100 Years of Fun!
Chippewa Park is celebrating its 100-year anniversary! That’s a whole century of family fun, childhood nostalgia, get togethers and events along the beautiful coast of Lake Superior. Chippewa Park first opened on July 15th, 1921 and to commemorate there will be a Family Festival with a variety of local entertainment and fireworks held on July 28 to August 1, 2022.
Visit Chippewa Park, and experience beaches, amusement rides, camping and so much more.
Amusement Rides
Since the early 1920s, Chippewa Park has been home to an array of amusement rides. The main focus and most beloved of all is the historical carousel that has anchored the small midway since 1934. In recent years groups of volunteers, artists, students, donators and craftsman have banded together to bring the carousel back to its former glory. A tremendous undertaking, but a passion project for all involved. You would be hard pressed to find a Thunder Bay resident who doesn’t have fond memories of riding on this antique carousel as a child! Along with the carousel, visitors can ride the tilt-a-whirl and bumper cars. There are also tanks, planes and boats for the wee ones. The rides will resume operation again in June of 2022.
Beaches
Visitors flock to Chippewa on hot summer days to cool off and relax on the two swimming beaches on the shores of Lake Superior. The main beach is just a short walk from the midway with stunning views of the Sleeping Giant on the horizon. This beach is ideal for families with young ones as the shallow water not only makes the water warmer but safer for them to splash around in.
The second beach is called Sandy Beach situated east of the main area of the park. This is also a great family beach with sandy shorelines and sandbars, a playground and facilities. During the summer months this beach has two lifeguards on duty.
Chippewa’s Pavilion
Chippewa Pavilion is a grand traditional wooden lodge that has been a gathering place for many over the years. Special events such as weddings, reunions, and parties have been hosted at this gorgeous private hall. The natural setting along Lake Superior, surrounded by lush greenery with awe inspiring views of the Sleeping Giant, makes Chippewa Park an ideal venue for a day to remember. Consider renting the Pavilion for your next event. Everyday visitors to the park will also enjoy the delicious food concession and the interesting history exhibit within the Pavilion.
Concession
At the corner of the main Pavilion you’ll find the food and drink concession hall, perfect for grabbing a bite to eat, a cold beverage or an ice cream cone on a hot summer day. There is a variety of food available for just about anyone’s tastes. You’ll find your standard amusement park fare such as hot dogs, sausages, pogos, burgers, fries, onion rings, poutine, grilled cheese and chicken strips. As well as some ethnic and traditional Indigenous cuisine. There are also lighter choices such as fruit or salad. Enjoy your meal inside the Pavilion or bring it outside to a bench or picnic table and soak in the view.
Chippewa Park History Exhibit
Also inside the concession hall in the Pavilion, visitors will find the Chippewa Park History Exhibit. Panels of old photos beautifully showcase Chippewa Park’s past. Learn about the founder and different leaders throughout the history of the park. See what has changed over the years and what still remains the same. This exhibit gives visitors an even bigger appreciation of Chippewa and all that has went into making it the wonderful place it is today. Be sure to include the Chippewa Park History Exhibit to your visit, it definitely should not be missed!
Birding and Walking
Chippewa Park is the ideal place for bird watchers and the variety of different species of birds you might encounter are astounding. With trails and pathways throughout the park going along the shoreline and through wooded areas there are so many opportunities to observe many feathered friends in their natural habitats. When meandering through the park’s pathways you will have no shortage of scenic views to soak in within the natural setting. Bringing a camera is a must!
Sleeping Giant Viewing Area
The Sleeping Giant is one of the Lake Superior Circle Tour’s Natural Wonders and it can be seen from many places in and around Thunder Bay. The view from Chippewa Park is one that shouldn’t be missed. There is a dedicated viewing area within the park that offers an incredible view in a beautiful setting. A couple of cozy benches among a flower garden and white pine trees allow for a serene moment during your visit. There is also a plaque here that explains the legend of the Sleeping Giant.
Chippewa Park & Tourist Camp
Chippewa Park Campground is an outstanding destination for family fun, scenic beauty and relaxation. The campground offers tent and RV sites and log cabin rentals. There are 26 RV sites with 15/30/50 amp service along the shore of Whisky Jack Creek with a comfort station, showers, community kitchen and laundromat. There are also seven comfy accessible log cabins, each equipped with electric heat, 2 queen sized beds and a table and chairs. Right of the shore of Lake Superior, take in an awe-inspiring view of the Sleeping Giant.
Chippewa Park has so much to offer whether you are visiting for the day or relaxing at the campground. Chippewa Park should be added to your next Lake Superior Circle Tour Adventure!
