82 of the Best Things To Do in Alberta

From boreal forests to vast prairies and high mountain peaks, Alberta is an incredible province to explore. Born and raised in Alberta, I certainly feel that I know Alberta better than most. I’ve been to each major city and almost every small town in the province, giving me great insight into the province that I call home.

Although Alberta is one of only two provinces that are landlocked, Alberta is about as diverse as it gets. From looking at Dinosaur skeletons in the badlands and hiking some of the tallest mountain peaks in the country to splashing around in North America’s largest indoor waterpark and driving one of the world’s most scenic highways, Alberta is an incredible place to explore.

Whether you’re planning to explore the cities, the mountains, or everything in between, we’ve got you covered in this comprehensive travel guide to the wonderful province of Alberta.

Explore Calgary

As Alberta’s biggest city, there are lots of things to do in Calgary. From strolling around beautiful Heritage Park to visiting the stunning National Music Centre, there are lots of incredible attractions to enjoy. However, aside from all the attractions and amazing Calgary restaurants, it’s a very pretty city to explore. Go for a stroll along the Bow River and through Prince’s Island Park, explore popular neighbourhoods like Kensington and Inglewood, go tubing down the river, or enjoy the views from Nose Hill Park. You simply can’t visit Alberta without getting a taste of Calgary. We’ll go into more detail on some of the top attractions below.

Heritage Park Historical Village 

Since opening its doors back in 1964, Heritage Park Historical Village has grown into one of Calgary’s premier tourist attractions and one of North America’s largest and most successful living history museums. There’s an active amusement park, a steam train, a sternwheeler, old-fashioned candy shops, heritage buildings, and a really cool museum featuring classic cars and gasoline pumps. It is the Park’s mission to preserve the history of the early West and to educate and entertain guests of all ages for many generations to come.

The Calgary Zoo

Home to the second-largest zoo in Canada, not to mention one of the most respected worldwide, the Calgary Zoo is a great place to visit for adults and kids alike. From Canada’s wild animals to penguins, gorillas, crocodiles, tigers, and more, all animal lovers will enjoy a day at this very central zoo.

Studio Bell National Music Center

Opened in 2016, the National Music Centre’s Studio Bell has become one of Calgary’s most beautiful buildings and is an incredible place to visit for anyone interested in music, as well as learning about the incredible talent that has come out of Canada. You’ll find over 2,000 rare instruments and artifacts, as well as the Canadian Music Hall of Fame and the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame collections.

Tip: While visiting the National Music Centre, walk a couple of blocks west to see the Calgary Public Library, which was ranked by TIMES as their “100 Greatest Places of 2019”. You won’t need much time but it’s worth seeing and it’s worth stepping inside.

Glenbow Museum

Please note that the Glenbow Museum is currently closed due to extensive renovations. However, as a key cultural cornerstone in Calgary for 50 years, Glenbow has surprised and engaged generations of Albertans and visitors to the province with remarkable connections between art, culture and the world around us. We learned all about Alberta’s history, the Calgary Stampede, and some of the people who have shaped the province and enjoyed one of the largest art collections in the country.

The Calgary Tower 

Experience the city from 525 feet in the air. Calgary’s most iconic building is a great place to get a view of the city and the surrounding area. In fact, on a clear day, you can even see the Rocky Mountains. There’s also a glass floor for a birds-eye view of the streets below.

Prince’s Island Park and Peace Bridge

If you’re looking for some scenic nature in the heart of downtown Calgary, make your way to Prince’s Island Park. In the summer, there’s a variety of festivals that take place here including the Calgary Folk Music Festival and Expo Latino. There’s also a fine dining restaurant called the River Cafe. Aside from that though, it’s just a pretty park where locals go to hang out, play frisbee, go for a jog, and admire the Canadian geese and ducks that also call this place home.

While visiting Prince’s Island Park, don’t forget to visit one of the most iconic sights in Calgary. Peace Bridge is a beautiful red pedestrian bridge that crosses over the Bow River between Memorial Drive and Eau Claire Park. Walk across, bike across, or just sit back and take a photo. This is an Instagram hot spot.

Go Zip-lining

If you’re like me and you love speed, then zip-lining at WinSport should be high on your list. Starting from the top of an Olympic ski jump facility, it has become North America’s fastest zipline with speeds of up to 120 km/hr while enjoying beautiful views of the city.

The Calgary Stampede

If you happen to be in Calgary in July, you’ll want to experience the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth. This century-old outdoor rodeo has become one of the biggest festivals in the world with world-class concerts, a mid-way, all the food truck food you could possibly want, educational programs, and of course – the biggest rodeo on Earth. This is when the city comes to life with lots of partying and lots of action.

Spruce Meadows

Speaking of rodeos, horse lovers will want to head out to Spruce Meadows, which is located on the southern outskirts of the city. This multi-sport facility is home to world-class equestrian show-jumping events where even celebrities have been spotted, such as the one and only Alec Baldwin.

Float Down the Bow

As a local, one of my favourite activities to do is to go floating down the Bow River. It’s a big river and it’s fairly calm, offering beautiful views of the city and a fairly relaxing 2-3 hour float. In the hot summer months, you’ll see anywhere from dozens to hundreds of people going down the river in kayaks, inflatable tubes, paddleboards, and more.

Dine at the Best Restaurants in Calgary

Another great thing about Calgary is that there’s no shortage of mouth-watering places to eat. Whether you’re looking for fine dining, quick bites, ethnic food, or something Canadian, we’ve got you covered in our guide to the best Calgary restaurants.

Drink Beer at Local Breweries

If beer is your thing, you’re going to love Calgary. There are roughly 60 breweries in Calgary, many of which are located in popular places such as Inglewood, 17th Avenue, downtown, and more. It doesn’t matter if you’re into dark stouts, sours, IPAs, or blondes, there’s something for everyone here.

Road Trip the Alberta Foothills

Surrounding the city of Calgary is the Alberta Foothills, which are home to a number of charming small towns and unique attractions, not to mention a lot of beauty as well. Whether you’re looking to simply do a scenic road trip, go horseback riding, take a tour of an old grain elevator, or tour the province’s first gas plant, there are so many things to do. For more information, check out our guide to the Alberta Foothills.

Ride a Train at Aspen Crossing

Speaking of the Alberta Foothills, one of the top attractions is just 45 minutes from Calgary. Nestled in the heart of the prairies, this charming destination offers a unique blend of history, nature, and railway fun. Hop on a vintage train for a scenic journey through the picturesque countryside, complete with themed rides like the popular “Polar Express” or the spooky “Train of Terror.” Explore the beautifully restored railway cars, dine in a luxurious 1887 Pullman dining car, or stay overnight in a cozy caboose cabin for a truly immersive experience. With its enchanting garden center, quirky gift shop, and year-round special events, Aspen Crossing is a delightful escape for train enthusiasts, families, and anyone looking for a touch of nostalgia and adventure in the Alberta landscape.

Explore Banff National Park

Not only is Banff the most popular place to visit in Alberta, it’s also one of the top attractions in all of Canada. With so much incredible scenery in Canada, there’s a reason why Banff National Park is the most visited park in the country. Just over an hour’s drive from Calgary, we never tire of visiting this beautiful slice of Western Canada. Simply driving around Banff, walking the streets, and enjoying the views is enough to make it an unforgettable experience. We’ll list some of the top attractions below but for more information, check out our guide to the best things to do in Banff.

Town of Banff

Although Banff National Park is famous for its natural landscapes, the town of Banff is also famous for its spectacular look and setting. Surrounded by mountains, this is quite possibly one of the most picturesque towns in the world. It’s also home to many hotels and delicious restaurants, as well as plenty of shopping, museums, hiking trails, and more.

Banff Gondola

For those wanting the experience of standing on top of the world, the Banff Gondola is a great thing to do. You can either take the gondola both ways or you can hike up or down. From the top, you’ll see incredible views of the surrounding area, the mountains, the valleys, and the town of Banff. Both summer and winter are equally stunning and it takes only 8 minutes to reach the top of Sulphur Mountain by gondola. In addition, there’s also an interpretive centre and fine dining.

Banff Upper Hot Springs

With all the outdoor activities, it sure helps to have natural hot springs nearby to soothe your tired muscles. In fact, did you know that it was the hot springs that helped create Banff National Park? The Banff Upper Hot Springs is located up near the Banff Gondola and the Rimrock Resort Hotel and features a pool-like setting with lockers, rentals, and more. There’s not much for views directly from the pools but the hot waters are incredible to soak in.

Cave and Basin National Historic Site

Did you know that this was the beginning of Canada’s national park system? That’s right! This is where it all started. Thanks to these hot springs, which date back thousands of years and were used by the Indigenous for important meetings and ceremonies, Banff National Park (Canada’s first) was created. While you can’t go to these particular hot springs anymore, you can learn a lot about the area and take a peek at the very rare Banff Springs snail.

Fairmont Banff (Banff Castle)

Like something out of a fairy tale, the Banff castle sits surrounded by some of the world’s most stunning scenery. While this was never actually a castle, it was one of the luxury railroad hotels that are now owned by Fairmont. Whether you simply drive up to the hotel to see it, go inside for a little tour or to eat at one of the restaurants, or actually stay a night, you’ll be happy you did. It’s not often that a hotel becomes an attraction in and of itself.

Lake Minnewanka Banff Lake Cruise 

If you’re interested in a scenic lake cruise with some history of the area, consider the Lake Minnewanka cruise, which offers a 1-hour panoramic interpretive cruise around the lake. Situated on the largest lake in Banff, you’ll see the stunning scenery as well as learn about the underwater village, which is now a popular diving site.

Diving Lake Minnewanka

Speaking of diving, Lake Minnewanka is a popular scuba diving destination. This is because there’s an old “town” at the bottom of the lake, flooded out “back in the day”. So, if you want to see an underwater town, this is the place to do it. In addition, you can also go winter diving here. We haven’t been crazy enough to do this yet, but if you have your dry-suit certification and want to go diving through the ice, this is the place to do it!

Climb a Mountain at Mount Norquay

For those looking for thrills in the mountains, while being as safe as possible, you’ll want to check out the Via Ferrata at Mount Norquay. A Via Ferrata is where iron and steel is drilled into the mountain, allowing you to safely clip yourself into and skirt the edges of the mountains, getting the thrills of “mountain climbing” without the high risk.

Ski Banff

With so many mountains, it should come as no surprise that Banff offers some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the world. Between Mount Norquay, Sunshine, and Lake Louise, the opportunity to Ski Banff is a GREAT reason to visit in the winter months. You can take an introductory course to skiing here, or rent some skis and hit the slopes.

Even if you’re here in the summer, these resorts offer the opportunity to take the gondola up the mountains for some once-in-a-lifetime hiking opportunities.

Johnston Canyon

If you’re looking for a beautiful and free hike, hiking Johnston Canyon is a great way to see this impressive canyon and an array of waterfalls up close. There’s even a cave you can walk into. This hike is quite easy (although slippery in the winter) and is beautiful in all seasons. Our favourite season is winter but the most comfortable time to go is in the summer.

Lake Louise

This is easily one of Canada’s most popular lakes, not only for the scenery but also for the luxury hotel right next to it. There are also numerous hikes nearby, another stunning lake called Moraine Lake, and the option of paddling a canoe! Whether you come to simply admire the lake, go paddling, go hiking, or enjoy a beer at the neighbouring Fairmont, a visit to Lake Louise is a MUST. Learn more in our guide to the best things to do in Lake Louise.

Moraine Lake

Located close to Lake Louise, this is our favourite lake in the entire national park. The only problem is that it’s so popular and so tight for parking space that it often fills up before sunrise. To help with this issue, there’s now a shuttle bus that visits here from the village of Lake Louise. Either way, if you can make it here, your jaws will drop. It’s simply magical.

Explore Canmore

Located just outside Banff National Park and only 20 minutes away from the town of Banff, Canmore is somewhat like a “local” version of Banff. The activities are similar and some people stay here rather than in Banff. However, there are things to do in Canmore and the surrounding area as well.

Go Caving

Very few “outdoor activities” can be done year-round with almost the same temperatures, but caving in Grotto Mountain is one of them. We did a tour inside Rat’s Nest cave and yes, we saw the cute little rat that called the cave home. We did the full adventure, allowing us to squeeze ourselves through tight crevices and feel the true thrill of caving. However, there are lighter tours as well for those who might be more claustrophobic.

Spray Lakes Provincial Park

As of now, Spray Lakes remains our favourite camping spot in the province. It’s a 30-minute drive from Canmore up into the mountains and is an extremely scenic place to go camping in Alberta. However, it can’t be booked in advance so it’s a bit of a game of luck to find a spot. Weekends are often full, so make sure you come early or come during the week.

Go Hiking in the Kananaskis

With towering mountains and beautiful pine forests, there’s no better place to strap on the boots and go for a hike. From easy to difficult, there are all sorts of stunning hikes in Kananaskis Country. Many are day trips but some are multi-day adventures as well. Regardless of the one you choose, you’ll fall in love with the scenery and will always want to return.

Go Camping in the Mountains

While there are loads of incredible opportunities for camping in Alberta, few compare to the majestic Rocky Mountains. Imagine waking up and opening your tent to sparkling turquoise waters surrounded by tall mountain peaks! Whether you roll up in a tent or an RV, there are plenty of opportunities for camping in one of the most beautiful destinations in Canada.

Explore Jasper National Park

Jasper is another stunning national park, equally impressive to Banff National Park but much more isolated. It’s also at the top of the Icefields Parkway, which is known as one of the most scenic drives on Earth. It’s one of our favourite places in the country. We’ll list some of the top attractions below but for more information, check out our guide to the best things to do in Jasper.

Update: In 2024, Jasper was partially destroyed by forest fires. Half of the town was destroyed and we recommend checking for updates before making travel plans.

Jasper Sky Tram

In 1960, Albertan adventurer William McGregor climbed to the summit of Whistlers Mountain, Jasper. Inspired by the incredible views, McGregor dreamed of sharing his experience with the rest of the world. Since opening the Sky Tram, over 6 million visitors have ridden to the top and experienced the same breathtaking Rocky Mountain views that first inspired McGregor over half a century ago. Jump aboard the longest and highest guided aerial tramway in Canada and be prepared to view Jasper National Park from the top of Whistlers Mountain.

Athabasca Glacier Adventure 

Where else can you ride a million-dollar all-terrain Ice Explorer onto a glacier? In fact, you can then get out and walk on it yourself! It’s a quick thrill but for many people, the opportunity to stand on top of a glacier is a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

Jasper Skywalk

Located right next to the Athabasca Glacier and often bought as a package, the Jasper Skywalk allows you to walk out onto a glass-floored platform overlooking the 918-foot (280m) drop to the stunning Sunwapta Valley. For some, it’s quite the thrill and for others, it’s simply a chance to get beautiful views and that much-desired Instagram shot.

Maligne Lake Cruise 

If you’re looking for a beautiful lake cruise in Jasper National Park, this is it! You’ll enjoy a panoramic tour across the crystal waters of Maligne Lake before arriving at Spirit Island, one of the most photographed spots in the area. Afterward, go hiking in Maligne Canyon!

Gaze at the Stars

As one of the 17 designated Dark Sky Preserves in Canada, not to mention the darkest of them all, Jasper is an incredible place to gaze up at the cosmos. You can learn about the celestial bodies and planets at the Planetarium Dome Theatre and through powerful telescopes. In fact, if you can make it here in October, you don’t want to miss the annual Dark Sky Festival!

Go Golfing in the Mountains

If you’re looking for one of the top golf courses in the country, if not the world, make your way to The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, whose golf course has been listed as one of the best, many, many times. This 18-hole course offers dramatic bunkers and holes that line up with the many spectacular views.

Explore Nordegg

Another one of our favourite mountain towns is Nordegg, which can be found on Highway 11 between Rocky Mountain House and the Icefields Parkway. There’s not much to the town itself but it’s one of the most scenic areas in the province. Some of our favourite things to do include hiking, canoeing, canyoning, climbing Via Ferrata, and so much more. Nordegg is an excellent base as it’s home to a variety of accommodation options, a small golf course, and a couple of restaurants. For more information, check out our guide to the best things to do in Nordegg.

Visit Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site

Discover the rugged charm and rich history of Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site, one of Alberta’s top attractions! Nestled along the banks of the North Saskatchewan River, this captivating site tells the tale of the fur trade era and the intrepid explorers who navigated these wild lands. Wander through the fascinating interpretive trails, where you can explore the remnants of four historic trading posts and learn about the cultural exchanges between European traders and Indigenous peoples. With hands-on exhibits, lively reenactments, and the chance to try your hand at traditional crafts, Rocky Mountain House offers a fun and immersive way to step back in time. Whether you’re paddling a canoe like the voyageurs of old or simply enjoying a picnic with breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains, this historic site offers a perfect blend of adventure and education for visitors of all ages.

Visit Sundre

Another little town near Calgary is Sundre. While there’s not too much to the town itself, it is right next to the amazing and wild Panther Valley, which is part of the Rocky Mountains backcountry. There are some incredible experiences to be had near here, including camping opportunities, helicopter tours, horseback riding, and so much more. There are also some great little restaurants and a beautiful golf course as well. Learn more in our guide to the best things to do in Sundre.

Explore Edmonton

Canada’s Northern-most major city is full of things to do. Most notably, the city is home to North America’s largest mall, one of the world’s largest indoor waterparks, and one of the world’s largest indoor amusement parks. There’s lots of culture in Edmonton as well, which makes for tons of festivals throughout the year. We’ll list some of the top attractions below but for more information, check out our guide to the best things to do in Edmonton.

West Edmonton Mall 

Once known as the world’s largest mall, this epic indoor wonderland is home to enough attractions to keep you busy for a whole weekend! My favourite place is the waterpark but it’s also home to an indoor amusement park, which houses the world’s largest indoor triple-loop roller coaster! There are also more than 800 stores, a cinema, a mini-golf course, and so much more. West Edmonton Mall also holds several records, including North America’s largest indoor waterpark, North America’s largest indoor amusement park, and Canada’s largest parking lot.

Telus World of Science

This broad-based non-profit science centre is the perfect place for those wanting to mix education with fun. We had such a blast learning about the human body as well as learning all about Pixar through their new temporary exhibit focusing on the world’s most famous animation studio.

Explore the River Valley

Edmonton might be known for having North America’s largest mall, but it’s also home to Canada’s largest urban park. With more than 160 kilometres of maintained trails, as well as attractions such as the Fort Edmonton Zoo, Gold Bar Park, the Edmonton Valley Zoo, a golf course, skiing opportunities, skating, and more. There’s even wildlife, including hares, deer, skunks, and porcupines.

Fort Edmonton

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the vibrant history of Edmonton at Fort Edmonton Park, one of the city’s top attractions! This living history museum sprawls across 158 acres, offering visitors an unforgettable journey through four distinct eras: the fur trade of 1846, the settlement of 1885, the metropolitan boom of 1905, and the roaring 1920s. With costumed interpreters bringing history to life, you can explore authentic buildings, ride a vintage steam train, and even enjoy a turn-of-the-century midway complete with games and rides. Whether you’re panning for gold, chatting with a blacksmith, or simply soaking up the lively atmosphere, Fort Edmonton Park is a delightful blend of education and entertainment, making it a must-visit destination for history buffs and fun-seekers alike!

Muttart Conservatory

Home to one of Edmonton’s most iconic images, the Muttart Conservatory is more than just beautiful glass pyramid structures. It’s also home to a climate-regulated biome with three different zones, such as the tropical climate of Burma and Fiji and the temperate pavilion with its American redwoods and Australian eucalyptus, all with a mission of education and conservation. This premier horticultural facility features over 700 species of plants and has sweeping views of Edmonton’s skyline.

Visit the Edmonton Valley Zoo

Nestled in the scenic river valley, this charming zoo is home to over 350 animals, ranging from playful red pandas and majestic snow leopards to adorable lemurs and charismatic sea lions. The zoo’s innovative habitats and interactive exhibits provide unique opportunities to learn about animal conservation and behaviour. Don’t miss the chance to feed the playful goats, take a ride on the whimsical carousel, or explore the award-winning Arctic Shores exhibit. With its engaging seasonal events, hands-on animal encounters, and beautiful natural setting, the Edmonton Valley Zoo offers a perfect blend of adventure and discovery, making it a must-visit destination for families and animal lovers alike!

Visit a Brewery

For those who love great beer, you’re in luck. Edmonton has many incredible breweries to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a fruity sour, a thick stout, or just something to drink during the hot summer months, we’ve got you covered in our guide to the best Edmonton breweries.

Alberta Legislature Building

Whether you’re interested in history or just coming to look at the impressive design, the Alberta Legislature Building is well worth the visit. Built back n 1913, this attractive building is the active home of Alberta’s government and offers free tours of the building almost every day. Tours cover topics related to the levels of government, Alberta’s political history, and the art and architecture of the building.

Eat at the Top Edmonton Restaurants

Another great thing about Edmonton is that there’s no shortage of incredible restaurants. Whether you’re looking for something quick, a place to go with friends, a place to take a date, or anything in between, we’ve got you covered in our guide to the best restaurants in Edmonton.

Visit Red Deer

Although Red Deer doesn’t have too much of a tourism industry, it is right in the middle between Calgary and Edmonton, making it a convenient stop on an Alberta road trip. It’s also close to a variety of attractions, such as Sylvan Lake. Learn more in our guide to the best things to do in Red Deer.

Explore Drumheller

Known as the Dinosaur capital of the world, Drumheller is home to the world-famous Royal Tyrrell Museum and a variety of amazing badland scenery. It’s only 1.5 hours from Calgary, making it a very convenient place to explore. We’ll list some of the top attractions below but you can learn more in our guide to the best things to do in Drumheller.

Royal Tyrrell Museum 

The Royal Tyrrell Museum is Canada’s only museum dedicated exclusively to the science of paleontology. In addition to housing one of the world’s largest displays of dinosaurs, the Museum offers a wide variety of creative, fun, and educational programs that bring the prehistoric past to life. Outside the museum, you’ll find a 1.4km interpretive trail that makes its way through the badlands. For anyone interested in dinosaurs, this is the best place to go in all of Canada, if not the world.

Horseshoe Canyon

Located just 17 km (10.5 mi) west of Drumheller, Horseshoe Canyon is like a miniature replica of the Grand Canyon and a jaw-dropping sight to behold. The reddish-pink ribboned canyon walls change their colour with the sun, revealing the many layers of rock that have been here since the Dinosaurs called it home more than 70 million years ago. Whether you just admire the view or take a hike down into the canyon, this is not a place you want to miss.

Horsethief Canyon

Banff is to the mountains what Horsethief Canyon is to the badlands. It’s really beautiful. Similar to Horseshoe Canyon, but far from the same, this area is not only scenic but also steeped in history. In fact, the reason why it’s called Horsethief Canyon is that it used to be a wild-west type of place where bandits would literally steal horses. Basically, they’d steal them from big ranches in the area and re-brand them as their own. Located just 16 km (10 mi) northwest of Drumheller on the east bank of the Red Deer River, just You can either stop at the car park and just admire the views from the edge or you can go for a variety of hikes in and around the coulees.

Walk the Hoodoos

Although hoodoos can be found in many areas in the region, the easiest place to see them is at Hoodoo Trail, just 10 kilometres east of Drumheller. They are super cool to see up close, but just not too close as they’re very fragile and protected.

Visit Wayne Ghost Town

If you’re looking for a super interesting detour near the Hoodoo Trail, check out Wayne Ghost Town. Located just 6 kilometres away, you’ll cross over 11 one-lane bridges over the Rosebud River before finding yourself in an almost deserted old town that was once a thriving coal-mining town. It’s also home to the infamous Last Chance Saloon, a bar that’s been featured in many articles and books for being haunted.

Go Camping with Dinosaurs

There are not many places in the world where you can go camping safely with dinosaurs. Thanks to this area being the dinosaur capital of the world, camping in Drumheller is as close as you can get, as new dinosaur fossils are found here all the time. In fact, if you drive a couple of hours east to Dinosaur Provincial Park, there are even active digs that you can witness! Either way, the views and attractions offered here in the Alberta Badlands are fit for any Alberta bucket list.

Explore Dinosaur Provincial Park

Another gem that’s often overlooked is Dinosaur Provincial Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Just a two-hour drive east of Drumheller, Dinosaur Provincial Parks offers the ultimate dinosaur experience, including guided hikes where you’re practically guaranteed to find fossils, camping opportunities, and a wonderful museum.

Explore Lethbridge

If you’re continuing down to the far south, you might end up in Alberta’s third-biggest city! If so, there are lots of things to do in Lethbridge and it’s a great base for exploring other areas of Southern Alberta, including Crowsnest Pass, Castle Provincial Park, and so much more.

Galt Museum

Whether you’re looking to learn about the history of Lethbridge or simply get some of the best views the city has to offer, make your way to the Galt Museum. This museum is the largest in Southern Alberta, containing over 17,000 artifacts and more than 1 million archival documents and photographs. It’s also home to a variety of walking trails and two beautiful gardens containing over 40 species of native plants, including wildflowers, grasses, and woody plants.

Fort Whoop-Up

Not only is it smack dab in the middle of the beautiful coulees, but it’s also a great place to learn about the local history. Fort Whoop-Up is a replica of an original fur trading fort built back in the late 1800s. It was originally called Fort Hamilton and served as a centre for a variety of trading activities, the most infamous one being the illegal whiskey trade.

Hiking the Coulees

The coulees are the most striking feature of Lethbridge. They’re beautiful to admire from any angle and they’re a great place to go for a hike or a bike ride. You can hike down into them from places like the Galt Museum or drive down and park at places like Indian Battle Park or the Helen Schuller Centre. From there, you’ll find many paths that meander along the coulees, the train bridge, and Old Man River.

Lethbridge Viaduct

Another striking feature of the Lethbridge landscape is the High-Level Bridge. Constructed between 1907 – 1909, this massive steel trestle that sits above the Old Man River is still the largest of its type in the world. Whether you admire it from afar or hike under it, it’s a beautiful thing to see and an icon of the city.

Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden

Located right next to Henderson Lake Park, which is a great place to go for a walk, you’ll find the stunning Nikko Yuko Japanese Garden. Designed by a garden architect from Osaka as well as being constructed by artisans from Kyoto, this garden was built to symbolize the friendship between Canada and Japan. It’s an incredibly beautiful place to just meander through, but you can also partake in tea ceremonies, Sumo Sumo Sundays, or even yoga.

Head Smashed in Buffalo Jump

Another one of our favourite places in Alberta is Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, which is located around 70 kilometres west of Lethbridge and can easily be combined with Fort Macleod (see below). This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a museum and interpretive centre featuring the Blackfoot indigenous culture and a place that preserves and interprets over 6,000 years of Plains Buffalo culture. The museum is truly excellent, the people are very friendly, and the surrounding area is beautiful for a stroll.

Visit Fort Macleod

Just 30 minutes away on the drive between Lethbridge and Calgary is Fort Macleod, which is home to The Fort Museum and the RCMP Musical Ride. If you’re interested in learning about the history of the area and the RCMP, this is a great place to go. During the summer months, it’s also home to a replica of the RCMP Musical Ride, a popular ceremony featuring horses.

Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park

Just 100 kilometres southeast of Lethbridge is yet another gorgeous natural area and UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s perfect for hiking, camping, and learning about indigenous culture. In fact, you can see ancient carvings and rock paintings that date back to 1050 BCE! While camping can be hard to nab as it’s often booked well in advance, it can be visited as a day trip as well.

Castle Provincial Park

Castle Provincial Park is Alberta’s newest provincial park and is a gorgeous place to go hiking, biking, boating, fishing, camping, and more. In fact, there’s also a popular Ski Resort in the winter months.

Frank Slide

Canada’s deadliest landslide is a spectacular sight to witness. Not only is it utterly mind-boggling to see the amount of rock that slid down Turtle Mountain that fateful night back in 1903 but they have a truly incredible interpretive centre where you can learn all about it. Those in good fitness can also hike to the top of Turtle Mountain whereas anyone can walk around the paved trails in the area and see what the aftermath of a landslide looks like.

Crowsnest Pass

This beautiful mountain area, which includes Frank Slide, is composed of 5 small mining communities and lots of stunning scenery. While the mines have since closed down, one of them – the Bellevue Mine Tour – is open for tours. If you’re into small towns, this is a great place to explore. It’s hard to believe that just a few decades ago, all of these towns were staunch rivals. Now, they’re even connected by a 23-km Community Trail, which is a great way to walk or bike between all the communities, taking time to talk with the locals and try out various coffee shops, ice cream shops, and restaurants. Don’t miss the famous Burmis Tree, which has stood in the area for 450 years.

Learn more in our guide to the best things to do in Crownest Pass.

The Remington Carriage Museum

Located in Cardston, Alberta is the Remington Carriage Museum, which is home to more than 270 carriages and is the largest of its kind in the world. Upon entering the museum, you’ll be transported back to the late 1800s and early 1900s, getting a glimpse of carriages that carried pioneers as well as the rich and famous.

Explore Lac La Biche

If you’re looking for small lesser-known towns, Lac La Biche is a great spot to visit. Located Northeast of Edmonton, Lac La Biche is a great spot for nature lovers as it is home to many lakes and forests, as well as the beautiful Sir Winston Churchill Provincial Park. Even the town has some unique offerings, such as learning how to make stained glass and one of the coolest indigenous art museums in the country. Learn more in our guide to the best things to do in Lac La Biche.

Visit Wetaskiwin

Located just east of Edmonton, most people probably never think of visiting Wetaskiwin. After all, there’s not much to the town itself. However, it’s home to some really cool attractions, including the incredible Reynolds Museum, the chance to drive a “Nascar” around a race track, the chance to learn how to fly a plane, and so much more. Check out our guide to the best things to do in Wetaskiwin for more information.

Visit the Reynolds Museum

On second thought, we think the Reynolds Museum is so cool that it deserves its own spot on this list of the best things to do in Alberta. This fascinating museum celebrates the spirit of ingenuity with an impressive collection of vintage automobiles, aircraft, and agricultural machinery. Car enthusiasts will be in awe of the gleaming classics and rare beauties in the automotive gallery, while aviation buffs can marvel at the historic planes displayed in the Aviation Hangar. The museum’s interactive exhibits and live demonstrations bring the stories of mechanical marvels to life, offering a hands-on experience that both educates and entertains. Don’t miss the chance to take a ride in a vintage vehicle or catch one of the special events, like the thrilling Harvest Festival. With its unique blend of history, technology, and fun, the Reynolds-Alberta Museum is a must-visit destination for families, history buffs, and gearheads alike!

Explore Medicine Hat

This little city in Alberta’s southeastern corner is known for its abundant sunshine and charming small-town vibe, as well as a delightful blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. Explore the stunning landscapes of the South Saskatchewan River valley, where you can hike, bike, and picnic amid scenic vistas. History buffs will love the historic clay district, home to Medalta Potteries, where you can delve into the region’s rich pottery heritage. Don’t miss the Esplanade Arts & Heritage Centre, showcasing local art and fascinating exhibits. Learn more in our guide to the best things to do in Medicine Hat.

Spend a Few Days in Cypress Hills

Not far from Medicine Hat is an oasis unlike anywhere else in Alberta. This stunning interprovincial park, straddling the Alberta-Saskatchewan border, boasts the highest point between the Rocky Mountains and Labrador, offering breathtaking views and diverse landscapes. Whether you’re hiking through lush forests, spotting wildlife in the rolling prairies, or stargazing in the designated Dark Sky Preserve, Cypress Hills promises endless outdoor excitement. History enthusiasts can explore Fort Walsh National Historic Site, while thrill-seekers will love zip-lining through the treetops and horseback riding along scenic trails. With its unique mix of natural beauty, recreational activities, and historical intrigue, Cypress Hills is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Alberta’s great outdoors!

Enjoy an Indigenous Experience

Another great thing to do in Alberta is to enjoy an indigenous tour. Some of these tours offer an actual Indigenous experience such as spending the night in a teepee or learning how to shoot a bow and arrow but many tours are simply led by an Indigenous guide. Whether you want to go mountain climbing, fly fishing, or just learn about the flora and fauna from an Indigenous perspective, there are a variety of Indigenous tours to choose from.

Stay in a Cabin

With so much natural beauty, ranging from mountains and badlands to prairies and forests, there’s lots of opportunity for spending some time in beautiful cabins. This can be a great way to enjoy nature and can also be a great opportunity to enjoy a trip with family. Learn more in our guide to the best cabins in Alberta.

How to Get to Alberta

If you’re a visitor looking for different ways of getting to Alberta, here’s some practical advice on how to get here.

Getting to Alberta by Car

If you’re planning to drive to Alberta, it’s sandwiched in between British Columbia, the Northwest Territories, Saskatchewan, and Montana. Most people arrive driving in from BC through the Rocky Mountains, from Saskatchewan, or up from Montana. Although it’s a large province, it’s fairly under-populated and easy to drive around. If driving from the US, please note that you will have to go through customs.

The Trans-Canada Highway, which goes coast to coast, cuts right through Calgary, Alberta heading west from Regina or east from Banff.

Getting to Alberta by Plane

Alberta is home to two international airports, both of which are some of the biggest airports in the country. These two airports are the Calgary International Airport (YYC) and the Edmonton International Airport (YEG). Once you arrive, you can easily rent a car, take a taxi, hop on public transportation, or perhaps, jump on a tour. There are smaller regional airports in Alberta as well, but most people, especially those visiting from outside the province or country will arrive to one of the two airports mentioned above.

For convenience, Edmonton is best for those exploring the North or perhaps heading to Jasper National Park whereas Calgary is more convenient for Banff National Park, Drumheller, and Southern Alberta. However, both airports are less than three hours apart by drive time.

Getting Around Alberta

Alberta is a large province and is best explored by private vehicles. There are some tours, especially for popular areas such as Banff, and there are some buses, but those are very limited in destinations. Without a doubt, if your goal is to explore various parts of the province, the best way is to rent a car.

Fun Fact: Alberta is home to Canada’s largest urban park, Canada’s first national park, Canada’s largest parking lot, North America’s largest mall, North America’s largest indoor amusement park, North America’s largest indoor amusement park, and one of the largest oil reserves in the world. 

Best Time to Visit Alberta

One of the great things about Alberta is that it’s a year-round destination for the most part. Alberta is very weather extreme. Summer days in July and August can reach up to 35 degrees Celcius whereas, in the winter, days can be the exact opposite, easily reaching -35 degrees Celcius. Edmonton has days when it’s the coldest city on Earth. However, thanks to the Canadian Rockies, Alberta is a world-class destination for skiing and snowboarding, not to mention incredible snow-covered vistas. Still, there are times we like better than others, so here are our recommendations.

Our peak travel time is from mid-June to mid-September. This is when the weather is at its warmest temperatures, all the trees and flowers are looking their best, and all the famous activities and attractions are open for business. However, this is also the time when hotels can be at full capacity, roads are busiest, and everything is more expensive.

For those wanting to go skiing and snowboarding, or perhaps snowmobiling ice fishing, or snowshoeing, the best time to come would be from January to March. These are the coldest months but also the best time for lots of snow. Despite the world-class skiing, this is actually a much quieter time than the summer, and accommodations are much cheaper and much more available, except on holidays and such.

The spring months, from April to mid-June can also be a nice time to visit but be prepared for rain. The weather is very hit-or-miss and we’ve seen spring days reach up to +25 degrees. Tourism is lower during this time, and some of the trees and flowers still look “dead”, but it’s relatively mild for the weather.

Last but not least is the fall. This is a great time to visit as well, especially in the earlier months of late September and October. Generally, the weather is still quite warm and the changing fall colours are beautiful to see. Tourists are lesser in numbers than in the peak summer months but most things are still open. We prefer the fall over the spring. The only exception here would be if you want to go white water rafting. In that case, spring is generally the better time to do so.

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