6 unique things to do in Yellowknife

Monday, 18th August 2014

Liz Lunnon

canada northwest territories yellowknife aurora istk

The young frontier city of Yellowknife was only founded in the 1930s, and following its early goldrush days has since grown into a bustling city. Yellowknife is the gateway to the Northwest Territories and the Canadian Arctic, and is home to some unique attractions. Here are 6 of the best thing to do, according to our Head of Product, Liz.

1. Cycle down Ragged Ass Road

Road sign Yellowknife

Take one of the city’s free rental bikes to cycle down into Old Town. (In case you were wondering, ‘ragged ass’ translates simply as ‘dirt poor!’)

2. Gain an insight into life at 62 degrees north

northern heritage centre

Take a tour of the Legislative Assembly and the Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre (where this painting hangs)

3. Eat at Yellowknife's oldest restaurant

wildcat cafe yellowknife

The Wildcat Cafe was built in 1937. Head here for lunch after starting your day by making your very own souvenir from recycled bottles at the Old Town Glassworks.

4. Walk up to the Pilot's Monument

houseboats yellowknie

The views over Yellowknife and the colourful houseboats moored on Great Slave Lake are incredible.

5. Take the skies in an original 1940s DC-3 aircraft

buffalo yellowknife

…in the safe hands of the intrepid Ice Pilots of Buffalo Airways.

6. See the lights!

aurora yellowknife

From August onwards, take in the spectacular sight of the aurora borealis – Yellowknife is situated under the auroral oval and boasts a 95% chance of seeing the aurora during a 3-night stay between August and April!

Want to visit for yourself?

Travel to Yellowknife on a tailor made holiday to the Yukon. Get in touch with our Tailor Made Travel Specialists to include it in your Canada itinerary.

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