Recreation activities and programs 

Get active in Thunder Bay with one of our many recreation activities. We have children and youth programs, activities for older adults and a variety of accessible activities. The City also hosts performances, exhibitions, festivals and events year-round.

Learn more about the recreation activities and programs offered by the City, including guidelines by age, and how to register. You can also check out The Key recreation guide to see what is happening each season. Looking for more things to do? Visit Thunder Bay also highlights what to see and do in the City as well as outdoor activities and adventures.

Recreation facilities

We have a variety of recreation facilities including community centres, pools, arenas, golf and older adult centres. Book or rent a facility for your next gathering or sporting event.

Exercise outdoors

Enjoy one of the many parks, campgrounds and conservation areas across the City. Explore one of our many trails, whether you're planning a hike, biking, or taking a walk with your family.

Arts, culture, and history

Thunder Bay is one of Canada's Cultural Capitals, a distinction awarded by the Government of Canada. Our City is rich in arts and culture. View our City art collection, discover the City's growing collection of public art, or take part in one of our Call to Artists competitions.

Baggage Building Arts Centre

Located in the historic freight shed at the waterfront, the Baggage Building Arts Centre is a hub for cultural exchange and collaboration. It's the creative heart of Prince Arthur's Landing, which fosters creative people and organizations year-round. View local artistic talent or sign up for a workshop and create your own art.

Explore the city

Learn more about what our city has to offer by exploring our Visit Thunder Bay tourism website.

 Children & Youth Programs

Children's Programs

View the City's section of the Key for information on available programs and services.

 

Youth Move
  • Ages 12-18 welcome (ages 10 and up for some activities)
  • Virtual programming will be offered
  • Indoor programming is offered Tuesday-Friday from 3-9pm and Saturday from 12-4pm at the Kinsmen Youth Centre (609 James St. N.)
  • Games, crafts, video games, computer access, sports, snacks and more.

For more information on Youth Move, call 625-2344 or find Youth Move on Facebook or Instagram.

 

Youth Inclusion Program

The Youth Inclusion Program provides neighbourhood based programming created to fit the needs of youth ages 12-24. 

  • YIP is currently accepting referrals for one-to-one supports
    • Fill out a participant referral form to request support
    • Youth Navigators will work with youth to identify strengths and provide support for employment, housing, well-being, education, mental health, and pro-social cultural and recreational opportunities.
  • In-person programming takes place three times a week. In addition to one virtual program a week. Check out YIP on Instagram or Facebook for details on upcoming programs and events.
  • Email youthinclusion@thunderbay.ca for more details

 Junior Inclusion Services

Junior Inclusion Services (J.I.S.) provides support for the Recreation & Culture Division's programs to children and youth with special needs. Support includes one week per participant. 

View the City's section of The Key for programs that JIS supports. 

To request support: Call 625-3220

 Older Adult Programs

Older Adult Centres:

Thunder Bay 55 Plus Centre

  • Call 684-3066 for more information

West Arthur Community Centre

  • Call 684-3066 with questions

Pools and Fitness

Churchill Pool (currently CLOSED for construction)

 

Canada Games Complex

  • The pool is open for length swimming and Family/ Adult/ Teen Swimming 
  • Fitness classes and programs - please visit the Complex webpage for schedules.
  • Pre-booking for fitness classes and squash courts is required. For details visit our Canada Games Complex page. 
  • View the The Key for program information

Volunteer Pool 

  • The pool is open 
  • View the The Key for program information

Community Centres

 

  • Current River, North McIntyre, Oliver Road, Vale, West Arthur and West Thunder, Jumbo, North End, South Neebing and Vickers Heights will have limited programming. Contact a Centre directly for more information on available hours and bookings.
  • Take-out is also available at participating centres

Several centres are operated by external boards, and available services will vary by centre. Please contact the centres directly for inquiries.

 

Arenas & Stadia

Contact the Facility Booking Coordinator for Arenas & Stadia inquiries and bookings at 807-625-2434 or email Carey at Carey.Kozak@thunderbay.ca

Events

Visit the Events page for upcoming events!

If you require additional details or clarification, please connect with staff Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. using the information listed below. 

  • General Inquiries: 625-2351
  • Aquatics/Fitness Memberships: 684-3333
  • Event Tickets: 625-2929
  • Facility Rentals/Bookings: 625-2227
  • Ice Rentals/Bookings: 252-9628
  • Programs: 625-8463

Virtual or DIY Programs

 

Arts & crafts
 
 

Educational
 

Fitness, wellness & sport
 

For adults & older adults
 

For teens
 

Get outside
 

Music & film
 

Recipes

Contact Us