Things To Do
in Yellowknife
Yellowknife is the capital of the Northwest Territories, perched on the southern shore of Great Slave Lake with a dramatic northern landscape surrounding it. The city is renowned for its vivid skies, especially the aurora borealis in winter and the midnight sun in summer. Life here blends Indigenous heritage, frontier history, and contemporary northern culture in a compact, walkable urban core.
Visitors come for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and a front-row seat to one of the world's most spectacular natural light displays.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre, where you can immerse yourself in the history and culture of the Northwest Territories. After exploring the exhibits, take a leisurely stroll through Old Town, admiring the colorful wooden houses and charming local shops. Don’t forget to snap some photos of the stunning views of Great Slave Lake from the high points.
Enjoy lunch at a local café, savoring traditional dishes that reflect the region's heritage. Afterward, visit the Legislative Assembly of the Northwest Territories to learn about the political history and governance of the area. Take time to relax at nearby Frame Lake and enjoy the natural beauty surrounding you.
As the sun sets, head to the waterfront for a scenic dinner at a restaurant offering fresh local fish and game. The evening light reflecting off the lake creates a magical atmosphere, perfect for a stroll. Cap off your night by visiting a cozy local bar to sample some Northern craft beers.
Spend your morning at leisure, perhaps enjoying a hearty breakfast at your accommodation while anticipating the evening's activities. Take time to rest and prepare for a late-night adventure by catching up on local lore of the Northern Lights. If the weather permits, venture out to explore the surroundings of Yellowknife during the daylight hours.
In the afternoon, visit the local shops to pick up warm clothing or unique souvenirs to commemorate your trip. Consider taking a guided tour that educates you on the science and folklore surrounding the Aurora Borealis. This will prepare you for the experience awaiting you later on.
As night falls, join a guided tour to one of the prime locations outside the city for a breathtaking view of the Northern Lights. Wrapped in warm gear, sit back with hot chocolate and enjoy the magical display of colors dancing across the sky. The experience of witnessing the auroras is unforgettable, leaving you in awe of nature's beauty.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $3-5 |
| 🚌Public transit pass (monthly) | $60-90 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $150-260 |
| 🛒Grocery basket (weekly) | $120-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning aurora viewing and long summer days
- Compact, walkable city with easy access to nature
- High season tourism can surge prices
- Extremely cold winters require specialized gear
Places to Visit in Yellowknife
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic urban shoreline with the city skyline reflecting on calm water, especially striking at sunset or under aurora-lit skies.
Historic, brightly painted wooden houses along the waterfront provide charming, nostalgic portraits and street photography opportunities.
Clear, dark skies over the city offer dramatic aurora photography near open spaces and dark-sky viewpoints.
Elevated viewpoints and open spaces ideal for wide shots of the town and Great Slave Lake backdrop.
Food in Yellowknife
Yellowknife Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Freshwater fish prepared in various styles, often grilled or pan-seared, commonly served with seasonal sides in local restaurants.
Must-Try!
Traditional bread often served with jams, smoked fish, or sweet toppings; a staple at many eateries and markets.
Meat dishes featuring locally sourced game, offered at several dining spots with regional flair.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering regional produce, baked goods, crafts, and street-food stalls. Great for tasting local flavors and meeting producers.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be respectful of Indigenous lands, art, and ceremonies; ask before photographing people or sacred sites; follow posted guidelines in community spaces.
French and English are common in Canada; polite greetings and brief introductions go a long way in interactions with locals.
Safety
Tipping in Yellowknife
Ensure a smooth experience
Standard Canadian practice: 15–20% at restaurants, bars, and guided tours if service is satisfactory; tip more for exceptional service.
Most places accept credit/debit cards; cash is accepted in most shops and markets. ATMs are available around town; some remote services may require cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours with near-24-hour sun at peak summer; comfortable temperatures (roughly 15–25°C); mosquitoes can be persistent near lakes; ideal for boating and hiking.
Very cold and dry with subzero temperatures; aurora borealis is highly active; daylight is limited but skies are crisp for photography; dress in layers and protect extremities.
Transition to milder days, but still chilly; water bodies begin to thaw; variable weather—pack for rain and lingering snow.
Cool and crisp with colorful fall foliage; rapidly changing conditions; suitable for hiking and city walks with warm layers.
Yellowknife at Night
Hiking in Yellowknife
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic eastbound route from Yellowknife with multiple lakeside hikes and viewpoints; ideal for day trips in warmer months.
An easy-to-moderate loop around Frame Lake with city views, accessible year-round.
A quieter lake-side loop offering peaceful nature walks close to town.
Airports
How to reach Yellowknife by plane.
Main gateway to Yellowknife with domestic flights from major Canadian hubs; located about 7–15 km from downtown. Ground transport includes taxis, rideshares, and airport shuttles.
Major hub in Alberta offering connections to international destinations; many travelers fly through YEG to reach Yellowknife via YXY or other routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Dene and other Indigenous groups contribute richly to culture and arts in the region.
A mix of locals, government workers, and travelers seeking outdoor adventures.
Aurora seekers and summer explorers draw a dynamic crowd during peak months.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple winter sport with local leagues and outdoor rinks.
Popular on frozen lakes and tundra trails, with guided tours available.
Well-maintained trails and scenic routes around the area.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Yellowknife.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be adapted; look for vegetarian pastas, roasted vegetables, and Bannock-based plates. If meat-free is essential, ask for vegetable-forward options and sides such as salads, grains, and legumes.