North Bay Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and local culture of North Bay, Ontario.


Introduction to North Bay

North Bay, located in the Near North region of Northern Ontario, Canada, is a beautiful city that can cater to all kinds of travelers. Known as the “Gateway to the North,” North Bay has a lot to offer, from natural attractions and outdoor adventures to culturally important attractions. The city is perfectly situated on the shores of Lake Nipissing, which provides travelers with amazing waterfront views and recreational activities.

List of Places to Visit in North Bay

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

North Bay is home to some exceptional museums and historical places that provide travelers with insight into the city’s past.

Discovery North Bay Museum

At the Discovery North Bay Museum, you can dive deep into the history of the city. With over 30,000 artifacts, exhibits, and archives, the museum features the history of North Bay, the Canadian Pacific Railway, and much more.

Step back in time at the Heritage Railway and Carousel Company, where you can take a scenic train ride or go back in time on a restored carousel. The company is run by volunteers who are passionate about preserving the city’s railway history.

Natural Attractions of North Bay: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

North Bay has plenty of outdoor activities and scenic views to offer. Take your pick from hiking, biking, fishing, and much more.

Laurentian Ski Hill

Laurentian Ski Hill, located just a few minutes outside of North Bay, is a perfect destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. With over 300ft of vertical drop, seven runs, and three chairlifts, Laurentian Ski Hill provides a thrilling experience for all levels of riders.

Graham Chute Conservation Area

The Graham Chute Conservation Area is a scenic park that features an abundance of wildlife, including beaver, moose, and otters. If you’re looking for a peaceful break from the hustle and bustle of the city, look no further than this natural gem.

Hiking/Biking Routes of North Bay

North Bay has a lot of hiking and biking trails to offer. Here are two of the most popular routes.

Kate Pace Way

The Kate Pace Way is a scenic trail that runs 11 km through North Bay. The trail is perfect for biking, inline skating, walking, and running. The path follows the shore of Lake Nipissing, giving riders picturesque views of the waterfront.

Duchesnay Falls Trail

The Duchesnay Falls Trail is a 2.5 km hiking trail that winds through the forest and leads to the stunning Duchesnay Falls. The trail has moderate to difficult levels of difficulty, but the view of the waterfall is well worth the effort.

Best Things to Do In North Bay: Activities and Tours

There are endless things to do in North Bay, catering to every taste and budget. Here are a few must-try activities and tours.

Canadore College Aviation Campus

Canadore College Aviation Campus offers a unique opportunity to climb into the cockpit of a Boeing 727 for an immersive aviation experience. Experience a realistic takeoff, inflight entertainment, and a smooth landing.

Dreamcatcher Sailing

Dreamcatcher Sailing is a sunset tour boat cruise that offers a unique view of the city’s skyline. Take in the beauty of the sunset while enjoying a glass of wine, beer, or a non-alcoholic beverage.

Week-Long Itinerary for North Bay

A week is just enough time to explore North Bay and its surrounding areas. Consider following this itinerary for the perfect adventure.

Day Activity
Day 1 Discovery North Bay Museum and Heritage Railway and Carousel Company
Day 2 Laurentian Ski Hill and Kate Pace Way
Day 3 Graham Chute Conservation Area and Duchesnay Falls Trail
Day 4 Visiting Lake Nipissing
Day 5 Canadore College Aviation Campus
Day 6 Dreamcatcher Sailing
Day 7 Exploring local shops and markets

Food and Drink Scene Of North Bay

North Bay has a thriving food scene, showcasing a distinct blend of cuisines. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages.

Must-Try Dishes

Poutine

A Canadian classic, poutine is a beloved dish of fries, gravy, and cheese curds. Many restaurants in North Bay specialize in this delicious treat, and you won’t regret indulging.

Tourtiere

Tourtiere is a savory pie that is a staple to traditional Quebecois cuisine. North Bay’s local bakers excels in making this savory dish. Warm and delicious, tourtiere is perfect for any time of the year.

Local Beverages

Muskoka Brewery

Muskoka Brewery produces some of Canada’s best craft beers, which are available throughout Ontario, including North Bay. The brewery is famous for its Cream Ale, Mad Tom IPA, and Winter Weiss, among others.

Georgian Bay Vodka

Georgian Bay Vodka is a high-quality vodka that is made with locally sourced water and grains to create a smooth drinking experience like no other.

Where to Stay In North Bay: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

North Bay has plenty of options when it comes to accommodation. Here are some top choices for different budgets and travel styles.

Hotels

Ramada by Wyndham Pinewood Park Resort

The Ramada by Wyndham Pinewood Park Resort is located on the shores of Trout Lake, offering comfortable accommodation and impressive amenities such as an indoor swimming pool, whirlpool, and onsite restaurant.

Best Western North Bay Hotel & Conference Centre

The Best Western North Bay Hotel & Conference Centre is situated in the heart of the city, making it an ideal choice for travelers looking for easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Hostels

North Bay Hostel

The North Bay Hostel is a warm and comfortable option for budget-conscious travelers. The hostel offers private rooms and shared accommodations and is located in a quiet residential neighborhood.

Guesthouses

Whitney Guesthouse

The Whitney Guesthouse is a charming guesthouse located in a beautiful, historic building. The guesthouse offers comfortable accommodations and is conveniently located near the downtown area.

What to Buy In North Bay: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

North Bay is a haven for crafters and creatives. The city is known for its locally made and unique products. Here are some things to consider bringing home as souvenirs.

Canadian-made Apparel

Head to Canadian-made apparel shops in North Bay, to take home an authentic Canadian-made souvenir such as a warm flannel shirt or a cozy hat.

Handmade Crafts

North Bay also hosts many boutique shops selling handmade crafts, like hand-knit scarves, pottery, and jewelry, made by local artisans that showcase the city’s thriving arts scene.

Local Culture and Customs of North Bay

North Bay, like much of Northern Ontario, bears a close resemblance to its historic French-Canadian roots. The city’s unique aspect combines the Midwestern (Ontario) hospitality to the outgoing welcoming charm of a small-town Quebec. The combination results in welcoming locals and a delightfully charming community feeling.

Best Time to Visit North Bay

North Bay’s ideal time to visit is in summer as you can explore the natural landscape and outdoor adventures. From June to August, temperatures are pleasant, and the weather is dry. September’s leaves changing colors painting the city in vibrant shades of orange and red is a sight to behold.

Do’s and Don’ts of North Bay

Do:

  • Do rent a boat and experience North Bay’s waterways.
  • Do learn a bit of French-Canadian language as a sign of respect for the local culture.
  • Do grab a poutine and a beverage at one of the local restaurants.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or pollute North Bay’s natural landscape.
  • Don’t forget to check for ticks if you plan on exploring rural areas
  • Don’t underestimate the weather; winters can be unforgiving and summers can be hot

Safety and Health

Safety in North Bay

North Bay is a safe city to visit. However, travelers should still take precautions such as keeping their valuables out of sight and reporting any suspicious activity to the local authorities.

Health in North Bay

The healthcare system in North Bay is top-notch. The city has several hospitals and medical facilities catering to all medical needs of visitors.

Getting to North Bay: Transportation Options and Logistics

North Bay can be accessed through several transportation options such as air, bus, and car.

Airports Near North Bay

The Jack Garland Airport is six kilometers from the city center and accommodates several airlines.

Bus Stations Near North Bay

The North Bay Transit terminal can be found in the heart of the city and provides travelers direct access to several bus lines.

Other Options

Several car rental companies operate in North Bay, providing travelers flexibility to explore the beautiful Northern Ontario at their own pace.

How to Get Around North Bay

North Bay Transit buses are a safe and affordable way to get around the city. Taxis are also available if you prefer a more convenient option.

Where to Go Next from North Bay: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

North Bay serves as an excellent base for exploring the nearby attractions.

Algonquin Provincial Park

Located around two hours drive from North Bay, Algonquin Provincial Park is Ontario’s largest park, a destination for hiking, canoeing, and exploring wildlife.

Manitoulin Island

Manitoulin Island, situated three hours from North Bay, is the world’s largest freshwater island. Manitoulin Island is a cultural oasis filled with historic and heritage sites, trails, and stunning waterfalls.

Conclusion

North Bay is an ideal destination for individuals who want to unwind with nature or learn and explore the city’s rich cultural heritage. From its beautiful outdoor scenery to its historic sites, unique craft shops, and local cuisine, North Bay is waiting to welcome you and give you an experience that you will never forget.

Downtown North Bay in the morning Downtown North Bay in the morning A beach on Lake Nipissing in West Ferris, a neighbourhood of North Bay A beach on Lake Nipissing in West Ferris, a neighbourhood of North Bay link= link=