Downtown/Central

Living in Downtown North Bay offers a unique blend of urban convenience and waterfront beauty. The area is bustling with energy, featuring historic architecture, vibrant street life, and a mix of residential options, including heritage homes, modern condos, and rental apartments. The community is diverse, attracting young professionals, students, retirees, and small business owners.

One of the biggest perks of living downtown is walkability—residents can easily access cafes, restaurants, shops, and entertainment without needing a car. Public transit is also readily available, making it easy to connect with other parts of the city. While the neighbourhood is lively, it remains relatively peaceful, especially near the waterfront. However, those living close to main streets may experience some city noise, particularly on weekends when nightlife is active.

Things to Do:

Downtown North Bay is the cultural and entertainment hub of the city, offering plenty of activities year-round:

  • Capitol Centre – The main arts venue hosting live performances, concerts, theatre productions, and film screenings.

  • North Bay Museum – A great place to learn about the city’s history and local heritage.

  • North Bay Farmers' Market – Held weekly, featuring fresh produce, baked goods, handmade crafts, and live music.

  • Downtown Nightlife – Pubs, bars, live music venues, and late-night eateries provide an exciting social scene.

  • Yearly Festivals – Events like the Canada Day Celebrations, Summer in the Park Festival, and Holiday Parades bring the community together.

Outdoor Activities & Nature Access:

One of the best aspects of downtown living is proximity to outdoor activities:

  • Waterfront Park & The Kate Pace Way – A multi-use scenic trail along Lake Nipissing, perfect for biking, walking, jogging, and rollerblading.

  • Marina Point & Government Dock – A great place for fishing, boating, and watching stunning sunsets.

  • Lee Park – A spacious park ideal for picnics, frisbee, and family gatherings.

  • Lake Nipissing Beaches – Easy access to public beaches where residents can swim, kayak, or simply relax by the water.

  • Laurentian Escarpment Conservation Area – A short drive away, this area offers hiking trails with breathtaking views of the city and lake.

Restaurants & Cafés:

The downtown area is a food lover’s paradise, offering diverse cuisine from casual eateries to fine dining.

  • Twiggs Coffee Roasters – A well-loved café with excellent coffee, sandwiches, and baked goods.

  • Cecil’s Brewhouse & Kitchen – A local favourite for craft beer and pub-style meals.

  • Indra’s Curry House – A must-visit for authentic Indian cuisine.

  • The Boat – A unique floating restaurant offering fresh seafood and lakefront dining.

  • Lou Dawg’s Southern BBQ – Specializing in smoked meats and southern comfort food.

  • The Raven & Republic – A trendy gastropub with live music and craft cocktails.

  • Opera Bakery Café – A charming café offering gourmet pastries and light meals.