Where to Find LGBTQIA+ Friendly Businesses in Thunder Bay

Thunder Bay’s got heart, and its LGBTQIA+ friendly businesses prove it. Whether you’re sipping coffee, shopping local, visiting iconic attractions, or grabbing a bite, these spots aren’t just welcoming, they’re celebrating. This inclusive northern city is home to queer-owned businesses, Rainbow Registered destinations, and a growing 2SLGBTQIA+ community proud to be visible. 

Meet the movers and shakers redefining inclusivity in Thunder Bay, explore the city’s go-to LGBTQIA+ directory, and gear up for a Pride Festival packed with can’t-miss events. Whether you're planning an inclusive vacation or just looking to support LGBTQIA+ friendly Thunder Bay spots, we’ve got your guide.

Five Must-Visit LGBTQIA+ Friendly Businesses in Thunder Bay

1. Lakehead Beer Company & Tomlin Subdivision

A Community Hub for Queer Thunder Bay

Our tour of some of the city’s LGBTQIA+ friendly businesses starts at Lakehead Beer Company in the Waterfront District. Their taproom features a sunken subfloor level where you can look down on the brewhouse and a main floor that offers a hip yet casual atmosphere to enjoy fresh, frothy pints. Wander next door to Tomlin Subdivision to grab some Detroit style pizza, fried chicken, subs, or salads.

When it comes to welcoming LGBTQIA+ customers, manager/operator Aaron Goerzen says, “We’re proud to be a community hub–that’s been a goal since we started and that only works if every person feels seen, safe, and celebrated here. We’re always trying to make our space warm and welcoming. We feel we can do the most for Thunder Bay and those that visit it if we make our staff and patrons feel safe.”

2. Inclusive Adventure with Sail Superior on the Waterfront

Next, let’s head down to the waterfront where Sail Superior launches a variety of sailing and zodiac tours. If you can dream it, they can make it happen, whether you are a thrill-seeker looking to zip out to the Welcome Islands on the Rocket or enjoy a sunset sail while sitting back, sipping wine, and snacking on charcuterie on the Joureyer.

Owner Greg Heroux says, “At Sail Superior, we welcome people as people — no labels, no assumptions. Everyone is complex, and everyone deserves to feel safe, respected, and able to enjoy life as their best self. The past has a habit of conditioning how we see the world, and I think taking the time to pause, reflect, and reevaluate how we interact can make us all better. Being LGBTQIA+ friendly, to me, means staying mindful, and creating a space where everyone feels that they belong. We like to connect with our guests, in order to connect you have to offer respect. Hopefully, we’re moving toward a time where that’s just how things are.”

3. Saunas, Pancakes & Safe Spaces: Kangas Sauna Welcomes All

If you’ve done your homework on Thunder Bay, you probably know that we have the largest Finnish population outside of Finland. We’ve adopted saunas and Finnish pancakes as must-haves–and fortunately for visitors, you can experience both at Kangas Sauna. Located on the north side, not far from the waterfront, Kangas rents private saunas–each with its own change room and shower–that accommodate small and large groups.

Their restaurant offers classic home cooking and, most importantly, a warm welcome to all. “I don’t care who you are, who you love, or how you identify — people are people, and everyone deserves to feel safe, respected, and comfortable. I’ve always believed in creating a space where kindness, connection, and good vibes are the focus. No judgment, no bias — just a genuine welcome to all, “ says owner Calley Onchulenko.

4. History Meets Inclusivity at Fort William Historical Park

Back to your homework… You might also know that Fort William (the former town that is now the south side of Thunder Bay) was established as a fur trading post in the 1800s. The fort, as it was in 1815, was painstakingly reconstructed on the banks of the Kaministquia River and is one of the largest living history sites in North America. Visitors to Fort William Historical Park learn about history by experiencing the headquarters of the North West Company, where cultures met and relationships were forged between Indigenous Peoples and non-Indigenous newcomers.

This focus on relationships continues today as general manager Patrick Morash explains, "Fort William Historical Park values diversity and inclusion and works hard to ensure our visitors and employees feel valued and respected. It is important to us, as an organization, that we are creating a safer, more welcoming, and inclusive space for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. As part of our commitment, Fort William Historical Park has earned the Rainbow Registered accreditation administered by Canada's 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce."

5. Growing Love: Belluz Farms & Superior Seasons

A little further south from Fort William Historical Park is Belluz Farms–an iconic family farm that has been supplying the city with fruit and veggies for over 50 years. In fact, the Belluz family has been working the same land since 1946, so it’s safe to say they know a thing or two about growing delicious food in the north. They offer pick-your-own berries and veggies at the farm near Candy Mountain and operate the Superior Seasons food market, conveniently located inside Goods & Co. Market in the Waterfront District.

The Belluz family’s love for the land extends to their customers. For owner Jodi Belluz, being a LBGBTQIA+ friendly business “simply means we love our fellow human beings. And we believe that respect, care and kindness for all creates a world that serves us all best. Love is love is love and love always wins.” 

Where to Find More LGBTQIA+ Friendly Businesses in Thunder Bay

If you want to know more about LGBTQIA+ friendly businesses, check out the city’s directory. 

Thunder Bay Pride Festival 2025: All In For Love

Each year, Thunder Bay celebrates Pride Month with an eclectic series of community events culminating with a parade and festival. Events include a Two-Spirit Pride Powwow, Pride Baseball Night with the Thunder Bay Bordercats, Drag Queen Paint Night, and Queer Prom (17+). The festival will be held on July 5 at Friendship Gardens on the city’s south side, with a theme of All In For Love: Global Pride, Infinite Friendship.

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