THUNDER BAY – Are you new to the idea of taking on shopping at local businesses? Here are some ideas for you to try out. This weekend is the official grand opening of the Thunder Bay Centre for Change. There are a number of local companies located inside of the former Hillcrest High School on High Street.
Make plans to stop by and check out this innovative and exciting addition to our local economy.
Sandi Boucher shares “November 19th from 10 am – 5 pm is the official date for the grand opening of the Centre of Change! Come browse our halls and meet the amazing owners and businesses housed within. Enjoy the entertainment in the auditorium, taste some savory delights in our new Bistro – Grinning Belly, view amazing work by local artisans and more. And to honour the building that houses our dreams, special pricing and discounts former Hillcrest students who show up with Hillcrest jerseys, student cards or a yearbook! Come join the fun, come see just how much has been happening – in the Centre of Change!”
“There is also an expanded Hillcrest Marketplace, a yard sale, a beautiful presentation of local art and a variety of musicians including Robin Ranger, Sunday Wilde and James Wilkinson performing in our auditorium along with some amazing students trained by SG Studios.”
Also be sure to seek out local produce at our weekly Farmer’s Market at the CLE Grounds.
There are many local restaurants which offer amazing food. Take a break from the franchises and check out some really tasty meals that are yours for the having. Have you visited The Ruby Moon on Court Street for a bannock burger or their live music on weekends? Have you had the Caesar’s Salad at Mama Alfa’s in Westfort? Dined on the local cuisine at the Five Forks on Junot Avenue? Have you had pizza from Eat Local Pizza? The delicious Greek food at NAXOs on Arthur Street? The skewers at Thai Kitchen on Cumberland Street? The chicken wings at The Sav on Red River Road?
The list of amazing local restaurants is a long one. It is hard to even make a list because it is going to leave off some great places.
Moving into the world of shopping. Have you got out of the mall and explored the Bay and Algoma shopping area? At Finnport you can choose an enormous number of gifts from around the world. At the corner of Bay and Algoma is the Kitchen Nook. That aspiring foodie or expert chef you know would likely love a present from this amazing shop.
For the younger person on your list, Urban Boutique on May Street offers the latest in style for your teen. Of course you might want to consult with Angelo and the staff in order to make sure that you look like a hero on Christmas morning. Remember that shirt your mom bought you when you were a teenager, the one you said “gee, thanks Mom”, and never wore?
There are lots of places to explore for shopping in our city. Please feel free to share your favourite places to shop in the comments section.