· CA

Prince George

Prince George, British Columbia, Canada

Discover Prince George: Northern BC's Adventure Playground Nestled at the confluence of the Fraser and Nechako Rivers, Prince George, British Columbia, is a vibrant city brimming with outdoor adventure, cultural charm, a…

#Northern British Columbia#University town#Outdoor recreation#Forestry industry#Cultural events

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Prince George.

Top Hotels in Prince George

Top Flights to Prince George

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Prince George.

Tours

Exploring Cottonwood Island Nature Park

A scenic nature park with walking trails along the Nechako River, famous for its tree carvings and bird watching.

Visit the Exploration Place Museum and Science Centre

A museum and science centre offering interactive exhibits about local history, science, and technology.

Shopping

Shopping at Pine Centre Mall

A central shopping hub with a variety of stores, dining options, and services.

Outdoor

Fishing at West Lake Provincial Park

Enjoy a day of fishing at West Lake, surrounded by beautiful scenery and wildlife.

Adventure at Tabor Mountain

Outdoor adventures including hiking and skiing during different seasons at Tabor Mountain.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers
Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Prince George.

Currency
$ | CAD | Canadian Dollar
Population
80,000
Languages
English, English
Average weather
Prince George
Jan
snow
-5°-12°
Feb
snow
-1°-10°
Mar
snow
3°-6°
Apr
cloud
10°-1°
May
rain
17°4°
Jun
rain
20°8°
Jul
sun
24°11°
Aug
sun
23°10°
Sep
cloud
17°5°
Oct
rain
10°0°
Nov
snow
1°-6°
Dec
snow
-4°-11°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Prince George.

What people love

Prince George, located in British Columbia, Canada, offers several pros for travelers:

  1. Natural Beauty: Prince George is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including mountains, forests, and lakes. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunity for hiking, fishing, camping, and wildlife watching in the area.

  2. Cultural Experiences: The city has a rich history and vibrant arts scene. Visitors can explore local galleries, museums, and cultural events to learn more about the region's heritage and contemporary artistic expressions.

  3. Adventure Activities: Prince George is a gateway to adventure with activities such as kayaking, mountain biking, skiing, and snowboarding available in the nearby areas. The city also hosts various outdoor festivals and events throughout the year.

  4. Friendly Community: Travelers to Prince George often praise the welcoming and friendly nature of the local residents. Visitors can expect a warm reception and may have the opportunity to engage with the community through various events and activities.

  5. Northern Lights Viewing: Prince George's northern location makes it an excellent spot for viewing the mesmerizing natural phenomenon of the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). Travelers can witness this breathtaking display of lights in the night sky during certain times of the year.

Overall, Prince George offers a unique blend of nature, culture, and adventure, making it a compelling destination for travelers seeking an authentic Canadian experience.

Enjoy your trip to Prince George!

What to know

Traveling to Prince George, British Columbia, Canada, like any destination, may have some drawbacks. Here are some potential cons to consider:

  1. Weather: Prince George experiences long, cold winters with heavy snowfall, which may not be ideal for travelers who are not accustomed to such weather conditions. Additionally, the city can also have smoky summers due to wildfires in the region.

  2. Remote Location: Prince George is situated in a relatively remote part of British Columbia, making it less accessible compared to major cities like Vancouver or Toronto. This may result in longer travel times to reach the city and limited transportation options within the region.

  3. Limited Attractions: While Prince George offers outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and skiing, it may not have as many cultural or entertainment attractions as larger cities. Visitors looking for a bustling urban environment with a wide range of dining, shopping, and nightlife options may find Prince George lacking in comparison.

  4. Wildlife Encounters: The region around Prince George is known for its wildlife, including bears and other potentially dangerous animals. Travelers need to be aware of their surroundings and take appropriate precautions when exploring the natural areas around the city.

  5. Limited Accommodation Options: Prince George may have fewer accommodation options compared to larger cities, which could result in limited choices for travelers in terms of amenities and price range.

Overall, while Prince George offers natural beauty and outdoor activities, travelers should be prepared for the potential challenges associated with its remote location, weather conditions, and limited urban amenities.

Prince George, located in British Columbia, Canada, is a city with a rich history and vibrant community. Here is a detailed history of this city, including significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks:

Early History

  • Indigenous Presence: The area around Prince George has been inhabited by Indigenous peoples for thousands of years, primarily the Lheidli T'enneh First Nation. The name "Lheidli" means "where the two rivers flow together," referring to the confluence of the Fraser and Nechako Rivers.

European Exploration and Fur Trade

  • Simon Fraser: In 1807, Simon Fraser, an explorer and fur trader for the North West Company, traveled through the area. The Fraser River is named after him.
  • Fort George: In 1807, the North West Company established a trading post named Fort George on the site of present-day Prince George. It was named in honor of King George III.

Development in the 19th and Early 20th Century

  • Hudson's Bay Company: The Hudson's Bay Company took over the North West Company in 1821, continuing the fur trade operations at Fort George.
  • Grand Trunk Pacific Railway: The arrival of the railway in 1914 marked a significant development. The railway connected the area to other parts of Canada, facilitating trade and settlement.

Incorporation and Growth

  • Incorporation: Prince George was incorporated as a city on March 6, 1915. The city's growth was accelerated by the completion of the railway and its role as a supply and service center for the northern regions of British Columbia.
  • Forestry and Industry: The city became a hub for the forestry industry, which has been a major economic driver throughout its history.

Significant Events and Developments

  • University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC): Founded in 1990, UNBC is a significant educational institution in the region, contributing to the city's status as an educational and cultural hub.
  • 2015 Canada Winter Games: Prince George hosted the Canada Winter Games in 2015, showcasing the city on a national stage and promoting community development and infrastructure improvements.

Historical Figures

  • Simon Fraser: As an early explorer, his journey through the area laid the groundwork for future development.
  • Lheidli T'enneh First Nation Leaders: Various leaders have played key roles in the community, advocating for the rights and recognition of Indigenous peoples.

Important Landmarks

  • Fort George Park (Lheidli T'enneh Memorial Park): This park is located on the historic site of Fort George. It serves as a cultural and recreational area and includes a pavilion, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
  • The Exploration Place: A museum and science center located in Lheidli T'enneh Memorial Park, offering exhibits on the region's history, including Indigenous culture, natural history, and the fur trade.
  • Cottonwood Island Nature Park: Known for its scenic trails and large cottonwood trees, this park is a popular spot for walking and birdwatching along the river.

Modern Prince George

Today, Prince George is a thriving city known for its natural beauty, economic vitality, and cultural diversity. It continues to serve as a gateway to Northern British Columbia, with a strong emphasis on community, education, and environmental stewardship.