Things to Do in North Bay With Kids
Every place in this guide is one where a child gets to do the thing, not watch it. We have met the owners of all of them in person, and the details below come straight from those conversations.
Run a real excavator at MASHinery
MASHinery is Ken Sim's heavy equipment playground on Highway 11 North, the only one of its kind in Canada. Kids five and up who stand at least 48 inches tall can run the mini excavator in the Kids Zone with a certified coach beside them, and at ten they move up to the bigger machines. Nobody needs a licence or any experience. Every session starts with a safety video and a walkthrough. Book online first, because there are no walk ins.
Step onto the mat at Coalition Martial Arts
Coalition Martial Arts on Main Street West runs an eight week introduction program for kids aged four to six, uniform included, and from seven they move into the regular kids classes in kickboxing and Brazilian jiu jitsu. The first class is free. Owners Keshia Davidson and James Klein both competed at the national level, and the adult classes mean parents can train too.
Learn karate at Gateway Martial Arts
Gateway Martial Arts on Lakeshore Drive takes students from age four. Sensei Adam Arbiter is a Team Canada kata athlete, and parents watch from seating along the side of the mat. The club is part of KidSport North Bay, so families who need help with fees can apply for funding. There is also a homeschool program and a youth leadership track.
Pick a plant at Laporte's Nursery
Laporte's Nursery and Greenhouses on Lakeshore Drive is a four generation family garden centre. In season it is open Monday to Saturday from 9 to 5 and Sundays from 10 to 4. A pot, some soil and one plant a child picks out themselves is an afternoon well spent, and the family will not sell anything that is not proven to survive a North Bay winter.
Choose a cheesecake at All Things Lovely
All Things Lovely Cheesecakes is Melissa Abraham's from scratch bakery, with new mini flavours every week and full cakes in 6, 8 and 9 inch rounds. One batch of minis makes up to fourteen, so a birthday order can mix and match. Give her a week's notice where you can. You will also find her at local markets.