First Timer's Guide to Prince George, BC
Affectionately called "PG" by locals and known as BC's "northern capital," Prince George is the largest city in Northern British Columbia with a population of about 74,000. The city was established around the forest industry in the very early 1800s and is surrounded by picturesque natural scenery, including over 1,600 lakes and rivers. Even within city limits, there are 120 dedicated parks!
Ready to explore Prince George? Check out our first timers' guide, with the lowdown on what to do, where to eat, and where to stay in this beautiful city.
Things to Do in Prince George, BC
Prince George is much more than one of Western Canada’s many national parks. As the picturesque traditional home of the Lheidli T'enneh and Carrier Sekani First Nations people, Prince George is surrounded by spectacular scenery and has a rich cultural history.
Downtown Prince George, BC
Located near the confluence of the Fraser and Nechako Rivers, Downtown Prince George BC is the perfect starting point for exploring the city.
Prince George's downtown core is brimming with stores and boutiques where you can shop for clothing, homewares, children’s toys, and much more. Local favourites include The Niche, which carries eclectic womenswear, jewelry, and gifts, and Dandy Lines, a constantly-evolving treasure trove of pretty yet practical goods.
You’ll also find the popular Prince George Farmers Market downtown, held every Saturday. Naturally, downtown PG also has a great mix of tempting coffee shops and bakeries to refuel between sightseeing and window-shopping. If possible, squeeze in a trip to Connaught Hill Park (also downtown) for panoramic city views.
The Makerie in Prince George, BC
Speaking of caffeine, Makerie Craft and Coffee Bar is your one-stop shop for coffee, crafts, and culture.
Primarily a maker’s studio (and thus, aptly-named), The Makerie hosts fun craft events for adults. Children are always welcome to tag along! Activities rotate frequently and may include things like painting candles, building wooden birdhouses, or creating pieces of pottery.
Novices are also always welcome at The Makerie, as the space is designed for all levels and types of creativity. As it’s one of the most unique and popular destinations downtown, it’s recommended to book your class spot in advance.
The coffee bar was added later on, a result of being passionate about great coffee and strong community. The Makerie participates in a wonderful sustainability program called Huskee Swap, designed to keep to-go cups out of landfills and oceans. Even if you’re not necessarily crafty, it’s worth paying The Makerie a visit for a brew…and perhaps a fresh-baked slice of cake.
Two Rivers Art Gallery In Prince George, BC
Perhaps a session at The Makerie unleashed your inner artist. Or maybe you’re simply in the market for a new piece of art. Either way, make Two Rivers Gallery your next stop. The contemporary art gallery exhibits thought-provoking works by regional and national artists. Two Rivers also hosts a variety of programs, including hands-on children’s workshops for monthly social clubs for adults.
Ancient Forest Trail (CHUN T’OH WHUDUJUT) Near Prince George
One hour's drive from Prince George, the Ancient Forest/Chun T'oh Whudujut Provincial Park is nestled in the traditional territory of the Lheidli T’enneh indigenous community.
Exploring the Ancient Forest is one of the best Prince George BC things to do for nature lovers, as the park protects a portion of the only inland temperate rainforest in the entire world.
A boardwalk weaves its way through 1,000-year-old red cedar trees, making the trail accessible to all ages and abilities. Besides the colossal trees, the Ancient Forest Trail features a lovely waterfall and several unique plant species.
Prince George Astronomical Observatory
For anyone who grew up dreaming of being an astronaut (didn’t we all?!), there’s the Prince George Astronomical Observatory. Volunteers offer tours and visitors are encouraged to gaze through a 0.6-meter (23-inch) Cassegrain telescope and a 0.2-meter (8-inch) Celestron telescope. The observatory also hosts several open house events throughout the year, typically based on celestial events such as meteor showers.
Things To Do With Families In Prince George, BC
There are plenty of family-friendly things to do in Prince George also!
- The Park Drive-in: Stock up on popcorn and snacks and head to this classic drive-in movie theatre, open on Fridays and Saturdays. There are also go karts and mini-golf available onsite, to make an entire evening out of it.
- The Little Prince: Chugging since 1912, the 24”-gauge “Dinky” steam engine is the only still-operational locomotive of its kind in North America. The train runs on a 2.2-kilometer long track at Exploration Place, a nod to Canada’s important railroad history.
Best Dining & Restaurants In Prince George, BC
Besides signature restaurants at places to stay in Prince George, BC, visitors will find several globally-influenced restaurants throughout town. With so much to explore, visiting Prince George is hungry work!
Here are some of our favourite restaurants in Prince George:
- shogun japanese steakhouse – Onsite at the Coast Prince George Hotel by APA, Shogun Japanese Steakhouse features the art of Teppan-style cooking and a wide variety of sushi. You can also book a Shojii Room for a private dining experience.
- Cimo Mediterranean Grill – A casual diner specializing in local produce paired up with handmade pasta, fresh seafood, grilled meat, and veggie dishes.
- Daddyo’s Pizza & Ribs – Classic pizzas plus more innovative options you’re not likely to find anywhere else (think Cajun, with shrimp and Cajun chicken plus veggies, and the Tandoori Special, topped with cilantro, ginger, and Tandoori chicken). The specialty ribs are marinated in a housemade BBQ sauce that’s well-loved by locals.
- Aubree’s Breakfast Place – This downtown family-run breakfast and brunch spot whips up traditional dishes alongside their famous breakfast poutine.
- The Bistro at Northern Lights Estate Winery – Sample BC’s number one fruit wine at this riverside bistro. In addition to wine tastings, the menu offers light lunch and dinner options.
Hotels In Prince George, BC
Centrally located in the heart of downtown, the urban-style Coast Prince George Hotel by APA is a stone’s throw from all the area’s best restaurants and must-see attractions. Stylish modern rooms emphasize comfort and practicality, while thoughtful extras make you feel like you’re staying in your home away from home — which is exactly what we aim for!
Coast Prince George Hotel by APA amenities include:
- Heated indoor pool, plus a whirlpool and sauna
- Electric vehicle charging stations
- Free parking and
- Free wi-fi
- Fitness centre with dedicated yoga studio
- Japanese-style electric TOTO® Washlets
- Pet-friendly accommodations
- Onsite Winston’s Resto-Bar