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Nestled in the heart of Northwestern Ontario, on the edge of the world’s largest freshwater lake, Lake Superior, Thunder Bay is known as one of Canada’s premier outdoor cities. It is a community committed to making sure everyone feels welcome, no matter what challenges they may face, ensuring that individuals with mobility challenges can navigate its scenic landscapes with ease.
Located upon the Traditional lands of the Anishnawbae Peoples of Fort William First Nation, Signatory to the Robinson Superior Treaty of 1850, the community has always had an intimate connectivity to the natural environment around it. During the summer, the sights and sounds come alive with activities filling your days with both indoor and outdoor adventures filling your trip to Thunder Bay.
Outdoor Adventures
Summer in Thunder Bay means enjoying outdoor adventures. Its commitment to inclusivity is evident in its natural spaces, with accessible boardwalks, and flat surfaces found throughout the city. Located along the shoreline, Thunder Bay’s Marina Park, offers those with mobility issues the opportunity to bask in the breathtaking views of Lake Superior and the iconic Sleeping Giant. The thoughtful design of the park ensures that families and friends can stroll together, creating lasting memories against the amazing backdrop.
For those who may want to get out and enjoy the great outdoors, many of the parks around Thunder Bay offer accessibility with ramps, and boardwalks to viewing pods, where you can enjoy great views, including Ouimet Canyon Provincial Park and Anemki Wajiwi (Mount McKay). You can also take a leisure stroll at the Thunder Bay International Friendship Gardens, where you can sit and feed the ducks by the pond and explore more than a dozen monuments representing many of our local ethnicities dedicated to the citizens of Thunder Bay during Canada’s Centennial Year.
History comes alive in Thunder Bay
Transport back to the 1800s to the life of the voyageurs and businessmen of the NorthWest Company at Fort William Historical Park. A shuttle service is offered down to the park and those using mobility devices can enjoy the flat surfaces to see many of their buildings that encompasses the fort.
Indoor Fun
For those that would prefer the indoors, you can explore Thunder Bay’s cultural gems such as the Thunder Bay Art Gallery. The gallery is the largest public art gallery between Sault Ste Marie and Winnipeg and is home to over 1600 pieces of art in its permanent collection. The gallery’s dedication to making culture accessible allows art enthusiasts the opportunity to discover the beauty of art through exhibits that will leave you captivated.
Getting Around Thunder Bay
Navigating Thunder Bay is made easy, by the city’s commitment to accessible transportation. Buses equipped with ramps and designated spaces for mobility devices ensure that everyone can venture out to explore Thunder Bay, providing a sense of independence to those who need assistance.
Thunder Bay has an adventure waiting to be found, and the city’s dedication to accessibility allows everyone to enjoy it year-round, demonstrating how a community can create memories in an inclusive and welcoming environment.
Check out the City of Thunder Bay’s website to learn more about accessible services available.
For additional activities, transportation information, or to book your stay, check out the Tourism Thunder Bay website at: www.visitthunderbay.com