Things to do & places to visit in Northwest Territories, Canada

Northwest Territories #12 destination in Canada 2023. The average rating score is 4.51 based on 3.085 traveler reviews, of 102 attractions. Timezone: America/Yellowknife, current date and time: Friday, May 03, 2024, 11:02.

Top things to do (33)

Top destinations in Northwest Territories 28

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Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Old Town Glassworks (84 reviews)
- Made our own upcycled glassworks
Friday: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM Speciality & Gift Shops • Lessons & Workshops

-Est.1994- Old Town Glassworks is a workers cooperative that has been creating beautiful recycled glassware on the shores of Great Slave Lake for over 20 years. Open Daily, Year Round. Giftshop brimming with our famous northern glasses, mugs, lamps, magnets, soap pumps & other locally made art and handicrafts. Robbie Craig Prints, Scarves, mugs and glasses. Tuckamoor Wildcrafts Felted Bookmarks, ptarmigans and Owls. Feel Good handcrafted soap, lip balm and lotion bars. Local Dene seal, beaver and wolf ornaments. Frozen Flames earrings, rings, and pendants. Shannon Moore Clean Candles and Jewellry. Valerie Desjardins Custom Northern Artwork, Bottle neck rings and Earrings. Two Hour Glass Engraving Workshops. Ages 3 & up Great for Birthdays, Tourists, Team building , conferences, Friends, First Dates, and Families. Discounts for Students, Groups, and Returning Clients. Groups of 2-8, Everyday. Book your spots Online. Custom Engraving. Logos, Awards, & Gifts. See more..
5.0 Canoe North Adventures (57 reviews)
- The Yukon River with Canoe North: more than just a float!
Multi-day Tours • Gear Rentals • Kayaking & Canoeing

I can’t speak highly enough about our experience with Canoe North this summer on the Yukon River. Our 11 day journey from Whitehorse (put it at Pelly) to Dawson City was led by guides Lin, Jill and Parker. Their experience and leadership skills were par excellence. We felt safe, considered and cared for, and learned a ton about the Yukon, wilderness skills and about river canoeing. The trip was expertly provisioned with plentiful and delicious dinners including curries, steaks and burgers. New high quality equipment. But perhaps the best was the energy put into ensuring this was more than just a trip but rather a journey where each person had a chance to learn more about themselves. This was done through curating moments with happy hours and floats where we had a chance to talk and reflect with each other. There was also partying to be done in Dawson and even ukelele campfire sessions. If you’re going to take a canoe trip in the North, look no further. See more..
5.0 Things to Do in Northwest Territories (25 reviews)
- Not just the first, the best falls in the NWT
Spent 2-3 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas

The spectacular Twin Falls Territorial Park is located on NWT Highway 1, at km 80 after you enter the Territory. This iconic Park includes Alexandra Falls Day Use Are, Louise Falls Campground and Escarpment Creek Group Campsite. The Alexandra Falls Day Use Area is a dramatically beautiful spot to view the 32 metre Alexandra Falls, enjoy a picnic, and stroll the boardwalk to Louise Falls. There are two viewing platforms in the park to capture a 'selfie' and view the magnificent falls. The nearest campsite is at the Louise Falls Campground which offers powered and non-powered campsites surrounded by jack pines, spectacular flora and 400 million year old limestone formations along the Hay River gorge. A unique 138 step spiral staircase leads you down the embankment to a viewpoint overlooking the three-tiered Louise Falls. See more..
5.0 Things to Do in Northwest Territories (21 reviews)
- Canoe trip down Nahanni
Friday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM National Parks

Running for approximately 70 miles along the length of the South Nahanni River, this dramatic landscape features deep canyon walls lining much of the length of the mighty river. See more..
5.0 Northern Arts and Cultural Centre (16 reviews)
- A wonderful venue ...
Friday: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM Theaters

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5.0 Norman Wells Historical Centre (11 reviews)
- A great history lesson
Spent < 1 hour Speciality Museums

Loved this place. I had no knowledge of the Canol pipeline and trail from WWII. The video that was playing was absolutely fascinating and brought history to life; surprising in this isolated, out-of-the-way community. Then there were the displays of artifacts, traditional indigenous and from the more modern era, that were fascinating. There was a small but interesting selection of locally made crafts - I bought a couple of pairs of earrings at a reasonable price. I actually went back there twice. See more..
5.0 Canoe North Ltd. (10 reviews)
- Great Preparation for Your CanoeTrip!
Gear Rentals

For over a decade, Doug and Theresa Swallow of Canoe North Ltd. have promoted paddling sports in the Northwest Territories and helped adventurers from all over the world discover the natural beauty of Canada's North. Located just 40km from the source of the renowned Mackenzie River, Canoe North has successfully outfitted hundreds of paddlers for exciting river trips that span hours, days, weeks, and even months. With convenient pick-ups and drop-offs in various northern hubs, guests also never have to worry about arranging transportation and instead, focus on experiencing one of the most unique landscapes in the world. See more..
5.0 Alexandra Falls Territorial Park Day Use Area (8 reviews)
- Nice Views
Spent 1-2 hours Parks • Scenic Walking Areas

This is a dramatically beautiful spot to enjoy a picnic, stroll the boardwalk beside the Hay River to Louise Falls or watch Alexandra Falls drop 32 metres over a limestone ridge. Two viewing platforms are located a short walk away. See more..
4.5 Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre (623 reviews)
- A great little museum
Friday: 10:30 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Art Museums • History Museums

Situated in the capital of the Northwest Territories, the Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre (PWNHC) produces exhibitions that tell stories about the land, people, and history of the NWT. However, the PWNHC is "more than a museum". In addition to its exhibits, education, collections, and conservation programs, the PWNHC houses the NWT Archives, provides technical, logistic, and financial support to individuals and organizations involved in cultural activities and the arts, and authorizes archaeological studies in the NWT. See more..
4.5 Old Town (348 reviews)
- You need the history ...
Friday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Neighborhoods

... of Old Town to understand Yellowknife, location of Ragged A Lane, Bush Pilot Memorial, the Ice Castle in season and more. Q-Trip: The walking tour with Strong Interpretation was excellent. You ask; a historic walking tour of Old Town when the oldest building is 1930s? Rosie from Strong Interpretaion can answer that question with northern aplomb. Q-Trip: Strong Interpretation has an app for self-guided approach. See more..
4.5 Bush Pilot's Monument (289 reviews)
- Great view
Friday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks • Lookouts • Observation Decks & Towers • Monuments & Statues

6 floor climb. Well kept monument. Amazing view of Yellowknife plaques explain the history very well See more..
4.5 The Legislative Assembly Building (252 reviews)
- Fascinating Building
Friday: 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Government Buildings

This building is a representation of the heritage of the NWT and an absolute must to tour. Built in the round to honour consensus government the details in every part of the building are worth learning about. I especially loved the original ceremonial mace and the modern one and all of the unique art pieces on display throughout. See more..
4.5 Cameron Falls Trail (207 reviews)
- Cameron Falls-winter
Friday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent 2-3 hours Hiking Trails

Cameron River Falls Hiking Trail is located just 47 km east of Yellowknife, along the Ingraham Trail. The Cameron Falls Trail and Day Use Area are within the Hidden Lake Territorial Park. Upon entry to the Park there is a small parking lot with washroom facilities and the hike along a the well-marked trail to Cameron Falls takes about 20 minutes. In winter the falls are frozen right over. In spring, melt-waters roar under the ice. Attractions & Points of Interest: It is possible to hike upstream from Cameron Falls to the Cameron River Ramparts Waterfalls, a distance of 8 or 9 km. The trail is not well developed, but the river is relatively easy to follow and the route is obvious. If you choose to follow the north (far) side of the river, there is a foot bridge at Cameron Falls, which also offers access into the rest of Hidden Lake Park. The park offers access for canoeists to the Lower Cameron River Canoe Route, one of the Ingraham Trail Canoe Routes. See more..
4.5 Frame Lake Trail (111 reviews)
- Great trail to do if you have the time
Hiking Trails

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4.5 Down to Earth Gallery (81 reviews)
- Lovely store
Art Galleries

Walked down to old town and came upon this lovely little shop. Very relaxing atmosphere. If your looking for local artwork they have lots available. They carry locally made bath products as well. Picked up a lovely smelling mint soap bar. Definitely must stop if your in yellowknife. See more..
4.5 Tundra North Tours (74 reviews)
- Don't miss the trip to Inuvik and Tuktoyatuk
Boat Tours • Gear Rentals • Nature & Wildlife Tours • Air Tours

I went for Tundra North’s Reindeer Signature Package tour in mid-January this year and enjoyed all the thrill-elements and unique experience. I have been to many adventurous tours in different parts of the world and found this trip to the Arctic area very interesting. It is great that both Inuvik and Tuktoyatuk provide good internet connection so that I can work and play without any problem. There is no need to worry about the bitter cold as everything is well taken care of, including warm bedding inside the igloo. Noel and Jerry fed me with good knowledge of the culture they are proud of, Brandon made sure I did not miss the northern light on the first night sleeping over in the igloo, Bruce took me out dog-sledding and snowmobiling in Tuk with a lot of fun, and Michelle cooked a good meal with caribou steak and muktuk. Ice road, sleeping in an igloo, building igloo on a frozen lake, local food, viewing northern light, new highway joining Inuvik and Tuktoyatuk, and walking on the frozen Arctic Ocean are things tourists must do. In this time of year with short day light, the sun is always just above the horizon and I took many “sunrise” and “sunset” pictures. Although there is a little foible that the reindeer herd was beyond reasonably safe distance to visit, Kylik honestly refunded me a reasonable amount to reflect the missed fun. I travelled solo and got picked up and dropped off at Inuvik airport without any problem. People are nice and I did not have to worry too much about safety. I am planning to go back there for some wildlife fun in different season. See more..
4.5 Yellowknife City Hall & Park (73 reviews)
- Walking trail and visitor centre
Points of Interest & Landmarks

City Hall is the current home of the visitors centre which has an arctic fox and polar bear display which is as close as a tourist will get to one, so worth the visit. The trail from city hall connects to the museum and to the legislative assembly in a short 1-2 km paved walk. Both the museum and legislative assembly are a must see so it is nice to be able to walk to them instead of taking a cab. The trail in the opposite direction is paved all the way to the hospital and has lots of spots to stop and sit and enjoy views of the lake and aquaculture. You can go entirely around the lake, but some parts aren't paved. Tuesday's are the farmers market and that should not be missed. Yummy food vendors mean you can sample a little of everything- and since Yellowknife boasts food from Ethiopia to traditional bannock there is something for everyone. See more..
4.5 Igloo Church (54 reviews)
- Very impressive.
Friday: 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM Churches & Cathedrals

Our Lady of Victory (The Igloo Church) is a Roman Catholic parish serving the faith community of Inuvik, NT and surrounding region. We are pleased to share our church with visitors and welcome you to come and enjoy the unique history, fascinating structure and beautiful artwork within. See more..
4.5 Prelude Lake Territorial Park (50 reviews)
- Two thumbs up
Nature & Wildlife Areas

Prelude Lake is a water lover’s dream. The largest developed park on the Ingraham Trail, it has numerous facilities to enjoy and 79 campsites to choose from (67 non-powered and 12 tent pads). There is a sandy beach where you can enjoy a wide range of water activities: swimming, canoeing, wind surfing and water skiing. The park’s trail system offers a short stroll to a panoramic view or a longer, interpretive hike. You have to book ahead for this park, it is very popular with the locals and sites fill up during the summer months. See more..
4.5 Northern Images (50 reviews)
- Unique place to Visit
Friday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Points of Interest & Landmarks

If you are in the mood to purchase unique articles this is the place to head too. Browsing was most interesting . See more..
4.5 Western Arctic Regional Visitor Center (44 reviews)
- Got to get your Arctic Explorer certificate and check out the nice artifacts
Visitor Centers

Welcome to the Western Arctic! Open early June - early September. See more..
4.5 Yellowknife Visitor Centre and Information (43 reviews)
- Certificate for visiting Yellowknife
Spent 1-2 hours Visitor Centers

When you are in Yellowknife, don't forget to go to the Visitor Centre. Get a Certificate and Yellowknife pin from the Information Centre. Take photos with the huge Bear to mark your visit to Yellowknife. See more..
4.5 Cameron River Ramparts (35 reviews)
- Nice short walk to waterfalls
Waterfalls

We took this short walk in September 2016. First we visited Northern Frontier Visitors Center in Yellowknife to get some information about Cameron Falls and possible hikes along Ingraham trail. We found out from materials we were given that there are two Cameron Falls Trails. Ramparts is the shorter and I´d say the easier one. The lenght of the trail is about 0,4 km - one way. Its beggining is located on km 55 of the Ingraham Trail just before bridge at Cameron River crossing. Parking lot is available there. The trail is partly paved by wooden planks, but most of the hike leads over stones and rocks. However, if you watch your step, the hike is pretty easy. There are stairs down to the waterfalls and a nice bridge at the end. The waterfalls are beautifull. We didn´t see any bear during our way, just a few squirrels :-) See more..
4.5 Aurora Emporium Art Gallery (34 reviews)
- Wonderful visit
Friday: 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Art Galleries

We visited this delightful shop 3 times during our 4 days in Yellowknife. On our first visit, we had a great conversation and were given terrific touring ideas by the owner and we purchased a small Angus Beaulieu painting. On the second visit, we dropped by to thank the owner for her great suggestions on touring the area and information about the locals and on our last visit on our last day in Yellowknife, we purchased a second Angus Beaulieu to go with the first after we had driven around the area and saw some of the spots that were definitely in this local artist's work. When we turn off the lights and make our house dark, we can see the northern lights in the wonderful Beaulieu paintings we brought home. What a delightful time we had in wonderful Yellowknife and what great memories we brought home from Aurora Emporium. Thank you. See more..
4.5 Niven Lake Trail (27 reviews)
- A winter walk
Hiking Trails

The path around the lake was well maintained and easy to walk. It is not very long but it was pleasant. See more..
4.5 Pingo Canadian Landmark (24 reviews)
- Great information signs,dramatic views too
Geologic Formations

We went to 2 different viewpoints with excellent, very informative park signs. The pongos are very scenic and dramatic and we learned a lot about them even in the off-season with all the info. in this park and at the viewpoint. There’s also a wind shelter, picnic tables, toilets, and a small pretty beach at the Landmark park. We met the very friendly Parks Canada staff along the road. See more..
4.5 Lady Evelyn Falls Territorial Park (21 reviews)
- Nice and Relaxing
Spent More than 3 hours Parks

Lady Evelyn Falls Territorial Park is a must see during your trip to the NWT. To get to the Park take NWT Highway 1 towards Yellowknife and you will find it just outside the community of Kakisa. Turn off the highway onto an access road to the south that leads 6.8 km/4.2 miles to the park. There are 23 powered campsites, shower facilities, a boat launch and beautiful hiking trails. The Kakisa River is a warm and boulder-strewn river with many lovely spots for wading and swimming. The fishing is excellent! Northern pike, pickerel/walleye and Arctic grayling can be caught by casting with small spoons into the pools at the base of the falls. A short trail from the campground leads to Lady Evelyn Falls. The falls form a giant curtain of water, as the Kakisa River spills over a limestone escarpment. This is a beautiful spot to relax and explore. See more..
4.5 The Rusty Raven Gallery & Gift (19 reviews)
- Great little coffee shop and boutique.
Spent < 1 hour Speciality & Gift Shops • Art Galleries

I was looking for some gifts to take home with me after visiting Fort Smith. This unique little place was just what I needed. They’ve got gifts from local artists, and amazing souvenirs for everyone. Plus a great coffee shop with delicious desserts. See more..
4.5 Things to Do in Northwest Territories (19 reviews)
- Taiga forest and nature at its best...
Friday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM National Parks

So natural, so wild, so few people... so big.. so beautiful.. saw bears, bob cats, wood buffalo, a wolf pack, beavers, storks and more... you could drive all day and see no people... See more..
4.5 Simpson Air & Nahanni Mountain Lodge (18 reviews)
- Flight tour into Nahanni
Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Air Tours

We booked the extended day flight tour of Nahanni for June 2020 and finally went June 2022. The wait made the experience all the better, The weather was kind, the river full and the falls just mind blowing. The service from start to finish was great, not cheap, but good value for money. This trip is not for the less agile, it involves a small float plane and several getting in and out climbs. Also for the best view of the falls there is a walk, part boardwalk, part narrow path to folow. Bring bug repellent. Our pilot Neils was an excellent guide. All the staff were very friendly and made us very welcome. If you want to see the world's first UNESCO Heritage Site this is the way to go! See more..