Hugging the eastern shores of Lake Nipissing, North Bay occupies the traditional territory of the Nipissing First Nation peoples. It’s home to a heritage railway and history museum that occupies an old train station and is near the untouched islands and slopes of the Laurentian Ski Hill.

Things to do

Delve into the local history at the Discovery North Bay Museum, which occupies an early-20th-century train station overlooking Lake Nipissing. The rotating exhibits include old artefacts, photographs and oral histories showcasing the people and events that have shaped the community.

Adjacent lies the Heritage Railway & Carousel Company, which boasts two vintage carousels and a miniature railway operating along the lakefront. Ride the charming Heritage Carousel that celebrates wildlife from Northern Ontario or jump aboard the Lucy Dalton train that made her first appearance back in 1882.

Want to go skiing in the heart of the city? Head to the Laurentian Ski Hill, which offers a good selection of different runs and a terrain park during winter. Take your first ski or snowboard steps during a lesson with one of their professional instructors, then warm up with a hot drink or hearty meal at the on-site Laurentian Cafe.

Jump aboard a boat to explore the island-dotted waters of Lake Nipissing, which translates to "big water" in the Algonquin language. Visit the untouched Manitou Islands while keeping an eye out for moose, beavers, ospreys and bald eagles.

Getting around

North Bay is a four-hour drive north of Toronto or just 10 minutes from Jack Garland Airport. Buses travel throughout North Bay and access most of the city’s sights.