Thunder Bay
Known as one of Canada's greatest 'outdoor cities', Thunder Bay is also a culturally diverse city filled with exciting shopping, sightseeing and entertainment. The city takes its name from the bay at the head of Lake Superior and is considered the sunniest city in eastern Canada.
Visitors to the city are welcomed with great historical attractions, accommodations and cuisine and invited to take advantage of the numerous parks nearby, including the famous Sleeping Giant Provincial Park. Tour the Goods & Co. Market and explore its numerous restaurants, retail vendors and ongoing events.
Fort William Historical Park is the largest living history attraction in North America. It recreates the fur trade from 200 years ago through tours and educational exhibits to visitors from across the globe.
To learn more about all there is to see and do in Thunder Bay, scroll down or visit the city's tourism website.
Where is Thunder Bay?
Thunder Bay is located along the northwest shoreline of Lake Superior, and is connected to neighbouring northern cities via the Trans-Canada Highway.
Things to Know About Visiting Thunder Bay
Whether you’re still in the planning stages or you’re already on your trip to Thunder Bay, it’s nice to learn what the locals know about the city.
Great place for winter activities
With over 30 km groomed trails, the cross-country skiing is amazing at Kamview Nordic Centre.
Must-do in summer
Sail to Porphyry Island, which boasts unique geology and flora such as devil’s club and arctic plant species and is also home to the second Canadian lighthouse built on Lake Superior (1873).
Great lookout spot
Mount McKay is the Northernmost peak of the Nor’Wester Mountains. About halfway up the mountain, accessible by car, is a lookout which overlooks the city of Thunder Bay and Lake Superior.
Thunder Bay Neighbourhoods & Districts
Thunder Bay was formed from two former cities: Port Arthur and Fort William.
Current River
This scenic neighbourhood is separated from the main urban area of Thunder Bay by the Current River Greenway, a large greenway filled with locally-owned shops and restaurants.
Downtown Fort William
This area makes up the southern part of Thunder Bay and is the city's urban centre with numerous options for dining and shopping and is home to the Thunder Bay Historical Museum.
Marina Park
This waterfront neighbourhood is home to a marina and has a boardwalk, maritime museum and the historic CN Rail Station.
Northwood
Home to Northwood Park Plaza, an indoor shopping mall, the Thunder Bay Soroptimist International Friendship Garden and Confederation College.
Port Arthur
Well known for its restaurants and culture, this neighbourhood features a new waterfront development called Prince Arthur's Landing.
Things to Do in Thunder Bay
Immerse yourself in the unique history of Thunder Bay. As mentioned, the city is home to Fort William Historical Park. Through live exhibits and other recreated activities, experience what life was like in the fort 200 years ago, when the area was bustling with the fur trade. The Terry Fox Monument memorializes the activism and support displayed by noted Canadian athlete Terry Fox, who dedicated his life to cancer research by establishing the Marathon of Hope, a cross-country run for cancer research.
The Thunder Bay Museum explores the vast and rich heritage of the city and surrounding area. A tour of the Alexander Henry Museum provides a look aboard and inside the Canadian Coast Guard ship in service from 1959 to 1984 which served as an icebreaker and buoy tender on Lake Superior. Other historical sites of note include the Thunder Bay Observatory, Ahnisnabae Art Gallery and Duke Hunt Historical Museum. Glide across Lake Superior with Sail Superior and adventures to places like Thompson Island, Caribou Island, Otter Cove and the Slates.
After a day exploring the city, unwind and relax over a delicious meal at one of Thunder Bay’s celebrated restaurants, like Tomlin or Caribou Restaurant + Wine Bar. Or toast your day with a fresh, craft brew from Sleeping Giant Brewing Co. or Dawson Trail Craft Brewery. And before you leave, be sure to sample local Finnish pancakes, a regional favourite.
Last updated: September 13, 2023