The Tower of History was built in 1968 and stands 210 feet (64 m) above the city. An express elevator goes to observation decks where you can get a vantage point up to 1,200 square miles (1931 km) with views of Sault Ste Marie, Soo Locks, the St. Mary’s River, Lake Superior and the Canadian wilderness. The tower was originally constructed by the Catholic church and information panels throughout the tower outline the history of the region's missionaries as well as the history of the area's Indigenous peoples. The lower level also offers historical exhibits.

Gooseberry Falls State Park is located near Two Harbors and is known for the gorgeous Gooseberry Falls. Gooseberry Falls features upper, middle, and lower falls for viewing. Some of the main things to do include viewing the scenic waterfalls and Lake Superior shoreline, visiting places such as the Visitor Center, nature store, historic CCC Log, and stone structures. 

The scenic harbour and inland islands of Rossport provided inspiration to Lawren Harris and many contemporary painters to the Group of Seven. You’ll find an interpretive installation in Wardrop Park as well as the start of the Rossport Coastal Trail, which winds its way for 1.5 km along Lake Superior to the Roadside Park Rest Area. After visiting the park, stop by the government dock for a view of Quarry Island from a vantage point close to where Harris painted Rossport, Lake Superior in 1921.

Travel to the centre of town, just off HWY 17 and Simcoe Plaza Road where you’ll spot the Terrace Bay Lighthouse. After taking your photo while sitting on the artist stool at the Moments of Algoma interpretive panel, climb to the top of the lighthouse to view the islands that inspired the painting Slate Islands, Lake Superior, c. 1921 by A.Y Jackson.

Head to the Visitor Centre to chat with staff about the Group of Seven, and to access the awe-inspiring vistas that drew Lawren Harris and the Group of Seven back to this area for many years. Take a mid-way hike break with expansive panoramic views at the gazebo which is in the middle of the 9 km round trip hike on the Pic Island Overlook Trail. Find a Moments of Algoma interpretive installation which highlights even more details about the Group of Seven and their treks along this same landscape.

Stretch your legs at Chippewa Falls rest stop and see the same set of rapids that inspired A.Y Jackson’s sketch Stream Bed, Lake Superior Country, c. 1955, National Gallery of Canada, Ottawa. Grab your camera and try a long exposure shot to see if you can freeze the fast-paced water with your own artistic flair.  

Over 100 years old, this beautiful steel bridge spanning 300 feet over the Mississagi River is worth a look!

The 25 ft high Chippewa Falls can be seen from Highway 17, and is a popular rest stop. At the roadside park near the falls, there is a plaque that marks the halfway point of the Trans-Canada Highway. The plaque describes Dr. Perry E. Doolittle, who is considered “Father of the Trans-Canada Highway” and was said to be the first man in Canada to own a car. You can also see the same set of rapids that inspired A.Y Jackson’s sketch Stream Bed, Lake Superior Country, c.

Norman Beach in Kenora is bustling with activity. Besides the beautiful sandy beach, there is a playground, washrooms, and a picnic shelter. In the summer months, Hoopla Island, a gigantic inflatable playground island is situated at the beach. Take the wheelchair-friendly path to the Rotary Splash Park. Just up from the Splash Park is the Lake of the Woods Railway Museum and Dairy Queen. 

It's easy to spend a summer day at beautiful Norman Beach!

Buster's Barbeque has been featured on the Food Network and has been winning top awards for over 10 years for its Blueberry Barbeque Sauce. Stop in at Fort Vermilion and order a meal from Buster's food truck!