North Bay
Known as the 'Gateway of the North', North Bay sits between two magnificent lakes and enjoys easy access from the city to lush forests, rivers, a waterfall and even a ski hill.
The city overlooks Lake Nipissing, home to passenger cruise boat, Chief Commanda II, and features the Heritage Railway & Carousel Company, and popular waterfront attraction.
To learn more about all there is to see and do in North Bay, scroll down or visit the city's tourism website.
Where is North Bay?
The city of North Bay is in the Northeastern part of Ontario on the shore of Lake Nipissing. It takes about 4 hours to drive from Toronto and around 3.5-4 hours from Ottawa to reach North Bay. Ontario Northland provides bus service to North Bay.
By plane, land at North Bay Airport or North Bay/Jack Garland Airport (IATA: YYB, ICAO: CYYB).
Things to Know About Visiting North Bay
Whether you’re still in the planning stages or you’re already on your trip to North Bay, it’s nice to learn what the locals know about the city.
Great place for winter activities
Lake Nipissing is the perfect place for snow kiting with its many public access points along the eastern shoreline.
Where to shop local
The North Bay Farmers' Market is the place to go for local produce, meats, dairy and more. It gets busy though, so plan accordingly.
Hidden gem
Marathon Beach on Lake Nipissing is a local favourite spot. Walk along the boardwalk, go for a swim, bring a picnic or watch the boats. You’ll always find something fun to do here.
North Bay's Neighbourhoods & Districts
North Bay is made up of several neighbourhoods including:
Downtown
North Bay’s Downtown is just a short walk from the Lake Nipissing municipal waterfront, with all the amenities such as food, beach and boat launch.
Widdifield
The area is known for Widdifield Forest Provincial Park, which offers a diverse list of activities like fishing, boating, canoeing, hiking, recreational all-terrain vehicle trails, camping, snowmobiling and snowshoeing.
Things to Do in North Bay
North Bay offers great fishing and sailing opportunities and endless outdoor pursuits right at its doorstep. The city lies between two freshwater lakes, and boasts over 40 public beaches, popular trails including Kate Pace Way and Duchesnay Falls Trails and Laurentian Ski Hill, within walking distance from the shopping mall.
Many independently owned restaurants are famous for locally sourcing ingredients to give their own twist to the meals. Churchill’s is one of the top 50 restaurants in Canada and offers not just great food, but also an eye-pleasing setting.
Check what's on at the Capitol Centre, North Bay's home for performing arts and entertainment since 1929.
And of course, North Bay comes alive during colder seasons. Head to trails, lodges, resorts and hotels to get away from it all and play on the powder to your heart’s content.
Last updated: October 24, 2023