Get Outside and Explore the Beauty of Prince George

Get Outside and Explore the Beauty of Prince George

10/10/2018

Prince George is the largest city in northern British Columbia and the traditional home of the Lheidli T'enneh and Carrier Sekani First Nations people. Nestled amongst the lush forests, this lively and welcoming city has something for everyone from outdoor enthusiasts to city explorers to create unforgettable memories. With family-friendly activities available year-round, Prince George has many local gems to savour the best of autumn before winter comes along.

Welcome to Prince George sign Photo: Sandra

Get to Know Prince George

Prince George is located on the traditional territory of the Lheidli T’enneh First Nation and has a rich First Nations history. The original inhabitants of this area are the Dakelh or Carrier people. The translation of the word Lheidli means “where two rivers flow together”, referring to the Nechako and Fraser Rivers, and T’enneh means “the People.” You can view the confluence of the two rivers from Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park. Today, there are over 100 parks and green spaces with picturesque surroundings to stroll through – altogether, that’s about five times the size of Stanley Park in Vancouver! Prince George is also home to a diverse and celebrated culture. Get to know this vibrant city and learn about the people that have shaped this place with a trip to local museums, historic sites and galleries.

celebrated culture in Prince George Photo: Tourism Prince George

You may find the Huble Homestead Historic Site particularly interesting if you like stepping back in time to see heritage buildings. You and your loved ones can enjoy picnic lunches, play lawn games, and attend festive events such as the Halloween Spooktacular in October. Check out Central BC Railway and Forestry Museum to see the largest vintage rail collections in British Columbia. Head over to The Exploration Place Museum and Science Centre to learn about Prince George’s past and see innovative science exhibits. Lastly, your visit is not complete without the Two Rivers Gallery. This architecturally stunning building in downtown Prince George houses contemporary Canadian art. Local tip: You can visit the gallery on Thursdays for free! 

Two Rivers Gallery in Prince George Photo: Michael Stranyer | Tourism Prince George

Also, while entering Prince George, you can say hello to Mr. PG, a city icon that has stood for over five decades, welcoming many visitors.

Mr. PG iin Prince George Photo: Michael Stranyer | Tourism Prince George

How to Enjoy Fall in Prince George

Hiking in Prince George

Before trading in sneakers for snow boots, there are several walks you can soak in autumn’s colours. At Heritage River Trails, you can stroll along the Nechako and Fraser Rivers and admire the distinctive cut banks from below while walking under the historic Grand Trunk Pacific Railway Bridge. This trail also connects you to parks such as Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park, Cottonwood Island Park, and Carrie Jane Gray. Cottonwood Island Park is ideal for biking, in-line skating, running, and provides a path to a trail crossing underneath the trail bridge. Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park is Prince George’s signature park. This park has great views of where the two rivers connect, The Exploration Place Museum and Science Centre, Little Prince mini-steam train railroad, and paved trails throughout.

Cottonwood Island Park  Photo: Anna Brink | Tourism Prince George

Across the Fraser River from Lheidli T’enneh is LC Gunn Park, which gives you amazing views of the city and has trails that are good for biking.

Let the Drooling Commence!

Go for a fun and interactive dining experience at the Shogun Japanese Steakhouse featuring a wide array of sushi and Teppan-style cooking. There’s also Winston’s Resto-Bar where you can try their highly-popular prime rib, especially on Thursdays with their ‘90s throwback pricing. You can find happy hour at Winston’s from 4 to 6:30 pm Monday to Friday, and live jazz music to soothe your soul every Friday night from 5:30 to 9 pm.

Shogun Japanese Steakhouse

Where to Stay in Prince George

Coast Prince George Hotel by APA has been in business for over 50 years and is well-known for their hospitality – a few places can match the warm welcome you’ll feel when you stay at this hotel. Situated in downtown Prince George, the hotel is close to movie theatres, live theatres, restaurants, boutiques, and more. During your stay, enjoy a host of amenities and features, such as:

  •  Free Wi-Fi
  • Complimentary parking
  • Spacious rooms 
  • Indoor pool, hot tub, sauna
  • Fitness centre
  • Pet-friendly rooms

Coast Prince George Hotel by APA, guest room

Book your stay at Coast Prince George Hotel by APA and get outside to explore the history and beauty of Prince George!