Old Town, Yellowknife
Northwest Territories
Old Town in Yellowknife is the city's historic and eclectic neighborhood situated on the shores of Great Slave Lake. It features a unique blend of log cabins, waterfront mansions, and colorful houses perched on rocky outcrops, reflecting a quirky architectural style inspired by the area's gold-mining heritage. This lively district serves as the cultural heart of Yellowknife, hosting galleries showcasing First Nations art, fresh-fish restaurants, kayak rentals, and an active houseboat community. Notable events such as the SnowKing Winter Festival and the biennial Float Plane Fly-In bring the community together with ice palaces, performances, and aviation celebrations. Visitors can explore landmarks like the Wildcat Café, Yellowknife's original eatery, and enjoy the scenic floatplane activity over the bay. Old Town's vibrant atmosphere, combined with its historical roots and outdoor adventures, make it a must-visit destination for experiencing the spirit of Canada's North.
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Tip: Visit Old Town during the summer for the Float Plane Fly-In or in March for the SnowKing Winter Festival to experience unique local events. Consider booking houseboat accommodations in advance for an authentic stay. Exploring on foot is ideal to fully appreciate the eclectic architecture and waterfront views. Check event schedules and local galleries for special exhibits and performances. Early August offers the Old Town Ramble & Ride street fair, a lively cultural experience. Dress warmly in winter months and prepare for variable weather conditions.
Interesting facts
- •Old Town features the 'eraser house,' an architectural landmark inspired by the shape of gold-mine headframes.
- •The SnowKing Winter Festival includes an ornate ice palace with an ice bar, exhibition galleries, and a performance stage built annually on Great Slave Lake.
- •Yellowknife’s houseboats, located near Joliffe Island, form one of the North's most eclectic real estate communities, inhabited by artists and back-to-the-landers.
- •The Wildcat Café, an iconic eatery in Old Town, is replicated in the Canadian Museum of History in Ottawa.
- •The skies above Old Town buzz with floatplanes during summer, connecting remote northern destinations and hosting the popular Float Plane Fly-In event.
History
Old Town's origins trace back to the 1930s gold rush era when Yellowknife was first settled following gold discoveries around Great Slave Lake.
The neighborhood developed as a hub for miners and prospectors, with early businesses like the Wildcat Café establishing its roots.
Over the decades, Old Town evolved into a unique cultural district, preserving elements of its mining past in its architecture and community spirit.
It remains closely connected to the Yellowknives Dene First Nation, whose traditional lands encompass the area.
Today, Old Town balances its historic legacy with vibrant artistic and outdoor activities, maintaining its status as a focal point of Yellowknife's identity.
Place Guide
Wildcat Café
Yellowknife's original eatery, famous for its bison burgers and deck views where floatplanes fly overhead. It symbolizes Old Town's historic hospitality and is replicated in the Canadian Museum of History.
SnowKing Winter Festival Ice Palace
A large ice palace constructed each winter on Great Slave Lake featuring an ice bar, exhibition galleries, performance stage, and a slippery slide, hosting a month-long series of cultural events.
Houseboat Community near Joliffe Island
An eclectic cluster of floating homes inhabited by artists and back-to-the-landers, offering unique accommodations and a vibrant waterfront lifestyle.
Float Plane Activity and Fly-In
The summer skies above Old Town are busy with float-equipped aircraft connecting remote northern locations. The biennial Float Plane Fly-In is a major event attracting pilots and enthusiasts.
Eclectic Architecture of Old Town
A mix of colorful 'matchbox' houses, 'bird houses' perched on outcrops, and the 'eraser house' reflect Old Town's mining heritage and creative spirit.