What’s New in Thunder Bay for 2026: New Museums, Outdoor Adventures, Hotels & Major Anniversaries

Thunder Bay Centennial Botanical Conservatory

In 2026, Thunder Bay is entering an exciting new chapter, with a wave of museum openings, outdoor adventures, revitalized cultural spaces, and milestone celebrations that showcase the city’s creative spirit and deep connection to Lake Superior. From immersive new attractions and expanded recreation options to thoughtfully designed accommodations and historic sports venues marking major anniversaries, these developments invite visitors to experience Thunder Bay in fresh, dynamic ways—whether they’re drawn by culture, nature, or community-driven experiences.

Kisselgoff Motorcycle Museum

Located on the southside of the City of Thunder Bay, the Kisselgoff Motorcycle Museum opened in late 2025, and is Thunder Bay’s newest museum, home to a collection of vintage motorcycles, as well as a gift shop. This museum will be a delight for motorcycle enthusiasts during a trip to Thunder Bay.

The Rock Room

Opening in early 2026, the Rock Room will be Thunder Bay’s newest addition to the city’s climbing community. This indoor bouldering gym offers 4,000 sq. ft. of bouldering walls, a dedicated fitness area, a multi-purpose room, and co-working spaces—creating a dynamic space where climbers and future climbers from all walks of life can come together.

Conservatory – Early 2026

The Thunder Bay Centennial Botanical Conservatory is undergoing a full renewal and expansion of both its indoor displays and outdoor gardens. It reopened for a special Christmas event in December, but is expected to reopen to the public in early 2026 with a brand-new multi-purpose events space, enhanced indoor and outdoor event areas, new production greenhouses and educational spaces, and fully accessible pathways and washrooms throughout the facility.

The Conservatory also features some of the largest cacti specimens of their kind in the world within its Cacti and Succulent Wing. The Tropical Collection will be completely redesigned as well, with integrated light and sound displays that are sure to wow visitors.

Enjoy the Largest of the Great Lakes with Sail Superior

In 2025, Sail Superior introduced a new excursion that takes visitors to Sawyer Bay in Sleeping Giant Provincial Park aboard their high-speed zodiac. From there, guests can hike to the Top of the Giant. This five-hour tour shortens the traditional route by bringing hikers much closer to the summit while still including the full hike to the top.

Explore Parks Canada’s Lake Superior National Marine Conservation Area

In 2025, Parks Canada introduced two unforgettable excursions that showcase the natural beauty and rich history of Lake Superior and the Lake Superior National Marine Conservation Area.

At Silver Islet, visitors can join a Parks Canada guide and paddle a voyageur canoe from Silver Islet to the iconic Sea Lion rock formation. Along the way, participants learn about the once-thriving community and the dramatic rise and fall of the world’s richest silver mine before continuing along the shoreline toward Sleeping Giant Provincial Park’s renowned Sea Lion.

In Terrace Bay, visitors can explore billions of years of geological history by kayaking along shorelines shaped by ancient volcanic eruptions, glaciers, and crashing waves.

Hyatt House

Opening in the spring of 2026, a Hyatt House will open its doors in Thunder Bay on Oliver Road. The six-story, 129-unit hotel will feature kitchenettes catering to guests staying longer than the typical one- or two-night stay.

Sleeping Giant Provincial Park Cabins

During the winter of 2026, Sleeping Giant Provincial Park will begin offering cabin rentals, giving visitors the opportunity to enjoy the park’s ski trails as well as its newer skating paths.

Major Anniversaries for local sporting facilities!

In 1951, the Fort William Gardens opened its doors to the citizens of Fort William. The Gardens is home to the city’s university hockey team as well as one of Thunder Bay’s junior hockey teams. It has also hosted major sporting events, including the Scotties Tournament of Hearts twice, along with numerous concerts over the years. In 2026, the Gardens will celebrate its 75th anniversary.

In 1891, the Fort William Curling Club opened its doors to curling enthusiasts of Fort William. Over the years, the club has been home to numerous local, provincial, and internationally recognized curling teams, including Al Hackner, Heather Houston, Rick Lang, and many others. In 2026, the club will celebrate 135 years of curling action in Thunder Bay.

In 1951, Port Arthur Stadium opened to the public as a local amateur baseball venue and is now home to the Northwoods League’s Thunder Bay Border Cats and has hosted the World Junior Baseball Championships in 2010 and the Women’s Baseball World Cup in 2024.