND MARSH 2.4 km of trails, 16.7 hectares of land and an incredible birding spot in the fall. Mission Island Marsh features four distinct ecosystems and is home to the LRCA’s annual Fall Waterfowl Viewing Day. OPEN YEAR-ROUND LITTLE TROUT BAY Located near the U.S Border, the boatlaunch provides access to Lake Superior and also features great geocaching. OPEN YEAR-ROUND THE 2024 EXPLORE CARD PARKING PASS IS A GREAT WAY TO SHOW YOUR SUPPORT FOR THE LRCA! Explore Card Parking Passes permit day-use/parking at our 10 Conservation Areas for one calendar year. Visit as often as you like. Enjoy one calendar year of recreation activities such as boating, fishing, hiking and more at our seasonal and year-round Conservation Areas for the low price of $40 +HST. It’s convenient for frequent users, and a great gift idea! All Explore Card revenue goes directly towards the upkeep and maintenance of our Conservation Areas. Purchase online at: lakeheadca.com. HAZELWOOD LAKE 7 km of trails on over 618 hectares of land, this pristine inland lake provides great paddling opportunities and is a great spot to go geocaching OPEN YEAR-ROUND MACKENZIE POINT This granite outcrop into Lake Superior is a superb location for capturing sunrise photos. It’s also a great sunbathing spot. OPEN YEAR-ROUND DID YOU KNOW? Conservation Areas in the Lakehead Region are privately owned by the Lakehead Region Conservation Authority (LRCA). They are not City Parks or Crown Land. The LRCA pays property taxes on all land owned by the Authority, including Conservation Areas. The LRCA maintains the trails, parking areas, boat launches and other facilities located within our Conservation Areas without the support of Federal or Provincial funding. Your purchase of an Explore Card Parking Pass or payment of the parking fee supports development, maintenance and improvements to the LRCA’s existing trail networks, as well as general Conservation Area maintenance and upkeep. CASCADES 5.5 km of trails, 162 hectares of land and one of the most popular on-leash dog walking spots in Thunder Bay. The Cascades are a great place to visit on a hot summer’s day. OPEN YEAR-ROUND FOR MORE INFORMATION: LRCA OFFICE 130 Conservation Road Thunder Bay, ON info@lakeheadca.com 807-344-5857 lakeheadca.com feature THUNDER BAY’S RICH SPORTS LEGACY BY MICHELLE MCCHRISTIE When most people think of Thunder Bay (Tbay) and sports, hockey and skiing are top of mind. After all, the city and the former towns of Fort William and Port Arthur have sent more hockey players to the NHL than any other city in the world. The surnames Staal, Adams, and Delvecchio are legendary. When it comes to skiing, one of the Crazy Canucks, Dave Irwin (whose father just happened to own one of the local ski hills), rose to fame as a World Cup and Olympic alpine ski racer. But Thunder Bay’s sports legacy runs much deeper than hockey and alpine skiing, the city is home to an impressive diversity of athletes and it’s fair to say that we punch above our weight. Here are six of the many athletes who learned and perfected their skills on local hills, rinks, and roads to excel at an elite level and make TBay proud. STEVE COLLINS Ski Jumping, Canadian and World Champion, World Cup Champion, and Three-time Olympian Fort William First Nation’s Steve Collins had an illustrious career and claimed his first of many national titles in 1979. In 1980, just one week shy of his 16th birthday, Collins shocked the ski-jumping world by winning the large hill event at a World Cup competition in Finland with a jump of 124 meters—a record that stood for a dozen years. A three-time Olympian, his top finishes included 9th in the large hill event in 1980 and 13th in the normal hill in 1988 — the best-ever finish to date by a Canadian male in that Olympic ski-jumping event. ALEX DELVECCHIO Hockey, NHL Legend With the longest NHL career of any player from Thunder Bay (24 seasons!), a place in the Hockey Hall of Fame, and multiple Stanley Cups, Alex Delvecchio set the bar high. He joined the Detroit Red Wings line-up in 1950, getting an assist in his first game, and went on to lead as their captain for 12 years winning three Stanley Cups. Following his retirement, he coached the Red Wings for four seasons. A statue of his likeness greets Red Wings fans as they enter Joe Louis Arena and his retired jersey (#10) hangs from the rafters. AL HACKNER Curling, Canadian and World Champion Affectionately known as “The Iceman,” Al Hackner — a member of the Red Rock Indian Band — dominated the Canadian men’s curling scene from the 1980s to 2000s, making nine Brier appearances. In 1982, he became the region’s first world championship skip and followed up with a second world title in 1985. Hackner won the 2006 Canadian Senior Men’s title and earned a silver medal for Canada at the 2007 World Senior Curling Championships. In 2017 and 2022, he skipped Northern Ontario to Canadian Masters titles marking the fifth decade in which a rink bearing the Hackner name appeared at a Canadian curling championship. CURT HARNETT Cycling, National and World Champion, World Cup Champion, and Four-time Olympian Thunder Bay’s most successful Olympian, Curt Harnett was a member of the Canadian team from 1983-1996 and won over 30 national titles. He became a world record holder in 1995, crossing the finish line of the 200-metre match sprint qualifier in a time of 9.865 seconds, becoming the first cyclist to break the 10 second barrier in competition. At the 1984, 1992, and 1996 Olympics he claimed one silver medal and two bronze medals in time trial and sprint events. KATIE WEATHERSTON Hockey, Canadian and World Champion, Olympian A trailblazer for female hockey players from Northwestern Ontario (NWO), Katie Weatherston claimed her first national championship at the Under-18 level in 2000. She earned a scholarship to Dartmouth College in New Hampshire in 2002 where she was a team-leading scorer who established the school record for the most career and season power-play goals. In 2003 and 2004, she won gold for Canada at the Air Canada Cup and went on to win Olympic gold in 2006—the first of its kind for a Thunder Bay-born athlete and the first by a woman from NWO. In 2007, she claimed a gold at the World Championships followed by a silver in 2008. ROBBI WELDON Para Nordic Skiing and Cycling, Parapan American Games Champion, World Champion, Four-time Paralympian Robbi Weldon competed in the 2010 Paralympic Winter Games in biathlon and para-nordic skiing and the 2014 Paralympic Winter Games in para-nordic skiing. Weldon, who is visually impaired, did not limit her athletic pursuits to winter sports. At the 2010 and 2011 World Championships, she and her pilot, Lyne Bessette, won gold in the road race and time trial, respectively. At the 2011 Parapan American Games, the pair won gold in all four tandem cycling events and were named Canada’s flag bearers for the closing ceremony. They also won gold in the road race at the 2012 Paralympic Summer Games. Although seriously injured during a training session in 2013, Weldon and her pilot, Audrey Lemiex, went on to claim a silver medal at the 2015 Parapan American Games and two top 10 finishes at the 2016 Paralympics. feature feature 13 visitthunderbay.com feature WHERE LEGENDS LIVE ON The Northwestern Ontario Sports Hall of Fame and Museum was established in 1978 with a mandate to preserve and honour our region’s rich and proud sports heritage. .Since then, 186 athletes, 98 builders, and 52 teams have been honoured for their outstanding accomplishments and contributions to a wide variety of sports. As well, thousands of historically significant artifacts have been preserved and displayed in a museum setting for citizens and visitors to take pride in and learn from. Visit in person at 219 May St. S. or online: at nwosportshalloffame.com feature parks & leisure © Chad Kirvan PARKS & LEISURE Skate Park at Marina Park at Prince Arthur's Landing Thunder Bay is home to over 100 parks and recreation areas for visitors to enjoy. See the list below to learn more about some of the most popular parks in the city. © Chelsea Flegel parks & leisure HILLCREST PARK ANEMKI WAJIW (MOUNT MCKAY) Towering 305 m (1,000 ft.) over the city, Anemki Wajiw (Mount McKay) located on Fort William First Nation, is a must on your list of attractions. At the 152 m (500 ft.) level, the viewing scope and skyline walkway offer a magnificent vista of the city, Lake Superior and surrounding countryside. There is also a picnic area, powwow grounds, memorials and monuments, and a hiking trail to the top of the mountain. BOULEVARD LAKE PARK The park area around Boulevard Lake offers recreation opportunities for all – walk or cycle on 7 km (3.4 m) of paved trails, swim and play at the beach area, have a blast at Splish Splash water park, play on the fully accessible playground, or enjoy a round of mini golf or disc golf. Boulevard Lake Jumpstart Inclusive playground now open, which also features an adult outdoor fitness centre. Access from Lyon Blvd, Current Ave and Lyon Blvd West HILLCREST PARK One of the best spots to view the Sleeping Giant, this park on the hill overlooks the waterfront and the harbour. Also features a military memorial, playground and sunken gardens. High Street between Red River Road and Oliver Road MARINA PARK/PRINCE ARTHUR’S LANDING Located in Thunder Bay’s waterfront area, visitors will enjoy spectacular lake views, walking paths, scenic lookouts, picnic areas and more. Prince Arthur’s Landing is a multi-use park, home to lake-view restaurants, children’s playground, skatepark, and splash pad that transforms into a skating rink in the winter months. Red River Road at Water Street Marina open May to October: (807) 345-2741 Off-season: City's Parks & Open Spaces: (807) 625-2941 SOROPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL FRIENDSHIP GARDENS Discover the multicultural heritage of Thunder Bay with a stroll through the gardens and enjoy the international monuments. Victoria Avenue at Legion Track Drive CENTENNIAL BOTANICAL CONSERVATORY The City of Thunder Bay's Centennial Botanical Conservatory is fully accessible and a great place to visit year-round. The Conservatory was opened in 1967 by the Fort William Parks Board as a Centennial project, and is a legacy to the citizens of Thunder Bay. The Conservatory is currently undergoing a renewal project designed to repair and replace aging infrastructure. Please check the website before planning your visit to ensure the facility is open. Dease Street off Balmoral Street CHIPPEWA PARK A lakeside recreational park, with great views of the Sleeping Giant, features camping, beaches, a newly restored carousel, amusement rides, giant Muskoka chair, pavilion, and picnic and playground areas. City Road – (807) 623-3912 © Damien Gilbert CENTENNIAL PARK Hike, bike (mountain bike or fat bike), snowshoe or ski your way through this wonderful wilderness area, or step back in time at the 1910 replica logging camp. Features a woodland park and a one-of-a-kind zipline. Centennial Park Drive (off Arundel Street) KAMINISTIQUIA RIVER HERITAGE PARK Discover a beautiful scene along the Kaministiquia River with a walkway, Anishinaabe Sculpture and the VIA train display. Syndicate Avenue at CP Rail Station near Donald and Simpson Streets parks & leisure FIND THEM ALL! THUNDERBAY.CA/PARKS 807-625-2351 © Ashley Pugh Anemki Wajiw (Mount Mckay) PROUD TO BE A PET-FRIENDLY CITY! LORNE ALLARD FISHERMAN’S PARK Found at the mouth of the Current River, featuring accessible paved trails, picnic shelters and a gorgeous view, it is the most Westerly access point on the Lake Superior Water Trail and is a great place for urban angling. Shipyard Road The City of Thunder Bay maintains three dog parks and one off-leash area for our canine residents, visitors and their owners to enjoy year-round: Hillyard Lands Dog Park North of Central Avenue between Memorial and 8th Avenue (Turn north off Central Avenue at Carrick Street) Beverly Street Dog Park South of Port Arthur Stadium on the corner of Beverly Street and Winnipeg Avenue Neebing Playfield Dog Park On the corner of Neebing Avenue and Mary Street West Centennial Park Leash-Free Area Centennial Park, off Arundel Street For Off-Leash rules & regulations and directions to these parks – go to: thunderbay.ca Thunder Bay offers a variety of pet-friendly services including kennels, veterinarian services and hotels/motels. TROWBRIDGE FALLS PARK & CAMPGROUND Located along the cascading Current River, this beautiful park features great trails and a bike skills park, as well as a full-service campground and RV park.Copenhagen Road off Highway 11/17 – (807) 683-6661VICKERS PARK In 1902, Catherine Mary Vickers made a ten acre donation to the town of Fort William on the premise that the "Public Park" or "Garden" be for "free use and enjoyment" for the inhabitants of the town of Fort William. This traditional park offers trees, benches & play equipment, and a 500-metre skating trail loop in winter. Arthur Street between South Selkirk Street and South Brunswick StreetWAVERLEY PARK The 2nd oldest municipal park in Ontario boasts giant cottonwood trees, a fountain and a cenotaph. It is also home to a newly renovated lookout and historical installation.Red River Road near the top of Waverley StreetHERITAGE & AMUSEMENT PARKSparks & leisureStep back into 1816, feast, stargaze, camp, ride a historic wooden carousel, celebrate! Don’t miss the adventure that awaits at two of our standout attractions.CHIPPEWA PARKFORT WILLIAMHISTORICAL PARK© Scott MacKay© Superior Country With over 250 acres of breathtaking northern scenery, Fort William Historical Park is home to our award-winning living history program, events and concerts, RV camping and outdoor activities, business conferences, and more. Discover the secrets of the universe when you visit the state-of-the-art astronomy centre. Visit their website for festival and event information. Open year-round.On King Road – off Broadway Avenue (Highway 61 South) (807) 473-2344 Hotline: (807) 473-2333 fwhp.ca Enjoy a nostalgic day of old-fashioned fun at one of Thunder Bay’s most treasured landmarks. Chippewa Park has preserved its 1920s charm, while adding updated features like overnight camping, a modern RV park and wheelchair accessible log cabins on the water. The park features a newly restored 115-year-old carousel and two beaches on Lake Superior. Situated only 10 minutes from the city, off Highway 61 South or James Street Hotline: (807) 625-CHIP Toll Free: 1-888-711-5094 thunderbay.ca/chippewapark FRIENDS OF CHIPPEWA PARK chippewapark.ca parks & leisure BOULEVARD LAKE 400 Lyon Boulevard West Boulevard Lake is surrounded by 650 acres of parkland, from the scenic bluffs north of the lake to the dam on the lower Current River. The Black Bay Bridge (1911) at the lake's outlet at Cumberland Street North is a reinforced concrete span bridge, which lights up in the evenings – the first of its type in North America. Park features: 18-hole disc golf course Splish Splash Water Park* Beaches* Concession area* Mini-putt* Paddleboat and canoe rental* Fully accessible playground equipment Recreational trails Six picnic areas (picnic tables out seasonally) - available for rent Washrooms and change facility* Pickleball / Tennis courts * seasonal BEACHES, POOLS & SPLASH PADS © Chad Kirvan Cool off during the summer in one of many great watering holes throughout the city. INDOOR POOLS OUTDOOR POOLS BEACHES LAKEVIEW BEACH Boulevard Lake 400 Lyon Boulevard West SANDY BEACH & MAIN BEACH Chippewa Park thunderbay.ca/parks KAKABEKA BEACH Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park MARIE LOUISE LAKE BEACH Sleeping Giant Provincial Park ontarioparks.com CANADA GAMES COMPLEX 420 Winnipeg Avenue (807) 684-3311 CHURCHILL COMMUNITY POOL 130 Churchill Drive West (807) 577-2538 VOLUNTEER POOL 180 Martha Street (807) 345-5143 LAKEHEAD UNIVERSITY POOL 955 Oliver Road (807) 343-8656 ART WIDNALL POOL 820 Minnesota Street (807) 623-1480 HEATH PARK POOL 1251 Heath Street (807) 475-0522 SPLASH SPLASH PADS Marina Park, North End Park, Franklin Street, County Park and Northwood Playfield. thunderbay.ca/beaches FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT: THUNDERBAY.CA/SWIMMING parks & leisure ONTARIO PARKS Photos © Ontario Parks SLEEPING GIANT PROVINCIAL PARK On the tip of the rugged Sibley Peninsula lays the legendary Sleeping Giant. As seen from the city of Thunder Bay, this rock formation is a local icon. The park’s Marie Louise Lake Campground offers RV and tent camping, as well family cabin rentals available year-round, providing a great base to explore the park’s 100+ km trail network. 1.25 hours* KAKABEKA FALLS PROVINCIAL PARK Kakabeka Falls, at 40 m, is considered the second highest vertical waterfall in Ontario. The park and campground are popular with both locals and highway travellers.. 25 minutes* PIGEON RIVER PROVINCIAL PARK This day-use-only park offers a network of hiking trails to explore featuring scenic waterfalls and vistas overlooking the park, Lake Superior and the Canada-U.S. border. 45 minutes* OUIMET CANYON PROVINCIAL PARK The highlight of this day-use-only park is the 3 km long, 152 m wide and 107 m deep canyon, as seen from one of its two viewing pods. This geologic phenomenon is one of the most spectacular landscapes found in Eastern Canada. 1 hour* WABAKIMI PROVINCIAL PARK Wabakimi is pure northern grandeur – home to woodland caribou and backcountry canoe tripping adventures. Visit Wabakimi to explore the tradition, challenge and rewards of paddling and fishing in a remote location; ideal for longer trips of five days or more. 2.5 hours* RAINBOW FALLS PROVINCIAL PARK Rainbow Falls offers two campgrounds to choose from: Whitesand Lake with warmer inland waters and Rossport, located on the shore of Lake Superior. Enjoy hiking park trails and viewing the cascading waters as they plunge over the rock ledges of Rainbow Falls on their way to Lake Superior. 2.25 hours* QUETICO PROVINCIAL PARK Known for its rugged beauty, Quetico is an internationally acclaimed wilderness destination for paddlers offering many routes to choose from. Backcountry canoeists can explore the park’s pristine lakes and rivers. RV and car campers can enjoy the amenities found at the Dawson Trail Campground on the park’s north side along Highway 11, near the town of Atikokan, ON. Quetico’s campground also features rustic cabin rentals available year-round. 1.5 hours* NEYS PROVINCIAL PARK With its campground located on the shore of Lake Superior, this history rich park has lots to offer. Enjoy walks on the long beach, learn about the WWII POW Camp, or hike to views of Pic Island immortalized on canvas by Lawren Harris of the famous Canadian Group of Seven. 3.25 hours* Looking for a cabin adventure this season? Sleeping Giant and Quetico Provincial Parks have cabin rentals year-round. Neys’ Trapp Cabin rental is available from May to mid-October. For online park reservations and information, visit OntarioParks.com For camping reservations, call 1-888-ONT-PARK (1-888-668-7275) Park day-use permits can be purchased online up to five days in advance For park information, call 1-800-ONTARIO OntarioParksNorthwest @OntarioParksNWZ *approximate distance from Thunder Bay parks & leisure NATIONAL PARKS MDAABII MIIKNA Looking for a memorable backcountry weekend getaway? Mdaabii Miikna, ‘go to the shore trail’ in Anishinaabemowin, delivers everything that Pukaskwa has to offer in a fraction of the time it takes to complete the Coastal Hiking Trail! This backpacking loop trail is accessed via the Coastal Hiking Trail and is about a 24 km round trip from Hattie Cove. Pukaskwa National Park is a vast, wild, natural playground found on the edge of the world’s largest freshwater lake. It is one of many National Parks in Canada but it is Ontario’s only wilderness national park. The park is located approximately 3.5 hours (320 km, 199 miles) east of Thunder Bay. HATTIE COVE CAMPGROUND Relax and play in Pukaskwa National Park’s breathtaking front country campground, trails and beaches. Enjoy the park’s cozy comforts like hot showers, electrical hook-ups and free Visitor Centre WiFi. Summer is peak season for the park when all services are available. Be sure to check out the Visitor Centre, browse around the park store and explore the scenic trails. CANOE & SUP RENTALS Enjoy paddling the peaceful waters of Pukaskwa’s Hattie Cove and its awesome wilderness views by renting a canoe or stand up paddle board (SUP). Pack a picnic lunch and explore the Hattie Cove wetlands or simply float around for an afternoon! INTERPRETIVE PROGRAMMING Family-friendly interpretive programs are available in the park from Canada Day to Labour Day. Participate in guided hikes, find a geocache, experience the seven grandfather teachings, and more! RED CHAIRS Parks Canada invites you to test out Pukaskwa’s red chairs. Take lots of photos and share them on social media using #ShareTheChair. ANISHINAABE CAMP Discover the Anishinaabe Camp and its wigwam and cook tent. All are welcome to join park interpreters as they host cultural programs in this amazing space! COASTAL HIKING TRAIL Get ready to experience the wildest hike on the wildest shore of all of the Great Lakes! Pukaskwa National Park’s 60 km Coastal Hiking Trail is an adventurer’s dream that offers a challenging but rewarding premier Ontario wilderness experience. Visitors who are properly equipped for backpacking this difficult terrain will enjoy relaxing campsites, beautiful beaches and awe-inspiring views. COASTAL PADDLING ROUTE Lake Superior. They weren’t kidding when they named her. Superior in size, superior in adventure! Comparable to ocean paddling, Pukaskwa’s Coastal Paddling Route offers premier Ontario wilderness, and demands technical knowledge and skill from visitors who wish to experience it. With Pukaskwa’s 135 km of coastline, the adventures are endless. CONTACT US Pukaskwa National Park PO Box 212, 0 HWY 627, Heron Bay, ON, P0T 1R0 Tel: 807-229-0801 | Email: pukaskwaont@pc.gc.ca pc.gc.ca/pukaskwa Join us. Follow us. Like us. We want to connect with you. PukaskwaNP @PukaskwaNP golf GOLF CHAPPELS GOLF COURSE With 11 courses in the Thunder Bay area, our impressive variety and world-class quality courses attract enthusiasts from around the globe. Lush fairways, rich challenging greens and captivating wildlife viewing opportunities are par for the course! 18 HOLE COURSES 9 HOLE COURSES CHAPPLES GOLF COURSE 530 Chapples Park Dr. off Redwood Ave. (807) 625-2582 golfthunderbay.ca FORT WILLIAM COUNTRY CLUB 1350 Mountain Rd. (807) 475-8925 fwcc.ca STRATHCONA GOLF COURSE 500 Hodder Ave. (807) 683-8251 golfthunderbay.ca WHITEWATER GOLF CLUB 1961 King George’s Park Dr. Rosslyn Village (807) 475-4653 whitewatergolf.com BAYVIEW GOLF COURSE 370 Hwy 587, Pass Lake (807) 977-2646 ext. 23 bayview-golfcourse.com CENTENNIAL GOLF COURSE 320 Thompson Rd. (807) 767-4600 ontariogolf.com DRAGON HILLS GOLF COURSE AND DRIVING RANGE 975 Onion Lake Rd. (807) 768-TOFF (8633) dragonhillsgolfcourse.com EMERALD GREENS GOLF COURSE AND DRIVING RANGE 2370 Dawson Rd. (807) 767-4511 emeraldgreens.ca NORTHERN LIGHTS GOLF COMPLEX 540 Twin City Crossroads (807) 935-2687 ST. URHO’S GOLF COURSE AND DRIVING RANGE 2165 Hwy 588, Nolalu (807) 475-8814 THUNDER BAY COUNTRY CLUB 1055 Oliver Rd. (807) 345-8225 thunderbaycc.ca golf DISC GOLF Test your arm and enjoy some disc golf. Discs are available for purchase at The Loop Clothing Boutique. There are two 18-hole disc golf courses in the city: Dragon Hills Golf Course and Birch Point Park at Boulevard Lake. Another course can be found at the Bayview Golf Course in nearby Pass Lake. © Scott MacKay FOOT GOLF What happens if you combine soccer and golf? You get foot golf! Available at Chapples Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings, the cups are 21 inches in diameter and marked with an orange flag stick. Tee boxes provide a starting point and off you go in a similar format to golf. It’s all about putting the ball in the hole with the fewest amount of strokes. MINIATURE GOLF BIRCH HILL MINI GOLF 162 Spruce River Rd. Thunder Bay KOA, Shuniah (807) 683-6221 koa.com/campgrounds/thunder-bay PLAY IT FORWARD FUNLAND 400 Lyon Blvd. Boulevard Lake (807) 708-0757 playitforwardfunland.com VANDERWEES MINI GOLF 648 Mapleward Rd. (807) 767-3666 vanderweesgardengallery.com exploring & adventure OUTDOOR ADVENTURE Here in Thunder Bay, we’re avid outdoorsy types with a passion for getting back to nature every chance we get. Is it any wonder when majestic rolling mountains, magnificent boreal forests and Lake Superior – the world’s largest freshwater lake – are a mere stone’s throw away? © Damien Gilbert 24 THUNDER BAY EXPERIENCE 2024 exploring & adventure © Superior Country © Tim Banfield Photography Eagle Canyon Shuniah Mines CYCLING Mountain biking and cycling enthusiasts will be thrilled with Thunder Bay and area trails and roads. You can tear down hills and mountainsides, or enjoy long stretches of highways and byways through beautiful countryside. BLACKSHEEP MOUNTAIN BIKE CLUB blacksheepmtb.com THUNDER BAY CYCLING CLUB tbaycc.ca CAMPING Relive your favourite childhood memories and build new ones with your family: campfire cooking, hiking through the woods, swimming, paddling in crystal-clear waters, fishing and shore lunches. Whether in a tent or an outfitted RV, our nearby Campground and RV Parks let you unwind and escape the stresses of city life. The City of Thunder Bay has a seasonal Recreational Vehicle Pumping Station, located on Legion Track Drive behind the Delaney Arena, available for the convenience of residents and visitors to Thunder Bay. There is no charge for this service. CLIMBING Within a 15-minute drive from anywhere in the city, climbers will find dozens of rock climbing routes to explore. Thunder Bay and the surrounding area features some of the oldest, hardest granite in North America. Both novice and experienced climbers will find a challenge, and be rewarded with breathtaking views. Outdoor Skills and Thrills offers guided rock and ice climbing adventures and courses for all skill levels or ability levels – with all equipment included. In winter, experience some of the best ice climbing east of the Rockies. Northwestern Ontario is known as one of Canada’s premier ice climbing venues and is visited year after year by climbers from all over the world. Some of the routes are over 186 m (300 ft.), with ice so thick it sticks around until the summer! Thunder Bay is also home to a large indoor climbing facility, Boulder Bear Climbing Centre. Thunder Bay is a hiker’s dream. The diverse terrain in and around the city offers casual day hikes, challenging multi-day trails and everything in between; experience unparalleled views and discover interesting flora and fauna. The Lakehead Region Conservation Authority maintains trails at various areas close to the city. No matter which area you visit, you will see beautiful scenery and find great trails. There is a very good chance you will also see some wildlife – bring your camera! Walkers, runners and cyclists can take advantage of the expansive recreational trail system within the city. 34 km (21 miles) of multi-purpose trails hug rivers and lakes while providing quick access to recreation centres, attractions, shopping, business and residential areas. © Tim Banfield Photography PASS LAKE left: Sleeping Giant Provincial Park exploring & adventure © DZ Photography © DZ Photography Ouimet Canyon Sea Lion HIKING, RUNNING AND WALKING FISHING Bring your rod and try urban fishing in the city’s many waterways, or head out into the region with a boat or in a float plane. Stay at fully equipped fishing camps in the heart of the wilderness. During winter, ice fishing reigns as a beloved past time. Be sure to check out the Ontario Fishing Regulations and Licensing Requirements before you go. For a list of local fishing-related businesses, visit: directory.visitthunderbay.com © Superior Country ACCESSIBLE ADVENTURES Thunder Bay strives to be an inclusive travel destination to people of all abilities. Get outside and enjoy barrier-free fishing or moose hunting or explore an accessible trail. In the winter, try a sit-ski or sledge hockey. Experience some of these memorable outdoor and recreational pursuits to get the most out of your Thunder Bay vacation. Visit our site for more information: visitthunderbay.com exploring & adventure © Ontario Tourism LOOK FOR RIDE LAKE SUPERIOR APPROVED BUSINESSES AND ATTRACTIONS THAT WILL TAKE CARE OF RIDERS AND THEIR RIDES. © Amanda Phillips MOTORCYCLE, AUTO AND RV TOURING ROCK HUNTING There’s nothing like exploring Lake Superior by taking the Lake Superior Circle Tour or taking a cruise westward to Kenora and Fort Frances to tour Northwestern Ontario's lake of the Woods area. Find all the best stops, plan your route and get the gear and service you need to hit the open road with confidence. Use our online business directory to find locally owned motorcycle and RV-related businesses. Visit superiorcircletour.com and ridelakesuperior.com to order maps and guides and find more detailed information. Thunder Bay is in the heart of amethyst country. These semi-precious gems are found in quality and quantity in Thunder Bay and along the north shore of Lake Superior. Visit the area’s open-pit mines for a fun pick-your-own adventure, or grab polished amethyst gift items and jewelry from one of the many gift shops throughout the city and region. Learn more about our local mines and amethyst gift shops at: visitthunderbay.com/amethyst POWER SPORTS Exploring Northwestern Ontario in canoes and on snowshoes is wonderful, but sometimes you just need a little more power! In the summer months, it’s boating, motorcycle touring and ATVs; in the winter, snowmobiling and ice racing. Rev your engine and explore the 150,000 lakes and rivers across the 500,000 square kilometres of rugged Canadian wilderness that surround Thunder Bay. © Damien Gilbert PICK YOUR OWN FREE ADMISSION ROCK SHOP/GIFTS55 KM EAST OF THUNDER BAY ON 11/17 EXIT RD. 5 NORTHOPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK MID MAY TO MID OCTOBER807 627 5515 • DWAMETHYST@GMAIL.COMQUALITY AMETHYST AT GREAT PRICES, RIGHT AT THE SOURCEDIAMONDWILLOWAMETHYST.COM exploring & adventure THUNDER BAY COUNTRY MARKET baking, Bare Organics, beets, Belluz, blueberries, Brule Creek Farm, Chocolate Cow, Early Snows Pottery, fish, jewellery, kale, lettuce, Little Doo’s, Moss Cottage, Pie.ology, Wintering House + much more © Goh Iromoto Wednesdays 3:30 – 6:30 pm Saturdays 8:00 am – 1:00 pm CLE Dove Building thunderbaycountrymarket.com DAY ON THE FARM Take a farm tour, then experience how local chefs turn fresh, local products into delicious meals at one of our many Farm to Table restaurants. MORE WAYS TO SAMPLE FARM LIFE BELLUZ FARMS 752 Candy Mountain Dr. Slave River Valley, ON (807) 475-5181 belluzfarms.on.ca GAMMONDALE FARM FAMILY FUN 426 McCluskey Dr, Slate River Valley, ON (807) 475-5615 gammondalefarm.com SLATE RIVER DAIRY 8 Hwy 608, Neebing, ON (807) 577-MILK slateriverdairy.com SUPERIOR SEASONS Goods & Co. - 251 Red River Rd (807) 475-5181 ext. 3 superiorseasons. localfoodmarketplace.com THUNDER OAK CHEESE FARM 611 Boundary Drive, Neebing, ON (807) 628-0175 Toll-free: 1-866-273-3329 cheesefarm.ca HORSE-DRAWN HAY/SLEIGH RIDES PONY RIDES THE AMAZING MAZE PUMPKINFEST STRAWBERRY/ RASPBERRY PICKING HORSEBACK RIDING OTHER LOCAL FARMS, GROWERS & PRODUCERS DeBruins, Tarrymore Farm, Brule Creek Farm, Sandy Acres, Brule Creek Farms, Vanderwees Farms, Reidridge Farms, Little Doo’s Farm, Haywire Farm, Bruce and Valve Forrest, Blue Moon Ranch, Breukelman’s Potato Farm, Sleepy G Farm, Walkabout Farm, The Squash Queen FIND THEM ON ONLINE BEFORE YOU GO WHISPERED DREAMS RANCH RR #2, Kaministiquia, ON (807) 933-0467 wdranch.ca exploring & adventure © Goh Iromoto TAI CHI INCLUSIVE TRAVEL IDEAS Thunder Bay strives to be an inclusive travel destination and offers outdoor adventure opportunities for people of all ages and abilities. ACCESSIBLE ADVENTURES Get outside and enjoy barrier-free fishing or moose hunting, or explore an accessible trail. In the winter, try a sit-ski or sledge hockey. Go to visitthunderbay.com/accessibleadventures for more information on indoor and outdoor adventure opportunities, as well as the accessible services available in Thunder Bay. FOR THOSE 55 AND BETTER Start your Thunder Bay adventure at the Thunder Bay 55 Plus Centre. Grab a hot lunch, meet new people and get insider knowledge from a local on how to spend your time in the city. Check out the website for all the fun activities the centre offers. THUNDER BAY 55 PLUS CENTRE 700 River Street (807) 684-3066 thunderbay.ca/55plus exploring & adventure © Scott MacKay COOL THINGS TO DO Ok, we’re not going to lie – the winters here can be quite chilly and snowy. But that is exactly why Thunder Bay is one of Canada’s best winter destinations. CURLING Thunder Bay is considered by many to be the “Curling Capital of Canada” and many national and international champions have developed their skills at local clubs. Thunder Bay is set to host the 2025 Scotties Tournament of Hearts. DOG SLEDDING Explore the area in a more traditional way – on a dogsled! A perfect adventure for the family or as a corporate retreat, enjoy the snow and the tall trees with an experience you’ll never forget. FAT BIKING Fat biking has exploded in recent years; Thunder Bay and the North Shore of Lake Superior are known throughout Canada and the U.S. as the best place to ride in the winter. Favourite spots include Centennial Park and Shuniah Mines, with trails and tracks for riders of all skill levels – beginners should stick to Centennial Park. Sleeping Giant Provincial Park offers epic scenery and winding, rugged trails. ICE CLIMBING Northwestern Ontario is known as one of Canada’s premier ice climbing areas and is visited year after year by climbers from all over the world! Some of the routes are over 91 m (300 ft.) with ice so thick it sticks around until summer! ICE FISHING Ice fishing is an obsession; a perfect activity to enjoy the silent solitude or to gather with friends. Ice fishing huts are available for rent on some nearby lakes, and you can rent any extra equipment you might need as well. ICE RACING When the lakes freeze, the racing heats up. Local motorsports clubs host car and motorcycle ice races. SKATING Thunder Bay has no shortage of places to skate and play hockey. The skating-only outdoor rink at Prince Arthur’s Landing is a favourite. Warm up by the fireplace and see the beauty of the Sleeping Giant on your skates. SKIING & SNOWBOARDING Plenty of snow and steep vertical drops make for excellent downhill skiing and snowboarding at two local ski areas, Loch Lomond Ski Area and Mount Baldy. Cross-country skiers can casually sample the scenic vistas and pristine wilderness trails, or take on the challenge of racing on the hundreds of kilometres of groomed, picturesque trails in the area. SNOWKITING Thunder Bay waterways freeze early and are smooth – perfect snowkite conditions. Experience crisp clean air and beautiful landscapes on a thrill-ride. Explore the region from a whole new perspective. SNOWMOBILING Ride the over 300 km of groomed trails running from Kakabeka Falls to the Manitoba border and connecting to another 1,000 km of regional trails. Permits can be purchased online at ofsc.on.ca. SNOWSHOEING If you can walk, you can snowshoe. Experience beautiful scenery, fresh air and a great workout while you explore local trails and wilderness areas. WINTER CAMPING With incredible scenery, peaceful seclusion and a bed of fluffy snow, winter camping is as enjoyable as regular camping, just a bit colder. Many Ontario Parks offer winter camping. CATCH A GAME Head to the Fort William Gardens and cheer on the home teams. Lakehead Thunderwolves and Thunder Bay North Stars both call the arena home. Or head to the nearby NorWest Arena, home of the Kam River Fighting Walleye, the newest team in the Superior International Junior Hockey League (SIJHL) playing out of the rink that was the home of the Staal Brothers. © Damien Gilbert exploring & adventure exploring + adventure © Scott MacKay Trowbridge Forest © facing_north / Tyler Sklazeski GO TO VISITTHUNDERBAY.COM/WINTER FOR MORE INFORMATION, A DIRECTORY OF LOCAL OPERATORS AND WHERE TO GET EQUIPMENT RENTALS. exploring & adventure DISCOVERY WALKS Thunder Bay is a great place to walk around and explore. It’s home to some of the most beautiful architecture, interesting buildings and unique public art installations. SELF-GUIDED TOURS The Heritage Walking Tours of Thunder Bay are self-guided tours designed to highlight Thunder Bay's rich heritage and architecture, while enjoying a scenic walk through the city. A total of 117 sites are featured on five different tours located in different parts of the city. Each tour can be completed in approximately one hour. Printed copies are also be available at City Hall (500 Donald Street), City Archives (235 Vickers Street N.), and at the Pagoda (seasonal) and Terry Fox Information Centres. Download a copy at: thunderbay.ca/tbwalkingtours Please note: Many sites on the tours are residences; we ask that you please respect private property and view all homes from the sidewalk. GUIDED TOURS Guided walking tours are also led by the Heritage Advisory Committee during events such as Jane's Walk and Culture Days. Guided heritage walking tours can also be arranged for special interest groups or events by calling the City of Thunder Bay's Heritage Researcher at (807) 625-3197. ©Damien Gilbert exploring & adventure © Stephanie Reid © DZ Photography CEMETERY TOURING PUBLIC ART WALKING TOUR Grab a map and wander the path admiring the many pieces of public art on display at Prince Arthur’s Landing. More information available at thunderbay.ca/publicart Popular in North America, cemeteries have been described as outdoor museums. Mountain View and St. Patrick’s Cemeteries are located side by side. The 58 acres of well-maintained surroundings include six military plots established for those who served in the Canadian military services, plus a number of prominent family plots steeped in local history. Mountain View & St. Patrick’s Cemeteries 1351 Broadway Ave. (Corner of Hwy 61 & Broadway) Open to the public daily, year round. For more information, visit: thunderbay.ca THE BIG BOREAL ADVENTURE GET OUT AND GO! Discovery, exploration and adventure await. An accessible, nature-based scavenger hunt explores Thunder Bay’s most natural areas year-round. Try geocaching at some locations. GO HISTORICAL Take a step back in time. Stories of our ancestors’ past and significant locations have been mapped out to create 15 different neighbourhood tours. Be sure to register and pick up your guidebooks today! More information can be found on Facebook: The Big Boreal Adventure DISCOVER MORE BY DOWNLOADING THE THUNDER BAY TOURS APP! FEATURING GPS-POWERED WALKING & DRIVING TOURS, TRAILS AND ATTRACTIONS! VISITING THUNDER BAY WITHOUT ACCESS TO DATA? NO PROBLEM, ALL TOURS CAN BE PRE-DOWNLOADED AND SAVED FOR WHEN YOU ARE READY TO EXPLORE OFF THE GRID. © Chad Kirvan © Chad Kirvan EVENTS © Chad Kirvan DATE EVENT VENUE Sat. (8 am - 1 pm) & Wed. (3:30 - 6:30 pm) Thunder Bay Country Market Canadian Lakehead Exhibition - Dove Building Weds. from 11-3pm Lil Wednesdays Goods and Co. Market Jan. 7 - March 17 Winter Fundays (Sunday afternoons) Prince Arthur’s Landing Jan. 25 - Feb. 10 Magnus Theatre Presents Two Indians Magnus Theatre Mainstage Feb. 17-18 Voyageur Winter Carnival Fort William Historical Park Feb. 19 Family Day Powwow Heritage Building, CLE Feb. 19 SnowDay on the Waterfront Prince Arthur’s Landing March 7-30 Magnus Theatre Presents: Tell Me on a Sunday Magnus Theatre Mainstage March 30 Derelicte - A Fashion Odyssey Black Pirates Pub May 1-7 Youth Week Various Locations May 5 Spring Craft Revival North Core May 4-5 Annual Folklore Festival Fort William Gardens & Curling Club May 9-25 Magnus Theatre Presents: Liars at a Funeral Magnus Theatre Mainstage May 10-11 Quest: Tech & Gaming Fort William Gardens June 7-8 10x10 Short Play Festival Magnus Theatre Mainstage June 8 Glitter Ball - Pride 2024 location tbc June 8 Rendezvous Car Show Marina Park, Prince Arthur’s Landing June 9 Kite Festival Chippewa Park Campground June 14-15 Magnus Theatre Presents: Young Company Magnus Theatre Mainstage June 15 Pride Festival Waverly Park June 15 Mining Day Marina Park, Prince Arthur’s Landing June 21 National Indigenous Peoples Day Location TBD June 22 Maamawe Summer Festival Marina Park, Prince Arthur’s Landing July 1 Canada Day Celebration Fort William Historical Park July 1 Canada Day on the Waterfront Marina Park July 4-5 Brewha! Festival Marina Park, Prince Arthur’s Landing July 12-14 Great Rendezvous Celebration Fort William Historical Park July 9 Teddy Bears Picnic Vickers Park July 13-14 RCMP Performance of the Musical Ride Murillo Fair Grounds July 17 - Aug. 29 Live On The Waterfront - Wednesday Nights Marina Park, Prince Arthur’s Landing July 21-22 Festival of India and Festival of Colours Marina Park, Prince Arthur’s Landing July 19-21 Country On The Bay Fort William Historical Park July 24-28 Superior Theatre Festival Various locations July 27-28 Thunder Bay Buskers Festival Bay and Algoma St. Aug. 17 Westfort Street Fair Westfort Village Aug. 4-5 Festa Italiana Italian Cultural Centre DATE EVENT VENUE Aug. 10 Wine Oh! Festival Marina Park, Prince Arthur’s Landing Aug. 16-18 Murillo Fall Fair Murillo Fair Grounds Aug. 17-18 Anishnawbe Keeshigun Fort William Historical Park Aug. 23-25 Ribfest CLE grounds Sept. 1-2 Hymers Fall Fair Hymers, ON Sept. 4 Rockin’ Recovery Marina Park, Prince Arthur’s Landing Sept. 7 Maadaadizi Marina Park, Prince Arthur’s Landing Sept. 14 Wake The Giant Marina Park, Prince Arthur’s Landing Sept. 20 - Oct. 13 Culture Days various locations Sept. 22 3rd Annual Good Harvest Farmers Market Goods and Co. Market Oct. 20 Empty Bowls 25th Anniversary Fundraising Dinner Moose Hall - Fort William Road Oct. 26 The Hunger 17 North Core Nov. 14-16 Annual Vox Popular Media Arts Festival Definitely Superior Art Gallery Nov. 24 Holiday Craft Revival North Core Dec. 2-3 December Dreams Market Canadian Lakehead Exhibition Dec. 5 Westfort Wonderland Westfort Village Dec. 7 Parade of Lights Harbour Expy. And Memorial Ave. Dec. 31 New Year’s Eve Family Frolic Fort William Historical Park Dec. 31 New Year's Levee – Canadian Naval Reserve 125 Algoma St. N. events © Chad Kirvan WEDNESDAYS JULY & AUGUST FREE WEEKLY CONCERTS www.thunderbay.ca/live SUMMER FUN FOR EVERYONE! 35 35 visitthunderbay.com visitthunderbay.com feature feature Thunder Bay: Your Ultimate Cycling Destination BY AMANDA NASON 36 THUNDER BAY EXPERIENCE 2024 feature If you're seeking new adventures and fresh terrain, you’ll find your latest rush in Thunder Bay. As the home to a robust cycling and mountain biking scene, Thunder Bay has something for every enthusiast. For the mountain bikers, Thunder Bay offers riders an adrenaline-fueled journey as they tackle the exhilarating trails of the Trowbridge Forest. The forest boasts a diverse 32 km singletrack trail system within the networks, catering to various skill levels and ensuring an exciting experience for all riders. If that's not enough to get your heart racing, the 2024 Canadian XCM MTB Nationals will be taking place on September 6th and 7th. Hosted by Blacksheep Mountain Bike Club in collaboration with Cycling Canada, the racecourse at Trowbridge Forest will feature both brand new singletrack trails created in recent years as well as classic trails. The weekend event will also feature the annual Shuniah Forty Miner on September 7th, 2024. The Shuniah Forty Miner is one of the largest amateur races in Canada and will be an event for anyone aged 5 to 60+ years old, and consist of 5 km, 12 km, 24km, and 60km race courses. Riders can also embark on premier winter fat biking in Thunder Bay and the North Shore – recognized as top destinations in Canada and the U.S. Explore pristine snow-covered groomed trails for a thrilling winter cycling experience. For the road cyclists, Thunder Bay and its surroundings offer picturesque and challenging routes. Beyond the city, cyclists can explore rural roads, leading to communities like Stanley, Kakabeka Falls, and South Gillies. Those seeking to get off-the-beaten-path can venture into gravel roads in Lappe and South Gillies, immersing themselves in serene wilderness and tranquility. When you're ready to pedal into action, Thunder Bay's bike shops are your go-to resource for rentals and top-quality equipment. 3Ride Bicycle Co., Community Spokes, Fresh Air, Petrie’s Cycle and Sport, and Rollin’ Thunder are trusted names, ensuring you have everything you need for your cycling endeavours. With its top-notch facilities and cycling options, Thunder Bay is the ultimate destination for riders hungry for new adventures. So, pack your gear and set your sights on Thunder Bay. ©Tim Banfield Photography Shuniah Forty Miner entertainment ENTERTAINMENT © Chad Kirvan Tennyson King performing for Canada Day CASINOS & GAMING Local gaming centres offer players (18+) the opportunity to play their favourite slots and table games at Gateway Casino. For those who enjoy the thrill of shouting 'Bingo!' Superior Shores Gaming Association and Fort William First Nations Mountain Bingo are just the places. DRIVE-INS Interstellar Outdoor Cinema is Northwestern Ontario's only mobile cinema. With laser sharp images projected in high definition, seeing a flick on the big screen is an experience to be enjoyed by all! Visit interstellarcinema.ca for showtimes and locations. FESTIVALS From music and cultural festivals to food and craft beer events, there is something happening nearly every weekend in Thunder Bay. Be sure to check out Wake the Giant, an annual music festival featuring hot and upcoming Canadian and Northern Ontario artists, with an emphasis on Indigenous culture and music. This one-of-a-kind annual show takes place every September and is billed as a celebration of cultures and genres, from pop to EDM, and all the way to country. Get ready to laugh, groove, and dance your shoes off while appreciating the best performances from around the region. NIGHTLIFE When the sun goes down, the fun begins. Dance the night away or sit down and enjoy the music at one of the many pubs, clubs and lounges in Thunder Bay. This city is home to a variety of artists performing live rock, electronic, folk, country, jazz and more. It’s also an essential stop for touring acts which frequently perform at venues across the city. Those looking for some laughs or wanting to perform, will find a dedicated comedy club as well as comedy nights at other local venues. SYMPHONY The Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra has been performing for over 60 years and is the only professional orchestra between Toronto and Winnipeg. The Symphony’s performances appeal to a wide variety of audiences, as the concerts range from classical to modern and popular songs. THEATRE Thunder Bay has a love of film and theatre that extends from the earliest days of Port Arthur and Fort William to today. Enjoy a Hollywood blockbuster at SilverCity or experience the wonder of live theatre at Magnus Theatre, Applause Productions, Badanai Theatre or Paramount Live. For a list of up-to-date show listings, visit: visitthunderbay.com/theatre. © Chad Kirvan Scan to view the events calendar to see what's coming up www.cle.on.ca . Ph: 622-6473 . clex@tbaytel.netSpring Home & Garden Show: April 5, 6, & 7, 2024CLE Project Pizza: April 10 & 11, 2024Annual Family Fair: August 7 - 11, 2024Room & Building Rentals Bookingsentertainment Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra WAKE THE GIANT © Scott MacKay Magnus Theatre: It’s di.erent, every time!Magnus Theatre is Northwestern Ontario’s only professional theatre between Winnipeg and Barrie!magnustheatre.com | 807.345.5552Theatre THE WALLEYE Available monthly for free throughout the Thunder Bay area, and online and interactive at thewalleye.ca SKATEBOARDING AND BMX ENTHUSIASTS SHOULD CHECK OUT THE CINEMA 5 SKATE PARK – A UNIQUE INDOOR SKATE PARK LOCATED IN A FORMER MOVIE THEATRE. galleries & studios ©Thunder Bay Art Gallery GALLERIES & STUDIOS Helen Pelletier, Nevaeh, 2023, Wiigwas Manidoog - Descendants installation shot It’s often said art brings communities to life, and nowhere is this more true than in Thunder Bay. In recent years the art scene has exploded – bringing vibrancy, creativity and inspiration to every corner of the city. THUNDER BAY ART GALLERY The works in the Thunder Bay Art Gallery’s Permanent Collection tell many stories and are exhibited regularly. Paintings, drawings, photography, sculpture, beadwork, fine craft and art installations comprise this rich collection. Represented are Indigenous artists from across Turtle Island and artists from Thunder Bay and Northwestern Ontario. As the largest public art gallery in Northwestern Ontario, the Thunder Bay Art Gallery is a leader in the exhibition and collection of visual arts throughout the region. Every day the Gallery creates engagement by providing school tours, hosting arts events and classes, or sharing our space with community groups. Gift shop, free parking, and wheelchair accessibility available. theag.ca AHNISNABAE ART GALLERY Owned and operated by Louise Thomas, the Ahnisnabae Art Gallery is dedicated to the memory of her late husband, artist Roy Thomas, and carries on his legacy and dreams by showcasing his works, as well as those of many other regional artists. ahnisnabae-art.com CHENIER FINE ARTS Chenier Fine Arts showcases a diverse selection of original art by regional and international artists. Mediums include paintings, mixed media, original prints, sculpture, wheel thrown stoneware & hand-built paper clay vessels. chenierfinearts.ca CO.LAB GALLERY An innovative, entirely female-led gallery and artspace featuring work by women and gender nonconforming individuals. In addition to featuring art pieces, Goods & Co. also hosts regular workshops led by local creators on a variety of topics including photography, fibre arts, woodworking, printmaking, music lessons, paint nights, cooking, floral arrangements, and more! goodscomarket.ca DEFINITELY SUPERIOR (DEFSUP) ART GALLERY The Definitely Superior (DefSup) Art Gallery is Northwestern Ontario’s leading-edge artist-run centre for the contemporary arts. It operates as an alternative to both the commercial art galleries and to the larger, mainstream public galleries. Local citizens and visitors can experience multi-disciplinary activities such as artist workshops and lectures, film and video screenings, media arts installations, performance art, experimental sound/audio, music and literacy events. definitelysuperior.com THE CREATIVE COMPANY The Creative Company Art Studio invites everyone to "drop-in" and paint with them in their new Pick & Paint studio space! While there, grab some coffee and find unique gifts in The Creative Cafe and Gift Shop! Party bookings available. thecreativecompany.ca GALLERY 33 Gallery 33 is dedicated to supporting diverse artistic talent. They have a large collection of paintings, sculptures, photography, and jewelry, and offer workshops for aspiring artists. facebook.com/gallery33.tbay Thunder Bay Art Gallery © Thunder Bay Art Gallery Nico Williams, Spirit Berries, 2018, beads, thread, birch bark galleries & studios ©Co.Lab Gallery © Superior Country CO.LAB GALLERY Naanzhe: Water is Colour at Co.Lab Gallery, 2023 The Creative Company © Patrick Chondon Definitely Superior (DefSup) Art Gallery © Chad Kirvan museums HISTORY, HERITAGE & MUSEUMS THE ALEXANDER HENRY MUSEUM SHIP From the rich cultural heritage of the Indigenous peoples and the early days of the European fur trade, to the golden age of mining and forestry, Thunder Bay is steeped in history dating back centuries. FORT WILLIAM HISTORICAL PARK “The Fort” is a Canadian Signature Experience; an accurate re-creation of the North West Company’s impressive inland headquarters. There are over 40 buildings to explore, including the artisans’ area and the working farm where you will find dozens of interpreters who never break character. Immerse yourself in 19th century life in the North as you encounter a cultural mosaic of Scottish fur traders, Ojibwa and Métis peoples, and French-Canadian voyageurs. fwhp.ca THUNDER BAY MUSEUM Located in what was once the Fort William Police Station and Court House, the history museum proudly serves Thunder Bay and Northwestern Ontario. The museum features immersive local exhibits and travelling exhibitions bringing the world closer. Come learn about our region’s rich history, and don’t forget to check out the gift shop! thunderbaymuseum.com TRANSPORTATION MUSEUM OF THUNDER BAY Climb aboard and adventure into the past on the Alexander Henry Museum Ship. This ice-breaking, buoy-tending lighthouse supply ship was built right here in Thunder Bay! Touch history and be guided on one of their interactive tours. The Alexander Henry can be found on Thunder Bay’s waterfront at Pool 6, next to Prince Arthur’s Landing. tmtb.ca OLIVER PAIPOONGE HERITAGE PARK / THE DUKE HUNT HISTORICAL MUSEUM / RUSS'S GARAGE Touch history at the Founders’ Museum and Pioneer Village. Drop in at the General Store, spend a quiet moment in the church, or gaze upon antique cars, tractors, farm equipment, engines and motors. The Duke Hunt Historical Museum (formerly known as the Paipoonge Museum) preserves the memory of early settlers, showing the hardships and pleasures they experienced in their new community. https://oliverpaipoonge.ca/services/museums NORTHWESTERN ONTARIO AVIATION HERITAGE CENTRE Explore Northwestern Ontario’s rich aviation history including bush flying and WWII airplane production at Canada Car. The centre hosts an impressive collection of photos, memorabilia and personal stories preserved for those interested in either remembering or learning about adventurous times. noahc.org THE NORTHWESTERN ONTARIO SPORTS HALL OF FAME AND MUSEUM The Northwestern Ontario Sports Hall of Fame and Museum was established to preserve and honour our region’s rich and proud sports heritage. Thousands of historically significant artifacts have been preserved and displayed in a museum setting for citizens and visitors to take pride in and learn from. nwosportshalloffame.com THUNDER BAY MILITARY MUSEUM A tri-service Navy, Army and Air Force museum, with a selection of paintings from the Georg Hoegel Art Collection, the Thunder Bay Military Museum features displays of weapons, uniforms, and much more! Call 807-343-5175 to book an appointment. © Chad Kirvan museums THUNDER BAY MILITARY MUSEUM © Chad Kirvan The Northwestern Ontario Sports Hall of Fame and Museum Northwestern Ontario Aviation Heritage Centre Northwestern Ontario Aviation Heritage Centre905 Victoria Avenue EastOpen Wednesday and Sunday 1:00 to 4:00pm or by appointmentCall 623-3522 or email noahc@tbaytel.netEXHIBITSMERCHANDISEFLIGHT SIMULATORAVIATION LIBRARYfeature Where Tradition Meets Culture INDIGENOUS-OWNED BUSINESSES IN THE THUNDER BAY AREA BY MICHELLE MCCHRISTIE The City of Thunder Bay is built on the traditional territory of the Anishinabek which includes the Ojibwe of Fort William First Nation—a community located next to the city at the base of Anemki Wajiw (Mt. McKay). The city and surrounding area are home to a wide variety of First Nation and Métis-owned businesses and each entrepreneur has incorporated their culture and values to offer a unique selection of products and experiences. In some cases, the businesses honour the owners’ ancestors and family, “our grandparents and family taught us how important it is to look after each other, to be kind, to share our gifts and to give back to the community, “ says Kathleen Sawdo of Sister Bear Designs. For others, being an entrepreneur is a way to share their passion with others, “I enjoy meeting and introducing our traditional foods to people,” says Jeanette Posine, owner of The Bannock Lady. Here is the scoop on nine Indigenous-owned businesses plus a few others worth checking out. © Chad Kirvan © Scott MacKay AHNISNABAE ART GALLERY Owned by Louise & Randy Thomas Established in 2005 Louise Thomas established the gallery to honour her husband, Roy Thomas’s, legacy when he passed to the spirit world in 2004. It has since grown into a vibrant space that sells Indigenous art from throughout Northwestern Ontario and Canada and offers custom framing by Louise’s talented son, Randy. You’ll find a carefully curated variety of hand-crafted works, from original paintings and prints to books, jewelry, and sculpture. (807) 577-2656 18 South Court Street ahnisnabae-art.com ANISHINAABE WILD RICE EXPERIENCE Owned by Rhonda Lyons Established in 2016 This family-operated business shares Indigenous knowledge about wild rice harvesting and processing at Whitefish Lake, about 60 km southwest of the city. Wild rice is a nutritious and protein packed tall aquatic grass that grows in shallow waters. Check their website for additional experiences and bookings. (807) 627-5101 wildriceexperience.com THE BANNOCK LADY Owned by Jeanette Posine Established in 2021 Located in Intercity Mall, The Bannock Lady is TBay’s go-to for baked bannock (plain, raisin, and blueberry—yum!), fried bannock, bannock burgers, bannock tacos (a.k.a., Indian tacos), and chicken wild rice soup. They also offer takeout and catering services. (807) 632-6786 | 1000 Fort William Road bannocklady.com CROSSROAD MUSIC Owned by Steve Lalonde Established in 2023 Crossroad Music is a musician’s (especially a guitar player’s) dream come true. They offer a large selection of acoustic and electric guitars, the largest selection of guitar pedals in the Thunder Bay area, microphones, amplifiers, PA systems, plus strings, accessories, and more. The store is one the newest additions to Fort William First Nation’s thriving business community. (807) 473-0003 632 City Road crossroadmusic.ca THE HAVEN HOSTEL Owned by Holly Watson Established in 2018 The Haven Hostel offers an affordable group/team and event experience, while also boasting Bohemian chic styled private hotel rooms—all in the heart of the city’s bustling downtown core, only a block from the waterfront. They also offer tourism planning and information and keep it fresh by adapting and expanding. (807) 285-1142 226 Ambrose Street thehavenhostel.ca NIIBING TRIBAL TOURS Owned by Cindy Crowe Established in 2020 Niibing Tribal Tours is located south of the city in Neebing, about ten minutes north of the Pigeon River border crossing. They offer land-based healing activities on 135 acres nestled beside Kitchigaming (Lake Superior). Through authentic Anishinaabe interpretative guided experiences and ceremonies, visitors are invited on a journey of self-discovery by connecting with nature and their spirits, feeding their souls, and being inspired by others. (807) 627-5768 | 356 Little Trout Bay Road | niibing.ca SISTER BEAR DESIGNS Owned by Kathleen Sawdo Established in 2019 Sister Bear Designs is where you will find authentic handmade Anishinaabe beadwork, gifts, and fine jewelry. One of their signature products is the kokum's ribbon earring collection which are handmade with intricate floral or feather patterns and serve as a beautiful reminder of the invaluable wisdom passed down by our grandmothers. (807) 357-5811 234 Heron Street (by appointment only) and #52, Lac Des Mille Lacs First Nation @SisterBearDesigns TEA HORSE LTD. Owned by Denise Atkinson & Marc Bohémier Established in 2017 This artisanal tea and wild rice company has created and produces a first-of-its-kind roasted manoomin (wild rice) tea, like ManoominCha—a blend of Japanese green tea and roasted manoomin harvested in northern Manitoba. (807) 343-9321 teahorse.ca WOLF TRACKS GALLERY Owned by Ed & Maxine Wesley Established circa 2001 Wolf Tracks Gallery is a unique shop that sells artwork, clothing, and handmade decor and jewelry. Their wall hangings are a beautiful keepsake as there is a story behind each one. (807) 344-5022 611 Simpson Street facebook.com/wolftracksgallery © Chad Kirvan feature © Chad Kirvan © Laura Paxton feature Here are a few other Indigenous-owned businesses in Thunder Bay: ACCOMMODATION THE LANDMARK HOTEL A 100-room hotel that is decorated with Indigenous art and features a tropical-themed pool area and waterslide, and onsite restaurant and sports bar. landmarkinn.ca VICTORIA INN HOTEL & CONVENTION CENTRE A full-service hotel with 182 guest rooms plus 12 meeting rooms that can accommodate groups of 8 – 700. There is also a fitness centre, pool and waterslide. thunderbay.vicinn.com ART, CANDLES, CLOTHING & JEWELRY R S GUSTAFSON A husband and wife duo that creates a range of cultural items—from beadwork, clothing, and moccasins, to tote bags, and home decor. rsgustafson.com HEART / SOUL. CO Small batch and hand poured coconut soy wax candles, featuring scents that are nostalgic to the land, food, and childhood. instagram.com/heart_soul_co INDIGENOUS MINIMALIST Embroidered clothing featuring Indigenous (and, in some cases, cheeky!) designs. indigenousminimalist.myshopify.com MAMAKEESICK ROOTS Modern Woodland style art, including paintings and prints, clothing, home decor, and other unique items. Goods & Co. 251 Red River Road facebook.com/mamakeesickroots MÉTIS SASH GALLERY Woodland style art, including paintings, prints, clothing, tote bags, mugs, and more. Thunder Bay Country Market 425 Northern Ave gypsysgemsandgifts.blogspot.ca CREE STEVENS Mixed media paintings, sculptures, wearable art, and jewelry that combine natural materials with industrial components. Goods & Co. 251 Red River Road creestevens.com © Chad Kirvan dining DINING The word of Thunder Bay’s remarkable food and drink scene is spreading across North America. The message is clear – if you love food, visit Thunder Bay. The variety of dishes found in Thunder Bay will impress foodies from any major centre. Award-winning chefs collaborate with regional producers, while international cuisines, unique culinary events, and an exceptional selection of local craft beers have all combined to reinvent Northern flavours. ©Scott MacKay Tomlin © Scott MacKay BAKERIES Satisfy your cravings with a treat from a local bakery. Many have been around for decades and many more have opened up in recent years – each has their specialty. Whether you’re seeking cookies, cakes, pastries, breads, doughnuts, cinnamon rolls or the Thunder Bay classic persian, our local bakeries have got you covered. BARS, CLUBS AND PUBS Throughout the city you will find a variety of bars, clubs and pubs. Many are gastropubs featuring a menu of tasty dishes ranging from traditional pub fare to upscale cuisine; many are made with local ingredients. Get together with friends at a sports bar to catch the game over a plate of wings, or relax and unwind at a wine bar sharing a charcuterie board. COFFEE SHOPS AND ROASTERIES For many, coffee is a requirement for life and those folks will be happy in Thunder Bay. Local coffeehouses can be found across the city. Local roasters have popped up in recent years and are providing fresh, locally roasted beans to local shops. Grab a bag to take home with you. CRAFT BEER We may be biased, but in Thunder Bay we believe that Lake Superior water makes the best beer. There are a number of craft breweries with inviting taprooms to sample local brews, such as Dawson Trail Brewery, Lakehead Beer Company, and Prospector Brew House and Sleeping Giant Brewing Company. Most local bars and restaurants will feature one or more local beers. Sleeping Giant Brewing Company beers are available for sale at their retail store and at LCBO locations in Ontario. Quite possibly the best way to sample the quality and variety of craft beer from Ontario is at BrewHa! – the annual craft beer festival held at Thunder Bay’s beautiful waterfront. DELIS Locals know that when you need lunch on the run, a sandwich from a local deli is just what you need. Choose a classic from the menu or go custom – choose your bread, meat, cheese and toppings; make it as big or as small as you want, and pay by weight. FAMILIAR CHAINS Thunder Bay is home to many of your favourite franchises. Pizza, coffee, fast food and restaurant chains can be found on the north and south sides of the city, as well as in the Intercity area. FAMOUS FOODS Some of the most well-known things about Thunder Bay are the persian, Finnish pancakes and Heartbeat Hot Sauce, all of which can be found at many locations in Thunder Bay. The persian is a local favourite and has a long history in the city – a cinnamon-roll-like treat topped with a sweet berry icing. Finnish pancakes are thin, buttery delights that have crispy edges that hang over the sides of the plate. Heartbeat Hot Sauce produces hand crafted and fermented habanero hot sauce, and has garnered attention across the globe from those looking for some serious heat! Want to bring these Thunder Bay favourites home with you? The Hoito Pancake mix and Heartbeat Hot Sauce are available at various locations around Thunder Bay, as well as online. You can bring home persians too - just ask for the icing on the side (please note when flying that the icing can only travel through checked baggage). FARMERS’ MARKETS While you might not expect to find a rich farming community near the boreal forest on the Canadian Shield, the farmers and producers in and around Thunder Bay will change your mind. Find local produce, meats, dairy and cheeses as well as hand-crafted items, art, crafts, natural products and much more at local farmers’ markets. There are markets at various locations in the city throughout the year; the Thunder Bay Country Market, the area’s largest market, is open year-round Wednesday evenings and Saturday mornings, in the Dove building on the CLE grounds. FOOD TRUCKS In the warmer months, you will see mobile food vendors on the streets of Thunder Bay. Serving everything from hot dogs and burgers to salads and tacos, lunch from a food truck is a great way to enjoy the sun while still enjoying a delicious meal. ICE CREAM & DESSERTS There is no shortage of bakeries and cafés across the city, offering unique sweet treats. In fact, Thunder Bay is home to two unique desserts: the persian, and the Sally Ann. If ice cream is your favourite treat, there are terrific options city-wide. The north end of the city offers Merla Mae – a 1950’s drive-in style ice cream parlour specializing in homemade ice creams, including the classic “twin cone.” Head to the Waterfront District to Prime Gelato for those craving an authentic Italian-style treat made with local ingredients. On the south side of town is TJ's Ice Cream Shoppe, where you can choose from numerous flavours, all made in-house. For those who love the nostalgia of dessert on wheels, Epic Cones serves up eye-popping ice cream treats at various locations throughout the city in the summer, as does the Mini Donut Shoppe with their bite sized sweets. In search of Italian pastries instead? Look no further than Nucci’s Bake a Deli or Dolce Coffee House. PATIOS The outdoor patio scene thrives in Thunder Bay, with many restaurants, bars, and dessert shops offering the service. During the summer months, patios can be found throughout the city – including the Waterfront District, where patios have become more popular in recent years. Many restaurants also offer take-out service – grab a meal and enjoy it at a local park. Marina Park is an ideal spot for a picnic with views of the waterfront. RESTAURANTS & EATERIES From vegan to barbecue, greasy spoon to upscale bistro and everything in between, Thunder Bay is home to well over 100 restaurants and eateries offering something to please every palate. Bight dining GET A PIZZA THUNDER BAY With a thriving pizza scene, Thunder Bay offers a delicious array of options that will make all your pizza dreams come true. Crafted using locally-sourced toppings and ingredients, Thunder Bay’s pizzerias make their mark with top-notch, signature tastes. Both Hands Wood-Fired Pizzeria & Bakery, Caribou Restaurant + Wine Bar, and Nook are some local favourites, serving up mouthwatering wood-fired creations for you to relish in. Whether you prefer a classic pizza or want to venture outside the box, Thunder Bay’s pizza lineup will leave your taste buds demanding a second slice. FINNISH PANCAKES – A DELICIOUS THUNDER BAY TRADITION Thunder Bay takes their Finnish pancakes seriously. Home to a significant Finnish population, the crepe-like delicacies are a staple in many Thunder Bay homes and restaurants, including iconic spots like Kangas Sauna or Niva’s Restaurant. Imagine them piping hot and fresh, drizzled with Canada West Maple syrup, topped with succulent berries, and a dusting of powdered sugar… Once you try them, you will then understand why Finnish pancakes have become a beloved tradition in Thunder Bay. SIP ON THUNDER BAY’S VIBRANT COCKTAIL SCENE Looking to unwind or for a night out on the town? Thunder Bay boasts a vibrant cocktail scene worth toasting to. Swing by local go-to spots Barkeep and El Tres, where they’re serving delicious drinks alongside a warm and welcoming atmosphere. And for your next stop, check out Woodside Bar where you can sip on delectable hand-crafted concoctions while experiencing all that the Goods & Co. Market has to offer. SLEEPING GIANT BREWING COMPANY Nook Bean & Olive © Kay Lee Bay Village Coffee SUBDIVISION © Scott MacKay dining © Goh Iromoto © Kay Lee Thai Kitchen Heartbeat Hot Sauce WE PERSIANS! dining © Scott MacKay Giorg © Connor Remus WOODSIDE BAR Barkeep © Scott MacKay © Scott MacKay El Tres dining © Kay Lee © Goh Iromoto © Connor Remus THE FOUNDRY Bop Shop CONNECTIONS FORMED OVER GREAT MEALS© Bight RestaurantUSE THE ONLINE DIRECTORY AT: VISITTHUNDERBAY.COM/EATANDDRINK FOR A SEARCHABLE, FILTERABLE LISTING OF THUNDER BAY’S RESTAURANTS AND FOOD BUSINESSES. shop © Jamie Dawn Photography SHOPPING GUIDE Goods and Co. Indulge yourself with a variety of shopping throughout the city. Find great deals at major retail outlets, discover locally made items, handcrafted pottery and giftware, and much more. Get captivated by First Nations art and check out the fashions in some of our local shops. Ungalli teamed up with Ontario Parks to sustainably bring these new vintage crewnecks to life. Get yours at shop.OntarioParks.com. ANTIQUES AND COLLECTIBLES Go treasure hunting at one of the many antique, consignment, thrift and used stores in the city. BOOK STORES AND COMICS Looking for something to read? Visit one of the many book and comic book stores in the city with new and used books to enjoy. CLOTHING BOUTIQUES The fashion-conscious will find many options in the city. Locally owned clothing boutiques can be found in the north and south side of the city. CRAFTS AND MARKETS Markets galore! You will not have trouble finding locally crafted goods in Thunder Bay. Offering an abundance of seasonal markets, pop-up shops, and craft fairs, the city strongly supports local creators. Most popular is the Craft Revival, a bi-annual craft fair consisting of local artisans showcasing and selling their creations. During the holiday season, shoppers can check out the many unique Christmas markets taking place throughout the city. In addition to crafts and homemade goodies, shoppers can purchase local produce, cheese, honey, and more at the Thunder Bay Country Market (known to many as “The Farmers' Market”) and the Waterfront District's Goods & Co. Market. During the summer and early fall, there are numerous indoor and outdoor markets including the work of local entrepreneurs of all ages. HEALTH AND WELLNESS Feel good about using the products and services from local health and wellness businesses. Sweat it out in a sauna at Kangus Sauna, relax at a spa or get a new hairstyle. Fuel up with juices, natural supplements and health foods. SHOPPING Local neighbourhoods offer unique shopping experiences. Find locally owned clothing boutiques, gift shops and other stores in the Bay & Algoma neighbourhood, the Waterfront District, the Westfort Village and in the Fort William Business District. Malls and shopping centres can be found throughout the city. The largest is found in the intercity area: Intercity Shopping Centre and the stores at the Thunder Centre, where you’ll find dozens of familiar stores in one area. QUILTING AND SEWING Stitchers and quilters will find many options in the city, from large fabric stores to independent wool, yarn and quilt shops. RVS,MOTORCYCLES, & BOATS As the gateway to 150,000 lakes and rivers, including Lake Superior, Thunder Bay welcomes boaters, RVers and motorcycle riders to the city each year. If you’re in need of an accessory or repair or are looking for a brand new rig, local shops have everything you need to get on the road. SPECIALTY GROCERIES Locally produced items can be found at stores throughout the city – try local cheese, meat, hot sauce, coffee and much more. You can also find imported Italian, Finnish, Dutch, Mexican and Asian ingredients and products at various local grocers. SPECIALTY SHOPS From vinyl records to custom furniture, shoppers will find a wide variety of local stores offering unique products. SPORTS AND OUTDOORS It’s no surprise Thunder Bay has a reputation of being one of Canada’s premier outdoor cities. With Lake Superior at our doorstep and nestled within the vast boreal forest, we take outdoor recreation seriously. You’ll find high-quality, robust equipment for any activity you’re into – whether you’re a camper, a climber, a mountain biker, a skier, a sailor, or even a surfer. Wanting to pack light or try something new? Don’t worry – many outlets offer rentals. © Ontario Parks ONTARIO PARKS VINTAGE COLLECTION BY UNGALLI shop © © Chad Kirvan Ahnisnabae Art Gallery boy Roland © Patrick Chondon Windy Lake Woodworking at Craft Revival Spirit of the Forest available at Chaltrek Work & Play Outdoors © Lovely Body LOVELY BODY 3RIDE Bicycle Co. shop © Jonathan Portinga FRESH AIR USE OUR ONLINE BUSINESS DIRECTORY AT: VISITTHUNDERBAY.COM/SHOPPING TO FIND EXACTLY WHAT YOU’RE LOOKING FOR. The largest selection of souvenirs in Thunder Bay.  313 BAY ST | 807.683.0982 | stay ©Scott MacKay ACCOMMODATIONS Victoria Inn Thunder Bay Delta Hotels by Marriott Thunder Bay HOTELS BEST WESTERN PLUS NOR’WESTER HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTRE* 2080 Hwy 61 (807) 473-9123 | 1-888-473-2378 bwplusnorwester.com BEST WESTERN THUNDER BAY CROSSROADS 655 Arthur St. W. (807) 577-4241 | 1-800-265-3253 bestwestern.com COMFORT INN THUNDER BAY 660 Arthur St. W. (807) 475-3155 | 1-800-228-5150 choicehotels.com DAYS INN & SUITES BY WYNDHAM THUNDER BAY 645 Sibley Dr. (807) 622-3297 1-800-DAYS-INN daysinnsuitesthunderbay.com DAYS INN NORTH 1250 Golf Links Rd. (807) 344-3297 | 1-800-DAYS-INN daysinnthunderbay.com DELTA HOTELS BY MARRIOTT THUNDER BAY*° 2240 Sleeping Giant Pkwy. (807) 344-0777 | 1-888-890-3222 deltathunderbay.com HAMPTON INN & SUITES BY HILTON 760 Arthur St. W. (807) 577-5000 | 1-855-271-3553 hamptoninn.com HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS & SUITES 1041 Carrick St. (807) 346-0220 | 1-877-660-8550 hiexpress.com/thunderbayon HOWARD JOHNSON 686 Memorial Ave (807) 344-6688 | 1-800-221-5801 wyndhamhotels.com LANDMARK HOTEL* 1010 Dawson Rd. (807) 767-1681 | 1-800-465-3950 landmarkinn.ca PRINCE ARTHUR WATERFRONT HOTEL & SUITES* 17 Cumberland St. N. (807) 345-5411 | 1-800-267-2675 princearthurwaterfront.com RAMADA AIRLANE BY WYNDHAM* 698 Arthur St. W. (807) 473-1600 | 1-800-465-5003 ramadaairlane.com SUPER 8 439 Memorial Ave. (807) 344-2612 | 1-800-800-8000 wyndhamhotels.com SUPERIOR SHORES HOTEL 61 Cumberland St. N. (807) 285-9600 superiorshoreshotel.ca THE COURTHOUSE HOTEL 277 Camelot St. (807) 788-1666 courthousehotel.ca TOWNEPLACE SUITES BY MARRIOTT 550 Harbour Expy. (807) 346-9000 / 1-888-236-2427 marriott.com/yqtts TRAVELODGE BY WYNDHAM 450 Memorial Ave. (807) 345-2343 / 1-800-578-7878 wyndhamhotems.com VALHALLA HOTEL AND CONFERENCE CENTRE* 1 Valhalla Inn Rd. (807) 577-1121 / 1-800-964-1121 valhallahotel.ca VICTORIA INN THUNDER BAY* 555 Arthur St. W. (807) 577-8481 / 1-800-387-3331 thunderbay.vicinn.com HOSTELS & AIRBNB COLLEGE PARK HAPPY TRAILS – AIRBNB 138 Elron Cres. airbnb.ca LAKEHEAD UNIVERSITY CONFERENCE SERVICES 955 Oliver Rd. (807) 343-8485 May-August lakeheadu.ca/campus-life/conference RIVERSEDGE – AIRBNB 1207 Forest St. airbnb.ca SLEEPING GIANT GUESTHOUSE 139 Machar Ave. (807) 683-3995 | 1-866-424-5687 airbnb.ca STRATHCONA MOTEL – AIRBNB 545 Hodder Ave. airbnb.ca THE HAVEN HOSTEL 226 Ambrose St. (807) 285-1142 thehavenhostel.ca MOTELS, INNS AND SUITES HOLIDAY INN MOTEL 375 Kingsway (807) 623-2514 / 1-866-218-1355 KINGSWAY INN 345 Kingsway (807) 623-1223 LAKEHEAD MOTEL 421 Cumberland St. N. (807) 345-4487 MODERN MOTEL 430 Cumberland St. N. (807) 344-4352 MUNRO MOTEL 325 Munro St. (807) 345-5342 NIGHTS INN MOTOR HOTEL 180 MacDougall St. 1-888-345-1566 OLD COUNTRY MOTEL 500 Cumberland St. N. (807) 285-3406 oldcountrymotel.ca RELAX MOTEL 387 Cumberland St. N. (807) 345-6561 SEA-VUE MOTEL 463 Cumberland St. N. (807) 344-9655 sea-vue.com STRATHCONA MOTEL 545 Hodder Ave. (807) 683-8136 | 1-888-242-3716 SUPERIOR MOTEL 446 Cumberland St. N. (807) 345-1408 VOYAGEUR MOTEL 177 Powley St. (807) 345-4786 SHORT AND LONG-TERM RENTALS PARKLANE TOWNHOMES 930 Neebing Ave. (807) 473-9646 north44pm.com SEASONS EXTENDED STAY SUITES 1486 Dawson Rd. (807) 767-8835 seasonsextendedstaysuites.com CAMPGROUNDS AND RV PARKS CHIPPEWA PARK CAMPGROUND 2465 City Rd. (807) 623-3912 thunderbay.ca/campgrounds FORT WILLIAM HISTORICAL PARK 1350 King Rd. (807) 473-2344 (807) 473-2333 fwhp.ca HAPPY LAND RV PARK 1-4650 Hwy 11/17 Kakabeka Falls, ON (807) 473-9003 happylandpark.com MIRROR LAKE RESORT & CAMPGROUND 3495 Hwy 11/17 Shuniah, ON (807) 977-2840 THUNDER BAY KOA 162 Spruce River Rd. Shuniah, ON (807) 683-6221 1-800-562-4162 koa.com/campgrounds/ thunder-bay TROWBRIDGE FALLS CAMPGROUND 16 Copenhagen Rd. (807) 683-6661 thunderbay.ca/campgrounds PROVINCIAL PARKS Kakabeka Falls Sleeping Giant Quetico 1-888-668-7275 ontarioparks.com * Full-service convention hotel ° Tesla and EV Charging stations, as well as Bike Rentals stay Holiday Inn Express and Suites Townplace Suites Valhalla Inn © Sociable The Haven Hostel Hot BreakfastMeeting RoomPoolInternetTThhuunnddeerr BBaayy OOnnttaarriiooBBuussiinneessss oorr LLeeiissuurree,, wwee hhaavvee yyoouu ccoovveerreedd!! 1.807.346.0220 www.hiexpress.com/thunderbayonSpruce River Road off of Highway 11-17Open May 1 - October 31Toll free reservations: 1-800-562-4162koa.com• Big rigs welcome• Aquatic Fun Zone with 2 heated salt water pools and splash pad• Kamping Kabins• Deluxe Kabins• 18 hole mini golf and driving range• WIFI available• Kamp K9 pet playground• Catch and release trout pond• Close to all local attractions CONVENIENT ACCOMMODATIONS ON CAMPUSWhether you’re a conference group, a school group, a sports team, an individual or a family: Lakehead University residences are anideal choice for affordable, flexible and accessible accommodations. From May to August our dormitories, townhouse or apartmentstyled lodgings start at $55 per person per night, with a minimum 2-night stay.T. 807.343-8799 E. conference.services@lakeheadu.ca W. conferenceservices.lakeheadu.ca stay stay © Daniel Griffin © Goh Iromoto © Amanda Phillips NEW! Book City campgrounds online at: thunderbay.ca/campgrounds © Goh Iromoto TROWBRIDGE FALLS CAMPGROUND USE OUR ONLINE ACCOMMODATION DIRECTORY AT VISITTHUNDERBAY.COM/PLACESTOSTAY FOR MORE INFORMATION. fully equipped kitchensin every room.807-346-9000 550 Harbour Expy www.marriott.com/yqttsMeeting space and catering availableworkplaystaySimple made perfect.Book now at marriott.com/YQTDE or contact us at 1.807.344.0777˜°...ˆ............ˆ..... .°.... ˆ. .ˆ..° . ˆ  ˜˜˜°....ˆ˜..ˆ˜...˜˜˜...˜˜˜ .  ˜ ˜..˜.. ˜.˜ ... ˜..˜..˜˜˜°...ˆ..ˆˆ.˜˜˜ .˜....˜.. ˜˜.. ˜ .˜.... ...˜˜.˜..˜˜˜ .˜°ˆ......˜. ˜....˜....˜˜˜..˜ ...˜˜ ..... ˜..˜˜˜°.˜..ˆ..˜.°˜°....°ˆ...°.°.ˆ ° ˆ. .ˆ°˜°...ˆ...........°ˆ...°. °...°..ˆ°.... .ˆ.°ˆ....ˆ. .. .˜.˜ˆ. sports APRIL PRIDE BONSPIEL April 26 -28 | Port Arthur Curling Club The Pride Bonspiel is an inaugural event bringing an inclusive perspective to the sport in Northern Ontario with potential for a provincial team to compete at the Canadian Gay Curling Championships. The bonspiel will be open to everyone and will be a mix between a regular and a pro-am format. This will allow for participants to enter as individuals or as teams therefore allowing even more people to take part. pacurling.com WHAT’S ON IN SPORTS © Tim Banfield Photography MAY FIREFIGHTERS 10 MILE ROAD RACE May 22 (Monday, Victoria Day) This is one of Canada’s longest running road races and a Thunder Bay tradition dating back to 1910. Runners from around the world ranging from Kenya to Finland have come to run the roads of Thunder Bay in one of the few 10-mile races held in Canada. 10mileroadrace.org FEBRUARY ONTARIO WINTER GAMES February 16 – 19 & February 23 – 26 The Games are a provincial multi-sport event with young athletes and athletes with physical disabilities to compete in 22 sports in venues across the city. The Winter Games began in 1972 and are held every two years with Thunder Bay last hosting the event in 1974. The Games are expected to attract more than 2,700 athletes, coaches and team managers in events held over two weekends. tbaygames2024.ca MARCH SLEEPING GIANT LOPPET March 4 (Saturday) | Sleeping Giant Provincial Park This popular cross-country ski event has been running for over 40 years and is expected to attract 700 to 900 participants for what will be the 45th edition of this family friendly event. There are distances for skiers of all levels from recreation enthusiasts to competitive racers. The mass participation ski festival is held on the groomed trails in the beautiful wilderness setting of Sleeping Giant Provincial Park attracting skiers from across Canada and U.S. sleepinggiantloppet.ca NORTHERN ONTARIO STICK CURLING CHAMPIONSHIPS March 6 – 10 | Fort William Curling Club This event is the provincial championship sanctioned by the Northern Ontario Curling Association to determine the 2024 Northern Ontario representative at the Canadian 2 Person Stick Curling Championship to be held in Toronto in April 2024. This is the inaugural provincial championship for stick curling in Northern Ontario and will feature competitors both men and women from across the region. curlnoca.ca sports WBSC WOMEN’S BASEBALL WORLD CUP July 28 – August 3 Port Arthur Stadium | Baseball Central This international tournament will feature six national teams from around the world including Canada and United States competing for the World Cup title. The other four teams are from Japan, Chinese Taipei, Mexico and Venezuela. wbsc.org NORTHERN ONTARIO DISC GOLF CHAMPIONSHIPS August 2 – 5 Boulevard Lake | Dragon Hills | Bayview After successfully hosting the Canadian Championships last year, the Northern Ontario championships returns to its August long weekend timeslot. Referred to as frisbee golf, this unique sport is growing in popularity here in Thunder Bay with the Northern Ontario championships designated as a Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA) sanctioned A-tier tournament open to both professional and amateur players.northernontariochampionship.com TICKETS TO A HOME GAME Thunder Bay is a sports town – summer or winter, there is always a home team to cheer for. SEPTEMBER CANADIAN XCM NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP / SHUNIAH FORTY MINER September 6 – 7 | Kinsmen Park - Trowbridge Forest Campground Thunder Bay is hosting a national mountain bike race for the first time ever celebrating the newly built trails at Shuniah Mines in the Trowbridge Forest. Riders from across Canada will compete for national titles testing their skills in this grueling cross country event hosted by the Blacksheep Mountain Bike Club. The event is part of the annual Shuniah Forty Miner XCM Festival featuring a vendor village, beer gardens, local food, and live music. blacksheepmtb.com DIRT TRACK NATIONALS September 22 – 24 | Thunder City Speedway The Thunder Bay Truck Dirt Track Nationals is the finale to the dirt track racing season in Thunder Bay at new Thunder City Speedway. Stock car drivers from the U.S. Midwest and across the region will be here to compete for cash prizes in modified and stock classes. Facebook: Thunder City Speedway HOCKEY LAKEHEAD UNIVERSITY THUNDERWOLVES thunderwolveshockey.com THUNDER BAY NORTH STARS thunderbaynorthstars.com KAM RIVER FIGHTING WALLEYE fightingwalleye.com BASKETBALL LAKEHEAD UNIVERSITY THUNDERWOLVES thunderwolves.ca SOCCER THUNDER BAY CHILL thunderbaychill.com BASEBALL THUNDER BAY BORDER CATS northwoodsleague.com travel information KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Crossing the Border into Canada: Land Ports of Entry Both Canada Border Services and the U.S. Customs & Border Protection Agencies want you to have a good experience moving through the customs and border protection process. Learning about traveller entry forms, agricultural products allowed and prohibited, what items are dutiable, and other information about the process will help you move speedily through this process. RESIDENTS RETURNING TO THE UNITED STATES Returning U.S. residents are eligible for an $800 duty-free personal exemption every 31 days, having remained no less than 48 hours beyond the territorial limits of the United States except U.S. Virgin Islands, in a contiguous country which maintains free zone or port, and has remained beyond the territorial limits of the United States not exceeding 24 hours. This exemption includes no more than 200 cigarettes and 100 cigars. Visit cbp.gov for more information. CROSSING THE CANADA-U.S. BORDER All U.S. citizens aged 16 and older, entering Canada by air (including in-transit passengers who are transferring planes in the U.S.), land or water, must present one of the following documents: a passport or passport card; an Enhanced Driver’s License; or a Trusted Traveler Program Card (SENTRI, NEXUS or FAST Card). Travellers aged 15 and under require a birth certificate for land or sea travel and a passport for air travel. For current requirements go to: cic.gc.ca. If you are travelling with your own children under the age of 16 and your spouse, bring their birth certificates. If you are travelling with a child other than your own or without your spouse, have the child’s birth certificate along with a letter of permission, including name and contact information for that child’s parents/guardians or your spouse. Visitors from all other countries require a valid passport and, in some cases, a visitor’s visa. WHAT CAN & CAN’T COME INTO CANADA Residents of the United States who visit Canada are allowed to bring in a “reasonable” amount of personal goods duty free. The amount you bring should align with your length of stay. There are limits for some of the regulated items: alcohol, tobacco and food products. What is and what is not allowed changes frequently – visit inspection.gc.ca for current information prior to your departure. Pets: Dogs and cats accompanying their owners from the U.S. must have current (within 36 months) rabies vaccination certificates. Owners from other countries who wish to bring their pets with them should contact 1-800-442-2342 | 1-613-225-2342 | TTY 1-800-465-7735 or visi: inspection.gc.ca FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: CANADA BORDER SERVICES AGENCY cbsa.gc.ca WITHIN CANADA: 1-800-461-9999 TTY WITHIN CANADA: 1-866-335-3237 OUTSIDE OF CANADA: 204-983-3500 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS: canadawelcomesyou.net travel.state.gov U.S. CUSTOMS AND BORDER PROTECTION cbp.gov WITHIN THE U.S.: 1-877-CBP-5511 TTY WITHIN THE U.S.: 1-866-6582 OUTSIDE OF THE U.S.: (202) 325-8000 GRAND PORTAGE, MN PORT OF ENTRY: (218) 475-2244 CURRENCY If you want to know what your money is worth in Canada, visit: bankofcanada.ca/rates/exchange/daily-converter to quickly convert your currency to Canadian dollars. travel information Visitor Information Centres TERRY FOX MONUMENT & TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRE – THUNDER BAY A nine-foot high bronze statue, set on a 45-ton granite base with a foundation of local amethyst, commands a breathtaking view of Lake Superior and the famous Sleeping Giant. The statue honours the memory of Terry Fox, the courageous one-legged runner who embarked on a cross-country run for cancer research — the Marathon of Hope. The site is not far from the place where he ended his 5,342 km (3,339 mi) run, stricken with the disease that ended his life on June 28, 1981. Accessible washrooms, picnic area, and wireless internet are available. Located on Hwy 11/17 (Thunder Bay Expressway), 1 km (0.6 mi) east of Hodder Avenue. Open year-round. Visit visitthunderbay.com/TerryFox for current operating hours. VISITOR INFO (807) 983-2041 | TOLL-FREE 1-800-MOST-FUN (667-8386) EMAIL Visit@ThunderBay.ca PIGEON RIVER ONTARIO TRAVEL INFORMATION CENTRE The Ontario Travel Information Centre at Pigeon River is part of a network of 11 Ontario Travel Information Centres located across the province. Access all your travel information needs across Northern Ontario including the Thunder Bay region. Staff can help you “Discover Ontario.” Visitors will enjoy spacious picnicking grounds, scenic nature trails, a children’s playground, vending machines, public washrooms, access to fishing licenses and crown land camping permits, and Ontario souvenirs. Located 45 km south of Thunder Bay, on Hwy 61 at the Ontario/Minnesota International border. Open seven days a week from May to October. (807) 964-2094 TOURIST “PAGODA” – THUNDER BAY Thunder Bay’s Tourist “Pagoda” can rightfully claim its place in history as Canada’s oldest continuously operating tourist bureau. The hexagonal-shaped structure dates back to 1909. Amongst its modern neighbours and overlooking Thunder Bay’s marina, the Pagoda has continued to greet visitors for more than a century. Located at the corner of Water Street and Red River Road, the Pagoda is open from mid-May through to September. (807) 684-3670 Cannabis in Canada Adults aged 19 and older are legally permitted to purchase, possess (up to 30 grams) and consume cannabis in Ontario. Visitors included. Cannabis MUST be legally procured through permitted sources (online at ocs.ca or at a licensed retail store). You cannot bring cannabis across the U.S./Canada border, in either direction. Travelling within Canada with cannabis is permitted (laws vary provincially so be aware of the specific regulations applicable as you travel). In Ontario, cannabis consumption is regulated under the Smoke-Free Ontario act. Be aware of your surroundings and where you can and can’t smoke/vape. Impaired driving is a serious offence in Ontario and drivers shown to be impaired by alcohol, cannabis or any other substance can face stiff penalties including having their vehicle impounded, a loss of driving privileges, significant fines and even jail time. Ontario police are authorized to use roadside oral fluid screening devices. Don’t smoke and drive, or boat! To see more Frequently Asked Questions, go to: visitthunderbay.com/cannabisFAQ. For more detailed information on legislation and retail sales, visit: ocs.ca. EAT. SHOP. PLAY. STAY. THB-visitors_guide_ad.indd 1THB-visitors_guide_ad.indd 12022-11-17 10:37 AM2022-11-17 10:37 AMYOURSCAN TO GET ON BOARD!See it. Sail it. Feel it. Thunder Bay Harbour Tours with Sail Superior. ADVENTUREAWAITSBOOK NOW AT SAILSUPERIOR.C0MVisit us at 500 Bass Lake Rd. Shuniah, ONamethystmine.comamethystmine.comShop at 400 Victoria Ave E. Thunder Bay, ONAmethyst Experiences:Amethyst crafts, jewelery, souvenirs - locally collected and hand-crafted on-siteOpen Year-roundMonday to FridayAmethyst Shopping:Dig-your-own Amethyst, Tours, on-site Gift Shop!Open Jun. 1 to Oct. 110 AM – 5 PM beyond the city lights BEYOND THE CITY LIGHTS Sunset Country, Ontario SUNSET COUNTRY Ontario’s Sunset Country is a vast region covering 100,000 square kilometres from just west of Thunder Bay all the way to the Manitoba border. Larger than many U.S. states, the 70,000 lakes are a major attraction for visitors. Fishing and hunting are the number one reasons tourists visit here, but if you love the outdoors, there are endless opportunities to explore and have fun. Paddlers can take trips into wilderness parks like Quetico, Wabakimi, and Woodland Caribou. Anglers can catch multiple species including walleye, bass, trout, pike and the elusive muskie. Enjoy a shore lunch of fresh walleye that you caught just minutes before it hit the frying pan – there’s nothing quite like it! With over 250 lodges and resorts, finding the perfect place to stay is easy. Experience a unique vacation at a wilderness outpost cabin where you and your group “own” the lake for the week. Hunting opportunities are numerous with species like black bear, whitetail deer and moose at the top of hunters’ lists. The scenic panoramas are truly incredible! Rugged Canadian Shield rocks, cut by moving water and endless tracts of Boreal Forest that are home to many species of birds and wildlife, make Sunset Country a nature-lover's dream. Make sure you bring a camera. Visit our communities for a fun combination of small-town charm, shopping, and dining. Sunset Country has many unique places to dine, with great service and food. Summertime is events and festivals time in Sunset Country, so if that interests you, there are many different ones you can attend. Thunder bay is the gateway City to Ontario’s Sunset Country. Many who fish here fly into Thunder Bay then drive to their destination. LEARN MORE ABOUT THE MANY OUTDOOR ADVENTURES THAT AWAIT YOU BY GOING TO OUR WEBSITE AT: VISITSUNSETCOUNTRY.COM. DON’T FORGET TO ORDER YOUR FREE TRAVEL GUIDE AND MAP. ©Goh Iromoto beyond the city lights SUPERIOR COUNTRY In the heart of Northern Ontario and along the world’s largest freshwater lake – Lake Superior features Superior Country. This area offers the natural beauty of a spectacular lake and engaging touring routes. Affordable family fun, exciting eco-adventures, as well as world-class fishing and hunting. Whether you’re climbing the Sleeping Giant, visiting the City of Thunder Bay, camping on a remote lake, or trolling for the big one on Lake Nipigon, you’ll get a true taste of everything great in Superior Country. Catch the Superior spirit and soothe your soul. You don’t have to look further than the Superior Country region for world-class sport fishing! With an abundance of species, Superior Country offers great experiences for all anglers. Floatplanes touch down on secluded lakes throughout the region, remote outposts provide a variety of comforts and amenities from basic to first class, and charters provide experiences of a lifetime with deep water fishing. Superior Country is considered a prime moose and black bear hunting destination. Majestic moose crowned with massive antlers browse the wilderness, rivers, lake shores, and logging clearings across the region. Whitetail deer and small game offer something for every hunter. Lake Superior draws many to Superior Country through the 2,090 km (1,300 mile) Lake Superior Circle Tour. This tour takes travellers through Ontario and three U.S. states – Minnesota, Wisconsin & Michigan – to enjoy the natural beauty of the water with its 4,387 km (2,726 miles) of shoreline, cliffs, and beaches. FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT SUPERIORCOUNTRY.CA. Remember to get your stamp at the Terry Fox Tourism Centre to receive your official Lake Superior Circle Tour Certificate. For more information, visit: lakesuperiorcircletour.info/certificate ©Scott MacKay CYPRESS SLEEPER BARRELS NIPIGON, ON community FRENCH LANGUAGE BUSINESS AND SERVICE DIRECTORY  FRANCO-FRIENDLY THUNDER BAY Venez découvrir le centre multiservices à Thunder Bay. The Centre Francophone is your one-stop shop for information about French language services and events available in our city and in Northwestern Ontario. Bienvenue! 234 Van Norman St. projet@centrefranco.ca (807) 684-1965 centrefranco.ca Cherchez-vous des services en français à Thunder Bay et dans le Nord-Ouest de l’Ontario? Consultez le Répertoire des services en français. Ajoutez dès maintenant votre entreprise gratuitement pour augmenter votre clientèle. Are you looking for services in French in Thunder Bay and Northwestern Ontario? Consult the French Language Business and Service Directory. Does your business offer services in French? Add your listing to the directory for free and grow your clientele. afnoo.org innovation@afnoo.org Toll-Free: 1-888-248-1712 Find interactive guided tours using our free mobile app for iOS and Android. Visit baladodecouverte.com for more information. DISCOVER THE WONDERS OF OUR LIBRARIES (807) 345-TBPL (8275) | tbpl.ca WAVERLEY 285 Red River Rd. BRODIE 216 Brodie St. S. MARY J.L. BLACK 901 Edward St. S. COUNTY PARK County Fair Mall, 1020 Dawson Rd. VIRTUAL LIBRARY 24/7 tbpl.ca Find us on: FACEBOOK: TBayPL INSTAGRAM: TBayPL YOUTUBE: TBayPL FOR MORE COMMUNITY RESOURCES AND PROGRAMS, CHECK OUT: THUNDERBAY.CA/THEKEY. CELEBRATING 70 YEARS OF CONSERVATION EXCELLENCEWWW.LAKEHEADCA.COM˜VISIT THE LAKEHEAD REGION’S 10 CONSERVATION AREAS!CASCADES(Thunder Bay)HAZELWOOD LAKE(Gorham)SILVER HARBOUR(Shuniah)MILLS BLOCK(Thunder Bay)MACKENZIE POINT(Shuniah)MISSION ISLAND MARSH(Thunder Bay)CEDAR FALLS(O’Connor)LITTLE TROUT BAY(Neebing)HURKETT COVE(Dorion)WISHART(Gorham)2024 TBAY Experience Ad.indd 12024 TBAY Experience Ad.indd 12023-12-01 10:24:49 AM2023-12-01 10:24:49 AM