Take a quick trip down the road from Old Town to the small First Nations community of N’Dilo to visit the Smoke House Café. Chill out over a leisurely lunch of mouth-watering traditional fare made fresh daily (think comfort foods: bannock, bison chili, lake trout and smoked whitefish).
If hitting the great outdoors is what you came for, head straight to Yellowknife Outdoor Adventures. From fishing for huge trophy pike to bison watching, staff will hook you up with all sorts of uniquely northern activities. You can even round up your buds for a fish-fry dinner cruise around beautiful Great Slave Lake.
Head up to Ramble & Ride, the city’s annual summer festival on the August long weekend. The entire area goes pedestrian so explorers can bike and walk the neighbourhood freely. There’s something for everyone: hear great live music, shop for Northern art and gifts, take an architectural tour of the town, or grab some smoked whitefish from the food trucks.
Stock up on pretty, hand-blown hanging lamps and eye-catching vases, all designed by renowned Yellowknife artists, at Old Town Glassworks. (It’s easy to spot by the blue and yellow milk crates stacked outside.) Insider tip: Sign up for a workshop with a glass artist to create and decorate your own signature wares, perfect for gifts and souvenirs.
Bring out the classic Hollywood starlet in you at Just Furs. The rustic log cabin is fully stocked with locally supplied and carefully curated outerwear and accessories, like glam rabbit-fur scarves and sleek fox-trimmed gloves. You can also find traditional, locally made jewellery and porcupine-quill craftwork. 3602 Franklin Ave., 867-873-6748.
If you’re planning your own adventure in the bush, Weaver & Devore Trading is a one-stop shop for all your camping needs. Nearly as old as the city itself, it carries all the gear you’ll require to hack it in the Great White North. We’re talking about fishing supplies, hip waders, lumberjack plaid and wool socks of every thickness and variety. Then you’ll be ready to hit the trails!
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