Discover the Best Free Experiences in Yellowknife!
Yellowknife is packed with adventures and cultural experiences — many at no cost! Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or simply looking to soak up the vibrant community spirit, Yellowknife offers countless ways to explore. Here’s a curated list of must-see spots and activities to kick off your journey.
We recommend starting at the Yellowknife Visitor Centre in the Centre Square Mall on 50th Street. The friendly staff will help to orient you, while you enjoy the Centre’s beautiful art exhibit, learn more about Yellowknife's culture, and get your free pin/postcard and North of 60 certificate. While you're there, check out the new 3-D Aurora exhibit!
Must-See Spots & Free Attractions
- City Hall & Somba K’e Civic Plaza Situated on the shores of Frame Lake, this hub offers year-round activities, including the Yellowknife Farmers' Market every Tuesday in the summer. In winter, marvel at the incredible display of holiday lights. Don’t miss the inspiring drum-dance sculpture, United in Celebration, by renowned artist François Thibault. Explore more.
- NWT Legislative Assembly Discover the heart of NWT's decision-making! Free guided tours and self-guided audio tours are available seven days a week. See the unique territorial mace and learn about the legislative process. Plan your visit.
- NWT Diamond Centre Get an inside look at how diamonds are mined! Take a free tour of diamond mining history and watch a short film. (Retail jewelry available for purchase.) Find out more.
- Outdoor Mining Heritage Museum Located near the old Giant Mine site, this outdoor museum showcases ore cars, train tracks, loading machinery, and photos from Yellowknife’s mining days. Check out the details.
- Old Town, Woodyard & Ragged Ass Road Walking Tour Download the self-guided brochure to walk through Yellowknife’s historic first neighbourhoods, including the iconic Wildcat Café and Weaver & Devore. Get the brochure.
- Pilot’s Monument Overlooking Old Town and Latham Island, this monument honours early bush pilots. Enjoy unbeatable views of float planes landing on Great Slave Lake.
- Bristol Monument Pay homage to the north's aviation history at the Bristol freighter monument, once operated by Wardair and the first plane on wheels to land at the North Pole. Discover more.
- Buffalo Airways Book a free hangar tour of the iconic northern airline made famous by Ice Pilots NWT. Tours must be booked in advance. Book now.