Thunder Bay, nestled along the shores of Lake Superior in Ontario, is a city that offers a diverse mix of natural beauty, rich history, and modern amenities. From its rugged outdoor adventures to its vibrant arts scene, Thunder Bay is an incredible destination for tourists seeking a unique and multifaceted experience.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know before you visit Thunder Bay, including its history, how to get there, where to stay, things to do, and more.
History of Thunder Bay
Thunder Bay has a rich and fascinating history that dates back thousands of years. Originally inhabited by Indigenous peoples such as the Ojibwe, Cree, and Oji-Cree, the region was an important site for trade, fishing, and hunting. The area's natural resources, including forests, rivers, and the vast Lake Superior, attracted many Indigenous groups long before European settlers arrived.
European Exploration and Settlement
The first Europeans to reach the area were fur traders from the French and the British, who established trading posts in the region during the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Fort William, one of the key sites of early European settlement, became a thriving hub for the fur trade, and the North West Company established its headquarters here in the early 1800s. Fort William Historical Park, now a major tourist attraction, allows visitors to step back in time and experience what life was like during this significant period in Canadian history.
City Formation
Thunder Bay as it is known today is a result of the amalgamation of two towns—Port Arthur and Fort William—along with several surrounding townships in 1970. The city grew rapidly throughout the 20th century, driven by the logging, shipping, and manufacturing industries, which made Thunder Bay a key port and transport hub in Ontario.
Facts & Stats About Thunder Bay
Population: Thunder Bay has a population of approximately 110,000 people, making it the second-largest city in Northern Ontario, and the largest in the Northwest region.
Geography: The city is located on the north shore of Lake Superior, one of the five Great Lakes of North America, and is surrounded by pristine forests and rugged terrain.
Climate: Thunder Bay has a humid continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers. The average summer temperature is 22°C, while winter temperatures can dip below -30°C on the coldest days of the year.
Economy: The economy of Thunder Bay is driven by industries such as forestry, mining, manufacturing, and shipping. It also has a growing tourism sector, with an increasing focus on outdoor recreation, arts, and culture.
Attractions: Thunder Bay is home to a variety of attractions, including Sleeping Giant Provincial Park, the Terry Fox Memorial, Fort William Historical Park, and many other natural and cultural sites.
How to Get to Thunder Bay
Getting to Thunder Bay is fairly straightforward, whether you’re flying in from another city or embarking on a scenic road trip. Here’s a breakdown of the best ways to reach the city:
Flights to Thunder Bay
Thunder Bay International Airport (YQT) serves as the main entry point for visitors flying into the city. The airport offers both domestic and limited international flights, making it accessible for travelers across Canada and the United States.
Major Airlines: Airlines like Air Canada, WestJet, and Porter Airlines operate frequent flights to Thunder Bay from cities like Toronto, Winnipeg, and Ottawa.
Flight Time: Flights from Toronto to Thunder Bay typically take about 1.5 to 2 hours, while flights from Winnipeg are around 1.5 hours.
Transportation from the Airport: The airport is located just 20 minutes from the city center, and taxis, rental cars, and shuttles are available to get you to your accommodation.
Roadtrip to Thunder Bay
Thunder Bay is well-connected by road, making it a popular destination for road-trippers. Whether you're coming from the south or the north, the drive offers scenic views of the Canadian wilderness, perfect for nature lovers.
From Toronto: The drive from Toronto to Thunder Bay takes about 16 hours and covers a distance of 1,400 kilometers via the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 17). Expect a mixture of highways and winding routes, with opportunities to stop in charming small towns along the way.
From Winnipeg: If you're coming from Winnipeg, the drive is about 7 hours (700 kilometers), following Highway 17 East. The journey offers stunning views of forests, lakes, and rugged terrain, making it a memorable drive.
By Bus
For those who prefer public transportation, buses are an option, though the trip can be long. Ontario Northland offer bus services to Thunder Bay from various cities. The bus ride from Toronto to Thunder Bay takes around 22 hours, while from Winnipeg, it's about 11 hours.
Where to Stay in Thunder Bay
Thunder Bay offers a wide variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly motels and campgrounds.
Hotels
The Valhalla Inn: Located just outside the city center, this upscale hotel offers modern amenities, a restaurant, a pool, and a spa. It’s perfect for those seeking comfort and convenience during their stay in Thunder Bay. It is also among the closest hotels to the airport!
The Best Western Plus Nor’Wester Hotel & Conference Centre: This hotel offers a range of rooms and services, including a pool, fitness centre, and a well-known restaurant. It’s an ideal choice for families or business travellers.
Days Inn by Wyndham Thunder Bay: For those on a budget, Days Inn offers affordable rooms with basic amenities. It’s located near shopping areas and is a short drive from many of the city’s attractions.
Delta Hotel by Marriott Thunder Bay: For a luxurious stay, the Delta Hotel on the waterfront is Thunder Bay's highest-end hotel, boasting views of Lake Superior and conveniently located near popular attractions like the Thunder Bay Art Gallery, Centennial Park, and Port Arthur Stadium.
Campgrounds
Sleeping Giant Provincial Park: For a more nature-focused experience, you can camp at Sleeping Giant Provincial Park. The park offers both car camping and backcountry campsites, allowing you to stay amidst stunning nature. Fees range from $30 to $50 per night.
Thunder Bay KOA: Located just outside the city, the Thunder Bay KOA offers a range of accommodation options, including tent sites, RV hookups, and cabins. The campground features amenities like a pool, hot tub, and playground, making it ideal for families.
Things to Do in Thunder Bay
Thunder Bay is a destination that offers something for every kind of traveller, from outdoor adventurers to culture seekers. Here are the best activities and attractions to explore in the city and its surrounding area:
Hiking
Thunder Bay is known for its beautiful outdoor spaces, and hiking is one of the best ways to experience the city’s natural beauty.
Sleeping Giant Provincial Park: With its stunning Top of the Giant Trail, Sleeping Giant is a must-visit for any hiker. The trail is challenging but rewards hikers with breathtaking views of Lake Superior and the surrounding forest.
Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park: This park offers a variety of trails, including the Kakabeka Falls Trail, which leads visitors to panoramic views of the impressive waterfall.
Mount McKay: A short drive from the city, Mount McKay offers a relatively easy hike to the summit, where you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of Thunder Bay and the surrounding landscape.
Hunting & Fishing
Thunder Bay is a haven for those who love hunting and fishing. With its abundance of lakes, rivers, and forests, the region provides ample opportunities for both activities.
Fishing: Lake Superior, along with many other nearby lakes, offers some of the best freshwater fishing in Canada. You can fish for species like walleye, northern pike, and lake trout.
Hunting: Thunder Bay’s vast wilderness is home to a variety of game species, including moose, black bears, and white-tailed deer. Hunting is regulated, so be sure to check for permits and restrictions before heading out.
Sight-Seeing
The Terry Fox Memorial: The Terry Fox Memorial is one of the most significant landmarks in Thunder Bay. The site commemorates Fox’s Marathon of Hope and offers spectacular views of Lake Superior and the Sleeping Giant.
Fort William Historical Park: Experience the fur trade era with hands-on exhibits, historical reenactments, and live demonstrations at this large living history museum.
Shopping
Thunder Bay has a growing arts and crafts scene, and the local shops reflect this vibrant culture. The Thunder Bay Country Market is a popular spot to pick up locally made crafts, food, and artisan goods. The Intercity Shopping Centre offers a variety of retail stores, while the Water Street Market is ideal for finding unique antiques and vintage items.
Dining
The city is home to a number of excellent restaurants, offering everything from upscale dining to casual eateries. Some standout options include:
Bight Restaurant + Bar: Known for its stylish setting and creative dishes, this restaurant offers a menu that emphasizes fresh, local ingredients.
The Black Pirate's Pub: For a more casual atmosphere, this lively pub offers hearty meals and a great selection of drinks.
Hoito Restaurant: A Thunder Bay institution, Hoito serves traditional Finnish-style pancakes and other local delicacies. Although currently closed for renovations, it is worth following them on social media for updates!
Other Attractions
Thunder Bay also offers a variety of other attractions, including the Thunder Bay Art Gallery, the Apostolic Lutheran Church, and the Fort William Gardens, which hosts a variety of events, including concerts and hockey games.
What is Thunder Bay Known For?
Thunder Bay is known for its natural beauty, outdoor activities, and as a hub of the fur trade during the 19th century. The city is also famous for being the starting point of Terry Fox’s Marathon of Hope, with the Terry Fox Memorial standing as a testament to his bravery and determination.
Thunder Bay is also known for its amethyst, which is considered some of the best in the world. The region is home to vast deposits of amethyst crystals, and it has become a major attraction for rock enthusiasts and tourists. Thunder Bay’s amethyst mines offer opportunities to tour and collect amethyst, which is prized for its deep purple hue and stunning clarity.
The city's connection to amethyst has made it a significant part of its identity, with local shops selling amethyst jewelry, gemstones, and decorative pieces, making it a unique souvenir for visitors.
How is the Weather in Thunder Bay?
Thunder Bay experiences four distinct seasons, with cold winters, warm summers, and mild spring and fall seasons.
Winter: Winters in Thunder Bay are cold, with temperatures regularly dipping below -15°C from December to February, and seeing days as cold as -35°C. Snow is common, and activities like skiing and snowshoeing are popular.
Summer: Summers are warm, with average temperatures around 22°C, perfect for hiking, boating, and enjoying the outdoors.
Spring and Fall: These seasons are cooler, with temperatures ranging between 5°C and 15°C. Fall is particularly stunning, with vibrant foliage painting the landscape.
When Should You Visit Thunder Bay?
The best time to visit Thunder Bay depends on what you want to do. For outdoor activities, late spring to early fall is ideal. For those interested in winter sports, winter is the season to visit.
Keep in mind that due to the high volume of snow the area recieves, it is not uncommon for Highway 11, 17 and 11-17 to be closed due to motor vehicle collisions or road conditions, which may impact travel plans, particularly in the winter.
Is Thunder Bay Safe for Tourists?
Thunder Bay is generally safe for tourists, but as with any city, it’s important to exercise basic precautions. Stick to well-lit areas at night, be aware of your surroundings, and keep valuables secure.
Things to Know Before Visiting Thunder Bay
Currency: The local currency is Canadian dollars, and credit cards are widely accepted.
Language: English is the primary language spoken, though you may hear some Indigenous languages.
Time Zone: Thunder Bay is in the Eastern Standard Time Zone. However, you can find the Central Time Zone plaque just an hour west of town too!
Final Thoughts
Thunder Bay is a city that offers something for everyone, from outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs to those looking for a relaxing getaway. Whether you’re hiking in Sleeping Giant Provincial Park, exploring local museums, or enjoying the local cuisine, Thunder Bay promises an unforgettable experience in one of Canada’s most scenic regions.
FAQs
What is the crime rate in Thunder Bay?
The crime rate in Thunder Bay is considered "high", and 22% higher than the national average.
Are there other cities to explore nearby?
While there are no cities immediately surrounding Thunder Bay, small towns including Kakabeka Falls, Nipigon, Schreiber, Terrace Bay, Upsala, Atikokan and Ignace are all within a few hours of Thunder Bay by vehicle and worth exploring for an extended stay in Northwestern Ontario.
Is it expensive to visit Thunder Bay?
Visiting Thunder Bay can be affordable or expensive, depending on your preferences, travel style, and activities. Thankfully, Thunder Bay offers amenities at various price points for you to choose from.
Are there any nearby First Nation communities?
Yes, Thunder Bay is located near several First Nations communities, many of which are an integral part of the region’s cultural landscape. This includes Fort William First Nations (5 minutes from Thunder Bay), Red Rock Indian Band, Pic River First Nation, Lac Des Mille Lacs First Nation, as well as a number of remote First Nation Communities.
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