20 Fun Things To Do In Prince Rupert, Canada

Things to do in Prince Rupert Canada
Shawna
Shawna 
Updated
| 7 min read

To the northwest of British Columbia is the lovely port town of Prince Rupert. The town has always relied on and been known for its fishing. Anglers and seafood lovers will appreciate being able to snag their dinner right out of the ocean. Depending on the time of year, the town is also great for spotting migrating whales. Along the waterfront, in the Cow Bay area, you will find some quaint shops, art galleries, and restaurants. When you want to connect with nature you will find plenty of hiking trails just outside of town. If you are traveling with kids, be sure to take a trip to the Grizzly Bear Sanctuary where you will see more than just the bears. To help you plan your trip we put together this list of 20 fun things to do in Prince Rupert.

1. Explore the history at Museum of Northern British Columbia

Argillite Figures - Museum of Northern British Columbia - Prince Rupert - British Columbia - Canada
Source: Photo by user Adam Jones, Ph.D. used under CC BY-SA 3.0

The collections and artifacts of the Museum of Northern British Columbia reside in a cedar longhouse overlooking Prince Rupert Harbor. The museum celebrates the history and culture of indigenous people of the Pacific Northwest. The exhibits are divided among five display areas, such as the main gallery which focuses on trade and transportation. Be sure to stop by the gift shop to grab a souvenir to remember your visit.

Museum of Northern British Columbia

Address: 100 1st Ave W, Prince Rupert, BC V8J 1A8, Canada

Website: Museum of Northern British Columbia

Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)

Price: 6 USD

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2. Soothe your soul in lovely Sunken Gardens Park

Sunken Gardens in Prince Rupert, British Columbia
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Wknight94 used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Sunken Gardens Park is a small park ideal for strolling and picnics. The space was originally designated for the old courthouse but the plans were changed in 1923. The hole left behind, that was dug for the foundation, is used for the first level of the park. A pebbled walkway runs from the first level, through a tunnel, and into the lower level. This lower level is surrounded by a brick wall and contains lovely manicured gardens.

Sunken Gardens Park

Address: 1st Ave, Prince Rupert , Canada

Website: Sunken Gardens Park

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

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3. Browse artifacts at Prince Rupert Fire Museum

1925 REO Speedwagon Fire Truck
Source: Photo by user Ceperman used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Located next door to the fire hall, this is the Prince Rupert Fire Museum. Kids will love seeing the display of old fire-fighting equipment, fire trucks, and other memorabilia. The star of the museum is the restored 1925 REO Speedwagon fire truck. It was the first of its kind and featured the latest equipment of its time such as inflatable tires and electric lights.

Prince Rupert Fire Museum

Address: 200 1st Ave W, Prince Rupert, BC V8J 1A8, Canada

Website: Prince Rupert Fire Museum

Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)

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4. Go hiking at the Butze Rapid Trail

Coastal rainforest
Source: Photo by Flickr user JordanEightySeven used under CC BY-SA 2.0

The Butze Rapid Trail meanders through the coastal rain forest and ends at the lookout over the tidal rapids. Get back to nature as you enjoy the easy hike through changing wetlands and animal habitats. You will be reminded just how small we are as you stand next to the grand old trees of the Northwest. Every so often, a break in the trees will provide beautiful views of the ocean.

Butze Rapid Trail

Address: Prince Rupert, British Columbia, Canada

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

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5. Marvel at local creativity in Ice House Gallery

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by Ice House Gallery on Saturday, July 3, 2021

The Ice House Gallery was established in 2004 by the North Coast Artists cooperative. The goal was to give them someplace to display their work, share information and skills, and market their art. You will find an eclectic collection of every kind of art crafted from local and unusual mediums. The gallery holds paintings, sculptures, hand made jewelry, and many more items to dazzle your eyes.

Ice House Gallery

Address: 215 Cow Bay Rd, Prince Rupert, BC V8J 1A2, Canada

Website: Ice House Gallery

Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 5pm; Sun: 12pm - 4pm

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6. Take the kids to Pacific Mariners Memorial Park

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Pacific Mariners Memorial Park sits overlooking the harbor. The park is dedicated to the men and women who have lost their lives at sea. At the main entrance is a large statue of a ship’s captain at the wheel. The kids can burn off some energy at the playground. And everyone can explore the memorials and antique ship parts displayed.

Pacific Mariners Memorial Park

Address: 101 1 Ave E, Prince Rupert, BC V8J 3X4, Canada

Website: Pacific Mariners Memorial Park

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

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7. Sample local beers at Wheelhouse Brewing

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account


Wheelhouse Brewing was created in 2013 by three close friends. They came to Prince Rupert and fell in love with the area so decided to make it their home. Since they also loved to craft their own beers, it only made sense to open a brewery. They crafted a selection of IPA’s and ales that come in bottles or draft. To accompany the beer they offer a menu of small plates featuring fresh seafood from the bay.

Wheelhouse Brewing Company

Address: 217 1 Ave E, Prince Rupert, BC V8J 1A7, Canada

Website: Wheelhouse Brewing Company

Opening hours: Wed - Fri: 4pm - 11pm; Sat: 12pm - 11pm; Sun: 12pm - 9pm (closed on Mon & Tue)

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8. Learn the early pioneer history at Kwinitsa Railway Museum

Prince Rupert BC.
Source: Photo by Flickr user William Davies used under CC0

Located at Waterfront Park is the Kwinitsa Railway Museum. The small museum showcases exhibit to give you an idea of what the station master’s life was like. You will be transported back to the early days of Canada’s railway system with maps, photos, and other memorabilia. See what Prince Rupert looked like when it was just a small tent town before it became the city of today.

Kwinitsa Railway Museum

Address: Prince Rupert, BC V8J 1A2, Canada

Website: Kwinitsa Railway Museum

Opening hours: Tue- Sat: 9am - 5pm; (closed on Sun & Mon)

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9. Try your luck at the Chances Casino

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Chances Casino is a modern community gaming center that is ideal for a fun night out. The casino features slots, electronic gaming tables, horse racing, and bingo room. Try your luck at any of the casino games and maybe you will be the next winner. Don Cherry’s Sports Bar & Grill is located here and offers 18 big-screen TV’s to watch your favorite game, a tasty menu, and a full line of cocktails and beer.

Chances Casino

Address: 240 1st Ave W, Prince Rupert, BC V8J 1A8, Canada

Website: Chances Casino

Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 11:30am - 12am; Fri - Sat: 11:30am - 2am

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10. Taste authentic Japanese cuisine at Fukasaku

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

We are fully booked tonight and tomorrow all day. Saturday lunch is wide open but fully booked for dinner. Thank you...

Posted by Fukasaku of Prince Rupert on Thursday, March 25, 2021

Fukasaku is the premier Japanese restaurant in Prince Rupert. They believe in offering substantial, sustainable cuisine that is healthy and delicious. All of the seafood is caught in the Pacific Ocean being mindful not to overfish any one area. They specialize in sashimi and sushi. If you can’t decide what to try, order the Omakase, the chef’s choice meal.

Fukasaku

Address: 215 Cow Bay Road., Prince Rupert, BC V8J 1A2

Website: Fukasaku

Opening hours: Tue - Fri: 12pm - 8pm; Sat: 12pm - 8:30pm (closed on Sun & Mon)

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11. Tour the iconic North Pacific Cannery National Historic Site

Waterfront view of North Pacific Cannery
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Karen Neoh used under CC BY 2.0

North Pacific Cannery National Historic Site will take you back in time with its undisturbed natural setting and original structures. The canning industry played a significant part in the cultural, economic, and natural development of British Columbia. Many of the old machines are still in use today. Guided tours of the facility are available and you can eat lunch that is inspired by pioneer days.

North Pacific Cannery National Historic Site

Address: 1889 Skeena Dr, Port Edward, BC V0V 1G0, Canada

Website: North Pacific Cannery National Historic Site

Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily)

Price: 12 USD

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12. Seek answers at the Port Interpretive Center

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

The Port Interpretive Center, or visitor’s center, is the perfect place to learn all about the city of Prince Rupert. Knowledgeable ambassadors are available to help answer any question you may have. They have plenty of resources, such as guidebooks and maps. Learn about the city’s connection to other countries through the use of videos and interactive exhibits.

Port Interpretive Center,

Address: 215 Cow Bay Rd, Prince Rupert, BC V8J 1A2, Canada

Website: Port Interpretive Center,

Opening hours: 9am - 6pm (daily)

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13. Hike the Tall Trees Trail


The Tall Trees Trail offers hikers of all ages a beautiful trek through changing scenery. The trail runs through both tropical rain forests, and alpine meadows. The first part of the trail is an easy hike through old forests and takes about one hour to complete. The second part of the trail begins a moderate climb, getting steeper towards the top. If you are physically able to make the climb the views from the top of the trail are worth the effort.

Tall Trees Trail

Address: Prince Rupert, BC, Canada

Website: Tall Trees Trail

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

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14. Enjoy a cocktail with a view at Breaker's Pub

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account


Breaker’s Pub is located on the waterfront and has been a local favorite for over 25 years. Their patio overlooking the bay is open in the summer and is a great place to relax with friends. Enjoy a cocktail as you watch the seals and otters at play. The indoor lounge has plenty of TV’s to watch your favorite sports. Their menu is full of tasty dishes, such as the Cow Bay Cod Burger, or the Bacon bourbon Tiger Prawns.

Breaker's Pub

Address: 117 George Hills Way, Prince Rupert, BC V8J 1A3

Website: Breaker’s Pub

Opening hours: Mon - Wed: 11:30am - 12am; Thu - Sat: 11:30am - 1am; Sun: 12pm - 11pm

Price: 15 - 30 USD

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15. Cast a line and catch your dinner

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

A big crowd for the Kids' Fishing Derby.

Posted by Visit Prince Rupert on Thursday, August 18, 2011

The port town of Prince Rupert was built on fishing. First, the indigenous people fished the waters to feed their people. Then the commercial fishing and canning industry exploded in the area in the early 20th century. Anglers of all ages and skill lovers will be happy with abundant fishing opportunities. Along the waterfront, you will find plenty of bait and tackle shops, charter boats or boat rentals. So throw out a line and see what’s biting. Will be it salmon, halibut, cod, or even a tuna?

Fishing in Prince Rupert

Website: Fishing in Prince Rupert

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16. Spot a grizzly at the Khutzeymateen Grizzly Sanctuary

"Khutzeymateen Valley Grizzly Bear Watch" (YPR-003) Prince Rupert Adventure Tours
Source: Photo by Flickr user Rob Bertholf used under CC BY 2.0

The Khutzeymateen Grizzly Sanctuary is a Class A park dedicated to preserving grizzly bears and their habitat. The large sanctuary sits on the head of an inlet and serves as a marine sanctuary too. There are viewpoints that look over the estuary and shoreline for you to spot other animals in the sanctuary such as wolverines, porcupine, mountain goats and black bears. If you’re more interested in spotting grizzly bears, there are guided multi-day trips Khutzeymateen. You can only access the sanctuary by boat from Prince Rupert or by air from nearby towns.

Khutzeymateen Grizzly Sanctuary

Address: Skeena-Queen Charlotte A, BC, Canada

Website: Khutzeymateen Grizzly Sanctuary

Opening hours: 7am - 11pm (daily)

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17. Savor the food and views at Waterfront Restaurant

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Prince Rupert, thank you for your support over the past number of weeks. We are excited to announce we will reopen dine...

Posted by Crest Hotel on Tuesday, May 19, 2020

The Waterfront Restaurant is located inside the Crest Hotel. The restaurant offers stunning views of the harbor and Tuck Inlet. The chef prepares dishes that feature an interesting blend of international styles with Northwest flavors. Try such decadent dishes as the Fisherman’s Pasta, lobster, prawns, mussels, scallops, and fish served on pasta with a creamy parmesan sauce. Or the Millionaire’s Cut Filet Mignon topped with a peppercorn sauce.

Waterfront Restaurant

Address: 222 1st Ave W, Prince Rupert, BC V8J 1A8, Canada

Website: Waterfront Restaurant

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 6:30am - 9pm; Sat - Sun: 7am - 9pm

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18. Kayak down the famous Butze Rapids

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account


The Butze Rapids offers more than just scenic trails for hiking. Adventure lovers might prefer to rent a kayak and paddle down the famous rapids. Experienced kayakers can find quite a few places that rent the kayak if you don’t have your own. Or you can choose to contact one of the local tour offices or adventure guide and they can get you set up. Some of these tours even offer hotel pickup and drop off.

Butze Rapids

Address: Prince Rupert, British Columbia, Canada

Website: Butze Rapids

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19. Watch the seals play at the docks of Rushbrook


Rushbrook Harbor lies at the north end of George Hills Way. The marina can hold up to 400 boats but limits its docks to non-commercial vessels. You can stroll along the dock and enjoy the sea breeze. While you are doing so, you are sure to see the seals and even otters playing in the ocean. If you like you can fish from the dock as well.

Rushbrook Harbor

Address: 299 George Hills Way, Prince Rupert, BC V8J 1X2, Canada

Website: Rushbrook Harbor

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

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20. Shop your heart out at the Second and Third Avenue

Postcard: Prince Rupert, BC, 1956
Source: Photo by Flickr user Rob used under PUBLIC DOMAIN

If you are in need of some serious retail therapy, no worries. Prince Rupert has three shopping centers sure to please anyone. If you are looking for vintage items or antiques, then the Argosy on Third Avenue is where you should go. Besides the antique store, Third Avenue has galleries, coffee shops, and gift shops waiting to explore. If you aren’t looking for anything particular, then Second Avenue is ideal to browse or window shop. Here you will find pet stores, bait shops, book stores, and specialty boutiques.

Third Avenue

Address: 3 Ave W, Prince Rupert, BC V8J 1M6, Canada

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Enjoy the otters, seals, and bears abound

The coastal town of Prince Rupert is the ideal location for an adventure-filled vacation. The town sits overlooking a bay surrounded by lush, tropical rainforest. You don’t even have to leave town to see the local wildlife, just take a stroll down to the harbor and see marine mammals and birds plenty.

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Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
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Shawna is a domestic goddess living by the sea in the beautiful state of South Carolina. She has earned two degrees in Criminal Justice and Human Services but now spends her time pursuing her...Read more

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