From waterfront sunsets and scenic hiking trails to family-friendly attractions and Northern Ontario adventures, here’s your guide to one of Ontario’s most underrated destinations.

North Bay may call itself the Gateway to the North, but don’t make the mistake of treating it as just a stop along the way. Nestled between the sparkling waters of Lake Nipissing and Trout Lake, this welcoming Northern Ontario city is a destination in its own right, offering a wonderful mix of outdoor adventure, rich history, waterfront charm, and small-city hospitality.

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway from Toronto, exploring Northern Ontario on a road trip, or searching for a family-friendly vacation filled with beaches, hiking, museums, and great food, North Bay has far more to offer than many visitors realize.

We recently had the chance to explore the city while filming a travel video with our young daughters, and it quickly became one of those places that pleasantly surprised us. Between the beautiful waterfront, fun attractions, excellent restaurants, and easy access to nature, it’s the kind of destination where you can slow down, enjoy the outdoors, and experience a different side of Ontario.

In this guide, we’ll share the very best things to do in North Bay, along with recommendations for where to eat, where to stay, and how to make the most of your visit.

Watch: Our North Bay Adventure

Coming soon (August 2026)

Before diving into this guide, take a few minutes to watch our North Bay adventure. We explored many of the attractions featured below, giving you a firsthand look at what it’s like to visit this beautiful city. Whether you’re travelling with kids, as a couple, or on your own, it’s a great way to get inspired before planning your trip.

Why Visit North Bay?

Located approximately 350 kilometres north of Toronto, North Bay sits where Northern Ontario truly begins. It’s surrounded by forests, freshwater lakes, and countless opportunities to get outside, yet still offers all the comforts of a vibrant city.

One of the things we appreciated most was how easy everything was to access. Within minutes, you can go from enjoying coffee downtown to hiking beside waterfalls, relaxing on a beach, paddling across a lake, or riding a historic carousel along the waterfront.

It’s also refreshingly uncrowded compared to many of Ontario’s better-known destinations. Instead of battling traffic or waiting in long lines, you’ll find plenty of space to explore at your own pace.

Whether you’re visiting for a day, a weekend, or as part of a larger Northern Ontario road trip, North Bay offers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. We were actually mentioning between each other that it seems like a great place to live, especially if you’re into outdoor adventure and lake activities. Not only is there lots to do, but you’re only four hours away from Canada’s largest city and the nation’s capital.

Quick Facts	North Bay
Province	Ontario
Population	~52,000
Known For	Lake Nipissing, outdoor recreation, Heritage Railway & Carousel
Best Time to Visit	June–September (However, there’s also lots of fun winter activities)
Ideal Trip Length	2–3 days
Nearest Airport	North Bay Jack Garland Airport (YYB) New direct flights from Calgary, Alberta with WestJet.

How to Get to North Bay

Getting to North Bay is easier than many people expect. Located in Northeastern Ontario, the city sits at the junction of Highways 11 and 17, making it an ideal stop on a Northern Ontario road trip or an easy weekend getaway from several major cities.

By Car

Driving is by far the most popular way to visit North Bay, giving you the flexibility to explore the city’s waterfront, nearby hiking trails, and surrounding attractions at your own pace.

Approximate driving times include:

• Toronto: 4 hours (345 km)
• Ottawa: 4 hours (360 km)
• Sudbury: 1.5 hours (125 km)
• Muskoka (Huntsville): 2 hours (175 km)
• Sault Ste. Marie: 4.5 hours (435 km)
• Timmins: 4 hours (320 km)

The drive itself is part of the experience, especially as you leave Southern Ontario behind and enter the forests, lakes, and rugged landscapes that define Northern Ontario.

By Air

North Bay is served by North Bay Jack Garland Airport (YYB), located about 15 minutes from downtown. While flight options are more limited than at larger airports, it’s a convenient choice for travellers coming from other parts of Canada. Rental cars are available at the airport, making it easy to explore the region. There are also new direct flights from Calgary, Alberta.

By Bus

Intercity bus service also connects North Bay with communities across Ontario, including Toronto, Sudbury, and Ottawa. While driving offers the greatest flexibility, bus travel can be a good option for those without a vehicle.

Getting Around

Once you arrive, most attractions are within a short drive of one another. If you’re staying near the waterfront or downtown, you’ll be able to walk to several restaurants, shops, and attractions, but having a vehicle is recommended if you plan to visit places like Duchesnay Falls, Laurier Woods, or explore beyond the city.

Best Things to Do in North Bay

Okay, now for the fun part. Whether you’re looking to do some hiking, get out on the lake, explore the town, or do a bit of everything, here are 17 of the best things to do in North Bay!

1. Explore the North Bay Waterfront

If there’s one place that captures the spirit of North Bay, it’s the city’s beautiful waterfront.

Stretching along the shores of Lake Nipissing, the waterfront is where locals and visitors gather to walk, cycle, picnic, swim, launch boats, and simply enjoy the views. Wide paved pathways connect beaches, playgrounds, gardens, and marinas, making it one of the easiest places in the city to spend an afternoon.

During our visit, this quickly became one of our favourite places. Our daughters loved running along the paths and stopping to watch boats coming and going from the marina, while we appreciated the peaceful views across one of Ontario’s largest lakes.

The waterfront is also one of the best places in the city to watch the sunset. As the sun sinks behind the western horizon, the sky often explodes into brilliant shades of orange, pink, and purple, reflecting across the calm waters of Lake Nipissing.

Throughout the summer, you’ll also find festivals, concerts, food trucks, and community events taking place here, making it the social heart of North Bay.

Good to Know

• Free to visit
• Excellent for walking and cycling
• Public washrooms available
• Plenty of parking nearby
• One of the city’s best sunset locations

2. Ride the Heritage Railway & Carousel

One of North Bay’s signature attractions—and an absolute must for families—is the Heritage Railway & Carousel.

Located beside the waterfront, this charming attraction combines two nostalgic experiences into one memorable outing.

Your visit begins aboard a miniature train that winds through the waterfront park before arriving at one of Canada’s most impressive handcrafted carousels. Unlike many modern rides made from moulded plastic, every animal on this carousel was individually carved from wood by local volunteers, giving each one its own personality and artistic detail.

Although the attraction is designed with children in mind, adults will appreciate the craftsmanship and community spirit behind it just as much.

For our family, this was undoubtedly one of the highlights of the trip. The girls couldn’t stop smiling throughout the train ride, and after choosing their favourite carousel animals, immediately asked if we could go again.

It’s affordable, beautifully maintained, and offers the kind of timeless fun that’s becoming increasingly rare.

If you’re travelling with young children, this should be at the very top of your itinerary.

Allow: 30–60 minutes

3. Spend a Day at Marathon Beach

Just steps from the waterfront pathways is Marathon Beach, North Bay’s most popular urban beach.

With soft sand, shallow water, nearby playgrounds, beach volleyball courts, and plenty of open space, it’s an ideal place to cool off during the summer months.

Families will appreciate the gradual entry into the lake, while couples and solo travellers can simply relax with a book or enjoy the scenery.

Because it’s located so close to downtown attractions, it’s easy to combine with a visit to the Heritage Railway or an afternoon exploring the waterfront.

If you’re visiting during July or August, don’t forget your swimsuit.

4. Discover Duchesnay Falls

One of North Bay’s hidden gems lies only minutes from downtown.

Duchesnay Falls is a scenic conservation area where the Duchesnay Creek tumbles over rocky ledges before flowing into Lake Nipissing. Wooden staircases and well-maintained trails lead visitors alongside several waterfalls, offering plenty of opportunities to stop for photographs or simply enjoy the sounds of rushing water.

The trail isn’t especially long, but there are enough elevation changes to make it feel like a real adventure. Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially after rain when rocks and wooden steps can become slippery.

Autumn is perhaps the most spectacular time to visit, when the surrounding hardwood forest erupts into brilliant reds, oranges, and yellows. Nature lovers, photographers, and hikers will all appreciate this beautiful escape just minutes from the city.

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate. We brought our toddlers, but there was just one tiny area along the cliff that was a bit sketchy. Also, take the pathway to the left that runs along the highway and goes over the river before winding alongside it afterward.

5. Learn About Canada’s Cold War History

Many visitors don’t realize North Bay played an important role during the Cold War.

The Canadian Forces Museum of Aerospace Defence tells the story of the underground NORAD complex that once operated beneath the city, helping monitor North American airspace during one of history’s most tense periods.

Interactive exhibits, military artifacts, aircraft displays, and fascinating stories bring this chapter of Canadian history to life.

Even if you’re not usually drawn to military museums, the underground bunker story alone makes this attraction well worth visiting.

It’s also one of the best indoor activities if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

6. Experience Lake Nipissing

You can’t truly experience North Bay without spending time on Lake Nipissing.

Covering nearly 900 square kilometres, it’s one of Ontario’s largest inland lakes and a paradise for outdoor recreation.

Visitors can enjoy kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, boating, Fishing, and Scenic cruises. You can rent them from the Boathouse, which is right next to the main beach.

Anglers travel from across North America to fish for walleye, northern pike, muskie, and bass, while paddlers can quietly explore sheltered bays and islands at their own pace.

Even if you don’t plan on getting on the water, simply sitting along the shoreline with an ice cream while watching sailboats drift by is an experience in itself.

7. Walk or Cycle the Kate Pace Way

Named after Olympic cyclist Kate Pace, this multi-use trail stretches throughout much of North Bay, connecting neighbourhoods, parks, and major attractions.

Whether you’re out for a morning jog, an afternoon bike ride, or an easy family stroll, it’s one of the city’s best ways to explore without needing the car.

Because much of the trail follows the waterfront or green spaces, you’ll constantly be rewarded with scenic views.

It’s another reminder of how outdoor-focused North Bay truly is.

8. Visit Discovery North Bay Museum

To better understand North Bay, spend an hour exploring Discovery North Bay Museum.

Located downtown, the museum tells the story of how the city grew from a railway community into one of Northern Ontario’s most important centres.

Exhibits explore Indigenous history, transportation, local industries, and everyday life throughout the decades, making it an excellent stop for visitors wanting a deeper appreciation of the region.

It’s also a great rainy-day activity and pairs well with exploring the surrounding downtown shops and cafés.

9. Escape into Nature at Laurier Woods Conservation Area

If you’re looking for a quieter side of North Bay, head to Laurier Woods Conservation Area. Located just minutes from downtown, this protected natural area features several kilometres of trails winding through forests, wetlands, and wildlife habitat.

Unlike Duchesnay Falls, where the waterfalls are the main attraction, Laurier Woods is all about slowing down and appreciating nature. Wooden boardwalks carry you over marshes where turtles sun themselves on logs, frogs croak from the reeds, and birds flit through the trees. It’s an especially rewarding spot for birdwatchers, photographers, or anyone looking for a peaceful walk.

The trails are relatively easy and suitable for most ages, making it another great option for families. Spring brings wildflowers and migratory birds, while autumn transforms the forest into a colourful display of red, orange, and gold.

If you’re spending a weekend in North Bay, Laurier Woods offers a welcome change of pace from the waterfront and downtown.

Good to Know

• Free to visit
• Easy walking trails
• Great for birdwatching and photography
• Open year-round

10. Explore Downtown North Bay

One of the best ways to experience any destination is simply by wandering its downtown, and North Bay is no exception.

Centred around Main Street, downtown North Bay is home to independent boutiques, cafés, restaurants, breweries, art galleries, and locally owned shops. While it doesn’t have the hustle and bustle of larger cities, that’s part of its charm. You can browse at your own pace, chat with local shop owners, and discover hidden gems without feeling rushed.

You’ll also find colourful murals scattered throughout downtown, adding personality and making for fun photo opportunities.

If you’re visiting on a Saturday morning during the warmer months, consider pairing your downtown stroll with the Farmers’ Market before settling onto a patio for lunch.

11. Visit the North Bay Farmers’ Market

For a taste of Northern Ontario, stop by the North Bay Farmers’ Market, one of the longest-running farmers’ markets in the province.

Local vendors offer everything from fresh vegetables and seasonal fruit to homemade baking, maple syrup, artisan cheeses, preserves, honey, flowers, and handcrafted goods. It’s a great place to support local producers while picking up snacks for a picnic along the waterfront.

Markets are always a fun way to connect with a destination, and North Bay’s is no different. You’ll often find musicians playing, friendly conversations between vendors and customers, and plenty of opportunities to sample local products.

Even if you aren’t shopping, it’s worth stopping by simply to soak up the atmosphere.

12. Discover Trout Lake

While Lake Nipissing gets most of the attention, Trout Lake is equally deserving of a visit.

Known for its remarkably clear water, Trout Lake is a favourite among locals for swimming, boating, paddling, and fishing. Because it’s generally quieter than the main waterfront, it offers a more peaceful setting for those wanting to spend time on the water.

Several public access points make it easy to launch a kayak or canoe, while nearby parks provide excellent places to relax with a picnic.

If your ideal vacation includes calm water and fewer crowds, Trout Lake is well worth adding to your itinerary.

13. Go Fishing

North Bay has earned an international reputation among anglers, and it’s easy to see why.

Lake Nipissing is considered one of Ontario’s premier fishing destinations, attracting visitors from across Canada and the United States in search of trophy-sized walleye, northern pike, smallmouth bass, muskie, and yellow perch.

If you’re new to the lake, numerous local outfitters offer guided fishing trips, making it easy to learn the best techniques and locations while enjoying a day on the water.

Winter transforms the lake into one of Ontario’s most popular ice fishing destinations, with heated ice huts available for rent.

Whether you’re an experienced angler or trying fishing for the first time, North Bay is an outstanding place to cast a line.

14. Take a Sightseeing Cruise on Lake Nipissing

One of the best ways to appreciate the scale and beauty of Lake Nipissing is from the water itself.

Seasonal sightseeing cruises provide a relaxing way to experience the lake while learning about its history, geography, and importance to the region. Depending on the operator and time of year, you may find sunset cruises, dinner cruises, or narrated tours highlighting local landmarks.

The perspective from the water also gives you a greater appreciation for North Bay’s location between the lake and surrounding forests.

If you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a slower-paced activity, a cruise makes an excellent addition to your trip.

15. Take a Day Trip to Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park

If you have an extra day, consider venturing beyond the city.

Located about an hour east of North Bay, Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park is one of Northern Ontario’s most scenic parks, offering beautiful hiking trails, canoe routes, sandy beaches, and excellent camping.

The park follows the Mattawa River, one of Canada’s historic canoe routes once travelled by Indigenous peoples and early explorers, including Samuel de Champlain himself.

It’s especially beautiful during the fall, when the surrounding forests explode with colour.

If you’re already planning a Northern Ontario road trip, this makes an excellent addition.

16. Experience North Bay in Winter

Although many visitors arrive during the summer, North Bay is truly a four-season destination.

Winter brings opportunities for downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, ice fishing, and skating.

Nearby ski hills offer fun for the whole family, while the surrounding forests become a playground for snowmobilers exploring hundreds of kilometres of groomed trails.

For anglers, Lake Nipissing transforms into a bustling ice fishing destination complete with heated huts and guided experiences.

If you don’t mind the cold, winter offers a completely different perspective on the city.

17. Attend a Festival or Local Event

Throughout the year, North Bay hosts a variety of community festivals, concerts, cultural celebrations, and sporting events.

Summer is particularly lively, with waterfront festivals, live music, food events, and Canada Day celebrations bringing the city together.

Before your trip, check the local events calendar to see what’s happening during your visit. You may discover a festival that becomes one of the highlights of your stay.

Where to Eat in North Bay

One of the pleasant surprises during our visit was North Bay’s dining scene. While you won’t find celebrity chefs or Michelin stars, you will find welcoming restaurants, locally roasted coffee, craft beer, and plenty of comfort food after a day of exploring.

My Thai Palace

If you’re craving authentic Thai flavours in North Bay, My Thai Palace is a local favourite. Located in the heart of downtown, this welcoming restaurant serves a wide variety of Thai classics, from fragrant curries and rich coconut soups to flavourful stir-fries and perfectly balanced Pad Thai. The menu also includes vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, making it a great choice for a variety of dietary preferences. This was the first restaurant we found ourselves at after arriving in North Bay. It’s within walking distance from Homewood Suites by Hilton and really satisfied our craving for Thai food.

Burger World

It seems like every Canadian city has a beloved locally owned burger joint, and in North Bay, that place is Burger World. A local institution since 1993, it’s best known for its fresh, never-frozen burgers and hand-cut fries, but the extensive menu also features all-day breakfast, hearty sandwiches, poutine, steaks, wraps, and other family favourites. With generous portions, fast and friendly service, and two convenient locations in the city, it’s a reliable choice whether you’re craving breakfast, lunch, or dinner. We ordered one of their signature burgers, and it certainly lived up to the hype—massive, delicious, and priced just right.

Opera Bakery Cafe

Located in the heart of downtown North Bay, Opera Bakery Café is a charming spot that’s perfect for lunch, coffee, or an afternoon treat. Set inside a beautifully restored historic building, the café is known for its homemade breads, fresh soups, sandwiches, wraps, and colourful salads, along with an impressive selection of baked goods and decadent desserts. Whether you’re stopping in for a specialty latte and pastry or a leisurely lunch, the warm atmosphere and scratch-made menu make Opera Bakery Café one of North Bay’s most beloved local cafés.

1886 Lake House Bistro

Just a short drive south of North Bay in the lakeside community of Callander, 1886 Lake House Bistro is one of the region’s premier dining destinations. Overlooking beautiful Callander Bay on Lake Nipissing, this cottage-inspired bistro specializes in elevated comfort food made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. From perfectly cooked steaks and fresh fish to creative seasonal dishes and handcrafted cocktails, every meal is served in a warm, rustic atmosphere that feels both refined and welcoming. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for an exceptional meal, 1886 Lake House Bistro is well worth the short drive.

The Boat

Located on the shores of Lake Nipissing at North Bay’s waterfront, The Boat offers one of the city’s best dining views. This casual, family-friendly restaurant serves a menu of crowd-pleasing favourites, including burgers, sandwiches, tacos, seafood, pasta, and shareable appetizers, along with a great selection of local craft beer and cocktails. The spacious lakeside patio is the real highlight, making it an ideal place to relax with a meal while taking in the sunsets over the water. Whether you’re stopping by after exploring the waterfront or looking for a memorable dinner with a view, The Boat is a great place to unwind.

Where to Stay in North Bay

Whether you’re looking for a full-service hotel, a waterfront motel, or a family-friendly suite, North Bay has accommodations to suit most budgets.

Homewood Suites by Hilton

One of the best choices for families, Homewood Suites offers spacious rooms with kitchenettes, complimentary breakfast, and plenty of space to spread out after a busy day. This is where we stayed, and we can’t imagine a more convenient location, as it’s within walking distance to downtown and the waterfront. The breakfast is also pretty good, and the kids loved the pool.

Fairfield Inn & Suites

Modern, comfortable, and conveniently located, Fairfield Inn is an excellent option for couples and business travellers alike.

Best Western North Bay Hotel & Conference Centre

Offering comfortable rooms, a pool, and easy highway access, this hotel is a reliable choice for road trippers.

Sunset Inn

If waking up beside Lake Nipissing sounds appealing, Sunset Inn offers one of the city’s best waterfront locations.

Best Time to Visit North Bay

North Bay is a destination you can enjoy year-round, but each season offers something a little different.

Summer (June to August) is ideal for beaches, boating, patios, hiking, and festivals.

Fall (September to October) brings spectacular autumn colours, cooler temperatures, and excellent hiking.

Winter (December to March) is perfect for skiing, snowmobiling, and ice fishing.

Spring (April to May) offers fewer crowds, blooming wildflowers, and migrating birds.

For most visitors, summer is the best time to experience everything North Bay has to offer.

Suggested 2-Day North Bay Itinerary

Day One

• Breakfast at Hotel or Opera Bakery Cafe
• Explore the waterfront
• Ride the Heritage Railway & Carousel
• Lunch downtown
• Visit Discovery North Bay Museum
• Relax at Marathon Beach
• Dinner at the Boat
• Watch the sunset over Lake Nipissing

Day Two

• Hike Duchesnay Falls
• Explore Laurier Woods
• Visit the Farmers’ Market (if open)
• Paddle or cruise on Trout Lake
• Dinner before heading home

If you have a third day, consider a visit to Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park or spend more time fishing, paddling, or exploring Trout Lake.

Frequently Asked Questions about North Bay

Is North Bay worth visiting?

Absolutely. North Bay offers an excellent mix of outdoor recreation, waterfront attractions, family-friendly activities, and Northern Ontario hospitality, making it a fantastic weekend getaway.

What is North Bay known for?

North Bay is known as the Gateway to the North, Lake Nipissing, outstanding fishing, the Heritage Railway & Carousel, and its fascinating Cold War history. It’s also conveniently located only four hours from two major cities.

Is North Bay good for families?

Yes. Attractions like the waterfront, Heritage Railway & Carousel, Marathon Beach, museums, hiking trails, and playgrounds make it an excellent destination for families.

How many days should I spend in North Bay?

Two to three days is enough to experience the city’s highlights, although outdoor enthusiasts could easily stay longer.

Final Thoughts

North Bay might not always receive the same attention as Muskoka, Algonquin Park, or Niagara Falls, but that’s precisely what makes it so appealing. Here, you’ll find a city that embraces its lakes, celebrates its history, and encourages visitors to slow down and enjoy the outdoors.

Whether you’re watching the sunset over Lake Nipissing, hiking to a hidden waterfall, riding a handcrafted carousel with your kids, or simply enjoying a locally roasted coffee downtown, North Bay has a way of making you feel welcome.

For us, it was a destination that exceeded expectations. What began as a stop to film a family travel video quickly became a place we’d happily return to, and one we think deserves a spot on any Northern Ontario road trip.

If you’re looking for a destination that combines beautiful scenery, outdoor adventure, and small-city charm, North Bay is well worth adding to your Ontario bucket list.