When you book a business trip to Thunder Bay in the winter, expect a few jokes from your colleagues about wearing a toque and trying a Persian. And while both those things are legitimately good ideas (the dazzlingly bright sunny days can be pretty cold, and the iconic pink-frosted pastries are pretty tasty), there are lots of other activities to pack into your time in the city. Here is a sampling of unique TBay experiences—outdoorsy, cultural, and culinary—to consider.
Some fresh air and beautiful scenery are the perfect counterpoints to travel days and conference rooms. To explore the area’s trails by bike, rent a fat bike (which has, as the name implies, big tires for navigating the snow) at Rollin’ Thunder or Fresh Air Experience and then go exploring at Centennial Park (best for beginners), Mount Baldy Ski Area, Shuniah Mines, or Sleeping Giant Provincial Park.
Snowshoeing is another great way to see the trails, and as they say, if you can walk, you can snowshoe. Rentals are available at local ski centres like Kamview Nordic Centre and Lappe Ski Centre, both of which have a network of beautiful trails of varying difficulty. You can also rent snowshoes at Wilderness Supply or Chaltrek Outdoors and head out to a local park or a provincial park like Kakabeka Falls Provincial Park. Wilderness Supply also rents snow trekking poles, while Chaltrek has kicksleds—a chair on skis that one person sits in while another pushes.
For an excellent workout in tranquil surroundings, rent classic or skate skis and try the cross-country ski trails at Kamview Nordic Centre. (Bonus: Kamview is a local favourite for its delicious homemade soups and giant cookies in their cozy chalet.) Downhill skiers and snowboarders can head to Loch Lomond Ski Area or Mount Baldy Ski Area to rent gear and hit the slopes. You can also enjoy live local music at Loch’s chalet lounge on Friday nights. All these ski areas boast stunning views over the tabletop mountains and valleys of the area.
For the ultimate social media (or workplace water cooler) brag, book an ice climbing lesson with Outdoor Skills and Thrills. Northwestern Ontario is one of Canada’s top ice climbing destinations, and with rented equipment and expert guidance, you too can scale a frozen ice formation along a cliff. Outdoor Skills and Thrills also offers guided group snowshoeing trips.
Don’t be fooled by Thunder Bay’s status as a small city—it has a diverse and lively arts scene that is well-priced to boot. Plan a trip to the Thunder Bay Art Gallery on the Confederation College campus, known for its innovative exhibits and contemporary Indigenous art collection. Or visit the recently revamped Magnus Theatre, the northwest’s only professional theatre company, to see some all-Canadian plays ranging from comedy and musicals to thought-provoking drama.
The 1,500-seat Thunder Bay Community Auditorium is renowned by professional musicians and performers for its exceptional acoustics, plus it has plush seating and a cozy atmosphere. The TBCA is home to the Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra, which punches above its weight with talented musicians and a range of classical and non-classical offerings. Check tbso.ca for performances at other local venues.
Small local venues for bands and musicians—rock, folk, metal, blues, punk, country, Celtic, jazz, drag shows, and more—include Waterfront District bars, restaurants, and lounges like The Sovereign Room, The Foundry, Anchor & Ore, Black Pirates Pub, and NV Music Hall. For music listings, visit tbshows.ca or The Walleye, Thunder Bay’s arts and culture magazine. For a sober-friendly outing, Howl at the Moon hosts alcohol-free karaoke, dance parties, drum circles, and more.
Thunder Bay has a huge range of independent eateries offering fantastic culinary experiences. In the Waterfront District at the Port Arthur end of town, you’ll find plenty of choice. Consider Norteños Cantina (Mexican), El Tres (also Mexican), La Viché Café (espresso bar, café, and cocktails), The Foundry (gastropub and craft beer), Tomlin (upscale bistro), The Sovereign Room (gastropub and craft beer), Swell Bakery (upscale pastries), St. Paul Roastery (coffee roasted on-site), and Rooster’s Bistro (breakfast and brunch). The Goods & Co. Market is a Euro-style market with delicious take-out spots and a stylish Woodside Bar.
Nearby, Cumberland Street and Court Street are home to more great spots, such as Lot 66 (fine dining and wine bar), Grotto Trattoria (modern Italian), Tomlin Subdivision (Detroit-style pizza), Lakehead Beer Co. (craft brewery, attached to Tomlin Subdivision), Red Lion Smokehouse (quality pub fare), Café Ora (breakfast and lunch), and Prospector Steak House (steak and brew pub). For authentic Thai check out Thai Kitchen or visit Coco Bay for Vietnamese and Chinese. For contemporary fine dining right on the waterfront, you can opt for Bight or Anchor & Ore.
The historic Bay and Algoma which is known for its fun and unique shops, is also a great restaurant destination. Take your pick of Nook (bistro Italian) or Madhouse (neighbourhood pub) as well as several excellent coffeehouses and cafes.
Centrally, head to Caribou Restaurant + Wine Bar (upscale contemporary) or if you want to sample authentic Bannock you can visit The Bannock Lady at Intercity Shopping Centre. Sushi7 is a popular destination for sushi and other Japanese fare. The Golden Wok, on May Street (going south) serves up tasty Chinese and Vietnamese dishes like chow mein, pho and noodle bowls. Station 22 inside Dawson Trail Craft Brewery, serves up laidback pub fare that goes perfectly with its brews (there's a golf simulator centre next door), while the taproom at Sleeping Giant Brewing Company has snacks to complement its craft beers and also welcomes take-out if you want something delivered while you sip and sample.
If you're craving good Indian food, you can find it (as well as Canadian cuisine) at Beaux Daddy’s. Jump at the chance to check out Cottage Time Public House, an Indigenous-owned eatery serving dishes like walleye, bison and bannock. The Fort William end of town has some neighbourhood gems too: Savour upscale Italian at Giorg, or have some fun while you eat at The Tilted Turret, TBay’s only pinball pub.
Business travellers, there’s no need to hibernate during your Thunder Bay business trip! The city has outdoor activities, delicious dining, and a vibrant arts scene to discover.
