Thunder Bay

Get ready, nature lovers: You’re about to fall head over heels for Thunder Bay travel. Because this Ontario community functions as a bridge between Canada’s pastoral prairies and vast Atlantic coast, it’s a fantastic spot to base your most adventurous holidays. What’s more, the town itself is a surprisingly cheap place to hang your hat after an afternoon of hiking, biking, and climbing your way through the region’s natural spectacles. The only trouble, of course, is choosing which of those spectacles to explore first. We like the legendary Kakabeka Falls for its towering cliff and proximity to the highway, but some travelers begin their Thunder Bay vacations at the Amethyst Mine Panorama. This historic spot is positively packed with the purple gem, and you’ll get the opportunity to dig for a special piece all your own. Hikers, on the other hand, may want to head straight for Sleeping Giant Provincial Park. You’ll find an extensive network of trails, and the views of Lake Superior are beyond breathtaking. Mount Mackay is another top spot for hiking trips to Thunder Bay, but try to time your visit for the early evening hours. Trust us: The vistas here are best at dusk. When you need a break from the great outdoors, spend an afternoon cozying up to the historic attractions. The Thunder Bay Museum offers an inside peek at area’s ancient past, the Thunder Bay Art Gallery features an impressive array of First Nation pieces, and the Magnus Theater is a great spot for a family night out. Make sure to save a few hours for the Fort Williams Historical Park. This detailed site recreates life in the early 19th century, and your kids will have a blast interacting with the actors who portray Scottish, French, and Ojibwe characters. Thunder Bay vacation packages offer more than eco-wonders and historical re-enactments, however. Cuisine is big business here, and you’ll find a variety of Thunder Bay deals and discounts on some of the hottest eateries. Head to the North End for a smorgasbord of multicultural restaurants, or venture out to the South End for the city’s take on comfort food. Fine dining options abound here, too, and you’ll discover organic cafes, chic bistros, and luxe steakhouses just waiting to delight your taste buds.