Travel Apps to Explore Algoma

10 Apps to find great food, great fun, or just find your way

In a world where we’re never far from our smartphones, it can be hard to disconnect on vacation. And disconnecting is exactly what you should be doing on vacation in Algoma Country. On the other hand, there are some apps that can enhance your stay here. Apps that will help you find things to do, and others that help you schedule the activities you already know you want to do.

Navigation

1. Moments of Algoma
Looking for the Group of Seven Moments of Algoma interpretive panels? The app is full of humorous tidbits and little-known facts about the Group of Seven, providing you with audio content related to each interpretive panel site.
www.momentsofalgoma.ca

2. Google Maps
While we think you should have a backup paper map in your glove compartment, Google Maps is always handy for finding your way around Algoma.

3. Weather App
What’s the weather like in Algoma? Surprisingly, the weather can be a lot of different things in our region, depending on where you vacation. Because of the region's proximity to Lake Superior and Lake Huron, it experiences all sorts of weather systems! Be sure to download the Weather Network App to your mobile device; you’ll be able to plan your outings for indoor and outdoor adventures.

Social Media

4. Facebook
Be sure to like Ontario’s Algoma Country on Facebook and share your photos with us! We’re always sharing photos of the region that will give you lots of trip ideas, share hidden gems and find upcoming events.
Follow: www.facebook.com/algomacountry

5. Instagram
If you have an Instagram account, we’d love it if you’d share your adventures with us! We love seeing photos of visitors enjoying the region’s beautiful outdoors, sampling delicious local foods and catching big fish. Use the hashtag #algomacountry so everyone can see your best memories of Algoma.

6. WhatsApp
This is a great app to keep in contact with your friends and family. Using your phone’s internet connection (data and WiFi) you can text, call, and send photos or videos of your trip.
www.whatsapp.com

Food

7. Tripadvisor
While we truly believe you should take online reviews with a grain of salt, using the TripAdvisor App can be helpful when travelling in the region. You can use TripAdvisor’s Near Me function to find lots of the hidden gems and restaurants in our region.
www.tripadvisor.ca

Outdoor Adventure

8. Aurora Borealis App
“How do I see the Northern Lights” is one of the top questions we’re asked by visitors. You can use Aurora charts to help guide you on your nighttime adventure.
My Aurora Forecast & Alerts in the App Store

Here are some great stories from local photographers who’ll not only guide you through finding the Northern Lights but also give some great tips for taking pictures:

9. Geocache
Everyone loves a scavenger hunt! Whether you’re on a driving tour and looking for a leg stretch, or want some extra added fun to your hike, geocaching makes exploring Algoma Country FUN.
Create a free account: www.geocaching.com

  • Search for a geocache by city/town: Spanish, Elliot Lake, Blind River, Iron Bridge, Thessalon, Bruce Mines, St. Joseph Island, Desbarats, Echo Bay, Sault Ste. Marie, Batchawana Bay, Wawa, White River, Chapleau, Dubreuilville, Hornepayne, Hearst
  • Download the coordinates to your GPS device. If you don’t have a GPS device, you can download the free Geocache App

10. Learn to Camp - Parks Canada
Did you know we have two historic sites and one national park in Algoma Country? Fort St. Joseph and the Sault Ste. Marie Canal sites, and Pukaskwa National Park —the only national park in Ontario.

Learn to Camp - If you really want to go camping and don’t know where to start, try this app. You’ll learn everything from camping basics, what to bring and even a handy checklist to make packing for your first trip a breeze.

Other Parks Canada Apps: Explora, Parka Photo Missions, Guided Tours App, National App

Travel Tips When Visiting Algoma Country

1. The region takes pride in being a place to disconnect and relax. But some visitors want to keep in touch with friends and family back home. Be sure to ask if the place you stay has WiFi or a place set aside for guests to use the internet. Different types of accommodations offer different types of amenities.

2. Remember, you’re in Northern Ontario, with lots of magnificent mountains and trees; which are perfect for blocking a cell tower signal. Don’t be alarmed if you do lose cell service!

3. If you’re a visitor from the U.S.A. or overseas be sure to contact your cell provider to find out your options for service in Canada.

4. Many community libraries have internet that out-of-town guests can use.

5. If your phone or tablet does have an accident during your stay:

CellRox
293 Bay Street, Sault Ste. Marie (in the Station Mall)
PH: (705) 256-2992
Open: Monday -Sunday (times may vary)

Mobile Klinic
293 Bay Street, Sault Ste. Marie (in the Station Mall)
PH: (705) 908-3015
Open: Monday - Sunday (times may vary) 

About Heather Bot

I'm a staff writer for Algoma Country and I hope my articles entice you to plan your next vacation in Algoma. Our beautiful area has everything you need for a true outdoor adventure: fishing and hunting, epic touring routes and breathtaking outdoors. We are home to many awesome places to eat, cool places to shop, museums and galleries, festivals and events.