There are so many things to do during the summer in Thunder Bay that you might not know where to start. That’s why we’ve come up with a list of activities and adventures for you so that you can explore the perfect temperatures, sunny days and sparkling lakes and rivers that Thunder Bay has to offer!
Explore Thunder Bay’s parks, campgrounds, scenic views and conservations areas starting with the Terry Fox Monument & Tourist Information Centre, a 9 foot high bronze statue, set on a 45 ton granite base with a foundation of local amethyst, commands a breath-taking view of Lake Superior. The statue was erected in 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 (3,339mi) run stricken with the disease that ended his life on June 28, 1981.
Next, head to Prince Arthur’s Landing at Marina Park, Thunder Bay’s signature recreation destination! This community gathering place has transformed the City of Thunder Bay’s waterfront into a mixed-use village and animated waterfront park reconnecting the downtown to the shores of Lake Superior. Enjoy the public paths and spaces that are enlivened by public art celebrating Thunder Bay’s rich culture and history. Take in Canada Day Celebrations, Live on the Waterfront concerts and Movie Nights during the long summer days!
If you’re feeling adventurous, check out Eagle Canyon Adventures! Located on the sheer cliffs of Eagle Canyon, this outdoor paradise is surrounded by spectacular scenery, beautiful landscapes, and serene surroundings. For those who’ve never been to Eagle Canyon Adventures and walked the first bridge, you’re in for a treat. Canada’s longest suspension footbridge awaits! You can walk its 600-foot length across the canyon from anchor to anchor and an amazing 150 feet off the canyon floor at its lowest point. The new bridge surpasses the previous record for Canada’s longest suspension footbridge by 200 feet. To add to the thrills, Eagle Canyon Adventures now features Canada’s longest zipline.
Towering 1,000 ft. over the city, Mt. McKay is a must on your list of attractions. At the 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, snack bar and an easy hiking trail to the top of the mountain. For more information on parks and green spaces in Thunder Bay, click here!
If you’re into sports, you’re in luck! Take advantage of what Thunder Bay has to offer though cycling and mountain biking, diving, fishing, golding, hiking and walking trails, horseback riding, sailing and boating, surfing, rock climbing, tennis and more! For more details on these activities click here!
If you’re just wanting to watch, enjoy Thunder Bay’s sports teams, excellent facilities and events during every season by checking out some of the local sports teams! For some baseball, the Thunder Bay Border Cats of the Northwoods League provide fast-paced action at the Port Arthur Stadium. The stadium is located on Winnipeg Avenue across from the Canada Games Complex.
There is also Thunder Bay’s premier and only Junior A hockey team playing in the SIJHL (Superior International Junior Hockey League). The Thunder Bay North Stars have roots in local hockey dating back to the early 1920’s. Or if hockey and baseball aren’t your style, root for the Thunder Bay Chill Soccer Club, 2008 Premier Development League National Champions at Chapples Soccer Complex. Check them out this summer!
There are also tons of shopping and dining locations that are unique to Thunder Bay that you should check out! The Afloat Floatation Therapy Centre is 100% locally owned and operated and are excited about introducing floating to Thunder Bay. Floatation therapy is experienced by relaxing in the perfect bathtub. Sensory stimulation is virtually eliminated while you ‘let go’, and float on the surface of the skin temperature water.
There is also Handmade in Thunder Bay, the Thunder Bay and area illustrated map and guide to high quality arts and crafts produced by local artists and artisans. Take a self-guided tour and visit over 40 artists studios, coops or galleries to view and purchase Aboriginal artwork, basketry, carvings, ceramics, folk art, garden crafts, glass work, paintings, textiles and much more!
Feeling hungry? Make sure to visit the Hoito Restaurant, a Thunder Bay landmark! When listening to the background conversations and perusing the menu items, one might easily assume they had travelled to Finland when dining at Hoito Restaurant. Besides the area’s Finnish people, who still frequent this restaurant, it has become a popular meeting spot for people from all walks of life, both local and visitors alike. Don’t leave without trying the Finnish pancakes!
Looking for dessert? Thunder Bay locals have grown up with the Persian, the only place where they are baked. The recipe for this popular, icing-covered treat remains a secret. Whether the icing contains raspberries or strawberries is still a hot topic of debate among Persian-aficionados. Former city residents fondly recall “Persian sales” at local high schools to raise funds for sports teams and school clubs, and often make a stop at “The Persian Man” when in town.
For a full list, check out this link!
There’s an event for everyone in Thunder Bay at any time of year! Whether you’re into live music, film, art, food or just exploring the city, check out the event calendar here to find something that suits you!
