Thompson Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, activities to try, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more in Thompson, Canada with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Thompson

Nestled in the heart of Manitoba, Canada, Thompson is a hidden gem that offers unparalleled natural beauty, vibrant culture, and endless outdoor adventures. This city is located on the northern edge of the Canadian Prairies and is surrounded by stunning landscapes that include boreal forests, rolling hills, and pristine lakes.

Despite being a small city, Thompson is a hub for mining, transportation, and tourism. The city has a rich history and culture that is reflected in its museums, festivals, and events throughout the year. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway or an adrenaline-filled adventure, Thompson has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Thompson

Thompson is home to a range of culturally important attractions, natural wonders, and exciting outdoor adventures. Here is a list of the best places to visit in Thompson:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Thompson has a rich history and culture that is reflected in its museums and historical sites. These are the top culturally important attractions to visit in Thompson:

  • Heritage North Museum: Explore the rich heritage and history of Thompson through exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays.
  • Spirit Way: A series of outdoor public art installations that feature larger-than-life carvings of wildlife and historical figures.
  • Pisew Falls Provincial Park: Home to the Pisew Falls and the Poplar River, this park is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Natural Attractions of Thompson: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Thompson is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes that offer endless outdoor adventures and scenic views. Here are the top natural attractions to explore in Thompson:

  • Paint Lake Provincial Park: Located just a short drive from Thompson, Paint Lake Provincial Park is a popular destination for camping, fishing, hiking, and boating. It has stunning views of the Canadian Shield and boreal forest.
  • Mystery Mountain Winter Park: A popular winter destination that offers downhill skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and tobogganing.
  • Thompson Golf Club: A scenic and challenging 18-hole golf course that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Thompson

Thompson has a range of hiking and biking routes to explore that showcase the natural beauty of the region. Here are the top hiking and biking routes in Thompson:

  • Burntwood River Trail: A picturesque trail that follows the Burntwood River and offers scenic views of the boreal forest and the river valley.
  • Thompson Trail System: A network of hiking and biking trails that take you through the scenic landscapes of Thompson.
  • Bakers Narrows Provincial Park: Located just a short drive from Thompson, this park is a popular destination for hiking and biking. It has stunning views of Bakers Narrows Lake and the surrounding boreal forest.

Best Things to Do in Thompson: Activities and Tours

Besides the natural attractions and cultural landmarks, Thompson has a range of exciting activities and tours for visitors to enjoy. Here are the best things to do in Thompson:

  • Northern Soul Wilderness Adventures: Offering year-round guided fishing, hunting, and outdoor adventures in remote and pristine northern areas.
  • Trappers Festival: Held every February, this festival celebrates the fur trade and northern heritage with dog sled races, snowmobile races, and more.
  • Thompson Street Fair: A summer festival that celebrates the local culture, music, food, and arts in Thompson.

Week-Long Itinerary for Thompson

If you are planning to spend a week in Thompson, then here is a perfect itinerary for you:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore Heritage North Museum and Spirit Way
Day 2 Go fishing or boating at Paint Lake Provincial Park
Day 3 Visit Pisew Falls Provincial Park and hike the trail
Day 4 Ski or snowboard at Mystery Mountain Winter Park
Day 5 Play golf at Thompson Golf Club and explore the Thompson Trail System
Day 6 Join a Northern Soul Wilderness Adventure for hunting or fishing
Day 7 Visit the local shops and buy souvenirs and local products to bring home

Food and Drink Scene of Thompson

Thompson has a range of local restaurants, cafes, and bars that showcase the unique flavors and tastes of northern Manitoba. Here are the must-try dishes and local beverages in Thompson:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pickerel: A freshwater fish that is popular in northern Manitoba and is known for its flaky and delicate texture.
  • Bison Burger: A juicy and delicious burger made with bison meat, which is leaner and healthier than beef.
  • Wild Rice Soup: A traditional Manitoba dish that is made with wild rice, chicken, vegetables, and herbs.

Local Beverages

  • Churchill Wheat Ale: A locally brewed wheat beer that is named after the nearby community of Churchill, Manitoba.
  • Northern Lights Lager: A refreshing and crisp lager that is brewed in northern Manitoba.
  • Cranberry Juice: A popular drink in northern Manitoba that is made with locally grown cranberries.

Where to Stay in Thompson: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Thompson offers a range of accommodation options for visitors, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are the top places to stay in Thompson:

  • Best Western Thompson Hotel & Suites: A modern and comfortable hotel that is located in the heart of Thompson and offers a range of amenities and services.
  • Burntwood Hotel: A historic hotel that has been a landmark in Thompson since 1958 and offers a range of rooms and suites.
  • Twin Motors Inn: A comfortable and affordable motel that is located in Downtown Thompson and offers convenient access to the local attractions.

What to Buy in Thompson: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Thompson is home to a range of local shops and stores that offer unique souvenirs and local products that you can bring home. Here are the top things to buy in Thompson:

  • Northern-themed artwork and crafts
  • Traditional indigenous art and crafts
  • Local specialties, such as wild rice and bison jerky

Local Culture and Customs of Thompson

Thompson has a rich and diverse culture that is reflected in its art, music, food, and festivals. The local indigenous communities also have a deep connection to the land and waterways of northern Manitoba. Visitors are encouraged to respect the local culture and customs and to learn more about the history and traditions of the region.

Best Time to Visit Thompson

Thompson experiences four distinct seasons, with cold and snowy winters and warm and sunny summers. The best time to visit Thompson depends on your preferences and interests. For winter sports and activities, the best time to visit is from December to March. For hiking and outdoor activities, the best time to visit is from May to September.

Do’s and Don’ts of Thompson

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Thompson:

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs
  • Take precautions when hiking or skiing in the wilderness
  • Sample the local cuisine and beverages
  • Learn more about the history and traditions of the region

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural landscapes
  • Disrespect the local indigenous communities
  • Engage in illegal activities, such as hunting or fishing without a license
  • Ignore the weather conditions and warnings

Safety and Health

Thompson is generally a safe and healthy destination, but visitors are advised to take precautions and to be aware of potential risks. Here are some safety and health tips for visitors to Thompson:

Safety in Thompson

  • Be aware of potential wildlife encounters, such as bears, moose, and wolves.
  • Take precautions when hiking or skiing in the wilderness, such as carrying bear spray and a first aid kit.
  • Follow the local laws and regulations, such as wearing a life jacket when boating or fishing.

Health in Thompson

  • Make sure to bring sunscreen and insect repellent, as the sun can be strong and mosquitoes can be plentiful.
  • Drink bottled water to avoid potential contaminants in the local water sources.
  • Bring any necessary medication and consult with a doctor before traveling to Thompson if you have any health concerns.

Getting to Thompson: Transportation Options and Logistics

Thompson is accessible by air, road, and rail, with a range of transportation options available for visitors. Here are the ways to get to Thompson:

Airports Near Thompson

  • Thompson Airport: The main airport in Thompson, with direct flights to Winnipeg and other destinations in Manitoba.

Bus Stations Near Thompson

  • Thompson Bus Depot: Greyhound and Kasper operate daily bus service to and from Thompson, with connections to other destinations in Manitoba and beyond.

Other Options

  • Via Rail: The Canadian, Via Rail’s flagship train, stops in Thompson multiple times per week, offering rail connections to other cities in Canada.
  • Driving: Thompson is located on Highway 6, which runs from Winnipeg to the northern communities of Manitoba.

How to Get Around in Thompson

Thompson is a small and walkable city, with most attractions and amenities located within a short distance of each other. However, for longer distances or for accessing the natural attractions outside of the city, visitors can use taxi services or rent a car.

Where to Go Next from Thompson: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Thompson is a great starting point for exploring other destinations and excursions in northern Manitoba and beyond. Here are the top nearby destinations and excursions from Thompson:

  • Churchill: A remote and unique community located on the shore of Hudson Bay, known for its polar bear watching tours and northern lights tours.
  • Flin Flon: A historic mining town that is home to beautiful lakes and forests, as well as opportunities for fishing, boating, and hiking.
  • Riding Mountain National Park: Located south of Thompson, this park is home to diverse landscapes, including forests, prairies, and lakes, as well as a range of wildlife.

Conclusion

Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway or an adrenaline-filled adventure, Thompson offers a range of attractions and activities that cater to all types of travelers. From exploring the local history and culture to hiking through the stunning landscapes, or indulging in the local cuisine and beverages, Thompson has something for everyone. Plan your next trip to Thompson now and experience the authentic and vibrant culture of northern Manitoba.

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