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Thunder Bay

Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada

Discover the Untamed Beauty of Thunder Bay Nestled on the majestic shores of Lake Superior, Thunder Bay, Ontario, is a vibrant city where untamed natural beauty meets captivating history and exciting urban adventure. Imm…

#Thunder Bay#Ontario#Canada#Northern Ontario#Lake Superior

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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Thunder Bay.

Top Hotels in Thunder Bay

Top Flights to Thunder Bay

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Thunder Bay.

Tours

Exploring Kakabeka Falls

Visit the majestic Kakabeka Falls, known as the 'Niagara of the North', and enjoy a scenic walk with breathtaking views of the waterfall.

Marina Park Waterfront

Relax at Marina Park located on the shores of Lake Superior, a perfect spot for leisurely walks and enjoying sunset views.

Thunder Bay Art Gallery

Visit the largest public gallery between Sault Ste. Marie and Winnipeg, showcasing contemporary Indigenous art and exhibits.

Terry Fox Monument and Visitor Centre

Pay tribute to Canadian hero Terry Fox at the monument with picturesque views of Lake Superior.

Mount McKay Scenic Lookout

Drive up to Mount McKay for an amazing panoramic view of the city and the bay. Ideal for photography enthusiasts.

Fort William Historical Park

Step back in time and explore one of the largest fur trading posts in North America, with engaging exhibits and demonstrations.

Shopping

Shopping at Intercity Shopping Centre

Discover a variety of shopping options at Thunder Bay's largest shopping centre featuring numerous stores and dining facilities.

Outdoor

Hiking in Sleeping Giant Provincial Park

Enjoy an adventurous hike in Sleeping Giant Provincial Park, famous for its unique land formations and stunning views of Lake Superior.

Chippewa Park

Spend a day with family at Chippewa Park, featuring beautiful views, picnic spots, and a historic carousel.

Amethyst Mine Panorama

Visit Canada's largest amethyst deposit and enjoy the thrill of finding your own gemstones to keep.

Location videos

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

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Thunder Bay.

Currency

$ | CAD | Canadian Dollar

Population

The approximate estimated total population of Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada is around 108,000.

Languages

English, French, Ojibwe

Average weather

Thunder Bay

Jan

-8°-18°

Feb

-5°-17°

Mar

0°-11°

Apr

8°-3°

May

16°3°

Jun

21°9°

Jul

24°12°

Aug

23°11°

Sep

18°6°

Oct

10°1°

Nov

1°-7°

Dec

-6°-15°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Thunder Bay.

What people love

Thunder Bay, located in Ontario, Canada, offers a unique travel experience with a combination of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural attractions. Some of the pros of traveling to Thunder Bay include:

Natural Beauty: Thunder Bay is situated on the shores of Lake Superior and surrounded by stunning landscapes, including the Sleeping Giant Provincial Park. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, and breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding wilderness.
Outdoor Activities: The region offers a wide range of outdoor activities for nature lovers and adventure seekers. From kayaking and canoeing on the lake to skiing and snowshoeing in the winter months, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the great outdoors.
Cultural Attractions: Thunder Bay has a rich indigenous history and culture, which can be explored through museums, art galleries, and cultural events. The city also has a vibrant arts scene, with galleries, theaters, and music venues showcasing local talent.
Food and Dining: Thunder Bay is known for its diverse culinary scene, offering a mix of local and international cuisine. From fresh seafood to traditional Canadian dishes, there is something for every palate to enjoy.
Friendly Locals: Visitors to Thunder Bay often comment on the friendliness and hospitality of the locals, making it a welcoming destination for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the local culture.

Overall, Thunder Bay offers a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and friendly locals, making it a great destination for travelers looking to explore the best of Ontario, Canada.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada could include:

Weather: Thunder Bay experiences cold and snowy winters, which may not be appealing to travelers who are not used to harsh winter conditions. Additionally, the summers can be short and cool, which may not be ideal for those seeking hot weather.
Remote location: Thunder Bay is located in a more remote part of Ontario, which can make it more challenging to access compared to larger cities. This may result in fewer transportation options and longer travel times.
Limited entertainment options: While Thunder Bay offers natural beauty and outdoor activities, the city may have fewer entertainment options compared to larger urban centers. Visitors looking for a vibrant nightlife or a wide variety of dining and shopping options may find Thunder Bay lacking in comparison.
Limited cultural diversity: Thunder Bay has a relatively small population compared to major Canadian cities, which may result in a lack of cultural diversity and fewer cultural events and activities available for visitors to experience.
Limited public transportation: Thunder Bay's public transportation system may not be as extensive or reliable as in larger cities, making it more challenging for visitors to get around without a car.

Please note that these are general considerations and individual experiences may vary. It's always a good idea to research further and consider your own preferences and priorities when planning a trip to Thunder Bay.

Thunder Bay, located in northwestern Ontario, Canada, has a rich history shaped by its geographical location and the diverse cultures that have influenced the area.

Early History:

Indigenous Peoples: The area around Thunder Bay has been inhabited by Indigenous peoples for thousands of years. The Anishinaabe, including the Ojibwe, have traditionally called this region home.

Exploration and Fur Trade:

17th Century: French explorers and fur traders were among the first Europeans to arrive. The area became a crucial part of the fur trade route. The French established a presence in the region with trading posts.
Fort Kaministiquia: In 1679, Daniel Greysolon, Sieur du Lhut, claimed the Lake Superior region for France and established Fort Kaministiquia.

19th Century Developments:

Fort William: The North West Company established Fort William in 1803 as its inland headquarters. It became a major fur trading post and played a significant role in the Canadian fur trade.
Amalgamation and Competition: The Hudson's Bay Company and the North West Company merged in 1821, with Fort William remaining an active trading post.

Industrial Growth:

Arrival of the Railway (1880s): The Canadian Pacific Railway reached the area, leading to increased settlement and economic activity.
Port Arthur and Fort William: These two towns, located on either side of the Kaministiquia River, developed as major grain handling ports, benefiting from the shipping routes through the Great Lakes.

20th Century:

Amalgamation: In 1970, the cities of Port Arthur and Fort William, along with the townships of Neebing and McIntyre, were amalgamated to form the city of Thunder Bay. This was a significant event in the area's history, leading to unified economic and urban development.
Economic Shifts: Throughout the 20th century, Thunder Bay's economy transitioned from a reliance on shipping and grain handling to forestry and manufacturing.

Key Figures:

Daniel Greysolon, Sieur du Lhut: A French explorer who claimed the region for France.
William McGillivray: A prominent figure in the North West Company who played a pivotal role in the fur trade operations at Fort William.

Important Landmarks:

Fort William Historical Park: A reconstruction of the original Fort William fur trade post, offering insights into the fur trade era.
Sleeping Giant: A natural formation on the Sibley Peninsula that resembles a sleeping giant, this is one of Thunder Bay's most iconic landmarks.
Terry Fox Memorial and Lookout: A monument dedicated to Canadian hero Terry Fox, who embarked on a cross-country run to raise awareness for cancer research.

Modern Developments:

Cultural Diversity: Thunder Bay has a diverse population with significant Finnish, Italian, and Indigenous communities contributing to its cultural tapestry.
Education and Research: Lakehead University and Confederation College are key institutions contributing to the educational landscape and research initiatives.

Thunder Bay continues to evolve, integrating its historical roots with modern advancements and a focus on community and cultural preservation.