Day 1 — Discovering Thunder Bay’s Local Flavours and Waterfront
Thunder Bay immediately feels authentic — raw, welcoming, and full of small discoveries. My first stops set the tone:
- Thunder Oak Cheese Farm, where I sampled fresh Gouda straight from the source.
- Fox on the Run, a local spot serving hearty soups and sandwiches.
- And of course, the legendary Persian Donut — Thunder Bay’s sweetest tradition.
A Cozy Stay at Superior Shores
My base for three nights was the recently renovated Superior Shores Hotel (BW Signature Collection). Located near the waterfront, its refreshed design blends comfort with local charm — perfect for exploring both city and nature.
Honouring a Hero — The Terry Fox Monument
No visit to Thunder Bay is complete without a stop at the Terry Fox Monument, overlooking Lake Superior and the Sleeping Giant. The nine-foot bronze statue stands as a reminder of courage, resilience, and Canadian spirit. Bring a moment of silence — it’s impossible not to feel moved.
Sailing Lake Superior with Sail Superior Tours
Sailing across the vast waters of Lake Superior felt like stepping into a postcard. With the Sleeping Giant on the horizon, we spotted pelicans and nesting birds as the sun dipped low. The Sail Superior crew shared stories of the lake’s history and wildlife — a blend of adventure and serenity that captures Thunder Bay’s soul.
Dinner at Prospector Steak House
End the day with comfort food done right. Prospector Steak House, a local institution housed in a former bank, is known for generous portions and homemade rolls. It’s the kind of place where the staff greet you like family and no one leaves hungry.
Day 2 — Chasing Waterfalls and Wildlife
Morning brought the roar of Kakabeka Falls, Ontario’s “Niagara of the North.” Mist rose over the gorge as the falls thundered 40 metres down — pure power and beauty.
Later, I photographed my first sandhill crane, followed by a curious fox along the highway. Thunder Bay’s wildlife never disappoints.
Exploring Silver Islet Mine & General Store
Tucked behind the Sleeping Giant, Silver Islet Mine reveals Thunder Bay’s mining past. The local general store is a treasure chest of stories and antiques — every item has a history, and the owner tells it with pride.
Eagle Canyon & Ouimet Canyon — Suspension Bridge Thrills
Nothing tests your nerves (and rewards your camera) like crossing Canada’s longest suspension bridge — Eagle Canyon’s 600-foot skywalk. Nearby, Ouimet Canyon offers towering 100-metre cliffs and echoes that bounce across the gorge. It’s a full-day adventure for thrill-seekers and photographers alike.
Thunder Bay: A Growing Hub for Great Lakes Cruise Ships
I discovered that Thunder Bay quickly became a popular stop for Great Lakes cruise ships during my trip! Significant lines like Viking Cruises have started arriving. The city is making giant strides to enhance the experience for visitors. A brand-new art gallery is under construction near the dock, adding a cultural highlight for cruise passengers to explore.
The docks are conveniently located less than a kilometre from the downtown core. This location makes it easy for passengers to walk into the city or take a shuttle. Once in town, visitors can enjoy local dining, browse unique shops, and pick up handcrafted souvenirs to take home. Thunder Bay is positioning itself as a prime port for Great Lakes cruises. It offers a gateway to Northern Ontario’s natural beauty and a rich cultural experience at the city’s doorstep.
Day 3 — History & Helicopters
Step Back in Time at Fort William Historical Park
This living museum re-creates the fur-trade era with guides in period dress, hands-on demos, and Indigenous cultural storytelling. You can almost smell the campfire smoke from centuries past.
Soaring with Wisk-Air Helicopter Tours
For a finale, I took to the skies with Wisk-Air Helicopters. The panoramic views of Thunder Bay, Lake Superior, and the Sleeping Giant were unforgettable — clouds drifting below us, light shifting by the minute. A photographer’s dream.
Dining Highlight — Tomlin Restaurant’s Burger Night
Every Tuesday, Tomlin Restaurant hosts its famous Burger Night — born during the pandemic, now a full-house ritual. Juicy, perfectly cooked burgers, hand-cut fries, craft drinks, and local energy. My first medium-rare burger ever — and easily one of the best.
Flying Home with Porter Airlines
Thunder Bay is easier to reach than ever with Porter Airlines’ direct flights from major Canadian cities. Their service — spacious seats, great snacks, and no middle rows — made the journey home as smooth as the trip itself.
Why I Love Thunder Bay
Thunder Bay surprised me. It’s bold and wild, yet filled with warmth. Between its waterfalls, heroic history, and small-town flavour, the city shows what makes Northern Ontario so special — unpolished, proud, and unforgettable.
A: Late spring through early fall offers the best mix of warm weather, hiking, and sailing.
A: Kakabeka Falls, the Terry Fox Monument, Sail Superior Tours, and Fort William Historical Park top the list.
A: Yes, there are several tour companies in Thunder Bay. Try the sunset option.
About the Author
Written and photographed by Roland Bast, professional travel photographer and TMAC member. Roland captures the raw beauty of Canada’s landscapes, connecting people and place through authentic storytelling.
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