Things To Do
in North Bay

North Bay is a charming city located in northeastern Ontario, Canada, nestled between Lake Nipissing and the Canadian Shield. Known for its natural beauty, it offers a variety of outdoor activities and a vibrant cultural scene. The city serves as a gateway to beautiful provincial parks and is rich in history and community spirit.

With its friendly residents and picturesque landscapes, North Bay is an ideal destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the North Bay Heritage Train and Transportation Museum to learn about the city's railroad history.

afternoon
:

Head to the scenic Waterfront Park for a leisurely stroll and enjoy lunch at a nearby café overlooking Lake Nipissing.

evening
:

Dine at the local favorite, The Fishbowl, known for its fresh seafood, followed by a walk along the waterfront to take in the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

After breakfast, take a trip to the nearby Duchesnay Falls for a morning hike and enjoy the beautiful waterfalls.

afternoon
:

Visit the North Bay Museum to explore local history and art, then enjoy lunch at a local diner for a taste of classic Canadian comfort food.

evening
:

Experience the nightlife at the local pub, The Rex, which features live music and a vibrant atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a Restaurant$15-$30
Coffee$3-$5
🍕Pizza$10-$20
🚍Public Transportation Ticket$2.50
🏨Hotel Night$100-$150

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly and welcoming community.
  • Rich cultural heritage and local events.
  • Limited urban amenities compared to larger cities.
  • Harsh winters may not be suitable for everyone.
  • Public transportation can be limited.

Places to Visit in North Bay

Visit one of these nice places.

Duchesnay Falls

A stunning waterfall located just outside the city, perfect for capturing natural beauty.

North Bay Waterfront

The picturesque waterfront area provides excellent views of the lake and surrounding landscapes, ideal for sunset photos.

Dionne Quintuplets Museum

A unique museum dedicated to the famous Dionne quintuplets, offering a glimpse into local history and culture.

Culinary Guide

Food in North Bay

North Bay boasts a rich culinary scene that reflects its cultural diversity and local ingredients, making it a delightful destination for food lovers.

North Bay Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Persian

A local delicacy, the Persian is a sweet pastry filled with cream and topped with icing, perfect for a quick snack.

Must-Try!

Fish and Chips

Freshly caught fish from Lake Nipissing served with crispy fries, a must-try for seafood lovers.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

North Bay Farmers' Market

Open on Saturdays, this market features local produce, artisanal products, and street food vendors offering a variety of delicious options.

Climate Guide

Weather

North Bay experiences a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. Winters (December to February) are cold, with temperatures often dipping below freezing and significant snowfall. Summers (June to August) are warm and humid, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Spring and fall are transitional seasons with mild temperatures and beautiful foliage.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Being on time is valued, especially for social gatherings and appointments.

Respect for Nature

As North Bay is surrounded by natural beauty, locals appreciate efforts to protect the environment.

Friendly Greetings

Canadians are known for being polite; a friendly greeting or small talk is appreciated.

Safety Guide

Safety

North Bay is generally a safe city, but like any place, it’s important to remain vigilant. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and keep personal belongings secure. Emergency services are readily available, and residents are friendly and helpful.

Tipping in North Bay

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 15-20% in restaurants and for other services, such as taxis.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit and debit cards, but it's advisable to carry some cash for local markets and smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings warmer temperatures and blooming flowers, making it an excellent time for hiking and outdoor activities.

Summer

Summer is warm and perfect for water sports, with numerous festivals and events taking place throughout the city.

Fall

Fall showcases beautiful foliage, ideal for photography and enjoying scenic drives through the countryside.

Winter

Winter offers snow-covered landscapes and opportunities for skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing.

Nightlife Guide

North Bay at Night

North Bay's nightlife is vibrant, featuring a variety of bars, pubs, and live music venues. The Rex is popular for its live music and friendly atmosphere, while The Fishbowl offers a more relaxed dining experience with occasional entertainment. Seasonal events and festivals also contribute to the lively evening scene, ensuring there's always something happening for night owls.

Hiking in North Bay

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Laurentian Escarpment Trail

This trail offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and provides a moderate hike suitable for various skill levels.

Mattawa River Trail

A beautiful trail that runs alongside the Mattawa River, perfect for hiking and enjoying nature all year round.

Airports

How to reach North Bay by plane.

North Bay Jack Garland Airport (YYB)

Located just 10 kilometers from the city center, this airport offers flights to major Canadian cities and is the primary air travel hub for the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

North Bay is fairly walkable, especially in the downtown area where many shops, restaurants, and attractions are located within walking distance. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and there are pedestrian-friendly routes along the waterfront, making it easy to explore the city on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Indigenous Peoples

The area is home to several Indigenous communities, including the Nipissing First Nation, which contribute to the cultural diversity of the region.

Student Population

With the presence of Nipissing University, North Bay has a significant student population, bringing youthful energy and cultural vibrancy to the city.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Hockey

Ice hockey is extremely popular in North Bay, with local teams competing at various levels, and community support for youth hockey programs.

Curling

Curling is a well-loved sport in the region, with several clubs and facilities available for both recreational and competitive play.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in North Bay is generally light, making it easy to navigate the city by car. Public transportation options include buses that operate on a set schedule, providing connectivity throughout the city and to surrounding areas. However, many residents prefer to walk or cycle, especially in the warmer months.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting North Bay.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants in North Bay offer vegetarian options; it's advisable to check menus in advance.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are available in various eateries; however, it's best to communicate your needs to staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in North Bay are accessible, with the North Bay Regional Health Centre providing a range of medical services. There are also several clinics and pharmacies throughout the city. Emergency services are well-equipped to handle urgent medical situations, and residents generally have good access to healthcare.

Discover Canada

Read more in our Canada 2025 Travel Guide.

Canada Travel Guide