Curator’s statement
Thunder Bay is home. It’s where we’re raising our family and building our life. I love that we can go sailing on Lake Superior, drive a few minutes and be on a trail, or head out on the town for good coffee and great food. It’s affordable, easy to get around (you can cross the city in about 20 minutes, even in rush hour), and gives you that mix of city life and wide-open space that’s hard to find. Just make sure you look both ways before you hit the gas on a green light—the red light runners here are no joke.
The Fora Difference
Book with Heather Genik to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.
Killer perks
Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you
Personalized recs
Customized travel planning for your style
Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay
Unlock perks by contacting Heather Genik to book your trip.
Day 1: Westfort & a hike
Hiked to the top of Mount McKay with my niece and husband; Photo: Heather Genik
Start your morning in Westfort with breakfast at Coney Island Westfort—a classic, no-fuss local spot. After breakfast, walk Frederica Street and check out the small shops (just note that many are closed Sunday and Monday). Be sure to snap a picture with the Westfort Mural on the side of East Coast Lobster’s building on Brown Street. Grab coffee and lunch at Gusto Cafe for some really good Italian food before heading out to Chippewa Park. Be careful not to touch the sides of the swing bridge with your vehicle—it’s narrow. From there, drive up Mount McKay for a hike or just the scenic overlook, then head back into town for a treat at Dagwood's Bakery, a walk along the path between James Street and Neebing Avenue, and finish with fish and chips at The Sal (owned by Aaron, who also runs East Coast Lobster and The Landing Gathering Hall on Brown Street).
Day 2: Central Thunder Bay & waterfalls
The fountain at the Centennial Botanical Conservatory in Thunder Bay, 2026; Photo: Heather Genik
Start with breakfast at Stacked Pancake & Breakfast House, then do some light shopping at Intercity Shopping Centre and the surrounding stores. Next stop is Rose N Crantz Roasting Co.—grab a coffee and, if they’re not too busy, ask for a tour of the roastery (later in the week is usually best, but early to mid-week you’ll likely catch them roasting). Pick up a Persian (a sweet pastry) from The Persian Man and head to the Thunder Bay Centennial Botanical Conservatory to take in the plant life. In the afternoon, drive out to Kakabeka Falls—walk the boardwalk and, if you’re up for it, hike the trail to Little Falls (what I call Shrek’s paradise)—then finish the day with dinner at 5 Forks Restaurant.
Day 3: Downtown, waterfront & sailing
The main lighthouse located on the break wall as you enter or leave port; Photo: Heather Genik
Start downtown with breakfast at Rooster's Bistro—if you’re gluten-free like I am, order the gluten-free French toast. It’s worth it. Grab a coffee at St. Paul Roastery (basically right across the street), then explore the Red River Road area, including Goods & Co. Stop for another coffee at Uncommon or a treat from Jennifer's Gluten Free Kitchen before renting an e-bike from the Delta Hotel and riding around the marina and Boulevard Lake, stopping for a quick game of mini-putt. After lunch at The Madhouse, tour the Alexander Henry, walk the marina trails, then end the day with a wine and cheese sail with Sail Superior, dinner at Prospector Steak House, and drinks at The Foundry.
Need to know
You’ll probably want a rental car.
Thunder Bay is spread out, and many of the best hikes and attractions—like Kakabeka Falls or Mount McKay—require a short drive. Public transit exists, but if you want to make the most of your time, a car makes getting around much easier.
We do have ride share.
If you don’t want to rent a vehicle, URide operates here (and was actually founded in Thunder Bay). It works similar to Uber and is reliable within city limits.
Look both ways on a green light.
Thunder Bay is known for red light runners. Locals will laugh about it, but it’s very real. Take a second before you hit the gas.
The temperature can change depending on where you are.
Because of Lake Superior, the temperature can vary by as much as 10 degrees from one side of town to the other in peak summer heat. Inland can feel hot and sunny, while the waterfront is cooler with a lake breeze.
Dress in layers.
Lake Superior is cold. Even in the middle of summer, Lake Superior stays cold. There is swimming at Boulevard Lake, but for most of the summer it still feels like an icy plunge. If you’re going sailing, plan to bundle up—even on sunny days, the wind off the lake can be chilly.
Distances are short.
You can drive from one end of the city to the other in about 20 minutes, even during rush hour. No big-city traffic here.
It’s bigger than it looks.
Thunder Bay feels small, but between the food scene, coffee culture, trails, sailing, and historic sites like Fort William Historical Park, you can easily fill a long weekend.
Travel Advisor
Heather Genik
Get in touch with Heather Genik
Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.
You can expect a response from Heather Genik within 1–2 business days. You’ll also be subscribed to our traveler newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).
For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Canada page.