Imagine discovering a place that feels like a well-kept secret. That is how it feels to explore Prince Rupert. It is a charming city tucked away on Kaien Island in Northern British Columbia. Surrounded by rainforests, ocean views, and rich cultural historyโPrince Rupert is a place where nature and industry meet.
I did not want a standard tour when I first planned my trip here. I wanted to explore it my way. So I filled my itinerary withโmust-see spots, local gems, and some hidden treasures that made the experience feel truly special.ย
A City Full of Rainbows
Did you know Prince Rupert is nicknamed the City of Rainbows? It rains a lot here but that is the part of the charm. The rain makes the forests lush, the air freshโand the views magical.ย
Check out Chelsey Ellisโs Instagram post, where she shares a beautiful misty moody morning view of Prince Rupert.
With about 14,000 people that city is pretty small. But I must say it is big on character. It sits at the mouth of the Skeena River on the Pacific Coast. Thus making it a perfect blend for both natural beauty and industry. It is the kind of place where you can experience quiet moments with nature and the buzz of a working harbor.ย
How I Experienced The Stories of The Past
Prince Rupert is brimming with history. It is been home to the Tsimshian and Haida peoples for thousands of years. Their culture is everywhereโin the art, the totem poles, and even the vibe of the city.
The Museum of Northern British Columbia was my first stop. It brought history to life with its exhibits on Indigenous heritage and early settlers. Thanks to the CanadaHustle App. Its custom itinerary suggested a visit to the Kwinitsa Railway Station Museum. It is a tiny museum that tells stories about how the railway shaped the city.
I could not miss the totem poles as I walked through the town. These are the reproductions of historic polesโeach one with a tale to tell. It is like a city is whispering its history to you at every turn.ย
A Perfect Balance of Work & Natureย
Prince Rupert thrives because of its port and fishing industries. The harbor is a hub of activity. With boats coming and going and carrying fresh Salmon and Halibut. So you will be in great treat if you are a seafood lover. The local restaurants serve some of the freshest fish you will ever taste.ย
Here is another post by Chelsey Ellis highlighting a great local business in Prince Rupert
You will find it amazing how seamlessly this industrial side blends with the cityโs natural beauty. My personalized itinerary included a peaceful stroll along the waterfront. There were fishing boats and workers on one side. And on the other side, you can experience the breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean.
Be An Adventurer in The Wild
Prince Rupert will not disappoint you if you love the outdoors.
I spent one morning fishing by a quiet river. And believe me guys, it felt like the time had slowed down. Later, I tried canoeing on a nearby lake. It was easy to enjoy the calm waters and the stunning views even as a beginner.ย
The Centennial Golf Course is another gem. You are not a golfer, donโt worry about that. The scenic views alone are worth the visit. And if you are into hikingโthere are trails around the city that will take your breath away.ย
Discovering A Community Full of Lifeย
One thing that I loved about Prince Rupert was its sense of community. There was a local festival happening downtown during my stay. The streets were buzzing with music, food, and happy faces.
I loved how the custom itinerary made sure I did not miss out on these experiences. It highlighted local events and even included tips on what to bring and the best times to go.ย
Getting Thereย Was Simple For Me
Getting to Prince Rupert is an adventure in itself. I took the Inside Passage ferry. And let me tell you, the views are simply incredible. Mountains, forests, and the oceanโit felt like sailing through a postcard.
You can even take a flight from the Prince Rupert Airport to nearby Digby if ferries are not your thing. It will be pretty quick from other parts of British Columbia. VIA Rail also offers a scenic journey across Canada for those who love trains. Not to mention the station in Prince Rupert is pretty cozy and welcoming.ย
Staying & Savouringย was Fascinating
Finding a place to stay can be super easy. The Crest Hotel can be your top pick and it will not disappoint you. The rooms are cozy and the view from the lounge is stunning. The Pacific Inn is also a great option with clean rooms and free Wi-Fi if you are on a budget.ย
The Prince Rupert RV Campground is perfect for those who love camping. It has serviced and unserviced sites so you can choose what works best for you.
This place will not disappoint you if you are a foodie like me. Breakers Pub was a favorite, especially for its casual vibe and outdoor seating.
And also donโt miss out on Cow Bay Gift Gallery if you are into shopping. I picked up some handcrafted jewelry and unique souvenirs there.ย
Tips for Your Trip
Here are a few suggestions from my side before you pack your bags. The weather can be unpredictable so bring quality rain gear. Trust me: you will want to stay dry while exploring.
Also, plan your route in advance. And donโt forget a map or GPSโcell service can be spotty in some areas.
A Memorable Trip To Remember
What made my trip so special was how personalized it felt. I get the freedom to explore Prince Rupert on my own terms with the app. It is perfect when you create custom itineraries and discover local gems. You can even learn about the cities of Vancouver, Toronto, and Ontario and know about the must-see places and upcoming events. So plan your trip, and get ready to fall in love with Prince Rupert. The City of Rainbows is waiting to share its magic with you!
Last Updated on December 30, 2024 by Sathi Chakraborty
