There’s a hidden gem located north of Muskoka that has everything you’ll want! It’s North Bay! If you’re looking to find a charming downtown, quiet parks, and a stretch of lakefront worthy of any summer road trip in Ontario, this is the place! You’ll discover a ton of things to do in North Bay! And there’s something for everyone, outdoor adventurers, families, and history buffs!
Whether you’re planning a Northern Ontario road trip or want to explore one of the most overlooked destinations in Ontario, a trip to North Bay is what you’re after!
How to Get to North Bay
North Bay is located on the northern shores of Lake Nipissing. The drive from Toronto to North Bay is about 350kms and takes roughly 4 hours. If you are travelling from Toronto, it’s a straight drive north on Highway 400 to Highway 11, which takes you right into town.
The Ontario Northland bus runs from Toronto to North Bay. Or you can find flight deals available out of Toronto.
10 Fun Things to do in North Bay
It’s considered the Gateway to the North! North Bay best known for incredible lakes, beaches, and parks that can be found throughout the city and area. Visitors will find a boat load of North Bay things to do, with something for everyone’s interest. There are tons of outdoor activities that include hiking, biking, and paddling. Plus, there’s a wealth of history here too! So, whatever your travel style, you’ll find plenty to explore!
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Explore Downtown North Bay
The best area to start your visit is downtown! Running along Main Street you’ll find a charming and historic downtown core. it’s home to plenty of shops, restaurants, and adorable cafes!
A great way to get to know the city is by taking a walking tour! You can download a self-guided walking tour map here. Included on the map are over two dozen historic buildings that are all located downtown. The map also shows where you can find heritage site plaques and parking lots. The great thing is that the walk it only 2.4km and can be completed in under an hour.
If you’re anything like me and love hunting for street art in Ontario then keep an eye out! North Bay’s downtown is home to some fun murals. There’s the Chief Lady Bird and Aura mural on Main Street West. (partially seen in the photo above) As well as a mural of Canadian musicians on McIntyre Street East, a David Bowie mural, and one by Jeff Marceau. To find them all check out this handy map of murals and other art.
Scattering along Main Street are interesting shops that you’ll want to check out too! Deegan’s Antiques is filled with treasures! Plus, it’s one of the oldest businesses in the city, serving customers for over 100 years! Another gem is Gateway to the Arts! This artist co-op showcases the works of a variety of local artists, with pieces in a variety of different mediums!
If you’re looking for more North Bay tourist attractions located downtown then pop into the North Bay Museum! Another of the city’s museums is nearby, the Dionne Quints Museum.
The best part about downtown North Bay is that it’s super close to the waterfront. It’s less than a 10-minute walk!
Places to Eat in North Bay Downtown
You’ll find a diverse assortment of restaurants and places to eat downtown! For a fun cozy pub-like atmosphere head to Moose’s Cookhouse and try their wings! If you’re looking for an awesome dinner reserve a table at Cecil’s Brewhouse & Kitchen!
I’m always on the hunt for the best cafes in Ontario! So, when I stumbled upon the Opera Bakery Café in North Bay, I loved it immediately! Located in a former watchmaker’s shop, it will transport you back in time. It has an old penny tiled floor and rich wood accents. Everything is made in house and you’ll love their food! They serve light fare like wraps and soups, as well as desserts and great coffee too!
Travel Tip: There are a few places to park downtown. Most lots are $1 an hour and free after 4:30pm as well as on weekends. You can find a map of parking lots here.
Duchesnay Falls
One of the top North Bay attractions is Duchesnay Falls! These stunning waterfalls are a perfect spot to visit any time of year!
The Duchesnay Falls trails can be accessed just 10 minutes west of downtown. There’s a large parking lot on the north side of Highway 17. Here, you can enjoy the lower falls, which is a short 5-minute hike from the parking lot. The beautiful cascade falls drop roughly 9 metres down the escarpment and is as wide as it is tall!
If you’re looking for a longer hike and more views then head out on the roughly 3.5 km loop trail. It takes you to both the lower and upper falls. Plus, there’s an awesome view from the Lake Nipissing Lookout! One thing to note is there is a lot of steep inclines and rocks can be wet, so caution is a must.
You can also access the Duchesnay Falls trails from the Nipissing University Education Centre. A full trail map can be found here.
Stroll the Waterfront
Another of the top things to do in North Bay, especially in the summer, is stroll the waterfront! The waterfront runs along the northern shores of Lake Nipissing and is home to plenty of attractions and outdoor activities. It’s also affectionately called the Goulet Golden Mile after a former mayor who had the vision to create this beautiful stretch of lakefront.
The waterfront has a 3km pathway that is part of the Kate Pace Way and the Trans Canada Trail. Winding along it are beautiful gardens and beaches. You’ll find plenty of benches to soak in the views or enjoy a picnic at.
One of pieces of art I stumbled upon that really stood out can be found along the waterfront. Among the gardens sits a towering sculpture that’s also a sundial. Many might think it’s a totem, but it’s actually a combination of things to celebrate diversity. I implore you to stop and ponder it.
A few key attractions found along the waterfront are the Heritage Railway and Carousel and the King’s Landing wharf. At the end of the wharf, you’ll find Chief Commanda II. This massive boat offers a range of epic cruises of the area!
Travel Tip: There are plenty of large parking lots along the waterfront, all of which are free.
Laurier Woods Conservation Area
Right in the middle of the city is a conservation area that is perfect to enjoy one of the top outdoor activities North Bay has to offer – hiking! Laurier Woods Conservation Area covers 250 acres and is conveniently located a 5-minute drive from downtown. Or if you’re walking, it’s only 25 minutes away.
Laurier Wood Conservation Area offers an oasis for a variety of plant species and wildlife, including migratory birds. The park is home to various habitats like rocky outcrops, upland forest, and a significant wetland. You can spot everything from muskrats to great blue herons. Plus, it’s a hotspot for Pink Lady’s Slippers!
There are over 10km of trails within Laurier Woods. Trails take you through forests, across boardwalks, and up to picturesque lookouts. You’ll even find a collection of interpretive sign posts along the main loop that’s roughly 2km. Be sure to pick up a pamphlet from the trailhead to read about each post.
If you’re visiting from June through November, you can join one of their organized guided hikes. These hikes are led by an array of environmental experts who will share their knowledge of the park’s ecosystem and wildlife. Each hike is approximately two hours and are generally held on the first Saturday of each month, starting between 9 or 10am. Plus, they’re free!
Address: Brule St, North Bay, ON P1A 3Z5
Hit the Beaches
If you’re looking for some of the best beaches in Ontario without the crowds you may be surprised to find many in North Bay! One of the top summer North Bay activities is to head to the beach!
There are actually 43 beaches in North Bay where you can soak in the sun or swim. Many are the dreamy soft sand that are perfect for making sand castles or a game of beach volleyball. Plus, if you’re looking for romantic things to do in North Bay, the beach is the perfect spot to catch the sunset!
One of the best beaches is Shabogesic Beach, formerly Marathon Beach. The beach was recently renamed in honour of Chief Shabogesic. The new Ojibway name pays homage to Chief Shabogesic, who was one of the most significant Nipissing First Nation Chiefs. The beach is next to King’s Landing along the shores of Lake Nipissing. It’s also one of three beaches in the city with lifeguards.
Another beach to check out is Kinsmen Beach, which is also on Lake Nipissing. Two others can be found on Trout Lake, located in the east end of the city. Birchaven Cove and Olmsted Beach on Trout Lake are great alternatives if you’re looking for quieter beaches. Plus, if you’re a canoer you can make your way to Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park from here.
Take a Lake Nipissing Cruise
Did you know that Lake Nipissing is the third largest lake within Ontario? While it’s one of the largest it oddly enough has an average depth of only 15m. And one of the best things to do in North Bay is take a cruise aboard the Chief Commanda II!
Docked at King’s Landing, the Chief Commanda II is a 320-passenger vessel that has two bars, an open-air BBQ, snack bar, and more! There are three decks, two of which are enclosed and the top one is open to the elements. You can even enjoy live entertainment every Sunday in July and August!
A cruise on Lake Nipissing gives you a unique perspective! Plus, from the boat you’ll see one of the top things to see in North Bay – the Manitou Islands! This collection of small islands is located roughly 10km southwest of North Bay and is part of a provincial park. Interestingly, the islands are remnants of a volcanic pipe!
The Chief Commanda II offers a range of different cruises to choose from. Two awesome ones are the Callander Bay Sunset Cruise and the Manitou Islands Scenic Cruise. The sunset cruise showcases the stunning sunsets, views of the city’s skyline, and there’s also a three-course dinner option! On the scenic cruise of the islands, you’ll learn all about the islands and their history.
Address: 200 Memorial Dr, North Bay, ON P1B 4G6
North Bay Museum
For those looking for rainy day activities or in search of a little history, head to the North Bay Museum. The museum is located in the historic Canadian Pacific Railway station downtown. Built in 1903, the building is now filled with a large collection of historic artifacts and exhibits.
You’ll find a blend of museum pieces and interactive exhibits where you can learn about the city’s history, its people, and more! Displays showcase a wide array of topics including the Canadian forces and the city’s railway history. Plus, there’s even a model train running along a track above you!
The museum also hosts different events and tours. One tour is the Haunted Hike. This tour runs from the museum and takes you around downtown. Your guide will share spooky stories of ghosts and true crime. Another great tour focuses on North Bay’s history. The tour will take you on a walk through town while being regaled in tales about the city’s over 100 years of history. You’ll learn all about iconic hotels, theatres, businesses, and more!
Tours run throughout the summer and last one hour.
Other museums in the area include Dionne Quints Museum, Nipissing Township Museum, and Canadian Forces Museum of Aerospace Defence.
Address: 100 Ferguson St, North Bay, ON P1B 1W8
Eat on a Boat
If you’re looking for a fun dining experience The Boat is exactly what you’re after! Perched on the shores of Lake Nipissing, The Boat is one of the best places to eat in North Bay! It was even named ‘One of Canada’s Most Unique Restaurants’ by the Food Network!
The Boat restaurant is the original Chief Commanda that ran tours between 1947 and 1974. After it was built in Toronto in 1946, it went on to provide boat cruises for countless tourists to North Bay over its nearly 30-year run. While it was slotted to be transformed into a museum it ended up as a restaurant.
This seasonal restaurant has the perfect location along the waterfront. You can dine in or enjoy the awesome lake views from the patio of the boat! Everyone will find something on their menu to suit their hunger. There’s everything from gluten-free chicken fingers to fried calamari. A couple of their top menu items are their fish and chips and fish tacos. Plus, they also run various events and live entertainment throughout their summer season!
Address: 225 Memorial Dr, North Bay, ON P1B 4G6
Heritage Railway and Carousel Company
North Bay has a long history linked to the railway. So, it’s no surprise that one of the top things to do is visit the North Bay Heritage Railway and Carousel Company!
Rail travel began in North Bay with the Lucy Dalton, the first passenger steam train, in 1882. After train travel died out two locals decided to honour the city’s heritage train history. Stan Lawlor and Rod Johnson opened a miniature railway in 1994. It was a big hit!
Located across from the waterfront and next to the train tracks, this miniature train is a replica of the original steam train, and dubbed the little Lucy Dalton. Now, there are three trains in total and two carousels. The other two trains are mini replicas of Ontario Northland trains.
And don’t worry, all of the rides are fit for adults too!
Address: 230 Memorial Dr, North Bay, ON
Grab a Donut
As many know, I’m always on the hunt for the best donuts in Ontario! And I found another gem – Good Glaze Doughnuts! They have classic and quirky hand-crafted gourmet donuts that are made fresh every day!
This is definitely a donut shop you’re going to want to return to again and again! Their menu rotates frequents to roll out new concoctions as well as seasonal specialties. I tried their Blueberry Breakfast donut, which was out of this world and goes to show that yes, donuts for breakfast are a thing!
A few of their top sellers include the salted caramel crueller, apple fritter, and their ‘C is for cookies’ doughnut! Plus, they also have other treats like cakes and macaroons, as well as a variety of beverages. And during the summer you just might want to add a scoop of their Belly Ice Cream, from Huntsville, to your donut!
One thing I loved about this shop is their awesome indoor/outdoor space! They have a large garage-style door to open their shop as well as fun and colourful décor. Another cool feature is that it’s located in the old Tip Top Tailors building! You can see the remnants of the floor tiles when you enter.
Address: 130 Main St W, North Bay, ON P1B 2T5
More Things to do and Places to Visit in North Bay
There are so many more things to do in North Bay! Whether you’re looking for more outdoor adventures or cultural ones, there’s plenty on tap!
Hit More Trails
North Bay is home to over 10 different trails, and that’s not including all the surrounding parks and conservation areas! The trails are part of the Discovery North Bay Routes. Many of which are great for a multitude of activities like hiking, biking, and running. Plus, many are ideal for cross-country skiing in the winter!
One of the most popular trails is the Kate Pace Way. Named after the North Bay native and Olympic skier Kate Pace, it’s also part of the Trans Canada Trail. The trail is 12km long and runs through everything from residential neighbourhoods to along the waterfront.
Another popular one is the Kinsmen Trail. This trail is 7km long and follows the Chippewa Creek. It takes you through various scenic sections of the city and is great for all skill levels.
Other ones to check out are Richardson Ridge Trail and McNutt Family Trail, both of which are located in the Laurentian Escarpment Conservation Area.
Laurentian Ski Hill
For those looking for things to do in North Bay during winter then you’ll be delighted to know that its home to a ski resort! Laurentian Ski Hill is just minutes from downtown and a must for skiers and snowboarders.
The hill has a beginners area, moguls, and a terrain park, so there’s something for everyone! The ski hill also offers lessons and equipment rentals. Plus, it’s home to the Laurentian Café!
Visit the Capitol Centre
One of the most iconic buildings in downtown North Bay is the Capitol Centre! Entertaining locals and visitors alike since 1929, this entertainment venue features movies, galleries, and more! Within you’ll find the Betty Speers Theatre, with seats for over 900 people. The theatre has stunning accents along the walls as well as the original chandelier strung above the balcony staircase!
Another highlight of the Capitol Centre is the WKP Kennedy Gallery. Located right off the main entrance, this art gallery showcases both Canadian and International art ranging from historical to contemporary.
Be sure to check out their list of upcoming events that range from family-friendly free screenings to live comedy!
Canadian Forces Museum of Aerospace Defense
On the Canadian Forces base in North Bay you’ll find another interesting museum. The Canadian Forces Museum showcases air defence throughout history, from World War I and beyond. You’ll get to learn all about Canada’s contributions to air defence in the past and currently.
Along with the various artifacts, the museum offers some fun interactive exhibits. You can sit in a cockpit of a jet and try on uniforms, plus so much more!
To get the most out of your visit the museum also offers guided tours.
Where to Stay in North Bay
I recommend staying for at least 2 to 3 days in North Bay. That way you can maximize all there is to do in town. There are a bunch of great North Bay hotels that are located downtown and nearby.
Super 8 by Wyndham – A short 5-minute drive into downtown, the Super 8 looks a bit like a castle. Rooms are clean, spacious, and include a free buffet breakfast. There is free parking on site and some suites have kitchenettes. However, there is no elevator.
Homewood Suites by Hilton – This hotel is ideally located a 10-minute walk from downtown. Plus, it’s close to the beach too! It features a BBQ area, shared lounge, an indoor pool, and views of Lake Nipissing. A buffet breakfast is also included in your stay.
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott – As one of the newest hotels in North Bay, the Fairfield Inn offers clean and comfortable rooms. The hotel features family rooms, an indoor pool, fitness center, and more. Plus, you can choose from a continental or buffet breakfast.
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