Where Big Water, Big History, and Big Experiences Come Together
If you’re tracing the legendary shoreline of Lake Superior, windows down, and the open road is full of possibilities, there’s one stop you’ll want to circle in bold on your map: Thunder Bay, Ontario.
Perfectly positioned along the Lake Superior Circle Tour, Thunder Bay offers travelers something increasingly rare: room to breathe, time to explore, and experiences that feel both meaningful and memorable. It’s a city where dramatic landscapes meet deep-rooted culture, where fresh local flavours rival the views, and where history isn’t tucked away; it’s woven into daily life.
Thunder Bay checks all the boxes: easy access, welcoming accommodations, scenic drives, and attractions that invite you to explore at your own pace. Whether you’re here for a night or a few days, this is the kind of stop that often turns into a highlight.
There is so much to see and do! Don’t know where to start? These itineraries will help you make the most of your visit without having to spend so much time on pesky research. After all, who wants to spend hours sitting and planning when you have the largest freshwater lake in the world calling your name!
Sail the Big Lake and Conquer the Giant
Sailing on Lake Superior combined with a hike on the Sleeping Giant is recognized as an Ontario Signature Experience, and it’s easy to see why it earns a spot on a Lake Superior Circle Tour bucket list.
From shore the lake feels endless. Out on the water it feels alive. Sail Superior offers travelers the chance to experience the “Big Lake” even if you’ve never set foot on a boat before.
Your day begins at Prince Arthur’s Landing, Thunder Bay’s beautifully revitalized waterfront. From there, head to Pier 3 to board one of Sail Superior’s vessels and set out onto the vast waters of Lake Superior.
As you glide past the Welcome Islands, the scale and clarity of this “sweet water ocean” quickly become apparent. The journey across the water offers ever changing views before arriving at Sawyer’s Bay, where the adventure continues on land with a hike up the Sleeping Giant peninsula.
No visit to Thunder Bay is complete without meeting the famous Sleeping Giant up close and personal, and you’ll get your chance with this itinerary. The reward for the ascent is worth it when you reach the Top of the Giant, more than 1,000 feet above the lake. From this lofty viewpoint, sweeping panoramas stretch across Lake Superior and the surrounding landscape, delivering a perspective that few places can match.
Back at Prince Arthur’s Landing, end the day with dinner on the outdoor patio at Bight Restaurant. Located right on the waterfront, it’s the perfect spot to relax, enjoy a great meal and local craft beer, and reflect on your unforgettable Thunder Bay experience.
From Farm to Table
Speaking of food. One of the great joys of travel is eating well, especially after a day of exploration and discovery.
Nestled within the rugged landscape of the Canadian Shield, Thunder Bay often surprises first-time visitors with the strength of its agricultural roots and thriving culinary scene. Beyond the rock outcrops and towering spruce lies a community of passionate farmers, producers, and chefs who take pride in showcasing what the region grows and creates. Spend time exploring local farms and markets, then sit down to enjoy meals that celebrate ingredients sourced close to home.
Start the day at St. Paul Roastery, where the aroma of locally roasted coffee sets the tone for a relaxed morning. With comforting java in hand, head south of the city to visit Thunder Oak Cheese Farm and Slate River Dairy. Here you can see firsthand how artisan cheeses, fresh milk, and creamy yogurt are crafted and, of course, sample the results.
When lunchtime rolls around, make your way to AJ’s Trading Post. This popular stop pairs a welcoming atmosphere with a menu built around locally inspired fare. Before you leave, browse the attached store stocked with regional foods and specialty items perfect for road snacks or souvenirs.
If your visit falls on a Wednesday evening or Saturday morning, the Thunder Bay Country Market is a must. Dozens of farmers, bakers, artisans, and food producers gather under one roof, offering a lively snapshot of the region’s local food culture.
Round out the day with dinner at Bight Restaurant at Prince Arthur’s Landing. This relaxed yet refined waterfront spot highlights locally sourced ingredients and pairs them with sweeping views of the harbour an ideal setting to reflect on a day well spent in Thunder Bay.
Step Back in Time
Thunder Bay’s story is richly layered and full of fascinating chapters waiting to be explored. Visitors can uncover the city’s past through a variety of museums, historic sites, and walkable neighbourhoods that bring life to history.
Begin at the Thunder Bay Museum, where engaging exhibits trace the early histories of Port Arthur and Fort William, two distinct communities whose eventual union formed the modern City of Thunder Bay. The museum provides an excellent foundation for understanding how the city developed and why it became such an important hub in Northwestern Ontario.
Just steps away, the Northwestern Ontario Sports Hall of Fame offers a different perspective on local history, celebrating the athletes, builders, and contributors from the region who have left their mark on the sporting world. Displays of memorabilia and stories highlight the outsized impact of Thunder Bay residents on sports at all levels.
For a deeper dive into the past, make your way to the world-class Fort William Historical Park. Passing through the gates is like stepping back to 1816. This immersive living history site features a full-scale reconstruction of the original Fort William brought to life by costumed interpreters who remain in character throughout your visit. As you wander the grounds, you’ll encounter fur traders, voyageurs, and Indigenous people who share stories of daily life, trade, and relationships that shaped the region and played a key role in Canada’s early economic development.
Back in the present day, continue your exploration with one of the city’s historical walking tour maps available throughout Thunder Bay. These self-guided routes lead you through the historic downtowns of Port Arthur and Fort William as well as neighbourhoods such as Vickers Park and McVicar Harrington. Along the way, you’ll see how Thunder Bay’s past and present connect, offering a deeper appreciation for where the city has been and where it’s headed.
Why Thunder Bay is an Essential Stop on your Lake Superior Circle Tour
The Lake Superior Circle Tour is famous for its views, but the places you stop are what make the journey memorable. Thunder Bay offers a rare combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and traveler-friendly amenities. It’s easy to reach, easy to explore, and easy to enjoy, especially for those traveling by car or RV.
Here you can savour local food one day, sail the largest freshwater lake in the world the next, hike or stroll among legendary landscapes, and uncover stories that deepen your appreciation of the route you’re traveling. So as you plan your Lake Superior Circle Tour, don’t just pass through. Pause in Thunder Bay. Stay awhile. Let the lake, the people, and the experiences surprise you. Chances are it won’t just be a stop; it’ll be one of the highlights of your entire journey.
Looking for additional ideas to make your Thunder Bay visit memorable? Check out more one-day itineraries here.
