It sounds cliché but there truly is something for everyone in Thunder Bay. The city markets itself to tourists as “Canada’s Premier Outdoor City”, and it without question is an epic outdoor destination, but what about those of us who aren’t as outdoorsy? Who might not want the word “rugged” to describe our vacation? Is there anything for us? Yes! So much!

Thunder Bay is the largest city on the largest freshwater lake on the planet, positioned perfectly on the edge of the world’s largest boreal forest and steps away from epic, bucket-list outdoor adventures – this is all true. But it is also a hub city for a region the size of France and has all the amenities of any major city, all while being easily accessible and relatively affordable. Our remoteness requires us to be innovative and creative and that can be seen in our art, music and food scenes.

Book a hotel in the Waterfront District and start exploring.

Bask in the beauty of the big lake

Being outdoorsy or not, being this close to Lake Superior is always special. There is just something magical about the big lake. This is our connection to the world – from here, a boat can travel all the way to the Atlantic Ocean and to all points beyond.

I like to grab a cup of coffee from St. Paul Roastery and wander the paths along the shore at Prince Arthur’s Landing, marveling at the sheer size of the lake. It’s hard to imagine just how huge it is until you’ve seen it. It looks like the ocean. It contains 10% of all the freshwater on earth, enough to cover North America in water a foot deep. It’s hard to fathom it’s enormity sometimes but it’s a grounding feeling to sit beside something that is so massive, yet so still. Even though you are in the heart of downtown, you can’t help but feel a sense of peace and tranquility surrounded by this much natural beauty.

Refreshed and ready to take on the day, make your way across Water Street and into downtown (the Waterfront District), home to great art, music, theatre, food and shopping.

Shop ‘til you drop

There are a number of fantastic shops in the area but you must visit Goods and Co. Market.

According to their website, “Goods and Co. is a big city-style, gourmet shopping and dining experience, with 25,000 sq ft of creative space for 25+ food and merchandise vendors”, but for me, it is so much more than that. Goods and Co. is inspirational.

Revitalizing the old Eaton’s department store that had been closed to the public for nearly 20 years, Goods has breathed a new life into the Waterfront District, retaining as much of the building’s original character as possible, while still making it incredibly modern. Every time I walk into Goods, I’m for an instant brought back to being a child walking into Eaton’s with my grandmother while simultaneously feeling like I’m walking in a big city market.

Taste Thunder Bay

While you’re exploring the Waterfront District you’re going to work up an appetite, good thing you are surrounded by fantastic food and cocktail options.

Options vary widely from the delicious gastropub menus at The Foundry Pub and The Sovereign Room to the eclectic, sharing plates at Tomlin Restaurant to amazing Detroit-style pizza at Subdivision and some of the best Thai food in Canada at Thai Kitchen along with so many other options; whatever you’re craving there’s surely a spot nearby to satisfy.

If you’re just looking for a drink, know we’ve come a long way from rum and cokes and Crystal beers. High-end cocktails (often utilizing local ingredients) can be found at a number of bars in the area, but my two personal favourites are Barkeep and Woodside (inside Goods and Co. Market).

For the beer lovers, there are a number of craft breweries in Thunder Bay, including Sleeping Giant Brewing Company, Dawson Trail Brewery and the nearby Lakehead Beer Company (which shares a space with Subdivision Pizza, mmm pizza and beer!)

Whatever you are seeking, you’ll be able to find a perfect spot to enjoy a night out with friends or a romantic evening with a loved one. Not only are the food and drink options in the Waterfront District fantastic, but each establishment offers a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, making it easy to unwind after a busy day of exploring.

Explore the art and culture of the area

One of the highlights of Thunder Bay is the city’s robust art and culture scene. From visiting galleries and museums to attending concerts and festivals, there’s always something to do. From contemporary, modern art to traditional Indigenous Woodland Art, the galleries showcase diverse collections.

The Thunder Bay Art Gallery is a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts, and holds one of the largest collections of Indigenous art in Canada with over 1600 pieces in the Permanent Collection. The TBAG is currently constructing a brand new state-of-the art gallery on the waterfront at Prince Arthur’s Landing, slated to open in 2025.

If you’re looking for something a bit more unconventional, check out Definitely Superior Art Gallery. This gallery, built in a renovated movie theatre, showcases avant-garde artwork and often hosts events that push the boundaries of traditional art exhibitions.

The Ahnisnabae Art Gallery, located in the Waterfront District is owned and operated by Louise Thomas, and dedicated to showcasing the artwork of her late husband, famed Woodland artist, Roy Thomas.

There are also many pieces of public art at Prince Arthur’s Landing and murals and street art located throughout the Waterfront District.

Nightlife/Gay Bars

For music lovers, Thunder Bay is a great place to catch a show. The city has a thriving music scene, with a variety of venues that host both local and international acts.

While there isn’t a “gay bar”, there are a number of 2SLGBTQ+-owned and 2SLGBTQ+-friendly bars and clubs, making it easy to find a welcoming spot to socialize and meet new people. You’ll often find drag shows and other queer events being held at Black Pirates Pub, Red Lion Smokehouse, Atmos and more.

2SLGBTQ+ Pride Events

As a 2SLGBTQ+ traveler, it’s important to feel safe and welcome when visiting new places. Thunder Bay is a welcoming and inclusive place with a 2SLGBTQ+ community that is vibrant and active, with a number of organizations and events that celebrate diversity and promote equality. We are sure you will enjoy your winter visit and will consider returning in the summer. June is Pride Month in Thunder Bay and our local 2SLGBTQ+ organizations (Rainbow Collective of Thunder Bay and Thunder Pride) put on an entire month’s worth of events and celebrations for everyone to enjoy. The Pride Street Fest is one of the most popular summer festivals in a city that has a festival almost everyday in the summer months.

Stock your insta feed

Before you go, you need to grab some sweet pics for Instagram, and there is no shortage of lookouts and scenic views in the area. From nearby the Waterfront District, get some snaps of the Sleeping Giant from Prince Arthur’s Landing and up on the hill at Hillcrest Park. If you’ve got a car, head to the Terry Fox Monument and Lookout.

Pro tip: Make Terry Fox one of your first stops in Thunder Bay. Not only is the view of the lake and the Sleeping Giant incredible, it’s a very special place paying tribute to one of the greatest Canadians – Terry Fox (who was forced to end his Marathon of Hope to raise money for cancer research just east of the city in 1980), but there is also a year-round visitor information centre there and they can get you real-time info on what events are happening, what’s open/closed, anything new, etc.

If you have time, head to the south side of the city and cross the bridge to Fort William First Nation. Here you can visit Anemki Wajiw (Mount McKay). The mountain has been a meeting and gathering space for Indigenous people for tens of thousands of years and today the First Nation maintains a beautiful scenic viewing area and pow wow facility on the mountain. Take the short drive up the well-paved road to get 500 feet above the city and experience the unbeatable views.

Where to stay: 

$$$ – Delta Hotels by Marriott Thunder Bay

$ – Prince Arthur Hotel