Map Of Northern Ontario Travel Guide
Introduction
Located in the heart of Canada, Northern Ontario is a vast and diverse region that offers a wide range of experiences for travelers. From stunning natural wonders to cultural immersion, from outdoor adventures to historical landmarks, Northern Ontario has something for everyone. This comprehensive travel guide will help you explore the best of Northern Ontario, from the top attractions to the hidden gems.
Top Attractions
1. The Group of Seven Outdoor Gallery
The Group of Seven Outdoor Gallery is a unique attraction that showcases the work of Canada’s most famous landscape painters. The gallery features over 80 murals that depict the landscapes that inspired the Group of Seven’s paintings. Visitors can take a walking tour of the murals and learn about the artists and their work.
2. Science North
Science North is a popular science museum that offers interactive exhibits on topics such as geology, biology, and astronomy. The museum also features a planetarium and an IMAX theater.
3. Lake Superior Provincial Park
Lake Superior Provincial Park is a stunning wilderness area that offers hiking trails, camping sites, and breathtaking views of the lake. Visitors can also swim, fish, and kayak in the lake.
Hidden Gems
1. Kakabeka Falls
Kakabeka Falls is a hidden gem that offers stunning views of a 40-meter waterfall. Visitors can hike to the top of the falls and enjoy the views from the lookout points.
2. Ouimet Canyon
Ouimet Canyon is a unique natural wonder that features 100-meter cliffs and a deep gorge. Visitors can hike along the canyon’s rim and explore the unique plant life that thrives in the canyon.
3. The Agawa Rock Pictographs
The Agawa Rock Pictographs are a collection of ancient rock paintings that depict the life and culture of the Ojibwa people. Visitors can take a boat tour to see the paintings up close and learn about their significance.
Food Scene
Northern Ontario is known for its hearty cuisine, which features locally sourced ingredients such as wild game, fish, and berries. Some of the must-try dishes in Northern Ontario include smoked whitefish, pickerel cheeks, and bannock bread.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling in Northern Ontario doesn’t have to break the bank. Some budget-friendly tips include camping instead of staying in hotels, cooking your own meals instead of eating out, and using public transportation instead of renting a car.
Outdoor Adventures
With its vast wilderness areas and stunning landscapes, Northern Ontario is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the top outdoor adventures in Northern Ontario include hiking, camping, fishing, kayaking, and wildlife watching.
Historical Landmarks
Northern Ontario has a rich history that is reflected in its many historical landmarks. Some of the must-see landmarks in Northern Ontario include the Fort William Historical Park, the Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre, and the Discovery North Bay museum.
Family-Friendly Activities
Northern Ontario offers many family-friendly activities that are sure to keep kids entertained. Some of the top family-friendly activities in Northern Ontario include visiting the Science North museum, exploring the Northern Ontario Railroad Museum, and taking a boat tour of the Agawa Rock Pictographs.
Off-The-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a bit more unusual, Northern Ontario has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to offer. Some of the top off-the-beaten-path experiences in Northern Ontario include visiting the eerie Ghost Town of Burchell Lake, exploring the abandoned uranium mines in Elliot Lake, and hiking the remote Coastal Trail in Pukaskwa National Park.
Natural Wonders
From towering waterfalls to deep canyons, Northern Ontario is home to some of Canada’s most impressive natural wonders. Some of the top natural wonders in Northern Ontario include the Agawa Canyon, the Sleeping Giant Provincial Park, and the Lake Superior Provincial Park.
Vibrant Nightlife
While Northern Ontario is known for its natural beauty and outdoor adventures, it also has a vibrant nightlife scene. Some of the top nightlife spots in Northern Ontario include the Apollo Restaurant and Nightclub in Thunder Bay, and the Laughing Buddha in Sudbury.
Local Markets
Northern Ontario is home to many local markets where visitors can find fresh produce, handmade crafts, and unique souvenirs. Some of the top local markets in Northern Ontario include the Thunder Bay Country Market, the North Bay Farmers’ Market, and the Sudbury Market.
Beaches and Mountains
From sandy beaches to rugged mountains, Northern Ontario offers a wide range of landscapes to explore. Some of the top beaches and mountains in Northern Ontario include Pancake Bay Provincial Park, Killarney Provincial Park, and the Sleeping Giant.
Cultural Immersion
Northern Ontario has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its art, music, and traditions. Some of the top cultural immersion experiences in Northern Ontario include attending the Northern Lights Festival Boréal in Sudbury, exploring the Indigenous culture at the Anishnabe Spiritual Centre in Espanola, and visiting the Thunder Bay Art Gallery.
Art and Music Scene
Northern Ontario has a thriving art and music scene that is supported by local galleries, festivals, and venues. Some of the top art and music spots in Northern Ontario include the Definitely Superior Art Gallery in Thunder Bay, the La Galerie du Nouvel-Ontario in Sudbury, and the Northern Lights Festival Boréal.
Walking Tours
Walking tours are a great way to explore Northern Ontario’s cities and towns on foot while learning about their history and culture. Some of the top walking tours in Northern Ontario include the Thunder Bay Historical Museum Society walking tours, the Sudbury Heritage Walking Tour, and the North Bay Heritage Downtown Walking Tour.
Architectural Marvels
Northern Ontario is home to many impressive architectural marvels, from historic buildings to modern structures. Some of the top architectural marvels in Northern Ontario include the St. Mary’s Paper Mill in Sault Ste. Marie, the Sudbury Neutrino Observatory, and the Thunder Bay Tourist Pagoda.
Historical Sites
From ancient Indigenous settlements to colonial forts, Northern Ontario has a rich history that is reflected in its many historical sites. Some of the top historical sites in Northern Ontario include the Fort William Historical Park, the Old Stone House in Sault Ste. Marie, and the Mattawa Museum.
Biking Routes
With its scenic roads and trails, Northern Ontario is a great destination for biking enthusiasts. Some of the top biking routes in Northern Ontario include the Lake Superior Circle Tour, the Voyageur Cycling Route, and the Great Lakes Waterfront Trail.
Wellness Retreats
Northern Ontario’s natural beauty and peaceful surroundings make it an ideal destination for wellness retreats. Some of the top wellness retreats in Northern Ontario include the Killarney Mountain Lodge Wellness Centre, the Cedar Meadows Resort and Spa in Timmins, and the Manitoulin Island Retreat Centre.
Adventure Sports
From rock climbing to snowboarding, Northern Ontario offers a wide range of adventure sports for thrill-seekers. Some of the top adventure sports in Northern Ontario include white-water rafting on the Ottawa River, snowmobiling in the Algoma region, and rock climbing in the Agawa Canyon.
In conclusion, Northern Ontario is a diverse and exciting region that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventure, cultural immersion, or historical landmarks, Northern Ontario has it all.