July 23, 2012 | Tips from Travellers >
Prince Rupert, Museums
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After warming up from a rainy day exploring Cow Bay, I decided to spend some time checking out the Museum of Northern British Columbia. The museum, as well as the Visitor Information Centre, is housed in a beautiful Northwest Coast longhouse and features exhibits portraying the history and culture of the area dating back to the end of the last ice age. The magnificent art and unique artifacts depict the ancient and modern history of the region, telling the stories of the inhabitants who have called the Northwest Coast home. Afterwards I spent some time browsing through the museum Gift Shop, which offers the finest in jewellery, carvings, basketry and gifts by local and regional artists. There is also a wide selection of book on the art, culture, and history of the region for those who want to learn more about the spectacular Northwest Coast. It was a fun and interesting way to spend the afternoon and I would definitely recommend stopping in if you get the chance!
July 23, 2012 | Tips from Travellers >
Prince Rupert, Attractions
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During my day in Prince Rupert, the final day of my northwest BC road trip, I had a wonderful time exploring the neat little area of Cow Bay. In the morning, I stopped in at Cowpuccino's, a cute and eclectic cafe complete with cow photos from around the world. I enjoyed a latte and a delicious banana raspberry muffin, and spent some time admiring the photographs and unique decor. I was surprised and impressed to learn that all of their desserts and pastries are made from scratch in just the small kitchen behind the bar. I would love to go back and try one of their homemade pies! It was a misty morning in Prince Rupert but that didn't stop me from checking out all the little shops and galleries that fill the area. I also took some time to explore the sunken gardens close by, which would have been a beautiful spot to sit and enjoy a coffee on a drier day. For lunch, I stopped in at the famous Cow Bay Cafe to enjoy some more homemade creations. I decided on dilled salmon and halibut chowder with salad and house made bread, which was tasty and comforting on the rainy day. This seaside community is an awesome place to spend the day but make sure you bring your raincoat so you can brave the rain like the locals!
July 18, 2012 | Tips from Travellers >
New Hazelton, Attractions
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On our way up to Prince Rupert from Smithers, we stopped to explore yet another community I had never seen before - the village of Old Hazleton. Driving into town, not knowing what to expect, I was completely surprised and delighted by how beautiful and unique it was! Historic Hazelton is filled with heritage buildings dating back to 1900, which now house cute cafes, shops and much more. We stopped in at the Historic BC Cafe to grab a coffee to go and then went exploring in the old town. Walking down to the water, we took a peak in the S.S. Hazelton, a 90 foot steam powered sternwheeler replica that houses a beautiful art gallery and gift shop. In the neighbouring Polly Sargent Park, we stopped to admire the Skeena River and check out artifacts from Hazelton's steamboat days. As we headed back into town, I was overcome by the breathtaking views of the mountains surrounding the historic town. Old Hazelton is truly a unique northern attraction and I can't wait for the next time I have a chance to spend some time there to explore everything is has to offer!
July 18, 2012 | Tips from Travellers >
Prince Rupert, Dining
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We've reached our final destination on our northwest BC adventure - the beautiful city of Prince Rupert! After checking into the Crest Hotel and settling into our ocean view room, we set out to explore Cow Bay to find a spot to grab some dinner. We decided on Breaker's Pub, a place we had heard was known for great food and awesome wildlife sightings. We grabbed a table by the window, overlooking the ocean and surrounding mountains, and it was not long until we spotted our first bald eagle! Throughout the evening, we saw several more eagles, a hawk and even a seal playing in the water - they weren't kidding about the wildlife! For dinner I had some delicious panko breaded halibut and chips, and I was thoroughly impressed by the service and the overall experience of the evening. Then on our way back to the hotel, we walked right by a deer! My first evening in Prince Rupert was definitely a good one, with excellent food, stunning wildlife and great company. I can't wait to see what I'll discover in Prince Rupert tomorrow!
July 17, 2012 | Tips from Travellers >
Smithers, Dining
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Exploring northern BC really works up an appetite! During my day in Smithers, I decided to check out Trackside Cantina, which serves up fresh and delicious Mexican cuisine. Since it was a beautiful day, my friend and I grabbed a table on the patio to enjoy the sun and the gorgeous views of the surrounding mountains. With its colourful decor and lively music, it really felt like a little piece of Mexico in the valley! Everything on the menu sounded delicious but I finally decided on the chicken quesadilla with rice and beans. When our food arrived, we were not disappointed! The food was fresh and tasty, and we both thoroughly enjoyed our meals. With quick service, a fun and festive atmosphere, and delicious Mexican cuisine, I would definitely recommend Trackside Cantina as a place to stop for a bite in Smithers!
July 17, 2012 | Tips from Travellers >
Smithers, Arts, Culture & History Tours
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This afternoon, I had the chance to explore the Bulkley Valley Museum in Smithers. The museum is housed in a beautiful heritage building built in 1925, which used to serve as the Smithers Court House. After signing the guest book, and browsing through the names of visitors from around the world, I began to explore the many exhibits and artifacts on display. I started out with the glacier exhibit, which describes how these awe-inspiring frozen rivers have shaped our beautiful British Columbian landscape. Next I checked out the fossil display, which showcases some fascinating prehistoric remains of the valley. Moving through the rest of the exhibits, I learned all about the social and technological development of Smithers and the Bulkley Valley. One thing I was surprised and interested to learn about was Smithers' "Gift to Civilization"-the invention of the egg carton! Smithers' resident Joseph Coyle created this handy little invention in 1911, as well as many other valuable everyday items like the first automobile anti-theft club and pocket cigarette cutter. I had a chat with the friendly staff, browsed through the cozy gift shop and then went on my way feeling very much informed about the history of the beautiful Bulkley Valley.
July 16, 2012 | Tips from Travellers >
Granisle, Attractions
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On my northwest BC road trip, I took a little detour to check out the community of Granisle. It was a gorgeous afternoon and I was absolutely blown away by the beauty of the surroundings. The community is situated on pristine Babine Lake, which is the longest freshwater lake in BC. The lake offers prime fishing and boating as well as a picnic area, which is the perfect spot to stop for snack. Also, the surrounding area provides plenty of hiking and camping opportunities. Granisle is a great place to enjoy the natural beauty of the north!
July 16, 2012 | Tips from Travellers >
Houston, Dining
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I am currently out exploring northwest BC for the first time and this afternoon I had the pleasure of stopping in at the Tea Gallery With a Twist in Houston. I was excited to find that there were over 60 types of tea to choose from, as well as a tasty looking assortment of scones and baked confections. After browsing through the amazing selection of teas, all of which looked delicious, I finally decided on Vanilla Chai. While my friend and I waited for our selections, we had the opportunity to browse through the neat items for sale in the Tea Gallery including beautiful tea sets, candles and unique gift items. After the knowledgeable and friendly owner served our tea, we were delighted by our choices and even ended up buying a few packages of tea to take home! We spent some time enjoying the Gallery, then took the rest of our tea to go and went to see the World's Largest Fly Rod just across the street. Situated in beautiful Steelhead Park, the rod is 60 feet long and weighs about 800 pounds! If you happen to be passing through the area, I would definitely recommend stopping in Houston and checking out some of their unique attractions. Check out The Tea Gallery With a Twist and enjoy a cup of one of their many unique teas!