Alberta Tourism Information

Why visit alberta.

Alberta , the largest of Canada’s three  prairie provinces , contains a large portion of the Rocky Mountains and most tourism to the province centers around visiting the beautiful parks that surround them. The province’s two main cities, Calgary and Edmonton , are Canada’s largest outside the Toronto-Montreal-Vancouver axis, though they’re much less popular as tourist destinations. The larger city, Calgary, is generally acknowledged to contain more to see and do, though Edmonton contains a few famous attractions, as well.

Orientation

Most Albertans live in either Calgary or Edmonton and the cities are about three hours apart, with Calgary in the south and Edmonton in the north. The Rocky Mountain region is on the province’s far west, along the border with British Columbia . Everywhere else is largely rural, home to small farm towns and oil fields.

alberta travel tips

Lake Louise in Banff National Park. kavram/Shutterstock

The rocky mountain parks.

The most iconic tourist destination in Alberta — and possibly the entire country — is the beautiful Banff National Park and its emerald-green Lake Louise . Containing over 6,000 square kilometers of unspoiled Rocky Mountain scenery, Canada’s most popular outdoor resort is home to virtually every activity you could imagine, with over 1,000 km of hiking trails, a dozen campgrounds, numerous ski hills, a 27-hole golf course , three hot springs, and a wild river (the Kicking Horse ) that’s ideal for white water rafting . There are no shortages of shops, hotels, and restaurants in the village of Banff Town , which is usually packed with tourists.

Three hours north of Banff is Jasper National Park , which is broadly similar to Banff in terms of natural beauty, but is harder to get to, has fewer activities and is thus slightly less popular. Some prefer its more laid-back vibe. Even more laid-back are the smaller-still mountain communities of Canmore Kananaskis , which is near Banff, and Waterton Lakes National Park which is in Alberta’s most south-west corner. All of the Rocky Mountain parks are a couple hours from the two big cities. Banff, Canmore, and Waterton are closer to Calgary while Jasper is closer to Edmonton.

alberta travel tips

Calgary's Peace Bridge, over the Bow River that divides the city. Its eccentric design, though controversial at first, has now become an icon of the city.

Calgary Tourism

The largest city in Alberta.

Calgary is split in half by the Bow River , which has a pleasant coastline for walking and in the summer is popular for “floating” — what locals call riding in inner tubes. The river is crossed by multiple bridges, with the recently-completed Peace Bridge the most architecturally interesting.

The 160 meter tall  Calgary Tower is the city’s most famous landmark, and like most buildings of its sort, it contains a rotating restaurant and observation deck at the top. It’s no longer the tallest building in Calgary, however — that honor goes to the uniquely curved Bow Building , recognizable from afar with its criss-cross design. Equally iconic is the sloping roof of the Scotiabank Saddledome , home of the city’s NHL team, as well as other sports events and concerts.

Within walking distance of downtown is the massive Calgary Zoo which encompasses over 159 hectares and houses a vast assortment of Canadian and foreign animals, as well as exhibits on Alberta’s dinosaur-filled past.

Calgary postcards often feature pictures of the Ski Jump Towers , a relic of the 1988 Olympics found on the edge of the city limits. The surrounding  Olympic Park  is now run by a company named WinSport that offers a variety of public activities, including a Zipline and bobsled.

  • Official Website, Tourism Calgary
  • The Top 10 Things to Do in Calgary, TripAdviso r

alberta travel tips

" Wonderland ," a sculpture by famed Spanish artist Jaume Plensaat (b. 1955) at the base of downtown Calgary's Bow Building.

Museums and Galleries

The Glenbow Museum is Alberta’s largest museum, featuring an extensive history of the province from aboriginal times to the present, as well as contemporary artwork and traveling exhibits from around the world.

Spanning over 127 acres, Heritage Park Historical Village is a vast village of antique buildings containing re-creations of Canadian life from the Victorian era to the 1950s, complete with costumed actors.

Shopping and Restaurants

8th Ave SE, better known as Stephen Ave (Calgary streets often have two names) is the primary shopping district. Closed to car traffic in the summer and weekends, it contains a vast array of shops, restaurants, and vendors, many of which are housed in iconic Victorian-era sandstone buildings. An enormous shopping mall known as the CORE runs parallel to a portion of 8th, and contains most major retail chains, as well as a large indoor park, the Devonian Gardens , on the top floor.

Many blocks away, 17th Ave SW, also known as the Red Mile , is the other trendy shopping area, but is better known for its bars and restaurants. A 15 minute drive from the downtown core is the city’s largest mall, the Chinook Centre , which has everything the CORE doesn’t.

The Red Mile is Calgary’s iconic drinking and party zone, named after the color of Calgary’s hockey team, the Flames, which appears in considerable abundance on game nights. The Mile is home to many of the city’s oldest and most iconic bars and lounges.

alberta travel tips

Chuckwagon races at the 2016 Stampede. Bill Marsh/Calgary Stampede

alberta travel tips

A T-Rex skeleton display at the Royal Tyrrell Museum in Drumheller.

The Calgary Stampede is Canada’s biggest party, and takes over much of the city for 10 days every July. Though the 100-year-old festival is officially supposed to revolve around watching traditional cowboy sports like bronco riding and steer wrestling, the modern-day Stampede has grown to offer something for everyone, including live concerts, carnival rides, shopping, and plenty of hot, greasy food.

Spectator Spots

Calgary has an NHL team, the Calgary Flames who play in the Scotiabank Saddledome  and a CFL team, the Calgary Stampeders , who play in the  McMahon Stadium .

Outside Calgary

An hour and a half from Calgary, the Royal Tyrrell Museum in Drumheller houses a vast collection of exhibits on life in prehistoric Canada, including an array of dinosaur skeletons uncovered from the Alberta badlands. The bizarre landscape of the  badlands themselves, which surround the museum, are fun to explore as well.

alberta travel tips

The skyline of Edmonton on the base of the Saskatchewan River .

Edmonton Tourism

Alberta’s second-biggest city and provincial capital.

Edmonton is split in half by the North Saskatchewan River and ample parklands surround the coasts. The downtown area is located on the north side.

The city’s most iconic building is the enormous sandstone structure that houses the Legislative Assembly of Alberta and four glass pyramids on the south side of the river that house the Muttart Conservatory , a massive indoor garden and museum. An equally grand glass pyramid can be found on the roof of the distinctive City Hall building. Surrounding city hall is Sir Winston Churchill Square , a large public plaza.

The gigantic Hotel Macdonald is Edmonton’s fanciest hotel, and the city’s most prominent example of Victorian-era architecture. Outside of downtown, the neighborhood of Old Strathcona contains most other historic buildings of note.

  • Official Website, Tourism Edmonton
  • The Top 10 Things to Do in Edmonton, TripAdvisor

alberta travel tips

The World Waterpark at the West Edmonton Mall. Jeff Whyte/Shutterstock

alberta travel tips

Edmonton City Hall and the Friendship Tower clock.

Most of Edmonton’s shops and restaurants are concentrated around the long Jasper Ave. (also known as 101st Ave) which runs through the downtown core, and the Old Strathcona neighborhood, centered around Whyte Ave (also known as 82nd Ave), which has a more bohemian character.

More than anything else, however, shopping in Edmonton is synonymous with the enormous West Edmonton Mall , which was at one time the largest mall in the world. Though the 1980s-era building is hardly state-of-the-art by today’s standards, its size remains awe-inspiring. It contains over 800 shops and countless other gimmicky attractions, including a roller coaster, a waterpark, a petting zoo, mini-golf, and a re-created 16th Spanish galleon. It’s about a half-hour drive from downtown.

The Art Gallery of Alberta is a wild-looking building containing the province’s largest collection of historic and contemporary art from both Canadian and international artists, with constantly changing exhibits.

Fort Edmonton Park  is an outdoor “living history” museum offering recreated streets and buildings from Edmonton’s past. It’s popular with schoolchildren on field trips.

Spectator sports

Edmonton has an NHL team, the Edmonton Oilers , who play in Rogers Place . Edmonton’s CFL team, the Edmonton Eskimos , play at  the Brick Field  in  Commonwealth Stadium .

Edmonton is unexpectedly home to the world’s third-largest fringe festival , run by a local outfit called  Fringe Theatre Adventures . Held in August, Edmonton Fringe is an 11-day celebration of independent plays, story slams, comedy, magic, busking, and all other forms of public performance. A global assortment of talent stage shows all over town. Ticket prices are quite cheap.

Fan of more conventional performances can check out a play at the  Citadel Theater , or a concert by the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra at the beautiful Winspear Centre .

Outside Edmonton

As Edmonton is not exactly a major tourist destination unto itself, the surrounding area offers limited appeal for visitors. Parks and campgrounds are the main attractions, primarily Jasper National Park (see above), and to a lesser extent  Elk Island National Park , which, though beautiful, has the dubious distinction of being Alberta’s only national park not recognized as a World Heritage Site by the U.N.

Alberta Tourism Resources

  • Alberta Tourism Official Website
  • Alberta, Lonely Planet
  • Alberta Travel Guide, Fodor's

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27 Incredible Things to Do in Alberta That are Bucket List Worthy

By: Author Aly Smalls

Posted on Published: October 28, 2019  - Last updated: May 29, 2023

27 Incredible Things to Do in Alberta That are Bucket List Worthy

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Alberta is my home. And the more I travel around the world, it makes me appreciate my stunning province more and more. You start to see things differently and realize your own backyard is stunning.

My home province has so much to offer – this is exactly why I got into tourism in the first place. Alberta is so much more than its mountains.

While these jagged formations still take my breath away every time I visit, there are so many more bucket list experiences and things to do in Alberta that get missed on posts like this one.

From a born and raised Albertan, here is my Alberta travel guide for stunning places to see, signature experiences to enjoy and the best places to go to soak up the beauty of this province.

What is Alberta Known For?

On the world stage, Alberta is probably best known for being rich in natural resources, and more specifically its oil and gas industry.

Tourism in Alberta is a growing industry (almost $10 billion) and it should be. We have world-class natural landscapes, but often get overlooked by international visitors who think Toronto and Vancouver are the only worthwhile places to visit in Canada .

With overtourism becoming a growing global concern, I want to share the importance of the tourism industry in my province and give you all the best reasons to visit!

You see, our geography is vast and spreads far and wide. Half of our province is covered in boreal forest with very few inhabitants.

We have huge portions of fertile flat farmland which rewards us with incredible prairie views (and food).

Of course, we can’t forget our majestic rocky mountain ranges that provide us with freshwater and world class skiing and viewpoints.

alberta travel tips

Our major cities are becoming urban tech and startup hubs with incredible diversity. We have deserts and Mars-like landscapes.

And above all, we have all four seasons that produce different weather patterns beautiful in their own way. 

So, if you’re visiting Alberta anytime soon, here are my recommendations about what you should see and do. I bet you’ll be blown away by some of these bucket list experiences, and things you didn’t know you could do in Alberta!

And, contrary to what you might have heard, Alberta (and Canada) offers so much more than cold snowy days (although we do winter pretty epic here).

Everything on this list would make for the perfect Alberta road trip, so pick and choose what interests you. Almost anywhere you go in the province, there are tons of attractions all within a few hours’ drive.

Be sure to keep reading to the end of the post, where I provide information and tips about how to navigate around the province over the course of your Alberta vacation.

This post contains some affiliate links, including hotels and Airbnb. Meaning I may make a small commission if you make a purchase through them, but at no extra cost to you. I only share products and services that I know, love and trust.

Marvel at the Famous Alberta Skies

Catch a spectacular sunset.

From cotton candy to glowing orange, the evening sunset colors are incredible, making Alberta one of the most colorful places on earth.

Because we are so far north, in the middle of summer, it’s light out until at least 11:00 pm.

alberta travel tips

After a day spent outdoors hiking, boating or fishing, a relaxing evening watching the sun go down is the way us locals do it!

Find views like this by renting a lakefront cottage on any northern Alberta lake!

Did you know Alberta is home to the two largest dark sky preserves in the world? And a third one that is very accessible and just outside of the capital city, Edmonton.

Whether you’re a star fanatic or not, our night skies offer some of the most incredible views in the world.

Pitch your tent at one of the many campgrounds located within designated dark sky preserves in southern Alberta and near Edmonton.

Or head to Jasper National Park to immerse yourself in the world’s largest accessible dark sky preserve . 

alberta travel tips

Watch the Northern Lights

In addition to the sunsets and stars, the northern lights shine bright here, too! This one is tough because you can’t really plan for when they’ll show up, but there are certain times during the year when they’re most likely to occur.

On a clear, dark night (usually between the months of September to April), there is no better feeling than being surprised by the swirling ribbons of green, purple and pink dancing in the sky above. 

Since Alberta is home to two major cities (making the north easily accessible) many people travel hear specifically to photograph the aurora .

alberta travel tips

Travel Tip : if you do happen to spot them, here’s a super Canadian way to do it. Grab a friend whose got a pickup truck, throw on your touque, stop at a Tim Horton’s (national coffee shop chain) pick up some hot chocolate and head out of the city on an empty backroad.

Grab a seat on the edge of the tailgate and look up and try and keep your jaw closed as you marvel at the natural light show.

Enjoy Room to Breathe in the Wide Open Spaces

Our prairies, fields and plains provide space and breathing room like no where else in the world. Hop in a car and cruise the backroads to find peace, quiet and tranquility.

alberta travel tips

Between the farmers’ fields with oddly beautiful derelict barns and the golden yellow canola crops in July, Alberta is a photographer’s dream.

Summer storm clouds provide added texture for some amazing shots. Take a moment to bask in the endless horizons. 

alberta travel tips

Visit Rural Alberta

In contrast to Vancouver and Toronto, Alberta is sometimes known as cowboy country and for good reason.

We have tons of ranches in Alberta and many of them are located in the southwest portion of the province.

You can find agritourism experiences in every corner, and would make for a great weekend getaway.

alberta travel tips

Check out Highway 22, known as the Cowboy Trail for a scenic western style Alberta road trip. 

The Calgary Stampede is the world-famous rodeo festival that takes over the entire city for 11 days. They call it the greatest outdoor show on earth! Visit Calgary in early-July if you want to be a part of it!

You can experience even more of Alberta’s western rural culture by visiting a local farm. From grain crops, dairy farms, livestock and fruit and vegetables, Alberta offers incredible agritourism opportunities.

alberta travel tips

From milking a cow to tasting fresh honey to learning how to put a horseshoe on a Clydesdale, visiting an Alberta farm is an experience not to be missed when you visit! 

Stay at this off-grid wilderness cabin in the foothills near Sundre for an awesome rural Alberta experience.

alberta travel tips

And if you visit the foothills area just west of Sundre (about an hour and a half north of Calgary), you might have the opportunity to spot the wild horses that roam free.

Another great spot is near Horsethief Canyon in the Canadian Badlands.

Recent Travel Alberta commercials have shown the beauty of a herd of feral horses galloping in the wild at the edge of the rocky mountains.

You can even pay a visit to the Wild Horses of Alberta Society , a nonprofit organization that rescues and rehabilitates injured wild horses. 

alberta travel tips

On a similar note, the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary near Canmore welcomes visitors to their centre to learn about their rehabilitation efforts on neglected and abandoned wolfdogs.

This is a great side activity if you’re planning to visit Banff National Park and have a soft spot for animals who get a second chance at life. 

Unique Craft Breweries

Canadians are well-known for our love of beer, and Alberta is no exception! If you love beer tasting, the local craft brew industry is booming here.

No matter what region of the province you are exploring, visiting a nearby craft brewery should always be on your list of things to do in Alberta.

alberta travel tips

There are so many that offer interactive and hands-on tours that showcase their unique brews and techniques.

Many of them have adorable patios to test your favorites after the tour – another favorite local Albertan activity you should partake in on your trip to Alberta! 

alberta travel tips

Learn About Alberta’s Amazing History

Even though Canada is still a very young country, we do have some incredible history. 

The Town that Got Buried

The Frank Slide was known as one of Alberta’s most catastrophic disasters. In the early 1900s, a section of a mountain let go and created a massive rock slide that buried the entire mining town below.

alberta travel tips

It’s now designated as a provincial historic site and when you drive passed it along the highway you can still see all of the rocks and boulders that haven’t moved since that fateful day.

Stay at this cozy red cabin nearby to visit all the sites in the Crowsnest Pass area.

Dinosaur Capital of the World

If you’re a dinosaur enthusiast, Alberta has tons of options for you to explore.

Alberta is home to the richest source of dinosaur fossils in the world. They can be found all over the province but are predominantly in the southeast portion of the province.

Drumheller is best known for the many dinosaur bones and fossils that have been dug up here.

And the Royal Tyrrell Museum is a world class destination for paleontology and holds the world’s largest display of full dinosaur skeletons.

alberta travel tips

Take a tour to learn all about the history and uncover real fossils (just don’t take any fossil out from the ground as it is illegal). 

Where to Stay in Drumheller

The Purple Door is an adorable 2 bedroom house if you prefer your own place.

The Heartwood Inn and Spa is a quaint cottage style boutique hotel and the owners have put a lot of heart into making this place cozy.

alberta travel tips

Or try riverfront glamping in the hoodoos!

If you’re near Edmonton you can visit the Jurassic Forest which has several walking trails with large scale animatronic dinosaurs hidden throughout the forest.

Whether you’re a family with young kids or a kid at heart, it’s a pretty neat spot. 

Or if you’re in northern Alberta, the Philip J. Currie Museum is only a couple of years old and offers tons of interactive and experiential displays about the dinosaurs that once roamed our province. This museum is located near Grande Prairie.

And you might even find dinosaurs lurking around at the Calgary Zoo…

alberta travel tips

Indigenous Culture

About 60 miles (100 kms) south of Lethbridge is a very important Indigenous site. It’s called Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park because of the petroglyphs carved into the rocks and stone.

alberta travel tips

They tell the story of what life was like for the Blackfoot people going back almost 10,000 years ago. In 2019 the park was finally designated as a UNESCO world heritage site to preserve the important history for many years to come.

You can do all kinds of trail hikes and camping is pretty epic here as well. 

Another interesting Alberta attraction is a place called Head Smashed In Buffalo Jump , and yes, it’s exactly what is sounds like. It’s a massive cliff where the Indigenous hunters would herd the buffalo over the edge.

alberta travel tips

It sounds a little graphic but the buffalo were their livelihood. They harvested the meat for food, made clothing and shelter out of the hides and weapons out of their bones. 

Canada’s First National Park

Founded in the late 1800s, Banff National Park is now Alberta’s most visited destination. But did you know it was Canada’s first national park, and among one of the first in the world?

As the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) was building a railway across Canada, they had to blast their way through the Rocky Mountains and quickly discovered the natural beauty of the area.

alberta travel tips

This also led to the discovery of geothermal mineral waters which were later developed into the Banff Upper Hot Springs that we know today. 

Tour Trains and Locomotives

Speaking of railways, train enthusiasts will love Alberta. Just north of Edmonton is the Alberta Railway Museum which is an open air museum with incredible displays of old locomotives.

On weekends in the summer they usually have the old steam engines running for a demonstration as well. 

alberta travel tips

Incredibly Unique Landscapes

Some of the best things to do in Alberta is to explore the surreal landscapes we have here.

One of my favorite areas is in southeastern Alberta, in and around Drumheller.

This area is referred to as the Canadian Badlands and it makes you feel like you’re either in the wild west or on Mars!

Here you can check out all kinds of trails through the Hoodoo formations and explore the landscape up close and personal. 

alberta travel tips

Check out Horsethief Canyon and the Hoodoo trail for breathtaking viewpoints. Then stop for a stretch break at the Rosedale Suspension Bridge (if your nerves can handle it)!

And for a fun beverage stop, travel down Highway 10x to Wayne, Alberta at the Last Chance Saloon, where bullet holes from the wild west days are still in the walls!

alberta travel tips

Travel tip : most people visit Drumheller, but you should actually head a little further south to Dinosaur Provincial Park which has a way bigger area to explore and the scenery is so much more breathtaking.

And for a real cowboy experience, head to the tiny village of Patricia, where you will find the hotel restaurant in which you get to cook your own Alberta beef steak.

Epic Waterfalls

Alberta is full of some of some pretty epic flowing water, and while there are some bangers that can be found in the Rockies, you don’t always have to travel to the mountain national parks to find them.

In the David Thompson area of Highway 11 near Nordegg, you can find Crescent Falls along the Big Horn River(easier access) and Ram Falls (a little harder to get to).

alberta travel tips

This whole area is one of the best places to go camping in Alberta right now, and is nearby the milky-turquoise colored Abraham Lake.

Don’t feel like camping? Rent this adorable log cabin in the woods (view on Airbnb) and unplug in the wilderness.

alberta travel tips

Or if you keep heading toward Jasper National Park, especially along the Icefields Parkway, you can visit Athabasca Falls, Sunwapta Falls and Tangle Creek Falls.

For easy access to these falls (including walking distance to Sunwapta), stay at the Sunwapta Falls Rocky Mountain Lodge .

alberta travel tips

There are even waterfalls that can be found in the middle of rural Alberta – like Hard Luck Canyon . It’s geologically fascinating.

The Canadian Rocky Mountains

Obviously this is the number one attraction and likely the reason you’re visiting Alberta.

Located just over an hours’ drive from Calgary, Banff National Park has plenty of things to do – my guide has dozens of things to do in Banff for a more specific list.

From the adorable mountain town nestled in the mountains, to hot springs, turquoise lakes and incredible hiking, you can easily spend 3 or 4 days here.

Whether you want to experience it as a magical winter snow globe or hike some world class trails in the summer, Banff is a beautiful place to visit any time of year .

alberta travel tips

Stunning Lake Louise

If you’re looking for the best places to see in Alberta in the mountains, the iconic Lake Louise is about 40 minutes away from the town of Banff and is my number one favorite spot.

As it lies perfectly turquoise and tranquil between the mountain peaks, its beauty is like no other. For a closer look, rent a canoe for a or take a simple stroll around the lake.

If you’ve got a couple hours, I highly recommend the Lake Agnes Tea House hike.

alberta travel tips

Lake Louise Travel Tips:

To avoid disappointment, arrive at Lake Louise as early as possible to avoid the crowds.

Or better yet, stay at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise which overlooks the lake.

You can also head up to the Lake Louise Ski Resort (10 minute drive) and take the gondola up the mountain for views of the lake, too!

Canoe rentals at Lake Louise can run upwards of $100 per hour and long wait/queue times. For a similar experience with fewer crowds, head to Lake Minnewanka!

alberta travel tips

Moraine Lake

Moraine Lake is another spot frequented by tourists because of its incredible turquoise color. But if you’ve got a car, go a little further and search for Peyto Lake, which is just as stunning and a little less busy. 

Take a Road Trip On the World’s Most Beautiful Highway

alberta travel tips

If you love winding mountain roads with legendary and breathtaking views, travel Highway 93 from Banff to Jasper (or visa versa). It’s arguably one of the most scenic drives in the world, and you can experience it on your trip to Alberta.

On this trip you can visit the Athabasca Glacier and experience the Columbia Icefield Skywalk – a glass floor observation deck that pokes out over the massive gorge below.

Read More: Banff vs. Jasper – how to choose which national park to visit

Jasper National Park

On the northern tip of the Icefields Parkway is Jasper National Park. It is equally as stunning, more spread out, less busy and offers breathtaking things to do .

Some of the signature attractions here are Maligne Lake, gorgeous hikes and the Miette hot springs. 

The Jasper SkyTram is also a must-do experience, and better than the Banff Gondola in my opinion! It’s one of of the many dog-friendly activities in Jasper .

alberta travel tips

Travel tip: June is my favorite month to visit Jasper. The weather is perfectly pleasant and the summer crowds aren’t quite in full swing.

However, mid-July is when all the alpine wildflowers are in full bloom.

Check out the Mount Edith Cavell trail for some gorgeous wildflower meadows among the mountains.

Plus there are many other hikes in Jasper that offer huge reward payoffs for minimal effort.

alberta travel tips

You Might Also Like: Best Places to Stay in Jasper for a Cozy Mountain Getaway (all budgets!)

Magical Winter Experiences

As I mentioned earlier, we have all 4 seasons here, and that includes winter! Sure it gets cold, but fresh white snow and pure blue sky days are beautiful. And we get a lot of days like this. 

alberta travel tips

Outdoor Ice Skating

Ice skating on any frozen lake or pond is a must do signature experience in Alberta in the winter.

Travel Tip : if you’re lucky and traveling to the mountains in early-December, you might be able to hit some frozen lakes before the snow covers them. 

Magic Ice Bubbles

My number one recommendation for places to see in Alberta in the winter i s Abraham Lake . This is where the little ice bubbles get trapped in the water when it freezes and it makes for some beautiful scenery.

What happens is that organic matter at the bottom of the lake starts to break down and produces methane gas.

But in November/December, the water freezes faster than the gas can escape, and this is what causes the bubbles to freeze.

alberta travel tips

Travel Tip : any Google or Instagram search will show you dreamy turquoise images of this place. While it’s absolutely stunning, this place gets frigid cold because of the wind that travels through here.

If you want to spend some time and enjoy it, bundle up because it will be much colder than you think! 

Complete your Alberta vacation by staying in this log cabin near Abraham Lake. Or choose from a selection of cottages near Nordegg.

Cozy Cabins

Another favorite thing to do in Alberta is to rent a cozy cabin in the mountains , and this is especially fun in the winter.

What’s more magical than sitting near a wood burning fire place  in your log cabin sipping tea or hot chocolate as you look out the window at the snowflakes covering the mountain tops? 

Winter Festivals

There are lots of ice carving festivals to check out as well. Lake Louise is probably the most famous, where they host the Ice Magic Festival.

Edmonton also puts on fun ice activities, like the Ice on Whyte Festival, the giant Ice Castle and the Silver Skate Festival each February. 

World Class Skiing and Snowboarding

Alberta has several world class mountain ski resorts that rival those found in Europe. Sunshine Village is the most popular resort close to Banff and many celebrities visit here, too.

alberta travel tips

Lake Louise Ski Resort is about 45 minutes further and hosts many world cup ski races and events throughout the season.

Or you could go skiing in Jasper at Marmot Basin , which was ranked the best North American ski resort in 2018 by USA today.

Attend an NHL Game

Us Canadians love our hockey, and especially in Alberta. We’ve got two NHL teams in Alberta, the Edmonton Oilers and Calgary Flames.

Even if you don’t know much about hockey, the atmosphere is a blast. You can usually find last minute tickets on Ticketmaster and StubHub.

alberta travel tips

Thriving Urban Cities

Edmonton is the capital city of Alberta but Calgary is more well-known. Both cities have a very young population and have really started to become urban artsy hubs.

From adorable plant-based cafes like the Moth Cafe in Edmonton to basement brewpubs like the Last Best in Calgary, there are tons of fun things to check out.

Calgary has an epic zoo and some fantastic bridges and scenic pedestrian areas.

alberta travel tips

Edmonton has a thriving farmers market scene and its river valley is the largest stretch of urban parkland in North America. Yes, it’s more than Central Park in New York City if you can believe it! 

Where to Stay in Calgary

Hotel Arts is in downtown and offers pool parties in the summer.

The Hotel Fairmont Palliser is also downtown and half a block from Stephen Avenue which the pedestrian area with great shops and restuarants.

alberta travel tips

Where to Stay in Edmonton

The Matrix is a popular choice and great boutique hotel in the heart of downtown. There’s a great restaurant and Starbucks on site, too.

Read Next: Swoop Airlines Review – Everything You Need to Know Before Flying on Canada’s No-Frills Airline

Tips About Planning Your Trip to Alberta

There are two international airports, one in Edmonton and one in Calgary. If you can swing it, I would recommend flying into either one, then renting a car and flying out of the other airport.

For example, fly into Edmonton, rent a car and tour around and then fly out of Calgary.

I mentioned we get all 4 seasons here, so make sure you know what season you will be traveling in.

Summer is the most popular time to visit, which is June to August. The days are warm and receive lots of sunshine. It’s also the busiest and most expensive.

Either way, whenever you visit Alberta, the weather always provides you with something to do!

Ready to Explore More Alberta?

Check out 6 Iconic and Unique Road Trips Through Alberta

16 Romantic Getaways in Alberta (unique & affordable ideas)

7 Day Trips from Edmonton Within 2 Hours That You’ll Love

Love Alberta as much as I do? Feel free to share it with your friends on Facebook! Don’t forget to save a pin to your travel boards!

alberta travel tips

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

How to See Alberta: A 10-Day Suggested Driving Itinerary

The peaceful scenery of Banff, Alberta

Dalene and Pete Heck, the duo behind Hecktic Travels is also the team at Road Trip Alberta ! Dalene and Pete are Alberta raised and currently living in the province’s third-biggest city, Lethbridge. Alberta is one of the most scenic provinces in Canada and, today, Dalene shares a driving itinerary hitting many of her favorite Alberta sights.

Arguably Canada’s most beautiful province, Alberta is known primarily for the mountain hub of Banff National Park. Millions descend annually on Calgary airport and then high-tail it west for an hour and a half to visit this gem of the Rockies. The draw of Banff is entirely warranted but many of these visitors often miss out on everything else that Alberta has to offer.

Its cities are dynamic, other mountain towns are just as gorgeous and with fewer tourists, the southeastern side of the province is home to a trove of dinosaur bones, and the north is covered in lush forests and teeming with wildlife and outdoor adventures eager to be had.

As a born-and-raised Albertan, I left in my early thirties to see more of the world, craving exploration. When I returned almost a decade later, I did so with fresh eyes and an appreciation for the land that shaped me.

This article outlines a ten-day road trip itinerary shares some of my favorite spots in the province that will help you see more than crowds of tourists in Banff!  

Day 1: Calgary

The towering skyline of Calgary, Alberta, Canada in the autumn

Dubbed “Cowtown” due to its roots in the cattle industry, Calgary is Alberta’s largest city (1.37 million people). Balancing modern urban architecture with friendly, small-town vibes, Calgary is a curious melting pot of folks from many backgrounds. It’s also home to an array of activities and a trendy food scene that will ensure that your days and tummies are full.

Start Downtown Explore the Bow River’s network of walking and biking trails. See the prime photo spot of the Peace Bridge. For another prime photo op and to gaze upon an architectural wonder, don’t miss the Calgary Public Library, which was named one of the 100 Greatest Places of 2019 by Time magazine.

Not far from the library is Prince’s Island Park, which is a hub for cultural events. It’s home to the Calgary Folk Music Festival (in late July) and the esteemed River Café (a pricey restaurant but well worth it), and near to Eau Claire Market, which has some mouth-watering eats and specialty merchandise.

Fuel Up on Good Eats Don’t miss out on Tubby Dog for a cheap, delicious, and fun meal? Play some classic arcade games while you try the Sumo (a dog with pickled ginger, Japanese mayo, wasabi, and seaweed salad) or the A-bomb (a dog with all the classic trimmings, plus a healthy dump of potato chips right on top). Another one of my faves is Native Tongues, which offers upscale Mexican food in the city center.

Consider Planning Your Visit Around These Festivals The Calgary Stampede — also known as “the greatest outdoor show on earth” — takes over the city for ten days in early July. The world-class rodeo is just one facet of the event. There’s also a spectacular grandstand show plus all the rides and deep-fried festival foods you would expect. It’s also a giant, messy party too.

Beakerhead, held annually in mid-September, brings together the worlds of art, science, and engineering. Imagine a massive party filled with fire-shooting robots, an interactive science lesson on how to make the best chocolate chip cookie, and playing a giant life-sized version of Snakes & Ladders. It’s the best nerd party of the year.

Where to stay in Calgary

  • Canada’s Best Value Inn Chinook Station – Located near the Chinook LRT Station, this hotel features a continental breakfast, with rooms available starting as low as $49 CAD/night.
  • HI Calgary City Centre – If you happen to be a member of HI Canada, consider this hostel, located in the downtown core, just a two-minute walk to the C-train (local transit) station.
  • Hotel Arts – For more upscale and eclectic lodging near downtown, this hotel has top-rated amenities for a reasonable price.

Day 2: Banff

The picturesque city of Banff, Alberta, Canada with mountains in the distance

Note: You’ll need to purchase a park pass upon arrival at the gates just outside of town, or you can buy one online . The current daily rate for an adult is $10.00 CAD, and it will expire at 4:00 pm the following day.

If you’re planning on visiting multiple parks, you might consider a Parks Canada “Discovery Pass” for $69.19 CAD, which can be used for multiple days and will grant you entry to all Canadian national parks for one full year.

There are too many amazing hikes to list, but start with the iconic Johnston Canyon. Keep it short with a 30-minute walk to the Lower Falls, or plan for a full four-hour trek all the way to the Ink Pots. (For more info, read this guide to hiking in Banff .)

To really get the adrenaline pumping, head to Mt. Norquay for the Via Ferrata hike. Cross suspension bridges and climb ladders on the edge of a mountain, all while safely harnessed and led by an experienced guide.

There are also plenty of options for canoeing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding on a number of nearby lakes. Visit the Banff Canoe Club in town for rentals.

Winter is a prime time to visit if you’re a ski bunny. Three mountains in the area known collectively as Ski Big 3 (Banff Sunshine, the Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Mt. Norquay) are all world-class.

Be sure to take the Banff Gondola up Sulphur Mountain for some epic views. It’s open year-round, and it has an impressive interpretive center and scenic boardwalk at the top, and even two restaurants.

Nearby is also the stunning Banff Upper Hot Springs.

Where to Eat Wild Flour Bakery, known for its nourishing baked goods and good coffee, is an excellent stop to fill your tank at any time of day.

Eager to try some Canadian wild meats? Head to the Grizzly House to cook up your own bison, elk, or a number of other options using a hot stone at your table. The decor is severely outdated, but the experience is a must-do. Not a meat-eater? Head to Nourish Bistro for the best plant-based food in Banff.

Where to Stay in Banff

  • Banff International Hostel – Just a few blocks from the heart of downtown, this hostel is a comfortable place to rest your head after a long day of exploring!
  • YWCA Banff Hotel – The perfect hideaway in the mountains for those looking for a comfortable and budget-friendly accommodation.
  • HI Banff Alpine Centre – If you’re a member of the HI community, you may want to stay at this location, the largest hostel in Alberta.

Day 3: Banff and Lake Louise

Lake Louise and Banff at night under a starry sky

If there was anything left on your to-do list from the day before, finish that up now, but plan for almost a whole day around Lake Louise.

While in Lake Louise…. The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is the major draw in the area, and walking its halls is a must before you venture on any number of outdoor activities.

If you are there in summer, consider the Lake Agnes Tea House hike for its views and the unique experience of taking tea on top of the world (remember to bring cash, as they don’t have other payment options on-site). It is a short 2.2mile (3.5 km) hike, but you can also continue on to Lake Agnes itself.

Feeling adventurous? Then take “the Tea House Challenge” and visit the other one, too, The Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House, for a 9 mile (14.5 km) total hike on the Highline Trail.

If you are there in winter, skating, snowshoeing, dog-sledding, sleigh rides, and more are all available from the hotel. You will have no problem filling your day in one of the most beautiful spots in all of Canada.

Dining options are fewer in the very small town of Lake Louise, but find the Trailhead Café for a budget-friendly and supremely delicious meal. There are also several options inside the Chateau itself, but I recommend Alpine Social for its laid-back atmosphere and hearty food.  

Day 4: Driving from Banff to Jasper

The beautiful landscape of Alberta, Canada between Banff and Jasper

The Icefields Parkway is breathtaking. Take it slow and stop often to really absorb the beauty of this day. (Do, however, consult the weather forecast and road conditions , as it can often be closed in winter.)

Making the Drive Fill up the car with gas and pack a picnic lunch before leaving Banff, as there is only one place to stop for snacks en route (Saskatchewan River Crossing) but it is closed in winter. But once you are safely on your way, here are just a few of the stops you can make:

  • Leave early to catch sunrise over Vermillion Lakes, just outside of Banff as you begin your journey north.
  • Peyto Lake is a must-see. You have undoubtedly seen its image before; now it’s time to see it for yourself! From your car it’s just a short walk up a hill to get to the viewpoint and take in that stark aquamarine water from above.
  • The Columbia Icefield, just an hour before Jasper, is the largest in the Canadian Rockies. You can take a tour to walk right on the glacier and/or take a stroll on the glass-floored Icefield Skywalk lookout to see everything from above.

There is much more to see! This Banff-to-Jasper article maps it all out for you.

Where to Stay in Jasper

  • Jasper Downtown Hostel – Conveniently situated in the heart of downtown Jasper, this modern hostel won’t break the bank; its private rooms start as low as $63 CAD/night.
  • HI Jasper – Just a short walk to downtown, the HI Hostel Jasper was opened in June 2019. Choose between private rooms, shared rooms for four, and family rooms.
  • Maligne Lodge – Conveniently tucked at the edge of Jasper’s main street, where the mountains end and the town begins, this is a great budget-friendly hotel.

Days 5 & 6: Jasper

The huge elk standing near a small lake in Alberta, Canada near Jasper

Spirit Island is one of the most photographed spots in Canada. You can canoe out there and reach this spot on Maligne Lake in half a day. If you don’t feel like doing that, boat cruises are available too!

Moreover, take advantage of your remote location and book a tour to see some iconic Canadian wildlife (bears, elk, mountain goats, moose, and more). While such encounters may occur by chance on your visit, a guided tour will increase your chances and is a great way to gain local knowledge.

Additionally, in October, the Jasper Dark Sky Festival takes place.The park has ideal conditions for this given that there is so little light pollution. If you can’t make it there, the Jasper Planetarium is open year-round for star viewing.

There are so many hiking options. Start with a short jaunt to Athabasca Falls (less than an hour round-trip), and then ramp up according to your fitness level. (See this article about best Jasper hikes to decide what comes next.)

Just north of town is Maligne Canyon, and in winter, you can walk on and explore the frozen river (be sure you have ice cleats on). In the summer, you can hike in the canyon, and the winding trail has six suspension bridges spanning the gorge.

Take a load off and ride up the Jasper Skytram to experience the best mountain views. On a clear day, you can even see peaks in neighboring British Columbia. Enjoy the seven-minute ride up and have a bite at the Summit Restaurant at the top.

Must-Eats Stop at the Bright Spot Family Restaurant for the big country breakfast, which will stick to your bones and give you energy for your day. Whistle Stop Pub is also good for a pint and snack. Canada’s very first national park brewery, Jasper Brewing Company, is also here. Along with six signature brews that are made on-site, the large restaurant offers elevated pub fare.  

Day 7: Driving from Jasper to Edmonton

The stunning vista between Jasper and Edmonton in Alberta, Canada

If you don’t hit up Miette Hot Springs during your stay in Jasper, then it’s an easy stop on the way out of town. It is home to the hottest spring water in the Canadian Rockies! It requires a little detour off of the main highway, but the drive through the Fiddle Valley alone makes it worth the trip.

An hour into your journey, you can make a stop in Hinton to see the most iconic of local wildlife: the humble beaver. Stretch your legs along the nearly 2 mile (3 km) Beaver Boardwalk, and hopefully, you’ll spot Canada’s national animal.

This is also a great place to plan to have lunch: The Old Grind has an extensive menu that includes vegetarian and vegan options.

Arriving in Edmonton Depending on what time you left Jasper, the driving conditions you encountered (add more time in winter!), and how many stops you made along the way, you may arrive with extra time to explore Alberta’s capital city. And my guess is that those car-bound legs are going to need a stretch.

As you drive into the west side of Edmonton, this would be the perfect occasion to take a long walk in the largest mall in North America. West Edmonton Mall is home to over 800 stories and services, and it contains theme parks, multiple movie theaters, a ridiculously fun indoor water park, and even a large skating rink.

Enjoying the mall can easily take up the rest of your day (and the next one, if you are a shopper).  

Days 8 & 9: Edmonton

The skyline of Edmonton, Alberta, Canada during autumn

The Fringe Festival is the biggest and oldest of its kind in North America and offers a dynamic theater experience. Running annually for ten days in the middle of August, it often attracts more than 1,500 local, national, and international artists, who give well over a thousand performances across the city.

The Silver Skate Festival is becoming one of the premier events in Alberta to celebrate and embrace winter. One highlight is the opening of the ice castles in Hawrelak Park, typically several weeks before the February festival. During the ten days of the festival itself, expect snow sculpting, skate races, helicopter tours, and more.

If you aren’t in Edmonton during a festival, take time and stroll through the grounds of the Alberta Legislature. Not only is “the Ledge” an architectural journey into the past (construction was started in 1907) but you can also learn about the Canadian government, Alberta’s political history, and the art and architecture of the building by taking a free tour.

Edmonton’s river valley is the largest urban park in North America, with 100 miles (160 kms) of maintained paths. So you don’t even have to leave the city itself to explore nature! Walk and cycle as far as you like, taking in any (or all) of the 20 city parks along the river.

Head for the Neon Sign Museum one night. This collection of 20 functional historic signs tells the story of Edmonton’s neon past al fresco. This exhibit is completely free and open 24/7.

If you didn’t get your wildlife fill in the Rockies, then head a short distance outside of the city to Elk Island National Park. Elk Island is the only fenced national park in Canada, a conservation effort to help bring the bison population back.

And you didn’t think I’d go this entire post without mentioning a hockey game, did you? The Edmonton Oilers play in one of the newest arenas in the NHL, so catch a game if you can, especially if they are playing their provincial rivals, the Calgary Flames.

If you are visiting in summer, you can also watch a heated Canadian football (not soccer) battle between the Edmonton Eskimos and the Calgary Stampeders.

Can’t-Miss Food and Drink Stop at Duchess Bake Shop. This Parisian-inspired café blends some of Alberta’s favorite flavors with French pastries, all made from scratch daily. It’s regularly mentioned as one of the best cafés in the city.

Hathaway’s Diner has quality food at reasonable prices. And who doesn’t love old-school-diner kitsch?

A few years ago, Alberta’s tax system changed up the way it categorized breweries, which resulted in an explosion of craft beer across the province. Don’t miss a stop at Craft Beer Market as it offers up Canada’s largest selection of craft brews.

Where to Stay in Edmonton

  • HI Edmonton – Located just off of Whyte Avenue in Edmonton’s historic Old Strathcona neighborhood, this hostel is right near the river valley park system (also many bus stops to get to other destinations).
  • Days Inn Downtown – Conveniently located in the downtown core and only minutes away from local attractions, this hotel is an excellent option for those not wanting to give up comfort while staying on budget.

Day 10: Driving to Calgary

One of the funny displays in the Gopher Hole Museum in Alberta, Canada

If you have time, visit the Heritage Ranch near Red Deer (about halfway through the drive). A rancher will drop you off in the middle of the wilderness with a map and a compass (or a GPS). Your goal is to remain at large and capture four designated flags within an hour. All the while, you are being hunted by a man on a horse. It is terrifying and exhilarating and everything in between!

A little closer to Calgary , you can turn off the main highway into Torrington and find the Gopher Hole Museum. Gopher overpopulation is a problem in the area, and so the residents wanted to create something quirky to bring in tourists. The museum is one small room of taxidermied rodents staged in a variety of scenes that highlight local life (think curling gophers, beautician gophers, etc.). It will take no more than a half-hour to visit, but it is well worth the detour for all the WTF moments to be had.

Alberta is a very big province. By comparison, Texas is only 2% bigger. If it is the mountains that call you here, then that is rightly so, but I hope you will also take the time to explore other parts of this land rich in attractions. They will keep anyone and everyone entertained for ten days and beyond!

Dalene Heck and her husband Pete are behind the blog Hecktic Travels , which chronicles their journey since selling all their belongings in 2009. They’ve recently started the website Road Trip Alberta to encourage people to visit their home provence.

Book Your Trip to Canada: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner or Momondo to find a cheap flight. They are my two favorite search engines because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned. Start with Skyscanner first though because they have the biggest reach!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

  • Safety Wing (for everyone below 70)
  • Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
  • Medjet (for additional repatriation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Canada? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Canada for even more planning tips!

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Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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People canoeing on the bright, clear waters of Lake Louise, Alberta, Canada

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Alberta is where the Canadian Rockies meet the Great Plains in a series of spectacular landscapes. The province is all about wide-open spaces. From the mountains to the Badlands, there are five UNESCO World Heritage sites and four national parks that protect the province’s natural wonders and abundant wildlife. Mountain towns like Jasper and Banff celebrate mountain culture, while both Edmonton and Calgary host a cosmopolitan character that’s growing in pace with the booming economy. And quintessential western Canadian culture shines through at the annual Calgary Stampede.

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Banff Lake Louise in Canada

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When’s the best time to go to Alberta?

Alberta enjoys the most sunshine of all the Canadian provinces, so it’s always a good time to visit. Spring is short and sweet, lasting only April to May, but this is when Alberta’s diverse wildflowers bloom in Waterton National Park. Summer is when Alberta is at its peak. The days are long, and warmer than most would expect. In Banff and Jasper national parks, it’s the time to explore the mountains by visiting Spirit Island or hiking above Moraine Lake. The Canadian Rockies are home to some of the world’s most scenic ski areas, and since they’re located in the great white north, the resorts enjoy long seasons that last from November to May. Winter enthusiasts may still prefer to visit between December and March, when it’s also possible to skate on Lake Louise or venture along the Malinge Canyon Icewalk.

How to get around Alberta

Both Edmonton and Calgary have international airports, with daily flights arriving from just about everywhere. Because Alberta is so large, and its attractions so spread out, make sure to fly into the right airport. The Alberta Badlands, the Cowboy Trail, and Banff and Waterton national parks are closer to Calgary, while Jasper National Park is closest to Edmonton. Another scenic way to arrive in Alberta is by train. VIARail’s Canada Line runs between Toronto and Vancouver, via Jasper and Edmonton. Rocky Mountaineer runs from Seattle and Vancouver to Jasper, Lake Louise, Banff, and Calgary.

Alberta is massive, but regional flight services are limited. While airport shuttles to Jasper and Banff national parks are available from both Calgary and Edmonton, it’s often easiest to get around the province by car. For the most part, roads are paved and navigation is easy, but make sure to check your fuel gauge before leaving rural towns, as it can be several hundred kilometers between service stations. The bonus, however, is fuel prices that are typically the most inexpensive in Canada. Throughout the summer, many visitors opt to rent RVs and stay at campgrounds in the Canadian Rockies. In the winter, make sure to request an AWD rental car with winter tires to make the most of driving on snow-covered roads.

Food and drink to try in Alberta

“I love Alberta Beef” stickers adorn pickup-truck bumpers throughout the province, and much of the local diet features hearty servings of red meat. But don’t go thinking it’s limited to beef, as farm-raised venison, elk, and bison appear on many menus. The province is currently experiencing a farm-to-table movement that takes advantage of its proximity to locally grown food. From downtown Calgary, it’s less than 20 kilometers to sprawling ranches. Craft beer is booming throughout the province, too, with the opening of dozens of microbreweries, including Jasper Brewing Company, the first-ever in a Canadian national park. As for cocktails, the Caesar is Alberta’s signature drink. Invented in Calgary, a traditional Caesar contains vodka, Clamato juice, hot sauce, and Worcestershire and is served in a celery salt–rimmed glass.

Culture in Alberta

Much of Alberta’s culture is celebrated in the province’s five UNESCO World Heritage sites. The Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks site protects the abundant wildlife of the Canadian Rockies, while the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, located in the southwest corner of the province, was formed to commemorate goodwill between the USA and Canada. At Dinosaur Provincial Park, 75 million years of fossilized history has been discovered in the dramatic landscapes of the Badlands. Wood Buffalo National Park is home to the world’s largest bison herd, and Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump celebrates aboriginal culture by portraying how the Plains Indians hunted buffalo for thousands of years.

The Calgary Stampede is Alberta’s most famous annual event, drawing over 700,000 visitors to the province for 10 days each July. More than the just world’s richest rodeo, the event’s live music performances and Stampede Midway draw crowds equal to the rodeo itself. After the Stampede, the province sees many summer music festivals, such as the Edmonton Folk Music Festival, Calgary’s Sled Island Festival, and Hinton’s Wild Mountain Music Fest. The Banff Mountain Film Festival brings adventure filmmaking into the limelight each October, while Jasper in January is dubbed the Canadian Rockies’ hottest winter festival.

Local travel tips for Alberta

  • Wildlife viewing is easiest at sunrise or sunset, so locals hoping to spot a grizzly bear or mountain goat (or any of the dozens of species native to Alberta, like elk, moose, deer, bighorn sheep, or black bears) hit the road earlier than most visitors.
  • The weather is unpredictable. Freezing-cold winter days turn mild when Chinook winds blow. And hot summer days can quickly turn cold, especially in the Canadian Rockies.
  • Make sure to pack an extra layer, just in case.
  • September is usually the most stable weather-wise. Sunny days with surprisingly warm temperatures coincide with the end of tourist season, so don’t be afraid to visit in the low season.

Guide Editor

Jeff Bartlett

The carvings at SGang Gwaay Llanagaay are some of the totems visitors can see at Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve and Haida Heritage Site.

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Alberta Trip Planner and Travel Guide

Experience Alberta on the wild side with my Alberta Trip Planner full of epic content and personal tips to get you inspired.

Alberta is a breathtaking province and a vacation destination you won’t soon forget with high mountains and glacially-fed blue lakes, golden wheat, and bright yellow flowers of canola fields across an endlessly rolling countryside.

Discover remote alpine lakes and glaciers, hidden places that most people never see, not even the Albertans.

Medicine Lake Jasper National Park Alberta trip

Visit the Rocky Mountains with world-famous Banff and Jasper national parks. Head east to the Canadian Badlands and the dinosaurs at Drumheller. Explore the boreal forest and lake lands of the north. Travel through the grasslands and rolling prairies of the south. Refresh in the steaming waters of a natural hot spring.

Plan your Alberta trip

Alberta rocky mountains, central alberta, northern alberta.

Alberta epic Road trips

Small towns in Alberta to visit

Alberta’s Heritage

Top things to do in Alberta

Winter in Alberta

Canadian Rockies Jasper National Park Alberta trip planner

Travel in Alberta

Alberta is full of natural wonders with its over 250 provincial parks and recreation areas plus five national parks, Banff, Jasper, Waterton, Wood Buffalo and Elk Island, including three world heritage sites. For Alberta trip planning you need to know the basics.

  • Park Passes – Park passes are required for entry into any of Canada’s national parks. You can buy them at the park entrance or buy them online . Instead of a single entry pass, Parks Canada Discovery Passes cover admission to more than 80 destinations for 12 months. They are also available at all MEC Mountain Equipment Company locations. Entrance to provincial parks is free.
  • Wildlife – Alberta has hundreds of species of wildlife, including elk, moose, bighorn sheep, grizzly bear, bison, cougar and wolf. Pick up brochures at Visitor Information Centres for safety tips and check out Canadian Wildlife – what you need to know for more information.
  • Weather and Climate – Alberta is known for sunny days and strong winds. Summer daytime highs are normally 20 to 25°C but can reach the upper 30s. Winter temperatures range from -5 to -15°C. They can drop as low as -30 to -40°C for short periods of time. Read more about the weather and climate here
  • Emergency – Fire/Police/Ambulance: 911
  • Road Conditions – call #511 – 511.alberta.ca

Alberta Trip Planner and things to know

  • What to Pack: Be prepared for all kinds of weather when travelling in Alberta. The weather can change quickly and it’s best to dress in layers in any season.
  • Taxes: Alberta is the only province in Canada without a provincial sales tax (PST) which makes travelling in this province a bit more affordable. There is still a five percent government goods and service tax (GST) charged on most purchases. Learn more about Canadian currency .
  • Tipping in Canada is expected by food servers, taxi drivers, tour guides, hotel staff and estheticians and is usually not added to your bill.
  • Accommodation Guide
  • Cell phones – stay connected
  • General tips and advice

Getting here

  • Air: International airports in Alberta are Calgary (YYC), Edmonton (YEG), and Fort McMurray (YYM). For more on flights visit How to find cheap flights .
  • Car: Alberta is accessible from the east and west by two officially designated Trans-Canada routes. Highway 1 crosses Alberta in the south and Trans-Canada Yellowhead Highway 16 crosses through central Alberta. For north-south travel use the Queen Elizabeth II Highway.
  • Train : Via Rail service is available to Edmonton and Jasper. The Rocky Mountaineer runs between Vancouver and Jasper, as well as Banff, Lake Louise and Calgary.

Getting around

  • Getting around Canada guide – complete getting around guide
  • Car rental what you need to know
  • RV and Camper rental guide
  • Bus tours , scheduled coach services and shuttle services are available through various operators. Every city has good public transportation.
  • Weather, road construction and other activities result in different highway conditions across Alberta. For road reports dial 511 or visit 511alberta.ca .

Few mountain ranges are as dramatic as the Canadian Rockies. It’s a vast land filled with inspiring scenery, wildlife, and an abundance of recreational activities. Explore the areas of Jasper, Banff and Waterton Lakes National Parks, as well as less known Kananaskis Country. Many small unique towns and attractions will meet you along the way.

PLAN YOUR TRIP

Hikine Jasper National Park, Canadian Rockies, Alberta Canada

Here you travel through rolling foothills, wide open prairies and stunning badlands, home to the world’s largest deposits of dinosaur bones. Dinosaur Provincial Park and Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, are two of Alberta’s five World Heritage Sites. Cypress Hills Provincial Park and Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park are also in this region.

Southern Alberta country side

Alberta’s heartland stretches from the foothills of the Rockies to an endless of golden plains and aspen parkland east to the Saskatchewan border. Here you feel the lively western heritage and pioneering spirit. Many provincial parks and beautiful historic towns to visit along the way.

Plan your trip to Central Alberta.

Historic Nordegg, small town Alberta Canada

A fast land of massive mountain ranges, boreal forests, sweeping grassland, sand dunes and huge rivers. Fly into Wood Buffalo National Park, the world’s largest dark sky preserve for a bucket list experience. Easier to access are Elk Island National Park and Lesser Slave Lake Provincial Park.

Plan your trip to Northern Alberta

Bison are a common sight in Northern Alberta

Alberta epic road trips

Road trip travel means freedom of choice and total flexibility. Go where you want, stop anywhere, and detour off the beaten track for the best adventures. The experience of having the open road in front of you is addictive. It’s the best way to experience the amazing province of Alberta.

Road trip itineraries coming soon.

Road trip Kananaskis country southern Alberta Canada

19 Best towns in Alberta

Visiting small towns, meeting locals and exploring surrounding areas are highlights of my travels. Don’t just glance at the town sign on your way through. Stop at the local coffee shop or store and inquire about the area. You will be surprised by what you get.

Alberta Towns

Town of Bragg Creek Southern Alberta Canada

Alberta is not only an outdoor lover’s paradise, but it also comes with an interesting history. Museums and historic sites around the province show off the beginning of the fur trade 250 years ago and the era of the cowboys and pioneers o the 1800s.

The history of native cultures can be seen at the Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump Interpretive Centre near Fort Macleod and in the petroglyphs and pictographs at Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park, near Milk River.

Traditions of Aboriginal people are remembered in Edmonton’s Provincial Museum of Alberta and many other smaller museums throughout the province.

Top things to do

Alberta is a nature lover’s paradise with its five National Parks. The Rocky Mountain parks are loaded with outdoor adventures. In summer, ride horses or hike endless trails.

Go for a paddle on Alberta’s scenic lakes or rent a mountain bike and go explore. Whatever you do, watch out for wildlife. Venture north into a land of whitewater, backcountry lodges, and trophy fishing. The possibilities are endless.

Rodeo and the Wild West

Visit the bronc-buckin’ Calgary Stampede, a Wild West exhibition, which is much more than a big-time rodeo. Calgary, the former cow town’s very roots are in ranching and meatpacking.

Thousands of folks gather to watch the rough rodeo and chuckwagon races of the  10 days Calgary Stampede  happening each July.

If you’re not into big events, look out for a small-town rodeo instead where you can get up close and it’s much more personal and cheaper.

Horseback Riding

For many, Alberta is an image of the Wild West, horses and cowboys. Therefore, it is the perfect place to get into the saddle the way the explorers did centuries ago. Riding through alpine meadows or across the wide open prairie on a guided horseback adventure ride will be one of your best memories in the time to come.

  • Best Horseback adventures
  • Authentic Wilderness Ranch Vacations

Hiking should be included in every Alberta Trip Planner. Alberta’s many parks and trails offer the best and cheapest way to explore new wilderness treasures. The beautiful, diverse landscape offers something for every fitness level. Go for a stroll along a river, or try a day hike on a mountain path. What about taking part in a multi-day hike with a guided tour?

Alberta is also the place to try heli-hiking in the Canadian Rockies’ backcountry. These trips will take you to a secluded wilderness heaven.

  • Top guided hikes in Alberta
  • Best Canadian maps – for the backcountry to never get lost
  • Let us trek Canada and be safe
  • Alberta Parks

Camping in Alberta

More and more people find the pleasures of wilderness camping. This means that campgrounds are filling up faster. Therefore planning is the key, especially for camping during July and August. Campsites book up early, especially the popular areas that offer “free” camping on public land in Alberta, locally known as crown land camping. In British Columbia, these campsites are called recreation sites, or forestry campsites.

A Public Lands Camping Pass is required in Alberta. You need to purchase the pass before you embark on your trip, and it costs $20 per person for three days or $30 per person for an annual pass. You can purchase your pass online here .

  • Backcountry camping in the wild
  • In winter, many outfitters offer dog sledding, ice climbing, and heliskiing .
  • Or try your luck with ice fishing. Enjoy the comfort of a heated shelter perched on the ice, and wait for a delicious lake trout, walleye, northern pike, perch, or Arctic grayling to gobble your bait. What better adventure than that?
  • Take part in a snowmobiling trip and speed through the excellent powder. Sled across frozen lakes and up mountains, through boreal forests, and across wide-open plains. A well-thought-out Alberta Trip Planner for winter travel can get you on fantastic outdoor adventures.

Try something you have never done before, Alberta Canada is the place to do it!

Alberta Highlights along the tourist route

Lake louise.

Lake Louise is a major tourist destination in Alberta. It is part of Banff National Park and is on every traveller’s list.

Located nearby is the beautiful Moraine Lake. This spectacular lake is surrounded by the Valley of the Ten Peaks and is less touristy than Lake Louise.

Head-Smashed- In Buffalo Jump

Head-Smashed- In Buffalo Jump  is located at Fort Macleod, where the remains of marked trails, an aboriginal camp, and vast quantities of buffalo skeletons can still be found. They are evidence of a custom practiced by aboriginal people for nearly 6,000 years.

Dinosaur Provincial Park

Dinosaur Provincial Park  is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located about a 2 1/2 hour drive southeast of Calgary. The  Royal Tyrrell Museum  in Drumheller is housing one of the world’s largest displays of dinosaurs. You can easily spend a whole day at the museum to educate yourself.

Elk - Amazing Canadian wildlife

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Must Do Canada

The Best Things to Do in Canada

59 of the Best Things To Do in Alberta

June 1, 2020 By Matthew G. Bailey 172 Comments

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Banff to Jasper on the Icefields Parkway, Alberta, Canada

Updated: March 20th, 2022

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.

Calgary skyline in the winter

Table of Contents

Things To Do in Calgary

Located right on the edge of the Rocky Mountains, Calgary is such a beautiful city. This is my home city and it’s always great to explore, whether as a local or as a tourist.

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.

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.

Heritage Park Steam Train, Calgary, Alberta

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.

Glenbow Museum

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, 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.

Calgary skyline with the saddledome at night

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 Good Beer

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.

Looking for more info? Don’t forget to check out our ULTIMATE GUIDE to the best things to do in Calgary .

Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada

Things to Do In Banff National Park

Banff National Park is an absolute must-visit for anyone travelling to Alberta. 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.

Explore the 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.

Visit the 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 .

Visit the 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.

Alberta Ski Resorts in 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.

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.

Looking for more things to do? Don’t forget to check out our ULTIMATE GUIDE to the best things to do in Banff .

Hiking Johnston Canyon, Banff, Alberta.

Things to Do in Kananaskis

Located just outside Banff National Park and just 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 as well, not to mention the surrounding areas.

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 really 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.

Looking for more things to do? Don’t forget to check out our ULTIMATE GUIDE to the best things to do in Canmore .

Jasper National Park from the Jasper Sky Tram

Things To Do In 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. We love Jasper and the array of delicious restaurants, accommodations, and wildlife.

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, Banff National Park

Athabasca Glacier Adventure 

Where else can you ride a million-dollar all-terrain Ice Explorer on to 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.

Looking for more things to do? Don’t forget to check out our ULTIMATE GUIDE to the best things to do in Jasper !

What to do in Edmonton

Things To Do In Edmonton

Canada’s most Northern 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 tons of culture in Edmonton as well, which makes for tons of festivals, especially in the summer!

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 a number of 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.

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 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.

Restaurants in Edmonton

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 .

Looking for more things to do? Don’t forget to check out our ULTIMATE GUIDE to the best things to do in Edmonton .

Horsethief Canyon, Drumheller Alberta

Things to Do in 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.

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.

Drumheller Hoodoos, Alberta.

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.

Party with Ghosts

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.

Looking for more things to do? Don’t forget to check out our ULTIMATE GUIDE to the best things to do in Drumheller .

Things to Do in 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 Lethbridge Alberta

Fort Whoop-Up

Not only is it smack dab in the middle of the beautiful coulee’s, 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 Arctiect 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 Alberta

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.

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.

Looking for more things to do? Don’t forget to check out our ULTIMATE GUIDE to the best things to do in Lethbridge . 

things to do in southern alberta

Things to Do in Southwest Alberta

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.

things to do frank slide

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.

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.

Remington Carriage Museum

Getting 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. 

things to do in alberta

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 where 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.

Icefields Parkway Banff to Jasper

Road to 150 – Alberta Road Trip

Back in 2017, we produced one of the largest independent media campaigns the country has ever seen. The Road to 150 was a 150-day road trip across Canada to produce a 12-part video series and mini-documentary about what makes Canada special. Alberta was our last leg of the trip, mostly because it’s home, and became one of the most beautiful tourism videos of the whole campaign. We had 14-days to explore the province and came up with a perfect itinerary that can easily be shortened if you’re not capturing video all day long.

Coming from British Columbia , we started our trip off in Banff National Park, one of Canada’s most scenic areas. Here we visited the beautiful towns of Banff and Canmore, hiked through Johnston Canyon, paddled a canoe on Lake Louise, rode a gondola to the top of a mountain and drove the Icefields Parkway from Banff to Jasper National Park. We also stood on a glacier, took a variety of boat rides, saw a bunch of wildlife, and admired the colours of the fall season. We then drove to Edmonton to experience North America’s largest mall, visited Drumheller to learn about dinosaurs, and ended our trip in Calgary, where we rode a steam train, learned about Canadian music icons, and admired the views from the Calgary Tower.

We highly recommend watching the video above and then heading over to our Canadian Youtube Channel to see more videos about Alberta and about the country as well.

(Check out this article about 89 Cool, Fun, and Interesting Alberta Facts !)

Where to Stay in Alberta

When it comes to choices of accommodation in Alberta, there really is something for everyone. From the luxury of the Fairmont Banff Springs to the charm of a local bed & breakfast, there’s something for any budget and any taste. There are also a lot of excellent cabins in Alberta that you can rent, including cabins in the mountains, in the badlands, or lakeside on one of Alberta’s many lakes. We’ve written a variety of articles about accommodation, including where to stay in Calgary , where to stay in Banff , the best Jasper accommodations , and some of the best campsites in Alberta .

What to Do in Alberta

As you can see, there are loads of things to do in Alberta. There’s a reason why it’s one of the top places to visit in Canada. From badlands and dinosaurs to waterfalls and mountains, Alberta is wonderful from north to south. We hope this article helps you plan your trip and if you’d like even more inspiration, make sure to subscribe to Must Do Canada and follow us on YouTube where we post a new video every two weeks!

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Best things to do in Alberta

About Matthew G. Bailey

Matthew G. Bailey is the founder and editor-in-chief of Must Do Canada. Growing up in Alberta to a mother from Quebec and a father from Newfoundland, Matt spent his childhood playing hockey under the Northern Lights and hanging out in the forest before moving to Calgary and travelling to more than 250 cities spanning 42 countries and 6 continents. He loves travel, learning new things, playing sports, writing, making videos, photography, and scuba diving. You can also find him at LiveLimitless.net .

Reader Interactions

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January 7, 2018 at 4:26 pm

Thank you so much guys for your videos, advice and guidance. My 8 year old son and I are looking forward to our first trip to Alberta, September 2018. Very excited. Looking forward to the honor of meeting you guys some time in the not too distant future. Wishing you guys the very best for 2018 and beyond.

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January 9, 2018 at 2:55 am

Thank you so much, Nigel! Meeting up would be great!

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April 1, 2021 at 10:09 pm

Hey, just found out about you guys a few days ago. I’ll be doing a deep dive into your site/YouTube aswe look to plan trips to Yukon/Tuk and Saskatchewan.

Home is Calgary for us too.

April 2, 2021 at 9:03 am

awesome! Yeah, we’re hoping travel opens up by summer. Sask still seems closed but not sure about the north

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April 11, 2021 at 7:35 am

What a great list of things to explore in Alberta this summer. I am going to have my kids each choose an “adventure” for us to go on this summer.

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May 17, 2021 at 12:11 am

Make sure you add Waterton Lakes National Park to your list!

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May 25, 2021 at 6:41 pm

We love Waterton…. we try to get there as often as we can but haven’t been there since early summer 2018. We need to get back there. It holds a huge piece of my heart. Even after the Kenow fire, Waterton stands proud and her beauty and spirit remains.

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April 4, 2022 at 11:01 pm

Even the next spring after the fire things were already recovering – it’s a new Waterton – because of the change in climate, there’s a difference in the trees and flowers that are repopulating. Weekend just before Victoria Day weekend is a great time to go – it’s generally nice enough weather and you beat even the small crowds that Waterton gets.

April 5, 2022 at 7:11 pm

Good tips! You live there?

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May 5, 2022 at 9:10 am

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June 3, 2022 at 5:08 pm

We live in a beautiful country!

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April 1, 2021 at 11:42 am

Born and bred Albertan and sadly I haven’t made a big enough dent on this list!

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April 1, 2021 at 11:54 am

Thank you so much guys for the great ideas!

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April 1, 2021 at 1:33 pm

Will be using this website to help my family figure out how to see the country during COVID.

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May 19, 2022 at 8:26 pm

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April 1, 2021 at 5:18 pm

I love Alberta. So much to do and explore. With this website you’ll always find a new adventure. Love it

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April 2, 2021 at 8:48 am

This is awesome. Thanks so much!

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April 3, 2021 at 12:20 pm

Drumheller is definitely a must visit. Especially with kids. Atlas Coal Mine isn’t mentioned, but is worth a visit if you have the time.

April 4, 2021 at 11:04 am

Oh, we’ll add that. I think it’s in our Drumheller article

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April 3, 2021 at 1:26 pm

So many various things to do in winter and summer in Alberta.

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April 3, 2021 at 9:48 pm

I have lived from the tip of Vancouver Island (Holberg) to the coast of Labrador (Goose Bay) courtesy of the military – both as a child and as a wife. And though I have visited places that others could only imagine . . . I have NEVER spent any time in our National Parks. Now that we’re retired, we live close to Waterton Lakes and would love the chance to hike, bike and explore this Canadian masterpiece. To stay in our province and get to experience nature at its finest would be amazing. Maybe . . . just maybe.

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April 5, 2021 at 6:29 pm

Looks like another summer with limited travel possibilities so this might help to stay in AB.

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April 5, 2021 at 11:48 pm

Great list! There’s a few that I’ll definitely need to cross off this year!

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April 6, 2021 at 9:48 am

We have such a beautiful country. A lot of people have no idea. Thanks for showing what it has to offer!

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April 6, 2021 at 11:21 pm

Cant wait to start exploring my province even more!

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April 7, 2021 at 10:28 am

Awesome post!

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April 8, 2021 at 7:38 am

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April 8, 2021 at 11:57 am

Kananaskis is my all time favorite place to explore! So beautiful

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April 8, 2021 at 12:27 pm

So many great places to visit within my own province…thanks for sharing.

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April 8, 2021 at 1:26 pm

Hello! We love Alberta!!! You can also visit my city, here in Alberta: Airdrie!!! You will find beautiful parks, man-made lakes and a beautiful recreation centre! Cheers, Claudia 🙂

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April 9, 2021 at 11:10 am

Amazing! Can’t wait for another summer of Adventure here in Alberta 😍

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April 10, 2021 at 9:42 am

Icefield Parkway is on my Bucket List to do with my parents.

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April 10, 2021 at 11:44 am

Lots of great staycation ideas 🤎

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April 10, 2021 at 8:15 pm

The past year has been a great opportunity to see all of the hidden gems in Alberta. I can’t wait to see more of this beautiful province.

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April 14, 2021 at 11:50 am

I live in alberta and it is beautiful!! <3

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April 15, 2021 at 11:30 am

Thank you for this! I’m sure I’ll be referring back to this list now the weather is nice!

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April 18, 2021 at 8:05 am

Thanks for all the great tips!

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April 21, 2021 at 11:23 am

Awesome stuff way to keep giving great tips

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April 23, 2021 at 4:53 pm

This is great! Thanks for the all the tips!

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April 21, 2021 at 1:23 pm

There really are so many amazing places to visit in Alberta. Some I’ve heard of and some I haven’t. So it will be fun to explore over the years.

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April 25, 2021 at 1:43 pm

So many great ideas here!

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April 26, 2021 at 8:18 pm

Omg I didn’t realize how many amazing thing I can do in Alberta and I have lived her my whole life

April 26, 2021 at 8:53 pm

haha us too. We’ve seen a lot and still not everything

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May 24, 2022 at 2:02 pm

Beautiful parks here

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April 28, 2021 at 9:27 am

Looking forward to a great summer

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May 9, 2021 at 8:01 am

So many great ideas, I am a native Albertan and haven’t done all of these yet!

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May 9, 2021 at 9:11 pm

Yes, Alberta is great! For those who’d like to explore more you could mention and include links to such places as Fort Chippewan, Fort McMurray, Lloydminster, Grande Prairie, Wetaskiwin, Camrose, Red Deer, Medicine Hat etc., etc., etc. Yes, I’m commenting to get more chances to win the National Parks pass.

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May 10, 2021 at 12:42 pm

Excited to visit some of these places during the summer! Thanks!!

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May 10, 2021 at 2:22 pm

Love to see what we can do in our home province

May 10, 2021 at 2:23 pm

Alberta is great!

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May 12, 2021 at 9:14 am

Wow, really cool, can’t wait to check it out

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May 12, 2021 at 9:50 am

I have been to Alberta many times and though Banff is beautiful, I feel that Canmore is a hidden gem and just a little nicer.

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May 12, 2021 at 10:10 am

This summer we plan on exploring a lot of Alberta and Saskatachewan. We are looking forward to hiking in Jasper, Waterton, Nordegg, and the Kananaskis. We are also visited Waskesiu in SK. Lets hope for great weather this year!

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May 12, 2021 at 3:25 pm

Be sure to go hiking in the Badlands, visit the Tyrell Museum, and Stop in at the Donut Mill in Gasoline Alley on Highway 2! ❤️

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May 12, 2021 at 4:08 pm

Great list!

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May 30, 2021 at 1:12 am

Awesome list!

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May 26, 2022 at 12:54 pm

I’ve lived in Alberta for 20 years and have lived in most of these features cities, and yet haven’t even been to half of these places! Such a great reminder that there’s so much to do and so much to see ☺️

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May 13, 2021 at 7:31 am

Johnson Canyon and Morraine Lake are amazing!

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May 13, 2021 at 2:10 pm

I can’t wait to explore more of the beautiful province of Alberta

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May 13, 2021 at 2:15 pm

Great list of attractions for Alberta! Can’t wait to see some of them!

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May 14, 2021 at 1:43 pm

I’d love to try the Road to 150!

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May 14, 2021 at 3:18 pm

Thanks for all the tips

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May 14, 2021 at 5:02 pm

I’ve stayed in Alberta the last 10 years and have only done a few things on your list. I’m excited to see what I’m missing!

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May 14, 2021 at 5:56 pm

Thanks for the get ideas for places to see in Alberta. Looking forward to discovering some new places. Also looking forward to checking out other lists for other provinces.

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May 14, 2021 at 6:47 pm

Great resource.

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May 14, 2021 at 11:47 pm

So many new opportunities to visit

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May 15, 2021 at 3:36 pm

Ive done most of these already but thanks for some extra ideas for fun this summer!

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May 16, 2021 at 6:27 pm

The mountain views in Jasper National Park

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May 19, 2021 at 2:18 pm

Love this! I was born and raised in Alberta, but I always love learning more about places I may not have visited yet <3

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May 26, 2021 at 8:38 am

I am in my 60’s and needed to get in shape, so last summer I started hiking more regularly. As long as I get the reward of a beautiful view I don’t mind the hard work. Last summer while on a hike with my athlete daughter, the last part of the hike got so hard, I didn’t think I’d be able to finish. My daughter coaxed me the rest of the way up!!!!! 💪

May 26, 2021 at 10:38 am

haha it’s awesome to have someone who can encourage us eh! Sometimes thats all it takes

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May 30, 2021 at 1:22 pm

I love a good road trip. Some of my favourite places are Grand Prairie, Jasper (Athabasca Falls, the valley of the five lakes, and the Jasper sky tram are just a few), Calgary, Elbow falls, downsouth: Lundbreck Falls, Frank Slide, Head Smashed In Buffalo Jump, Waterton,

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May 30, 2021 at 5:29 pm

Great ideas!!

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May 30, 2021 at 6:51 pm

Lots of wonderful places to visit in Alberta

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June 9, 2021 at 11:58 am

My home! Thank you for this!

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June 9, 2021 at 3:41 pm

So many things to do in Alberta. Love my province beauty.

June 9, 2021 at 6:09 pm

Thank you for showing so many places.

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June 10, 2021 at 6:30 am

So much fun to explore our own backyard! Added some new things for the summer bucket list!

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June 10, 2021 at 11:55 am

Hey guys!! My daughter, granddaughter and I live in Hinton, Alberta and we try to explore new places near us about once a month or whenever we can afford to. We absolutely LOVE Alberta and Canada 🇨🇦❤

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June 11, 2021 at 12:44 am

The dome dining experience at Fairmont Banff was expensive but such an amazing experience! Spectacular views from a private dome with a mimosa bar all to ourselves for brunch.

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June 11, 2021 at 9:22 pm

Looks amazing. Great suggestions to visit.

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June 22, 2021 at 8:14 am

Great article. Thanks for some great ideas!

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June 24, 2021 at 9:27 pm

Information is interesting and informative

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June 29, 2021 at 10:47 pm

Great ideas!!!

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August 21, 2021 at 6:27 am

So many great places to visit that we haven’t yet!! Thanks for this list for Alberta!! Adventures are out there!!

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February 9, 2022 at 1:54 pm

Great blog!

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February 9, 2022 at 2:29 pm

I absolutely love living in Alberta and doing all the great things in my backyard

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February 10, 2022 at 4:50 pm

Travelling through Southwestern Alberta along Cowboy Trail amongst the Foothills of the Rocky Mountains is an amazingly beautiful journey. So much to see and do absolutely love it!

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February 13, 2022 at 6:38 am

Thanks for all the great info!

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February 14, 2022 at 12:28 pm

Alberta truly is the best!

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February 16, 2022 at 9:50 am

I love ❤️ Alberta! We moved here from Ontario 6 years ago and we just love it, from the small town locals, the riverboat cruise in Edmonton, several getaways to Jasper and Banff area as well as adventure day trips to towns with “big things”. Our next adventure is next week where we’ll (moi, my husband, one of our daughters and the oldest of our granddaughters coming from Ontario) be staying at Dead Man’s Flats for a few days. The girls definitely want to visit Johnston Canyon and go skating on lake Louise.

February 16, 2022 at 1:21 pm

Johnston Canyon is super beautiful in the winter! Bring ice cleats if you can. Even the simple little ones help as it can be slippery.

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February 16, 2022 at 10:05 am

I find this site extremely helpful when it to finding out about new adventures and also with figuring out what to do in a city.

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February 16, 2022 at 9:09 pm

32 years in Alberta, Canada, and counting… and yet still so many things to do. Thank you for travel ideas. Going to Abraham Lake soon, soooo exciting

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February 19, 2022 at 7:50 am

Thanks for the info! A good reminder that there are great things to check out close to home.

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February 19, 2022 at 8:30 pm

Thanks for all the great tips! Last trip through 3 years ago, hubby planned a very tight itinerary and the line ups and wait times were long, so we didn’t see many of the top attractions. Our next trip west is being planned by myself, with much more time to explore.

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February 20, 2022 at 6:10 am

This was such an amazing post, I’m taking my boyfriend to Alberta for his birthday in October and now we have a whole list of things to do.

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February 20, 2022 at 2:30 pm

Such a beautiful province!

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February 21, 2022 at 12:37 pm

The hot springs are on my bucket list

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March 10, 2022 at 11:13 am

A great list with some things I didn’t know about!

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March 10, 2022 at 4:30 pm

Alberta is a beautiful diverse province. I love travelling here.

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March 10, 2022 at 5:19 pm

We are going to Canmore in a few weeks and I can’t wait!!!

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March 11, 2022 at 7:29 am

Can’t wait to visit Alberta again

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March 12, 2022 at 9:25 am

So many things to do in Alberta.

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March 12, 2022 at 9:53 am

Looking forward to visiting Alberta again.

March 13, 2022 at 6:08 pm

Good description of a beautiful province! I didn’t know Winsport had a zip line, looks fun!

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March 14, 2022 at 2:37 pm

I am from Alberta and still have so many places to explore yet.

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March 16, 2022 at 7:44 am

Don’t forget all the top rated restaurants. Edmonton is foodie heaven!

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March 18, 2022 at 7:23 pm

Thanks for the great suggestions within my own backyard!

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March 20, 2022 at 12:51 am

Thank you for the great suggestions

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March 22, 2022 at 10:51 am

It’s mind boggling how many places you two have gone. You’ve seen more than many see in a lifetime. More than many put together see in their lifetimes!

March 22, 2022 at 11:42 am

Thanks, Robin. It is pretty crazy when we stop to think about it

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May 4, 2022 at 9:47 pm

Time to make a list!

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May 5, 2022 at 6:16 am

We have done a 4000km tour with a Campervan accross Alberta parks, just fantastic.

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May 5, 2022 at 9:51 am

So cool! ! Thank you for all your advises 😁

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May 6, 2022 at 8:09 am

Waterton is our favourite place to go in the summer. Heritage Park is also an awesome place to visit for a day! We are planning on visiting the charmed playhouse guest houses this summer as well.

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May 7, 2022 at 7:41 pm

So helpful. Looking to try some of these this summer.

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May 16, 2022 at 1:28 pm

Horseshoe and Horsethief Canyon are great hidden gems and wonderful alternatives to the lakes and mountains. Thank you!

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May 16, 2022 at 7:21 pm

I used a ton of your suggestions for a stellar summer in 2021. Can’t wait to plan 2022 with you!

May 17, 2022 at 8:14 pm

That’s awesome! Where did you go?

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May 17, 2022 at 12:55 am

My home away from home is Alberta. So much to do. Thank you for featuring this article.

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May 18, 2022 at 8:57 am

Wow I would love to come visit Alberta. !! Never been to a rodeo and The Calgary stampede would be so much fun. Also would love the Calgary Zoo. So many things to do and I also have a friend who I could visit while visiting. Keeping my fingers crossed to come one day soon!!

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May 19, 2022 at 3:04 pm

I definitely need to do more of these on the list!

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May 20, 2022 at 7:59 am

Thanks for the info!

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May 20, 2022 at 8:19 am

Alberta is always worth a visit. So many beautiful sights to see… thank you for sharing those spots with us…

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May 20, 2022 at 2:41 pm

Hoping to go to banff beginning of July, unless gas goes to and above $2.00 a litre. Just wish I knew where to find this arched wooded foot bridge with the bluest water I’ve ever seen. Have seen picture people have taken there but couldn’t find this place 5 years ago

May 20, 2022 at 2:52 pm

hmm is it right in the town of BanfF?

May 21, 2022 at 9:07 pm

Thanks for the great ideas! Can’t wait to float down The Bow this Summer!

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May 23, 2022 at 9:44 pm

You need to add Abraham Lake, just outside of Nordegg. It is sooo beautiful in the summer and such blue water!! And in the winter, it actually freezes clear!!! So whenever you go…I TS very cool to see! Thank you for all the suggested places!

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May 24, 2022 at 5:14 am

Great ideas! Can’t wait to try these this summer

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May 24, 2022 at 2:12 pm

Definitely need to visit the mountains around Banff and surrounding areas! Great article here!

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May 25, 2022 at 11:04 am

Good reminder of things that are right in our backyard for us locals 🙂

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May 26, 2022 at 2:19 pm

It’s great to have an amazing list of places to explore

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May 26, 2022 at 7:19 pm

Took my Manitoba friend and her daughter to Banff the other day while she was visiting and we had an amazing time!

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May 27, 2022 at 11:34 am

Love Alberta, thanks for the ideas

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May 27, 2022 at 6:34 pm

Great Staycation

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May 27, 2022 at 11:40 pm

I definitely agree with what others have said regarding Waterton. The park is beautiful with new growth following the fire. And so close for those living anywhere in southern Alberta. Well worth the short drive there

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May 29, 2022 at 1:38 pm

Alberta is amazing I moved here 14 years ago from Ontario and haven’t thought about moving back!!

May 29, 2022 at 9:19 pm

Great list! Thank you

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May 30, 2022 at 9:48 am

Looking forward to visiting some soon!

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May 30, 2022 at 10:38 am

Thank you for posting these! Definitely help us with our long drive!😊

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June 1, 2022 at 8:55 am

Thank-you!!!!

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June 1, 2022 at 9:52 pm

Thank you for posting these. Lots of great places to see in Alberta.

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June 2, 2022 at 5:55 am

Thank you for summer travel ideas.

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June 3, 2022 at 2:29 pm

Excited to try some of these this summer

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June 3, 2022 at 11:11 pm

Nice to see all the things we can do in our own backyard!

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June 5, 2022 at 7:57 am

That’s for the list!!

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June 5, 2022 at 2:11 pm

So much to do in Alberta!

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June 5, 2022 at 5:28 pm

Love Alberta and all it has to offer

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June 6, 2022 at 9:51 am

Great list, there lots to do north of Edmonton and Jasper as well!

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June 7, 2022 at 7:35 am

Great content. I am Alberta born and raised and still have lots of local exploring to do. Thanks for the amazing tips.

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June 7, 2022 at 9:00 am

Wow so much to do’

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June 7, 2022 at 8:28 pm

Great list! Lived here for over 50 years and you’ve created a wonderful list of the top hits. Hope maybe you’ll follow up with some ‘hidden gems.’ 😉

June 8, 2022 at 10:47 am

We will! Any you recommend?

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June 8, 2022 at 9:34 am

I love living in Alberta! We just did a weekend trip south, Rowley, Torrington and Drumheller, absolutely beautiful!

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June 8, 2022 at 9:38 am

Does anyone know if the kananaskiss pass and the parks Canada pass will be amalgamated at some point?

June 8, 2022 at 10:46 am

Unlikely as one is provincial and one is federal.

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June 9, 2022 at 7:59 am

Thank you for a comprehensive list!! Will check off some places this summer. But Waterton lakes national park is also a mustvisit destination of Alberta.

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June 9, 2022 at 11:09 am

Excellent information! Huge thanks!

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June 10, 2022 at 1:18 pm

Loved this!

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June 10, 2022 at 8:02 pm

Love this! Thanks for the great ideas!

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June 12, 2022 at 8:00 am

Great list!!!

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June 12, 2022 at 5:16 pm

So many great tips here!!! We’re definitely making use of this to plan our trip to Edmonton. Thank you!!!!

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August 24, 2022 at 8:07 am

I Have lived here all my life, and this is a great reminder of why Alberta rocks!!!

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August 24, 2022 at 6:35 pm

Very comprehensive! Thanks for the info!

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August 25, 2022 at 8:34 am

Love the photos of the beautiful parks and cities in Alberta!

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August 26, 2022 at 9:03 am

Thank you for this. i am going to Alberta for the first time Sept 3 – Now I am going to book another trip next year to do more of these

September 4, 2022 at 1:03 pm

We had a great road trip to Alberta this summer. We did a number of the ideas you suggested. Thanks for this!

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September 5, 2022 at 7:59 pm

We are very fortunate to have so many things to do in Alberta. Great list.

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September 12, 2022 at 8:01 pm

I’ve lived in Alberta my whole life and there are still so many things I haven’t done yet.

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September 13, 2022 at 12:16 pm

Great article yes we have so many great things to do and see in AB.

[…] Between beautifully restored carriages, an education in carriages and history, as well as their horse stables, I can see why the Remington Carriage Museum has become such a big attraction in Southern Alberta. […]

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Alberta Travel Guide 2024: How to Enjoy Your Visit

Kenny Sanusi

  • December 17, 2023

Alberta travel guide: The skyline of Calgary at sunset, an Alberta travel guide destination.

Alberta is a province located in the western part of Canada. It is the fourth-largest province in terms of land area and has a population of approximately 4.4 million people. Alberta is known for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant cities, rich cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures. It is a popular destination for travelers from around the world who are seeking a diverse range of experiences. In this Alberta Travel Guide blog post, we will take a closer look at what makes Alberta such a traveler’s paradise. We will explore the natural beauty of the province’s national parks and wildlife, delve into its rich cultural heritage through museums and historical sites, discover the thriving urban centers with their shopping, dining, and accommodation options, and highlight the outdoor adventures that await in Alberta. We will also uncover the unique festivals and events that celebrate local culture, provide tips for planning a road trip through Alberta’s best routes and stops, and offer practical tips for visiting the province.

Alberta National Parks and Wildlife: Banff, Jasper

Alberta travel guide

Alberta is home to five national parks, each offering its own unique features and breathtaking landscapes. Banff National Park is perhaps the most well-known, with its stunning mountain peaks, turquoise lakes, and abundant wildlife. Jasper National Park is another must-visit destination, known for its glaciers, waterfalls, and opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and wildlife watching. Waterton Lakes National Park is located in the southern part of Alberta and offers a mix of prairie grasslands, rugged mountains, and crystal-clear lakes. In addition to the national parks, Alberta is also home to numerous provincial parks and protected areas that showcase the province’s natural beauty. These parks offer opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Whether you’re exploring the majestic Rocky Mountains, wandering through the rolling foothills, or admiring the vast prairies, Alberta’s natural beauty is sure to leave you in awe.

Alberta’s Rich Cultural Heritage: Museums and Historical Sites

Alberta has a rich cultural heritage that is preserved and celebrated through its museums and historical sites. The Royal Alberta Museum in Edmonton is the largest museum in Western Canada and offers a wide range of exhibits that explore the natural and human history of the province. The Glenbow Museum in Calgary is another must-visit destination, with its extensive collection of art, artifacts, and historical documents that tell the story of Alberta and its people. In addition to the museums, Alberta is home to numerous historical sites that provide a glimpse into the province’s past. Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, a UNESCO World Heritage Site offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the traditional hunting practices of the indigenous peoples of the area. The Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village near Edmonton allows visitors to step back in time and experience what life was like for early Ukrainian settlers in Alberta.

Table of Contents

Alberta’s Urban Centers: Calgary, Edmonton, 

Alberta’s major cities, including Calgary, Edmonton, and Lethbridge, offer a wide range of attractions for travelers. In Calgary, you can explore the vibrant downtown area with its modern skyscrapers, visit the iconic Calgary Tower for panoramic views of the city, or take a stroll along Stephen Avenue Walk with its shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Edmonton, on the other hand, is known for its thriving arts scene, with numerous galleries and theaters to explore. The West Edmonton Mall is also a popular attraction, offering a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. When it comes to shopping in Alberta’s urban centers, you’ll find everything from high-end boutiques to local markets selling handmade crafts and artisanal products. The cities are also home to a diverse range of dining options, with everything from international cuisine to local specialties. And when it comes to accommodation, you’ll find a wide range of options to suit every budget, from luxury hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts.

  • Top Festivals in Edmonton
  • Things to do in Calgary
  • The best tours of Calgary

Outdoor Adventures in Alberta: Hiking, Skiing, and More

Alberta travel guide: Two men hiking in the woods with backpacks, exploring Alberta's breathtaking landscapes.

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, Alberta is the perfect destination for you. The province is home to the Canadian Rockies, and it offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, snowboarding, fishing, and wildlife watching. In the summer months, you can explore the numerous hiking trails that crisscross the province, offering stunning views of mountains, lakes, and waterfalls. In the winter months, you can hit the slopes at one of Alberta’s world-class ski resorts or try your hand at ice fishing on one of the province’s frozen lakes. Some of the best places for hiking in Alberta include Banff National Park, Jasper National Park, and Kananaskis Country. These areas offer a mix of easy walks and challenging hikes that cater to all fitness levels. For skiing and snowboarding, head to resorts such as Lake Louise Ski Resort or Sunshine Village in Banff National Park. And if wildlife watching is your thing, keep an eye out for animals such as elk, moose, bears, and bighorn sheep.

Alberta’s Unique Festivals and Events

Alberta is home to a wide range of unique festivals and events that celebrate the province’s local culture. The Calgary Stampede is perhaps the most well-known event in Alberta, attracting visitors from around the world with its rodeo competitions, chuckwagon races, and live entertainment. The Edmonton Folk Music Festival is another popular event, showcasing both local and international musicians in a beautiful outdoor setting. In addition to these large-scale events, Alberta is also home to numerous smaller festivals that celebrate everything from food and drink to arts and culture. The Canmore Folk Music Festival, for example, brings together musicians from around the world for a weekend of live performances in the stunning Rocky Mountains. The Big Valley Jamboree in Camrose is a must-visit for country music fans with its lineup of top country artists.

Planning Your Alberta Road Trip

One of the best ways to explore Alberta is by embarking on a road trip. The province offers a wide range of scenic routes that will take you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in Canada. The Icefields Parkway, for example, is a 232-kilometer stretch of highway that connects Jasper National Park to Banff National Park. Along the way, you’ll be treated to stunning views of glaciers, waterfalls, and mountain peaks. Another popular road trip route is the Cowboy Trail, which takes you through the heart of Alberta’s ranching country. This route will take you through small towns and rural communities, where you can experience the province’s cowboy culture firsthand. And if you’re looking for a coastal road trip experience, consider driving along the David Thompson Highway, which takes you from Rocky Mountain House to Nordegg and offers breathtaking views of the North Saskatchewan River.

Alberta’s Best-Kept Secrets

While Alberta is known for its popular attractions, such as Banff National Park, Jasper National Park, and the Calgary Stampede, the province is also home to numerous hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path destinations that are worth exploring. For example, Dinosaur Provincial Park in southern Alberta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers visitors the opportunity to see fossils and learn about the province’s prehistoric past. The Badlands near Drumheller are another hidden gem in Alberta, with their unique rock formations and dinosaur fossils. The town of Drumheller itself is also worth a visit, with its dinosaur-themed attractions and museums. And if you’re looking for a peaceful retreat, consider visiting the Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park, which straddles the border between Alberta and Saskatchewan and offers stunning views of rolling hills and forests.

Alberta’s Food and Drink Scene: Must-Try Local Cuisine

Alberta’s food and drink scene is as diverse as its landscapes. The province is known for its farm-to-table cuisine, with many restaurants sourcing their ingredients from local farmers and producers. Alberta beef is particularly famous for its rich flavor and tender texture. You’ll also find a wide range of international cuisine in Alberta’s cities, from Asian fusion to Mediterranean. When it comes to drinks, Alberta is home to a thriving craft beer scene. The province boasts numerous breweries that produce a wide range of styles, from hoppy IPAs to smooth stouts. Many of these breweries offer tours and tastings, allowing visitors to sample their creations and learn about the brewing process. And if you’re a wine lover, be sure to visit the Okanagan Valley in southern Alberta, which is known for its vineyards and wineries.

Tips for Visiting Alberta: Weather, Transportation

Before visiting Alberta, it’s important to consider a few practical tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Firstly, be aware of the weather conditions in the different seasons. Alberta experiences cold winters with heavy snowfall, so be prepared with warm clothing and appropriate footwear if you plan on visiting during this time. Summers can be warm and sunny, but they can also be unpredictable, so it’s a good idea to pack layers and be prepared for changing weather conditions. In terms of transportation, renting a car is often the best way to explore Alberta, especially if you plan on embarking on a road trip or visiting more remote areas. The province has an extensive network of highways that make it easy to get around, and there are also bus and train options available for those who prefer not to drive. When it comes to safety, it’s important to be aware of wildlife in the national parks and to follow any guidelines or warnings provided by park staff. It’s also a good idea to have travel insurance that covers any outdoor activities you plan on participating in.

Conclusion: Alberta Travel Guide

In conclusion, Alberta, Canada, is a traveler’s paradise that offers a diverse range of experiences for visitors. From its stunning natural beauty and national parks to its rich cultural heritage and vibrant cities, there is something for everyone in Alberta. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, exploring museums and historical sites, or indulging in local cuisine and craft beer, Alberta has it all. With its breathtaking landscapes, unique festivals and events, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered, Alberta is a must-visit destination for travelers. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to explore all that this beautiful province has to offer. You won’t be disappointed.

Alberta Travel Guide FAQ

What is alberta known for.

Alberta is home to the Canadian Rockies , Banff National Park , Jasper National Park , the Alberta Badlands , and the Calgary Stampede . It is known for its stunning natural landmarks, rich wildlife, and cultural events.

What are the must-visit national parks in Alberta?

The must-visit national parks in Alberta include Jasper National Park , Banff National Park , Waterton Lakes National Park , and Elk Island National Park . Each park offers unique opportunities for outdoor adventures and breathtaking scenic views.

What are the top attractions in Alberta?

Alberta is home to world heritage sites like Dinosaur Provincial Park and Wood Buffalo National Park . Other top attractions include the Badlands , Lake Louise, the Calgary Stampede , and the West Edmonton Mall .

Where can I experience the natural beauty of Alberta?

Visitors can experience the natural beauty of Alberta by exploring the Rocky Mountains , hiking along the Bow River , witnessing the Northern Lights , and visiting the icefields to marvel at the stunning glaciers.

What are the popular destinations in southern Alberta?

Southern Alberta is known for its scenic landscapes, provincial parks such as Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park, and the unique hoodoos in the Badlands . Visitors can also explore the historic towns and enjoy the campgrounds in the region.

What outdoor activities can I enjoy in Alberta?

There are numerous outdoor activities to enjoy in Alberta , such as camping and hiking

Kenny Sanusi

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20 best places to visit in alberta, canada [2024 travel guide].

Cazzy Magennis

Alberta is one of the most remarkable provinces in Canada. It’s ripe with majestic mountains, dense forests, and stunningly turquoise lakes.

This part of the country is home to some of Canada's most famous destinations including Banff, Jasper, and Calgary so there's a lot on offer.

Whether you're looking to hike in the outdoors, look out for wildlife, or explore cities - this province has something for everyone! 

There are truly so many incredible places to visit in Alberta, and I’ve rounded up 20 of the best to help you plan your trip.  

Let’s jump right in, starting with…

Travellerspoint

How to get to Alberta

The two main ways to get to Alberta Canada are to fly, or drive.

How to get to Alberta

Getting to Alberta Canada by flying

Alberta has three international airports, including Calgary, Edmonton, and Fort McMurray. You can easily fly into these three airports from most major cities! 

To find the best deal on flights, I recommend using Skyscanner.

‍ They always have the lowest prices, and if your travel plans are flexible, you can use them to figure out the cheapest way to fly!

Getting to Alberta Canada by driving

If you’re already in another region of Canada, or in the United States, you can easily get to Alberta by driving!

It’ll take a bit longer than flying, but road tripping through Canada is a unique and fun experience in itself.

You can either hire a car or you can choose to hire a campervan in Canada .

There are some fantastic motorhome rentals in other parts of Canada like Vancouver and Ontario , which is handy if you're planning a cross-country trip.

Getting around Alberta, Canada

getting around alberta

Hiring a Campervan/Car:

If you have the chance, we 100% recommend driving in Alberta! We traveled all through Alberta in our converted campervan Helen, and it was an amazing experience. 

It’s also super easy to rent a campervan/motorhome in Alberta ! 

If you travel through Alberta in a campervan, you can camp out next to beautiful parks and lakes, and really embrace the nature of the region. 

There are also plenty of rental car options if you’d prefer to drive around and stay the night in hotels.

If you do decide to rent a campervan, I 100% recommend booking with Motorhome Republic ! 

They are the world’s largest campervan/motorhome price comparison website, where you can see all of the top rental firms side by side to easily select the best price for your travel dates! 

A few other reasons to book with Motorhome Republic:

  • Lowest prices : Motorhome Republic always shows you the lowest possible prices for your trip dates. They even do a price match !
  • Customer support: Motorhome Republic’s customer support team can handle any and all of your booking questions to make renting a campervan as seamless as possible. They also have 24/7 customer support !
  • Vehicle Guarantee: If your rental firm ever lets you down and can’t deliver your chosen vehicle, Motorhome Republic will step in and find you a comparable vehicle at no extra cost . 

Other options for getting around Alberta

  • Fly: Alberta is pretty big, and if you’re short on time and need to get from one area to another quickly, you can always fly between their three international airports. Skyscanner.com always has the cheapest prices for flights like this! 
  • Train: Another option to get around Alberta is by train. Alberta is serviced by VIA Rail , and has stops in both Edmonton and Jasper . Some train routes go straight through the Rockies - a very scenic and unmissable experience. 
  • Bus/Private Shuttle: If you don’t feel like driving or taking the train, another option for getting around in Alberta is to take private and shared shuttles from place to place. There are tons of shuttles running to/from popular places in Alberta , and you can find the best options on Viator !

Where to Stay in Alberta

Where to Stay in Alberta

Alberta is huge province and there are so many incredible places for you to visit! This in turn, means there are lots of places you could stay.

If I were to list all of them in this post, the article would go on forever...

However, some of the best places to base yourself include Banff town, Canmore, and Calgary! 

Although we believe hiring a campervan is the best (and cheapest) way to explore Alberta, it's not for everyone.

If you're looking for accommodation then you can find some great deals on Booking.Com , Airbnb , Vrbo , and Agoda . Between them all, you'll find a great range of luxury and budget-friendly properties.

If you do choose Banff, then you might find our guide on the best private hot tub hotels in Banff to be particularly enticing.

We've also got a guide on how to get cheap hotel rooms if you're interested.

20 best places to visit in Alberta

1. banff town.

banff town alberta

Banff is nestled in the Canadian Rocky Mountains, and is a gateway to incredible lakes, forests, and hiking trails! 

Due to its central location, it's one of the best places in Alberta to use as a base for exploring the surrounding area.

The town of Banff itself is a fun resort town, with a stunning mountain backdrop and lots of little shops, bars, and restaurants. 

banff town

If you’re short on time, don’t want to drive, but still want to see all the highlights in the Banff area, consider taking a Banff National Park full one day tour ! You’ll get to see Sulphur Mountain , Bow Falls , and also check out the Johnston Canyon Walk .

Another great way to see Banff National Park is on a horseback riding tour that takes you alongside Bow River with your horse, as you look out at the beautiful mountains.

There are also plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting right outside of Banff- you can go out on your own, or you can book a minibus wildlife sightseeing tour where expert tour guides will show you the best places to spot wildlife.

2. Lake Louise

lake louise

Lake Louise is one of the most picturesque sights in all of the province, and is easily one of the best places to visit in Alberta! 

The lake has vibrant turquoise blue waters, and is surrounded by regal mountains and the Victoria Glacier. 

It’s only a short drive from Banff Town too!

lake louise alberta

Aside from taking in the majestic views of the lake, there are plenty of hikes and places to hire canoes.

In the summertime, Lake Louise is extremely popular, and understandably so.

It’s quite enjoyable to paddle around the lake in the summer heat, and to hike around it. 

In winter, the lake transforms- it freezes, and many of the surrounding trails turn from hiking into cross-country skiing. 

If you're looking for beautiful places in Alberta then don't miss out on Lake Louise! 

3. Moraine Lake

Moraine Lake alberta

Moraine Lake is another insanely gorgeous lake in Alberta. 

Like Lake Louise, Moraine Lake also has stunning turquoise wears and a backdrop of the Canadian Rockies. 

Moraine Lake does have its own unique perks though- it’s surrounded by ten incredible mountain peaks, and those mountains with the vibrant waters, creates some utterly jaw dropping views.

Located a little past Lake Louise, Moraine Lake has some incredible hiking trails too! Some of the most popular include Sentinel Pass and Larch Valley. 

Due to its popularity, parking is known to be a bit of a nightmare at Moraine Lake. The easiest way to get in and not deal with parking is to book a shuttle or a park and ride. 

4. Lake Minnewanka

lake minnewanka

Lake Minnewanka is another magnificent lake located in Banff National Park.

The lake is massive, and surrounded by forest and mountains. 

If you’re looking to go on a boat tour in Banff, Lake Minnewanka is the only lake in Banff that allows motorized boats, so this is the place to do it! 

The area surrounding the lake is brimming with wildlife too; there is the potential for spotting tons of animals, including grizzly bears, elk, coyote, and even wolves!

Like the other lakes in the area, Lake Minnewanka is quite popular, and if you're visiting in the summer then your best bet for parking is to arrive in the early morning, or book a shuttle!

Either way, you don't want to miss out on this beautiful place! 

If you're looking to see this incredible spot (which you 100% should) then here's some more information about visiting Lake Minnewanka ...

5. The Bow Valley Parkway

johnson canyon alberta

The Bow Valley Parkway is a scenic route that connects Banff to Lake Louise.

It’s approximately 50km long, and runs parallel to the Trans-Canada Highway. 

Driving the parkway is by far one of the best things to do in Alberta!

The windy road offers spectacular views of meadows, mountains, and forests. 

There are also a number of stops along the drive that make it well worth it. 

Some of the best stops along the Bow Valley Parkway include Castle Lookout, a lookout beneath Castle Mountain, as well as Johnston Canyon - an incredible canyon hike with a catwalk above the Bow River.

6. Jasper National Park

jasper national park

Jasper National Park is the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies, and it’s DEFINITELY one of the best places to visit in Alberta! 

This national park is remarkable no matter what season you come to visit, and I'll explain why now! 

In the winter, you can experience cross country skiing and snowshoeing, lovely snow peaked mountains, and frozen lakes. 

In the spring, all of the meadows explode with blooming wildflowers. 

In the summer, you can hike, hang out on the lake, picnic, cycle, and more! 

If you’re hoping to see wildlife, you’re in the right place too- Jasper is teeming with wildlife, and you’re almost guaranteed to spot some elk while you’re there. 

To see the best of the park, including Maligne Lake, Medicine Valley, and Spirit Island, you can book an all-inclusive park tour on Viator!

For incredible views of the park, consider booking a ride on the Jasper SkyTram !

It’ll take you all the way up Whistler’s Mountain, and serve up some awesome views along the way.

7. Icefields Parkway

driving the icefields parkway

The Icefields Parkway , also known as Highway 93, connects Banff National Park and Jasper National Park, and is known as one of the most scenic highways in the world. 

It takes about 3 hours to drive the whole parkway, but you should definitely give yourself more time than this to account for the stops you’ll surely want to take along the way! 

Some of the stops along the Icefield Parkway include the Columbia Icefield , Athabasca Glacier, and the Columbia Icefield Skywalk . 

One thing to keep in mind throughout this drive is that cell service is pretty spotty, so it’s a good idea to have a map on hand or download your maps offline! 

To enrich the drive, you may consider a smartphone audio driving tour . You can go at your own pace, and the tour will tell you all about the highlights and history of the drive.

8. Athabasca Glacier

alberta travel tips

Athabasca Glacier lies in the Columbia Icefield of Western Canada, and is the most visited glacier in North America! 

The Columbia Icefield is the last surviving part of a massive ice mass from the Rocky Mountains, and the Athabasca Glacier is located in the midst of it. 

The glacier has been slowly receding over the last 100 years, but it’s still impressively large. 

When you’re there, information stands will show you pictures of just how large the glacier used to be! 

Athabasca Glacier alberta

It’s important to keep in mind that the glacier is just as dangerous as it is beautiful- for a fun and safe viewing, definitely stay behind the roped barrier. 

If you’re visiting from Banff, you can take a full-day ice explorer tour that includes transportation, lunch, tickets to the glacier skywalk, as well as an all-terrain ice tour! 

The Athabasca Glacier is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Alberta so isn't a place you want to miss.

9. Columbia Icefield Skywalk

Columbia Icefield Skywalk

The Columbia Icefield Skywalk , also known as the Jasper Skywalk, is a magnificent viewing platform located above Sunwapta Valley. 

The glass viewing platform rests 280m above the ground, and offers incredible views of mountains, glaciers, fossils, and waterfalls! 

The Columbia Icefield Skywalk also offers opportunities for wildlife viewing - mountain goats tend to frequent this area, and if you’re lucky, you may get to see them daringly traverse the mountainside! 

If you’re looking to score some awesome views of the Columbia Icefield , the skywalk is well worth it, and you can book your admission tickets right here.

10. Peyto Lake

alberta travel tips

Peyto Lake is one of the brightest, most stunning lakes in Canada and is one of the best places to visit in Alberta! 

This glacier-fed lake is located north of Lake Louise, and is a must-see stop along the Icefields Parkway.

With its brilliant blue water, and dense surrounding forests Peyto Lake is truly a magical place. 

Some of the most popular things to do here include hiking, fishing, and camping! 

The lake is open year round, so you can either come for deep blue hues in the summer, or for snow capped trees and a frozen lake in the winter. 

Peyto Lake alberta

As Peyto Lake is one of the few lakes open year-round, this is also one of the best places to visit in Alberta in winter.

There are tons of hikes surrounding Peyto Lake, and hiking up to places like Observation Point or Peyto Lake Panorama Overlook is the way to score a fantastic view of the lake.

Here's some more information about visiting Peyto Lake ...

11. Maligne Canyon

alberta travel tips

Maligne Canyon is the deepest canyon in Jasper National Park, and a true natural wonder. 

At its deepest points, the canyon is a whopping 55 meters deep! 

One of the best things to do in Maligne Canyon is to hike, as the canyon offers hiking for all different abilities and hiking levels. 

The main hike here is called the Maligne Canyon Trail, which takes about 2-4 hours to traverse. 

If you’re looking for an easier and less strenuous hike, feel free to only hike a portion of the loop and then turn back! You’ll still get great views, but it’ll be much quicker and easier.

Due to the water that flows through the canyon in the summer, in the wintertime, there are some awesome ice sculptures that form here.

You can also keep your eyes out on the canyon walls for fossils, which there are plenty of!

12. Maligne Lake

Maligne lake alberta

Maligne Lake is a spectacular lake located in the heart of the Rockies and Jasper National Park. 

With its crystal blue waters and mountainous backdrop, it’s by far one of the best places to visit in Alberta! 

Maligne Lake is the largest natural lake in the Rockies with an impressive length of 22km, so as you can imagine there's a lot to see! 

Some of the best activities to do here include hiking, kayaking, and visiting Spirit Island in the middle of the lake. 

The hikes surrounding Maligne Lake are great for all levels, including short nature walks and multi-day adventures too!

13. Spirit Island

spirit island alberta

Spirit Island is located in the middle of Maligne Lake, and it’s one of the most photographed sites in all of Canada!  

Despite its name, Spirit Island isn’t actually an Island- it’s connected to the shore during some parts of the year.

However, due to its geography it’s not accessible by land, only by boat. 

Because private boats aren’t allowed, the only way to get to the island (which is also a famous landmark!) is to book a boat tour , or to kayak there.

The island doesn’t have much to do on it per se , but it’s a pretty famous photo opportunity, and the boat trip is a really fun experience. 

Book a Spirit Island boat tour here!

14. Canmore

Canmore

Canmore is a beautiful resort town and is one of the best places to visit in Alberta, Canada! 

Set amongst the backdrop of the Canadian Rockies, Canmore has that classic, Western old-town look combined with a sense of adventure. 

It's also a great stepping stone to Banff National Park, and many other exciting natural landmarks. 

One of the highlights of Canmore is to walk along Main Street, which is littered with bars, souvenir shops, and restaurants. 

Other notable things worth checking out include Policeman’s Creek , Canmore Engine Bridge, and the Police Barracks Museum .

One of the best hikes near Canmore is the Grassi Lakes Hike Trail. It’s approximately 3.2 kilometers long, and a fun loop that showcases the brilliant blue water of the lake (in the summertime.)

If you're looking for more things to do in Canmore then I've included a link that you might find handy...

15. Waterton Lakes National Park

Waterton Lakes National Park in Alberta

Waterton Lakes National Park is one of the best places to go in Alberta. It’s a beautiful park filled with lakes, meadows, and mountains. 

The valley of the park was formed over 10 thousand years ago when glaciers melted to carve it out. 

It's a great place for wildlife viewing, hiking, camping, and enjoying the various beaches in the area.

One of the best parts about Waterton Lake National Park is that it doesn’t suffer from the same overtourism of many other parks in Canada. 

If you’re really looking to get off the beaten path, then this is one of the best Alberta destinations. 

Here's some more information on the best things to do in Waterton Lakes National Park ...

16. Red Rock Canyon

Red Rock Canyon in Waterton National Park, Alberta

Red Rock Canyon is a stunning red canyon located in Waterton National Park. It’s popular for hiking, picnicking, and even simply for a scenic drive! 

The landscape here is unique in that it marks the dramatic change from the prairie, to the mountains. 

The Red Rock Canyon marks the end of the Red Rock Parkway , a scenic, 9 mile road. 

Driving along the parkway offers a great opportunity to spot wildlife like bears, sheep, moose, and more! 

Once you get to the end of the parkway, you’ll arrive at Red Rock Canyon. 

Red Rock Canyon has a solid trails system which offers plenty of hikes through waterfalls and creek beds. 

On hot summer days, the water levels are pretty low and the canyon is a fun place to hang out and cool off for the day.

17. Downtown Calgary

Downtown Calgary, Alberta

Downtown Calgary offers a fun change of pace from the national parks in Alberta. 

It’s a bustling, vibrant, and cultural area located in the heart of Calgary. 

One thing that Calgary is particularly well-known for is its art. A rich culture and history of art brings many galleries and exhibits, as well as theatre performances and indie music concerts! 

Aside from shopping and general exploring, some of the other fun things to do in Calgary include paying a visit to the Calgary Zoo, and the Calgary Tower.

The Calgary Tower offers sweeping, 360 degree views of the city - it’s an awesome experience, and you can buy admission tickets in advance.

The Calgary Zoo is another really fun place to visit in Alberta, and it's home to over 100 different species of animals! 

Although Downtown is one of the most popular areas, you'll find plenty of other fantastic places to visit in Calgary.

Many people choose to start their road trip of Alberta in this city too, and luckily there are lots of fantastic motorhome rentals here!

18. Dinosaur Provincial Park

dianosaur provinical park in alberta

For a totally different change of scenery, visit Dinosaur Provincial Park .

This park is located in the Alberta Badlands, and is home to incredible rock formations and dinosaur fossils! 

In fact, Dinosaur Provincial Park is so rich in history that it’s been named a UNESCO Heritage Site. 

To date, 50 complete dinosaur skeletons have been discovered in the park. 

Dinosaur Provincial Park

If you’re fascinated by dinosaurs, you can book a tour to get up close to the fossils and learn even more about their discovery , and the specific species that existed here years and years ago.

There are also a TON of hiking opportunities in the park. Some notable trails include the Prairie Trail, a 15 minute walk that’s fairly easy, as well as the 0.9km Trail of the Fossil Hunters.

If this sounds like the place for you, then you should also head over to Drumheller and visit the Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology ! 

19. Crowsnest Pass

alberta travel tips

Crowsnest Pass is a stretch of Canadian Highway that connects 5 historical mining towns: Bellevue, Hillcrest, Blairmore, Coleman, and Frank.

Back in the early 1900’s, these towns were booming with coal.

The prosperity didn’t last though, and eventually the settlers in this area were forced to change paths, and many got into the energy and ranching sectors. 

There is a lot to do in Crowsnest Pass, especially for history lovers! Some of the highlights include checking out Canada’s deadliest landslide, and the Bellevue underground mine tour . 

The landslide occurred in Frank, when over half a mountainside simply slid away, decimating everything in its path.

The Bellevue underground mine tour is an interesting and accessible tour that explains the history of Canadian mines. 

20. Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary

Wolfdogs at Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary, Alberta

One of the most interesting places to visit in Alberta is the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary .

This sanctuary is dedicated to educate people on wolfdogs, as well as raise awareness for wolfdog conservation! 

There are three types of tours you can take at the sanctuary- the Sanctuary Walk, Intro Tour, and the Interactive Tour. 

During the Sanctuary Walk, you’ll take a self guided walk where you can see several packs of wolfdogs. 

During the Intro Tour, you’ll have a tour guide who can answer any of your questions about the wolfdogs, and you'll also get to go on the viewing platform which takes you closer to the dogs. 

The Interactive Tour is the most inclusive of the three, and includes all of the above plus a chance to interact close up with the dogs, including potentially feeding them a treat. 

One of the coolest things about visiting the sanctuary is that all proceeds go directly towards funding the Sanctuary’s rescue efforts.

If you're looking for fun places to visit in Alberta, then you NEED to visit the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary! 

Alberta Travel Tips & FAQ

When is a good time to visit alberta.

best time to visit alberta

The answer to this question really depends on your interests! 

If you’re itching to see the brilliant blue lakes in Alberta, then the best time for you to visit will be in the summer! Overall, the summer is a popular time to visit Alberta and you’ll get to experience incredible views, the blue lakes, and lots of fun hiking. 

If you’re enchanted by snow, you’re pretty much guaranteed frozen lakes and snow in the winter- and if you like snow sports such as ice skating, cross country skiing and snowshoeing, you're in for a treat.

How long should you spend in Alberta?

You could spend MONTHS in Alberta and still find there are tons more places you want to see and explore. We don’t all have months though, so I’d recommend spending at least 10 days in Alberta.

What is a good budget for Alberta?

This greatly depends on your travel style, but I would say to budget at least $85 per day to travel in Alberta if you’re planning on doing some sightseeing, as well as paying for a campervan rental. 

If you're planning on staying in any of the beautiful campsites that Alberta has to offer, especially in the Rockies region, then you really need to book in advance if you're traveling between June-September. They WILL fill up!

alberta travel tips

And remember, you can't "freedom camp" in any of the national parks in Alberta, so if you don't have a campsite you will miss out.

Use this website to make your reservations.

Where to go after Alberta

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Alberta is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Canada but this country has so much more to offer...

After exploring this incredible province, you’re probably going to want to check out British Columbia next! 

British Columbia is packed with rugged coastline, beautiful forests, and tons of lakes, and there are lots of awesome places to visit. This includes the resort town of Whistler, the bustling city of Vancouver , and the scenic Yoho National Park.

If you're planning a road trip around Canada then here are some other guides that you may find useful:

  • The Best Things to do in Winnipeg
  • The Best Places to Visit in Ontario
  • The Best Things to do in Montreal

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Alberta does lakes and mountains like Rome does cathedrals and chapels, but without the penance. For proof head west to Jasper and Banff, two of the world’s oldest national parks; despite their wild and rugged terrain, they remain untrammeled and easily accessible. They're majestic, breathtaking, awesome. No one should leave without first laying eyes on Peyto Lake and the Columbia Icefield, nor before traveling east to the fossil-encrusted badlands around Drumheller, south to the Crypt Lake trail in Waterton Lakes National Park, and north to spot bison in the vast, empty northern parklands.

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Of all Canada’s top sights, Banff National Park justifiably ranks as many people’s number one. As much a piece of history as a natural wonder, Canada’s…

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Lake Louise

Considered by many to be the crown jewel of Banff National Park, Lake Louise is nearly impossible to describe without resorting to clichés. This…

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Moraine Lake

The spectacular, deep teal waters of Moraine Lake are one of Banff National Park’s most iconic sights. The lake’s rugged and remote setting…

A 360 degree panorama of the Columbia Icefields and Athabasca Glacier in Jasper National Park, Alberta, Canada, just before the

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The tongue of the Athabasca Glacier runs from the Columbia Icefield to within walking distance of the road opposite the Icefield Centre. It can be visited…

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The Planet D: Adventure Travel Blog

31 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Alberta

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: November 22, 2023

Alberta is Canada’s most beautiful province. I may be biased since I was born in Alberta and have returned countless times but it’s hard to compete with the Rocky Mountains, the badlands, and the glistening glacier lakes. So since we love visiting Alberta so much, we want to share the most beautiful places to visit in Alberta to let you be the judge. Home to the Canadian Rockies, Alberta boasts five national parks with some of the best scenery in Western Canada. If you are planning a trip to Alberta, don’t miss these beautiful places.

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Best Places to Visit in Alberta

best places to visit in Alberta

We have traveled a lot of Alberta during every season and can honestly say, it is an amazing year-round destination and one of the most beautiful places in the world! Whether you visit Alberta in winter, summer, spring, or fall, you are going to be stunned by its natural beauty.

The best way to get around Alberta is by car. You’ll want to be able to stop at the scenic views, hiking trails, and attractions throughout the province. You can pick up your car rental at the Calgary Airport and set off for the adventure of a lifetime. Check prices here.

There are so many iconic places to see in Alberta, it can be difficult knowing where to start, but we are here to help. These are the most beautiful places in Alberta that we have visited with pictures to prove it! Let’s get started.

1. Banff National Park

best places to visit in alberta banff national park

Banff National Park is Canada’s oldest national park and has attracted visitors since 1885. Located in the middle of the Rocky Mountains there are incredible views, glacier lakes, and backcountry adventures to be had. When you set your eyes upon Lake Louise with Victoria Glacier regally reflecting into its turquoise waters you can’t help but gasp in awe at the scene of one of the most beautiful places in Canada.

Banff National Park is vast with towering mountain peaks of the Canadian Rockies, turquoise lakes (besides Lake Louise), and alpine meadows. The park is also home to numerous waterfalls, glaciers, and wildlife, making it a nature lover’s paradise. So, before we move away from Banff National Park, let’s take a look at all of the top attractions in the area, because they just so happen to be the best places to visit in Alberta as well.

  • 12 Best Hikes in Banff National Park
  • Where to Stay in Banff
  • The Best Things to do in Banff, Alberta

2. Lake Louise

best places to visit in alberta lake louise

Lake Louise is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Alberta. A true Canadian bucket list activity is to rent a canoe and head out onto the lake. You can stay in Lake Louise Village which has plenty of shops and restaurants or you can stay at the world-famous Chateau Lake Louise for pure luxury and decadence.

Where to Stay in Lake Louise:

  • Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Hotel is located directly on Lake Louise
  • Deer Lodge – Located right next door to the Fairmont

Lake Louise in Winter

fairmont lake louise banff national park hotel

It is also one of the best places in Alberta to visit in Winter. Lake Louise Ski Resort is a world-class resort that hosted the 1988 Winter Olympics. In the winter there are endless adventures to be had at Lake Louise Ski Resort and beyond the ski hill from cross-country skiing, dog sledding , skijoring, pond hockey, and snowshoeing.

In the winter Lake Louise freezes over making for the most beautiful outdoor skating rink settings on earth. Now is your chance to ice skate at one of Canada’s most iconic destinations.

  • Canoe Lake Louise
  • Good Old Hockey Game on Lake Louise

things to do in alberta - lake agnes trail

In the summer, Lake Louise is astounding with hiking trails taking you out to Victoria Glacier and beyond. A popular hike is the Lake Agnes Tea House Trek, where you hike 3.5km (2.2 miles) to the historic tea house. Lake Agnes Tea House has been in operation since 1905 and has a charming rustic ambiance, with seating both inside and outside on the deck overlooking Lake Agnes.

This is one of the most popular hikes in the national park, so it’s recommended to arrive early to avoid crowds and ensure a spot at the tea house. After enjoying your tea and snacks at the tea house, you can either retrace your steps back to Lake Louise along this popular hike or continue on to the Little Beehive or Big Beehive trails for more stunning views of the area.

3. Moraine Lake

Best Hikes in Banff National Park Moraine Lake Shoreline

No visit to Lake Louise would be complete without hiking out to Moraine Lake. It unforgettable scene is featured on the back of our old Canadian $20 bill and has been attracting outdoor lovers for decades.

Moraine Lake is not far from Lake Louise and is just an hour’s drive from the town of Banff. The best time to visit Moraine Lake is definitely at sunrise. When the sun hits the Valley of the Ten Peaks and reflects off of the mirror-like lake you know why this is one of the most photographed locations in North America.

Note that there has been a change in rules for 2023 and accessing Moraine Lake for sunrise is no longer possible via the Parks Canada Shuttle. You will have to find a tour that has access to do this. If you ride a bike or take an organized tour you can still visit Lake Moraine for sunrise.

The Moraine Lake Shoreline hike gives you a shot of ten towering peaks side-by-side, including Mount Tuzo, Mount Bowlen, and Wenkchemna Peak. This is the famous “Twenty Dollar View.” Read more:  16 Best Banff Hikes To Discover

4. Banff Hot Springs

Things to do in Banff Upper Hot Springs

It was the Banff Hot Springs that first attracted tourists to the national park and when visiting Banff you must take a day to spend in these iconic waters. The hot springs were first discovered by workers on the Canadian Pacific Railway in 1883.

This is one of the most stunning locations of any hot spring surrounded by the Canadian Rockies. The water temperature ranges from 37°C to 40°C (98°F to 104°F), making it the perfect place to relax and unwind.

The Banff Upper Hot Springs is the most popular and accessible in Banff National Park making it an easy place to visit. The facility includes a large outdoor pool that is open year-round. In fact, the best time to visit is in winter when the mountains are covered with snow. There are indoor change rooms where you can rent an old-timers bathing suit if you don’t have your own, plus a café. There is also a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs and other items.

5. Lake Minnewanka

places to visit in alberta - lake minnewanka

Lake Minnewanka is the largest lake in Banff National Park stretching over 21 kilometers (13 miles) in length and reaching depths of up to 142 meters (466 feet). Like so many of the lakes in the park, it is surrounded by the Canadian Rockies.

The name “Minnewanka” comes from the Stoney Nakoda First Nations people, meaning “Water of the Spirits” and there are plenty of things to do in the area. Visitors can take a scenic drive along the Minnewanka Loop, which offers several viewpoints and stops for hiking trails and picnic areas.

We highly recommend taking one of its boat tours during the summer months. The guides are filled with knowledge and you’ll learn about the legend of the Mermen that lived in Lake Minnewanka. In the winter, the lake freezes over and becomes a popular spot for ice fishing and cross-country skiing. We have visited it in both winter and summer and each season is beautiful.

6. Castle Mountain

Best Places to Visit in Alberta Castle Mountain

One of the most recognizable Massifs is Castle Mountain. Located between Banff Town and Lake Louise, its distinctive shape resembles a castle. (hence its name). The area offers opportunities for hiking and rock climbing. For those without alpine skills, the mountain can be viewed from the Trans Canada Highway at Castle Junction.

Where to stay in Banff:

  • Mount Royal Hotel – Located downtown and within walking distance of everything
  • Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel – The original Grand Dame of Banff.

7. Icefields Parkway

places to visit in alberta icefield's parkway

The Icefields Parkway links Banff and Jasper national parks and is one of the most beautiful drives on earth. It truly is one of the greatest road trips in the world. There are so many things to see along Icefields parkway you’ll want to take a couple of days to explore it. Don’t miss stopping at the Athabasca Glacier at the Columbia Icefields which is one of the largest non-polar ice fields in the world and take in the view of the surrounding mountains at the Icefields Skywalk.

You can read more at Driving the Icefields Parkway from Banff to Jasper Alberta but we are also going to highlight some of the top outdoor activities and viewpoints along this iconic route.

8. Columbia Icefield Skywalk

Places to visit in Alberta Glacier Skywalk

The Columbia Icefields Skywalk has quickly become the most epic viewpoint in Alberta. Just a short drive from the Columbia Icefield visitor center the Skywalk is a must-see attraction. The glass-bottomed walkway over the Columbia Icefields dangles 280m (918 feet) above the canyon surrounded by glaciers and mountains creating an awesome view!

The Columbia Icefield is a great stop about halfway between Banff and Jasper town and here you can go to the museum, grab some lunch (food is expensive though so be prepared), and take in the views of the Columbia Icefield and Athabasca Glacier. You can book tours here as well.

9. Athabasca Glacier

places to visit in alberta athabasca glacier

You can view the glacier from the visitor center, but you can also book a tour to get out onto it. If you don’t want to book a tour, you can walk out on some trails for a closer view of the glacier. But don’t go off the trail and never venture out onto the glacier alone without a guide. It is dangerous and can be deadly, this is the scariest glacier we’ve ever been on with deep crevasses and we followed our guide’s instructions to a tea.

Book this Columbia Icefield Half Day Tour here from Jasper. It includes transportation from Jasper, photo stops at Athabasca Falls and Stutfield Glacier, Ice Cat tour of the Athabasca Glacier, and the Icefield Skywalk with lunch!

10. Bow Lake

places to visit in alberta bow lake

There are countless pullovers and viewpoints on the Icefields Parkway to see iconic Alberta lakes such as Peyto Lake, and the stunning reflections of Bow Lake. Located at the foot of Crowfoot Glacier, Bow Lake has the most beautiful lake reflection in all of Alberta. You can hike around the lake or pause to stay at Num ti Jaw Lodge located directly on Bow Lake. It’s a great place to make a base.

11. Peyto Lake

places to visit in alberta peyto lake

There are so many lakes along the Icefields Parkway to stop and take in the views. From Two Jack Lake to Peyto Lake which we have decided to feature. Why? Because, Peyto Lake is a stunning glacier-fed lake that is is known for its vibrant blue-green color, which is caused by the rock flour (fine sediment) that is carried into the lake by melting glaciers.

It has spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, there are several hiking trails with The Bow Summit Trail being a popular stop. Make sure to keep an eye out for elk, moose deer, and even bears. Peyto Lake is easily accessible from the nearby Icefields Parkway, making it one of the most popular tops for people traveling from Banff to Jasper National Park.

Where to Stay on the Icefields Parkway

Num Ti Jah Lodge is a historic Lodge located directly on Bow Lake. It is one of the most unique places to stay in Alberta and is located on the Glacier Parkway, it makes for a great place to make a base while exploring both Banff and Jasper National Parks if you don’t mind the drive.

12. Jasper National Park

places to visit in alberta jasper national park

After you’ve driven the Icefields Parkway, Jasper National Park is your next stop and is a place you cannot miss visiting in Alberta. It is as beautiful as Banff National Park if you can believe it! In fact, we like Jasper National Park better than banff because it is less crowded and more rustic.

There are so many places to see in Jasper National Park that you need to spend a few days up here. It has an abundance of wildlife from grizzly bears to mountain goats, you can see the aurora borealis and waterfalls. Plus, like so many other places in Alberta, there are hiking trails, turquoise lakes, and canyons. Read more: Amazing Things to do in Jasper, Alberta

13. Northern Lights at Lake Annette

places to visit in alberta lake annette

You can see the northern lights all over Alberta but Jasper is known for its dark sky festival and it is one of the best places to see the Aurora Borealis in Alberta. Winter is the best time to view the dark skies because the days or shorter and you have long dark nights to see the stars twinkle in the sky.

We made our way out to Lake Annette from the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge in the wee hours of the morning and saw the most extraordinary display of northern lights reflecting in the still waters. Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge is the best place to stay in Jasper with beautiful views of Lac Beauvert and options to stay in log cabins, huge lake houses, and main building hotel rooms.

14. Maligne Canyon

places to visit in alberta maligne canyon

Maligne Canyon is a gorgeous river canyon walk that plunges 50 meters (154 feet) into the earth. Maligne Canyon is located just 15 minutes from downtown Jasper along the 46 km (miles) Maligne Lake Drive. This stop is one of the most popular places to visit in Jasper and for good reason. It is the deepest canyon in Jasper National Park and there are beautiful hiking trails along the canyon offering extraordinary views. Arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds!

In the summer it is a great place for a hike to see the waterfalls cascading down the canyon, but in the winter it turns into a wonderland with frozen waterfalls filling the scene. You can book ice walk tours to see the frozen waterfalls and ice caves.

15. Maligne Lake

best things to do in jasper National Park Canada Maligne Lake View

Maligne Lake is one of the most visited places in Jasper National Park. There are hiking trails and scenic lookouts but the top thing to do here is to take a boat cruise to Spirit Island for a picture-perfect photo opportunity.

Also, this will give you enough time to drive out to Maligne Lake. It is the longest natural lake in the Canadian Rockies. Read more: 14 Best Hikes in Jasper National Park – Alberta Canada

Where to Stay in Jasper National Park

Where to stay in Jasper National Park

Other highlights of Jasper include taking a food tour of Jasper Town, a visit to Pyramid Lake at sunrise, a hike to Sunwapta Falls, and stopping to view the gorgeous Athabasca Falls. Check out: 14 Best Hikes in Jasper National Park – Alberta Canada

16. Alberta Badlands

places to visit in alberta badlands

The Alberta Badlands are a stark contrast to the Rocky Mountains region. The lunar-like landscape is filled with unique places to see in Alberta. There are also some beautiful scenic lookouts like Horse Thief Canyon and Horseshoe Canyon. The Hoodoos of Drumheller is not to be missed. Read more: Things to do in Drumheller, Alberta

17. Hoodoos of Drumheller

places to visit in alberta hoodoos of

These ancient hoodoo rock formations are a tiny cluster on the side of the road as you drive from Dinosaur Provincial Park to Drumheller. The hoodoos were formed over hundreds of years through erosion from freezing, frost, melt and wind.

Over time, the sandstone eroded into long chimney-like formations that remain standing because the hard rock “hat” keeps it from completely eroding away. They are one of the most unique places in Alberta. If you want to know more, check out our post at The Hoodoos of Drumheller

Where to stay in the Alberta Badlands

  • Dinosaur Provincial Park Glamping and Campground
  • Heartwood Inn and Spa

18. Royal Tyrrell Museum

Places to visit in Alberta royal Tyrell museum drumheller

Located in the town of Drumheller, The Royal Tyrrell Museum is one of the best dinosaur museums in the world. We could have spent hours enjoying its displays. In fact, it houses the largest and most diverse collection of fossils in the world, with over 160,000 specimens on display. Visitors can see everything from dinosaur skeletons and fossils to ancient marine creatures and prehistoric plants.

19. Dinosaur Provincial Park

Beautiful places to visit in Alberta Dinosaur Provincial Park

While driving along the dinosaur trail, you cannot miss taking a tour of Dinosaur Provincial Park. Not only is is absolutely beautiful, but it is also one of the most fossil-rich destinations on the planet and you can see real fossils that have been dug from excavations.

The Centrosaurus Quarry Hike is the best way to see this huge concentration of dinosaur fossils. This was an actual excavation site, but scientists got all they needed from there and left the rest for us to see. It’s an interactive tour and the guide tests your knowledge as you try to remember everything you learned in school about dinosaurs. You can book tours at the park visitor center. Read more: A Visit to Dinosaur Provincial Park

20. Waterton Lakes National Park

places in Alberta Waterton lakes national park

Waterton Lakes National Park (also known as Waterton – Glacier International Peace Park) is an amazing place to visit in Alberta. It is located on the United States border and shares its land with Glacier National Park.

Together they are the only national parks in the world that are designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, an International Peace Park, and a Biosphere Reserve rolled all in one. You can see a herd of wild buffalo, red rocks canyon, and the Prince Albert Hotel. Plan your visit: The Wonders of Waterton Lakes National Park

Where to Stay in Waterton Lakes National Park

  • Prince of Wales Hotel is a National Historic Site that stands in the center of Waterton National Park. It is one of the most recognizable scenes from the park and is the perfect luxury escape. Check out the best places to visit in Wales

21. Pincher Creek – Southern Alberta

Places in Alberta Pincher Creek

Pincher Creek is a small town in Southern Alberta that is a great jumping-off point for Waterton Lakes National Park which is about one hour away.

It is a place where the prairies meet the Rocky Mountains and it is an absolutely beautiful setting. Wind farms line the plains with stark mountains filling in the backdrop and cattle graze in the fields and giant bales of hay dot the landscape. It is the Quintessential  Alberta travel  destination. It’s a great place to make a base to explore Crowsnest Pass for a few days. Check out all the attractions at The Many Sights of Pincher Creek .

22. Burmis Tree

unique places in Alberta Burmis Tree

When I saw The Burmis Tree in photographs, I had to make sure I put it at the top of my list of places to visit in Alberta. Located at Crowsnest Pass (Another must-visit place in Alberta) the Burmis Tree is estimated to be 600 to 750 years old. It is an ominous sight,

23. Head Smashed in Buffalo Jump

Interesting places in Alberta Head Smashed In Buffalo Jump

Located just 15 minutes from Fort MacLeod is the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Head Smashed in Buffalo Jump. Dating back 6000 years, the early Aboriginal peoples would lure herds of buffalo over the edge of a cliff. Read: Famous Canada Landmarks to add to your bucket list

24. Calgary

places in alberta calgary peace bridge

Calgary is Alberta’s largest city and no visit to Alberta would be complete without spending at least two days in the city. It is home to the annual Calgary Stampede but there is so much more to do than just watch chuck wagon races and bull riding. Calgary hosted the 1988 Olympics and just outside the city is Canada Olympic Park where you can enjoy countless outdoor activities in both winter and summer. Read more: Canada Olympic Park – Fun in Calgary Alberta

There are so many things to do in Calgary we recommend spending a couple of days. Located on the Bow River, Calgary has plenty of outdoor attractions, but it is also a chic urban destination with a fantastic food scene. Read more: 21 Best Things to do in Calgary, Alberta

25. Calgary Tower

calgary tower alberta places to visit

As shown above, we have an entire article dedicated to all the things to do in Calgary , but we do need to touch on at least one of its top attractions. When you visit Calgary, the first place you should go is up the Calgary Tower is one of the most recognizable structures in the city, and going up the tower is as much a part of the city as the CN Tower is to Toronto.

Upon completion in 1968, the Calgary Tower was the tallest building in Calgary. Although it was dethroned in 1984, the tower still offers visitors some of the best views in Calgary.

We have an entire article dedicated the Best Things to do in Calgary, Alberta

Where to stay in Calgary:

  • Le Germain Hotel
  • Delta Hotels by Marriott
  • Westin Calgary

26. Canmore

Alberta places to visit Canmore

We can’t write about all the places to visit in Alberta without mentioning Canmore. This former coal mining town is now an outdoor lover’s playground. Located between Calgary and Banff, it has heaps of hiking, biking, and snowshoe trails as well as fantastic viewpoints of the Three Sisters. It’s a great spot for rock climbing in the summer and ice climbing in the winter.

The Yamnuska Wolf Dog Sanctuary is not to be missed and make sure to do some climbing to take in the birds-eye views. Read more: The Best Things to do in Canmore, Alberta

27. Johnston Canyon

beautiful places in alberta johnston canyon

The scenic Johnston Canyon Icewalk is as beautiful (if not more) in the winter as it is in the summer. In the winter it is filled with frozen waterfalls. The sub-zero chill freezes the canyons, caves, and crevasses making for the bost beautiful scene. Ice climbers climb the glistening canyon walls while the rest of us can take the ice walk to explore ice caves and marvel at the frozen waterfalls. Read more:  The Best Things to do in Banff, Alberta

Where to Stay in Canmore

  • Stoneridge Mountain Resort

28. Kananaskis

Best places in Alberta Kananaskis

People often overlook Kananaskis for Banff or Jasper but it is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Alberta with just as stunning views. Located between Calgary and Banff, it is a great weekend getaway destination. Be sure to go to the spa at Kananaskis Mountain Lodge.

29. Edmonton

places to visit in alberta edmonton

Edmonton is often overlooked when visiting Alberta, but it is a funky town that has one of the youngest populations in Canada making for a trendy and happening city to visit! If you love spending time outdoors admiring wildlife this is a great jumping-off point to visit Jasper National Park, but it also has a great food scene, and plenty of festivals, in fact, Edmonton hosts the second-largest Fringe Festival in the world.

In Edmonton, you’ll discover a vibrant, cosmopolitan city surrounded by wilderness.  Check it out at: The Best Things to do in Edmonton, Alberta

30. West Edmonton Mall

places to visit in alberta west edmonton mall

The West Edmonton Mall is a top draw with everything inside you can imagine. It is the size of a small city and makes for a great year-round destination. I sometimes feel that people visit Edmonton simply to see this mall.

West Edmonton Mall is one of the largest malls in the world, covering an area of approximately 5.3 million square feet. Besides shopping, it has an indoor amusement park, mini golf, ice skating, a bowling alley, a movie theatre, and an aquarium.

The mall even has two hotels including the Fantasyland Hotel, which features rooms with unique themes such as the Polynesian Room and the Hollywood Room, and the West Edmonton Mall Inn.

31. Cowboy Trail

Places in Alberta Cowboy Trail

Southern Alberta is often overlooked with planning a trip to the province, but it should be high on your list. This is the Rocky Mountains meet the prairies. It is cowboy country is huge ranches and horses. It was where the buffalo roamed and the cattle graze-free. One of the best things to do here is to book a night at a ranch and go on a trail ride to explore the foothills of the Canadian Rockies.

The Cowboy Trail is an outstanding Alberta road trip from Calgary to the Rocky Mountains, into the prairies, and out of the Badlands. It was one of the  best road trips  we’ve ever taken and we want to give you your own itinerary to follow when you make your way to Canada’s most beautiful province. We have an entire itinerary for this loop and we will leave you here to read more about The Cowboy Trail – A Southern Alberta Road Trip

How to Get to Alberta, Canada

places to visit in alberta vermillion lakes

Alberta is located in Western Canada bordered by the provinces of British Columbia to the West, Saskatchewan to the East, and south of The Northwest Territories. It is located on the American Border at Montana.

The easiest way to get to Alberta is by air. The province has two international airports: Edmonton International Airport (YEG) and Calgary International Airport (YYC). Many major airlines offer direct flights to these airports from cities around the world. From the airport, you can rent a car or take a taxi, shuttle, or public transit to your destination. We highly recommend renting a car.

If you are traveling from within Canada or the United States, driving is another option. Alberta is accessible by several highways, including the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1), which runs east-west through the province. You can enter the province from British Columbia to the west or Saskatchewan to the east.

By Bus: Greyhound Canada provides bus service to various cities in Alberta from other Canadian provinces and some American cities. Other bus companies also offer services within the province. Both Dave and I have taken the bus across Canada through Alberta and let me tell you, it is an adventure.

By Train: Via Rail provides train service to various cities in Alberta, including Edmonton and Jasper, from other Canadian provinces. We’ve taken the Rocky Mountaineer from Vancouver to Banff and it is a ver popular option. The scenic train ride through the Canadian Rockies that stops in Banff and Jasper.

Travel times and distances in Alberta can be significant so make sure to plan ahead and decide wheter the bus, train or car rental is right for you.

Alberta truly is a dream destination. With countless photo opportunities and adventures to be had, it’s one of the greatest places in Canada to visit. So get in your car and start that Alberta road trip today!

Read More Alberta Travel Planning:

  • The 52 Best Things to do in Alberta, Canada – The Ultimate Guide
  • Discover Banff Canada – 24 Photos Inspire Wanderlust
  • The Rocky Mountaineer Experience – Vancouver to Banff
  • The Best Things to do in Banff
  • A Spectacular Helicopter Tour in Banff
  • The Best place to go Dog Sledding in Banff National Park
  • Ice Climbing in Banff – The Ultimate Winter Adventure

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

  • Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
  • Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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7 thoughts on “31 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Alberta”

Great article! Love the pictures and the thoroughness. Well done.

I own a local guiding company based in Crowsnest Pass and Waterton, and would be excited to show you around if you’re in the area. 🙂

Oh my God! Do such places really exist on earth and this is not photoshop? I can’t believe it… It’s a shock.

I love this guide to all these stunning spots in Alberta! I had no idea Canada had spots like the Alberta Badlands. I can’t wait to make this road trip to see all of Alberta’s beauty in the future. Thanks for sharing!

First off, the photos look astoundingly surreal and out of this world! It’s like the sceneries were only captured to be viewed on a movie screen! The beautiful art of nature plus great photography equals these masterpieces! Thank you for sharing these beautiful places with us even though it’s only through virtual but you made us inspired and motivated to work our asses off to even just visit this place!

Thanks for featuring my province and my hometown of Edmonton! Jasper, Canmore and Banff are my happy places! Truly blessed to have these beautiful and sacred places close to home! Edmonton is finally emerging as a happening place! Great food, theatre, music, shopping and variety of festivals throughout the year!

Wish to visit each one of them some day. Loved Canmore more…

Beautiful, love to visit these places soon.

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Adventures Canada

Alberta: A Travel Guide

Alberta travel guide, exploring alberta & the rockies.

Our Alberta travel guide covers all the important information you need to plan the ultimate trip to Alberta and the Canadian Rockies. 

Alberta is home to the Candian Rockies, but these magnificent mountains are not all that Alberta has to offer travelers.  The badlands hold some of the world’s most significant dinosaur remains, as well as a vivid landscape entrenched in time.  

Northern Alberta is home to vast stretches of wilderness, open skies and opportunity to see Aurora Borealis.  

And yes, the Rockies.  The Rockies stretch along most of the Western border of Alberta, making the ultimate playground for adventurers and nature lovers alike.  

In this Alberta travel guide you can find information on some of the best experiences and attractions in Alberta, as well as some of the best tourism operators and outfitters in the province.  

Latest News and Articles

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Discover the best breweries to pair with some of the top hikes in Canada. We’ve used a discerning approach to combining some of the best pairings for your palate.

Top Adventures & Activities in Alberta

Snowboarding in British Columbia

  • Skiing & Snowboarding

Alberta is home to several amazing ski resorts, which are blessed with long cold winters and long ski seasons.  The Rockies make for a backcountry skier’s playground as well. 

alberta travel tips

Open plains, lookouts and mountains make for some of the best hiking in the country.  Alberta is home to the Eastern flank of the Rockies and a lifetime supply of world class hiking trails along with it. 

alberta travel tips

Alberta offers a massive range of campgrounds, including backcountry sites, front-country campgrounds and RV parks.  The summer months are excellent times to camp with warm, reliable weather from June through September. 

alberta travel tips

Mountain Biking

Expansive views, steady hills, and open terrain make for some of the best mountain biking the country has to offer.  Alberta is best known for xc biking.  

alberta travel tips

There are a few great rafting options, including the Athabasca River, Bow River and Kicking Horse River.  The scenery from these rivers is unbeatable.

Beach in Campbell River, a travel destination in Canada.

  • Wildlife Viewing

The vast open stretches of mountain wilderness are home to a bounty of animals, which can be seen while driving or hiking in certain areas.

alberta travel tips

Alberta has many jade coloured lakes in the Rockies and several expedition worthy rivers on the East side of the Rockies.  

alberta travel tips

Wine & Beer Tasting

Hot summer days and a strong ski culture make for some incredible craft breweries.  Stop in for a sip after your mountain adventure and you won’t be disappointed! 

alberta travel tips

The rockies provide excellent opportunity for sport climbers and especially for alpine climbers.  There are endless possibilities for climbing in Alberta. 

Beach in Campbell River, a travel destination in Canada.

Alberta is home to many world class golf courses.  Stable weather, delicious beer and good company make for some amazing golfing in Alberta. 

alberta travel tips

Snowshoeing & XC Skiing

Winter doesn’t mean the hiking adventures have to stop in Alberta!  There are hundreds of amazing trails to snowshoe on, and great XC ski routes and clubs as well.

Top Attractions In Alberta

alberta travel tips

Banff National Park

Countless mountains provide a playground for the active traveler in Banff National Park.  This is the perfect place for a mountain vacation, exploring glaciers, lakes and mountains.  

alberta travel tips

Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is North of Banff and far North of ordinary.  The park boasts seemingly endless mountains, less crowded hikes, starry skies and beautiful lakes.  No Rockies trip is complete without some exploration of Jasper. 

alberta travel tips

Kananaskis Provincial Park

Outside the bustle of the National Parks in the Rockies, Kananaskis packs a lot of punch for its hype.  This is a pristine mountain paradise with a lifetime supply of hikes and gorgeous landscapes. 

Beach in Campbell River, a travel destination in Canada.

Wood Buffalo National Park

Larger than Switzerland, and second largest national park in the world, Wood Buffalo is an untamed northernlandscape that plays an important role in providing habitat for Wood Bison.   

Beach in Campbell River, a travel destination in Canada.

Elk Island National Park

Elk Island National Park is not far from Edmonton and provides a reprieve from the urban center with countless opportunities for adventure and another great bison habitat. 

The Best Places To Visit In Alberta

Vancouver is a travel destination in Canada.

Canada's Cowboy City

Calgary has been slowly reinventing itself over the past decade as a vibrant city of culture and impeccable amenities.  Only 2 hours from the mountains and with a wide variety of nearby activities, Calgary is the best travel hub from your Alberta trip, and worth spending some time in!

Sunset in one Tofino, one of the top travel destinations in Canada.

Canada's Mountain Village

Banff is like living on a chocolate bar wrapper.  Ultra-scenic mountain views, mountain-town timber charm and an impossible to-do list of adventures make Banff the ultimate place to spend time on your trip to Alberta.

alberta travel tips

Mountains & Glaciers

Jasper is everything you need in a world class mountain town and nothing that you don’t.  More laid back than Banff and still full of opportunity, Jasper should be high on your list when you visit Alberta and the Rockies. 

Local Adventure Experts In Alberta

Activity Type

  • Biking/ Cycling

Fresh Adventures

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Current travel deals and special offers in alberta.

  • Multiday Tours, Expeditions

$1799- Save Big On A 7 Day Guided Hiking Tour In The Rockies in Summer 2023! – $496 Off!

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Canadian bucketlist experiences in alberta.

Go Camping In The Rockies

Go Camping In The Rockies

Getting to/ from alberta, driving in alberta:.

Alberta is easy to travel around by car.  Highway 2 runs north and south, while Highway 16 and 1 run east and west.  Most cities in Alberta are on Highway 2 and there are a few on highway 1.  

Don’t be fooled by the straight roads in Alberta.  The winds whip up over the flat land and can be tricky to drive in, even in the summer at times.  Hail is also common during thunderstorms in the summer.  

Flying To Alberta:

Flying to Alberta is really easy and best done through Calgary Airport (YYC) or Edmonton Airport (YEG).  Calgary is closer to the Rockies and has more options for shuttles.  This is the airport we recommend for most trips in Alberta. 

 Alberta’s Main Airports:

  • Calgary International Airport (YYC)
  • Edmonton International Airport (YEG)

Getting Around Alberta By Bus:

There are several bus lines that service Alberta.  Travel between the main cities is relatively straight forward. 

Calgary has a few great shuttle companies that service Banff and Canmore from the airport.  

Alberta Travel Information- FAQ

When are the best times to visit alberta for weather.

If you are looking for the relaxing, photogenic weather that most of us crave on our vacations you are best to travel to Alberta between the beginning of June and October.  You can expect summer weather in the mountains from June to the end of September.

If winter is your thing you should come between mid December to the end of March to ensure good winter conditions.

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Canada Crossroads

17 Best Day Trips from Edmonton (by an Edmontonian)

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Looking for the best day trips from Edmonton? We’ve got you covered. As an Edmonton local who has called this vibrant city home for more than nine years, we’ve come to cherish the opportunity to escape the daily grind through the myriad of destinations accessible right from our doorstep. 

fall colors in Edmonton

Edmonton’s position in Alberta offers a launchpad to a remarkable blend of destinations, each providing a unique glimpse into the region’s natural beauty and cultural offerings. 

In this journey of local exploration, we’ll guide you through the standout experiences that lie a short drive from our urban center. From tranquil parklands to bustling attractions and cultural landmarks to picturesque getaways, the options for adventure and leisure are as diverse as the landscapes of Alberta itself.

Best Day Trips from Edmonton (by an Edmontonian)

Best day trips from Edmonton Alberta pin

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1. Elk Island National Park: A Local’s Escape

  • Distance from Edmonton: 35 to 40 minutes
  • Perfect for: Outdoors, snowshoeing, northern lights viewing, wildlife, picnic

We have hit the trails of Elk Island National Park more times than we can count. Just a short drive from Edmonton, this gem offers an abundance of wildlife and pristine nature. 

Elk Island National Park canoe tour in the fall

Begin your adventure early in the morning, as the sun rises, casting a golden glow over the landscape. Bison, moose, and elk roam the park, so keep your eyes peeled and your camera ready. 

Remember to maintain a safe distance from the animals – they’re wild.

Choose from various trails, but I’d recommend the Wood Bison Trail for those seeking a moderate hike. It’s well-marked and meanders through diverse terrains.

Bison at the Elk Island National Park: Best day trips from Edmonton Alberta

As you walk, listen to the songs of native birds, a peaceful serenade that enhances the experience. This is the only trail where you can see wood bison. 

For lunch, claim a spot on the shores of Astotin Lake. The picnic areas are equipped with tables and fire pits. The gentle lapping of the water creates a serene soundtrack for your meal. 

If you’ve packed a kayak or canoe, the afternoon is your chance to glide across the lake. Paddling on the tranquil waters offers a unique perspective of the park and a chance to spot turtles or beavers. 

Elk Island National Park Sunset tours

If you don’t own a kayak, rentals are typically available but check ahead for availability. We booked a summer sunset tour on one of our day trips, which was amazing!

Wrap up your visit with a leisurely drive around Park Loop Road, where you might catch a final glimpse of the majestic bison herds. Take your time, soak in the views, and breathe in the fresh Alberta air. 

A day at Elk Island National Park is one I assure you’ll want to repeat.

2. Sylvan Lake: Lakeside vibes

  • Distance from Edmonton: 1 hour 50 minutes
  • Perfect for: Outdoors, lakeside views, food, water sports

Located in the heart of Alberta’s parkland region, Sylvan Lake is a popular summer destination for Edmontonians looking to escape the city heat. This charming town offers plenty of activities to entertain you all day.

Sylvan Lake best day trips from Calgary Alberta

Start your visit with a stroll along the lakeside promenade, taking in the views of turquoise waters and the pretty lighthouse. You’ll also find a variety of shops and restaurants along the way, perfect for some window shopping or grabbing a bite to eat. 

For those seeking adventure, many water sports are available on the lake, including paddleboarding, kayaking, and jet skiing. If you prefer to stay dry but still want to enjoy the water, rent a boat or sunbathe.

If you’re visiting in the winter, don’t worry; Sylvan Lake has you covered, too. The lake freezes over, creating a natural ice rink for skating and hockey. It’s also a popular spot for ice fishing.

Lighthouse in Sylvan Lake Alberta

We visited the lake in the winter, and it was perfect for a day out. 

As the day winds down, grab some ice cream from one of the many vendors along the lake and find a spot on the beach to watch the sunset. The sky turns into a canvas of pink and orange hues, creating a picture-perfect end to your day trip from Edmonton.

3. Alberta Beach: Small-town beach vibes

  • Distance from Edmonton: 1 hour
  • Perfect for: Beach vibes, relaxation

For a more laid-back and rustic experience, head to the quaint town of Alberta Beach. Tucked away on the shore of Lac Ste. Anne, this hidden gem offers a peaceful escape from the city.

alberta travel tips

This village was incorporated in 1920 when the Canadian Northern Railway built its Edmonton–Vancouver line. It is primarily used for recreation and is a great way to enjoy a short drive out of the city and soak in amazing sunset views. 

Besides recreation, you can visit the Alberta Beach Museum and explore 11 historical buildings on-site. You can also enjoy walks and strolls along the lakeside. 

After eating, head to the beach for sunbathing, and relaxation. Don’t forget to bring your sunscreen and a good book!

Girl in Alberta in fall

Alberta Beach also offers camping options for those looking to extend their stay. Spend the night under the stars and fall asleep to the soothing sounds of nature (May to September annually). 

Before returning to Edmonton, indulge in local cuisine at one of the town’s charming restaurants or cafes. Don’t forget to try some bannock, a traditional Indigenous food item, and a staple at many local eateries.

4. Smoky Lake: Small town and history

  • Distance from Edmonton: 1 hour and 30 minutes
  • Perfect for: History, small-town vibes, nature

Smoky Lake is the place to go if you’re looking for a unique day trip experience. This small town may not be on many people’s radars, but it’s worth the drive. There is so much greenery as you drive from Edmonton to Smoky Lake. 

alberta travel tips

You will find a dozen restored historical buildings in the cute village, including a schoolhouse, church, and blacksmith shop. We enjoyed checking off the many Ukranian Churches we found along the way – they were very charming. 

We stopped by the Our Lady Of Atonement Roman Catholic Church (4904 50 Street), and Holy Trinity Ukrainian Orthodox Church and were impressed by the architecture. 

Victoria Settlement Provincial Historic Site is another must-visit in Smoky Lake. This complex engages as you navigate the premises and learn from costumed interpreters. They share the history of Victoria Settlement and enact how life was in those times.

CN train Smoky Lake

Next, we recommend stopping at the CN Train Station site, also home to a small museum. 

You will also find a cute pumpkin park near it with large pumpkins!

The Smoky Lake Pumpkin Festival is held annually in October, making for a great fall trip. This festival is famous for its giant pumpkin weigh-off, showcasing pumpkins weighing over 1000 lbs. 

Pumpkin Park

There are also food vendors, live music, and activities for the whole family during the festival.

If you are into golfing, head to the Smoky Lake Golf Club. You can play one of the finest 9 Hole Courses in Alberta at an affordable price! 

As you can see, there’s no shortage of unique experiences in Smoky Lake; it’s worth adding to your day trip list. 

5. Metis Crossing: History and Naturescape  

  • Distance from Edmonton: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Perfect for: Metis history, educational, relaxed atmosphere
  • Entry fees : Tickets and hours here

When in Smoky Lake, you can also visit the beautiful and tranquil Metis Crossing. 

Metis Crossing Smoky Lake

Metis Crossing is a remarkable and pioneering cultural center, proudly holding the title of Alberta’s first major Métis establishment.

Situated just a short 10-minute drive from the Smoky Lake center, it offers an immersive experience into the vibrant world of Métis culture. 

Through engaging workshops, educational gatherings, and captivating events, visitors can delve deep into the heart of this rich heritage.

Metis Crossing

What we loved about this place is that it is so calming and is perfect for learning about Metis culture. 

Set against the backdrop of the original river lots once inhabited by Métis settlers dating back to the 1800s, the cultural center boasts a breathtaking setting.

At Metis Crossing, there are many activities to partake in, ranging from museum exploration and overnight camping to live events, workshops, and serene picnics. 

Each experience offers a glimpse into the captivating tapestry of Métis life while also providing awe-inspiring views that will leave a lasting impression.

6. Skaro Shrine: Religious pilgrimage 

  • Distance from Edmonton: One hour
  • Perfect for: History, Ukrainian culture, religious
  • Entry fees : Free

Tucked away in the small town of Skaro lies a hidden gem often overlooked by tourists – the Skaro Shrine. 

Skaro Shrine, one of the day trips from Alberta

The Skaro Shrine, lovingly constructed by Polish and Ukrainian believers, is a testament to their faith and devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. They painstakingly gathered and hand-built this magnificent grotto using 600 wagonloads of stone. 

But the real gem of Skaro is its annual celebration. Every year, on August 14-15, thousands of pilgrims gather here to seek blessings and pay tribute to the Blessed Virgin Mary. It is a place of reverence and spirituality that continues to captivate visitors from near and far.

Whether you’re interested in history or culture or just want to discover hidden gems near Edmonton, this is a must-add to your list!

7. Town of Vegreville

  • Distance from Edmonton: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Perfect for: Iconic Easter egg, history, golf course

We often embark on spontaneous road trips, letting the endless Alberta Prairies guide us. This freedom to explore brings us to charming locations like the town of Vegreville (which we first visited on a road trip from Saskatchewan).

Vegreville Small town Alberta

Known for its impressive Ukrainian heritage, this small town ‘s pride is the world’s largest pysanka, a giant Ukrainian Easter egg. Stopping here provides a unique photo opportunity and a peek into the cultural tapestry of Alberta.

Along this journey, the vast landscapes themselves are attractions worth admiring. Golden canola fields, rolling hills, and the wide, open sky inspire a deep appreciation for the region.

The Ukranian Cultural Heritage Centre is also located nearby. Golfers will love to hang out at the Vegreville Kinsmen Golf Course.

8. Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village: Historic Heritage

  • Distance from Edmonton: 25 to 39 minutes
  • Perfect for: History, Ukrainian culture, educational
  • Entry fees : $15 CAD for adults

As an Edmonton local who loves the region’s rich history, I love exploring the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village. This open-air museum is a testament to the cultural legacy of the Ukrainian immigrants who settled in east central Alberta. 

A stroll through the village is a journey back in time, where authentic buildings and costumed interpreters offer a glimpse into the lives of these pioneering families from 1899 to 1930.

You can engage in historical activities, where the air is filled with the scent of traditional Ukrainian bread baked in clay ovens. You might join in on a dance or learn a few words in Ukrainian from characters that embody the spirit of the settlers.

With over 30 relocated and restored buildings, each corner of the village tells a story of hardship, resilience, and community.

The village holds special events throughout the year, so check the calendar to coordinate your visit with a vibrant festival or harvest celebration. These living history experiences enrich our understanding and foster a deep appreciation for the pioneers who shaped Alberta’s cultural landscape.

9. Wetaskiwin: The Past Comes Alive

  • Perfect for: History, museums, culture, aviation enthusiasts

A day trip to Wetaskiwin is a must for those interested in history and culture. This charming city has deep roots in Alberta’s past and offers several interesting attractions. In fact, it is one of the oldest cities in Alberta.

Start your visit at the Reynolds-Alberta Museum, a large facility preserving the province’s transportation history.

You’ll find various exhibits here, including vintage cars, trucks, airplanes, and farm equipment. Kids will love the interactive displays and activities like driving a mini-car or riding in a biplane simulator.

Next up, head to the Wetaskiwin & District Heritage Museum to learn about the city’s history and local culture. The museum has an impressive collection of artifacts showcasing Wetaskiwin’s past, from its early days as a trading post to being an important railway hub.

For lunch, head to the Glens Grill and then take a short drive to the Alberta Central Railway Museum to glimpse Alberta’s railway history. This outdoor museum features restored locomotives and train cars that you can explore. Their staff is amazing and will provide helpful insights into Wetaskiwin’s history.

Wetaskiwin is a fascinating destination that will transport you back in time and give you a greater appreciation for Alberta’s history. Keep an eye on their event calendar, as they often host special events and festivals. 

10. Lacombe and Aspen Beach Provincial Park

  • Perfect for: Nature, beaches, camping, relaxation

For a peaceful and relaxing day trip from Edmonton, look no further than Lacombe and Aspen Beach Provincial Park. This hidden gem is located on the shores of Gull Lake and offers stunning views of Alberta’s prairies and foothills.

From Edmonton, it is less than a 2-hour drive to Lacombe. Fuel up and enjoy the quaint town known for its historic downtown area. Stroll through the streets lined with charming boutiques, cafes, and galleries. 

Be sure to stop by the Flatiron Building Museum to learn about Lacombe’s history as a bustling railway town.

Traveling with kids? Hit the Kraay Family Farm and enjoy a few hours of mini-train rides, zip lines, corn mazes, and more. 

Next, head to Aspen Beach Provincial Park for outdoor fun. The park features a sandy beach, perfect for sunbathing or building sandcastles. You will also find a section at the beach where you can swim. 

In the winter, you can snowshoe, hike, and ice fish. For those looking to stay overnight, the park offers several RV and tent camping options with stunning lake views. 

Read: Best photo spots in Edmonton

11. Red Deer

  • Distance from Edmonton: 2 hours
  • Perfect for: Mid-size city, charming parks and nature trails

I’ve resided in Edmonton for over nine years, and Red Deer emerges as a perfect stop when we head to the mountains. Red Deer is halfway between Edmonton and Calgary, so it is great if you wish to extend your day’s itinerary by exploring this mid-size city. 

Red Deer

Having said that, we also like visiting Red Deer in the winter. Popular places like the Bower Ponds and the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame are perfect for winter hikes, snowshoeing, and ice skating. 

Thriving in the chill requires proper attire – so don’t forget to think of cozy layers, a sturdy pair of boots, and accessories that seal in warmth. Red Deer’s scenic beauty under a blanket of snow invites photographers and nature lovers to capture and marvel at the serene white wonderland.

Other Red Deer attractions include the Discovery Canyon (waterpark), Sunnybrook Farm Museum, Heritage Ranch, Three Mile Bend, and more. In the summer, floating down the Red Deer River is a popular activity.

12. Pembina River Provincial Park Day Trip

  • Distance from Edmonton : 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Perfect for: Outdoors, river tubing, camping, bonfires

For those seeking a day full of adventure and relaxation, look no further than Pembina River Provincial Park. This hidden gem is located between Entwistle and Evansburg, and we often stop here on our way from Edmonton to Jasper National Park . 

Couple at the Pembina River Provincial Park

The main attraction here is river tubing, a popular summertime activity where you float on an inflatable tube. The tranquil waters of the Pembina River are perfect for this, with its gentle currents and stunning scenery. 

After your tubing adventure, find a spot along the river to set up a picnic and enjoy some well-deserved rest and relaxation. Or explore the park’s hiking trails.

If you want to extend your day trip into an overnight adventure, Pembina River Provincial Park offers camping facilities. Spend the evening roasting marshmallows over a campfire and soaking in the dark skies of rural Alberta.

With its scenic views and peaceful atmosphere, Pembina River Provincial Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

13. University of Alberta Botanic Gardens in Devon: Botanical Gardens

  • Distance from Edmonton : 15 minutes
  • Perfect for: Nature, tranquility, relaxation, educational experience

The University of Alberta Botanical Gardens in Devon is a hidden gem outside Edmonton. This 240-acre property boasts different themed gardens, including a butterfly, herb, rose, and more. 

alberta travel tips

And… it is just a 15-minute drive away from the city and is perfect for a year-round visit. 

At the gardens, visit the Aga Khan Garden, a stunning 4.8-hectare Mughal-style garden boasting water features, pavilions, and over 25,000 trees and shrubs. It’s also an educational experience, with informational signs throughout the grounds.

Japanese gardens in Devon

Next, head to the Kurimoto Japanese Garden for a peaceful stroll through traditional Japanese landscaping. You’ll feel transported to another world as you admire the koi pond, zen garden, and tea house.

The ​​Indigenous Garden is home to plants traditionally used by Indigenous Peoples for medicinal, dietary, and ornamentation purposes. 

For a unique experience, head to the indoor showhouses. Here you can learn about plants through various showhouses, from tropical plants, arid to temperate, and check out various plants, shrubs, trees, and more from different climates.

The gardens also host events throughout the year, such as date nights and winter fests (like the Luminaria). The University of Alberta Botanical Gardens is a hidden oasis outside Edmonton, making it the perfect day trip destination for nature lovers.

14. Miquelon Lake Provincial Park, Camrose

  • Distance from Edmonton : 1 hour 
  • Perfect for: Outdoors, camping, bird watching

If you want to escape the city and immerse yourself in nature, Miquelon Lake Provincial Park is the perfect day trip destination. This park offers a variety of outdoor activities and is a popular spot for camping.

Begin your sightseeing at Miquelon Lake, one of the largest in the park. The sandy beach is perfect for sunbathing or building sandcastles (however, swimming is impossible here). 

There are also several hiking trails in the park, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. Keep an eye out for wildlife, including deer, moose, and many bird species. The park is a designated wildlife sanctuary known for its diverse bird population.

After a day of outdoor fun, set up camp at one of the many campsites in the park. Enjoy a cozy bonfire as the stars light up the night sky.

If camping isn’t your thing, there are also day-use areas for picnics and BBQs. 

Miquelon Lake Provincial Park is a natural playground that offers something for everyone in the family. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, this hidden gem is the perfect day trip from Edmonton. 

Read : Best places to eat in Edmonton

15. Whitecourt and Hard Luck Canyon

  • Distance from Edmonton : 2 hours
  • Perfect for: Outdoors, scenic drive, hikes

If you’re up for a longer day trip and seeking an outdoor adventure, head to Whitecourt and later drive to explore Hard Luck Canyon. This hidden gem is one of Alberta’s best-kept secrets and offers spectacular views and hiking opportunities.

Drive to Whitecourt and fuel up at the charming downtown area, and then visit the Forest Interpretive Centre to learn about the forest and forest industry in Whitecourt.

You will love the natural attractions near Whitecourt. Start with Coal Mine Hill Lookout, located about 13 km from the centre, which welcomes you to a view of rolling fields and forest. 

Then, head to Hard Luck Canyon for a moderate hike through the rugged terrain.

The highlight of this hike is the breathtaking falls cascading down the canyon walls with views of ancient cliffs. Watch for wildlife, including deer and moose, as you enter the canyon.

After hiking, head back to Whitecourt and explore this small town’s charming streets. You’ll find locally-owned shops and restaurants, perfect for a mid-day break and some souvenir shopping. 

If you visit in the summer, you can hit the farmer’s market and other stores. 

End your day with a delicious meal at one of Whitecourt’s restaurants, or hit the popular Fermented Moose Brewing Equipment & Co. for chilled beer!

16. Strathcona Wilderness Centre: Winter Wonderland

  • Distance from Edmonton : 50 minutes
  • Perfect for: Outdoors, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, winter activities

Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a day trip from Edmonton. The Strathcona Wilderness Centre offers a variety of winter activities and is the perfect destination for those seeking an outdoor adventure.

Rent cross-country skis or snowshoes and explore over 12 kilometers of groomed trails. The park also offers a skating rink, tobogganing hill, and warming hut with hot chocolate and snacks available for purchase.

If you’re looking for a more relaxed day, take a leisurely walk through the snow-covered trails and admire the beautiful scenery. 

The Strathcona Wilderness Centre is open all year round, and you can go camping and hiking in the summer. There is a golf course on-site. 

You can also go wildlife viewing – the wilderness center is home to moose, white-tailed deer, snowshoe hares, fishers, porcupines, and frogs that live along the trails. It is perfect for sight birds such as chickadees, woodpeckers, and owls, and migratory birds include Canada geese, ducks, hummingbirds, and swallows. 

Escape the city and embrace the magic of winter at the Strathcona Wilderness Centre, just a short drive from Edmonton. 

17. Gibbons and Jurassic Forest

  • Distance from Edmonton: 45 minutes
  • Perfect for: Family-friendly, educational, outdoor adventure

Travel back in time and visit Jurassic Forest in Gibbons, just a short drive from Edmonton. This immersive attraction lets visitors explore a prehistoric forest with life-size animatronic dinosaurs.

Visit the Interpretive Centre to learn about the dinosaurs that once roamed the area and see fossils and artifacts on display. Then, take a guided tour through the forest and explore the 40-acre prehistoric preserve. 

Kids will love the scavenger hunt and playing in the playground modeled after a dinosaur skeleton. A mini-golf course, Discovery Trail, and a food and gift shop are also on-site.

After your adventure in the forest, head to Gibbons and explore the quaint streets. You’ll find unique shops, restaurants, and an outdoor pool perfect for cooling off on a hot summer day.

Jurassic Forest is a unique day trip destination that will be enjoyed by both kids and adults alike. Don’t forget to bring your camera for some epic dinosaur photo opportunities!

Note: Dinosaur Provincial Park is different and is located 4 hours and 45 minutes from Edmonton. 

Combine day trips from Edmonton for an epic itinerary: Travel Tips

Edmonton is Alberta’s capital city and is set amongst the beautiful wilderness of the North Saskatchewan River Valley. It is one of Canada’s largest northernmost metropolises and is a perfect base for travel and work. 

From outdoor adventures to lakeside relaxation and cultural experiences, there are lots of options to choose from. Here is how you can make the most of your day trips by adding roadside attractions and stops:

Edmonton > Sylvan Lake > Red Deer > Abraham Lake

You can visit Sylvan Lake on a short day trip from Edmonton. Then head south to Red Deer, and you can travel further to see the water bubbles on Abraham Lake. 

Edmonton > Red Deer > Calgary > Banff National Park

The Edmonton to Red Deer day trip is great, and to extend the trip, you can go to Banff National Park with stops in Calgary and Canmore. 

Edmonton > Pembina > Entwistle > Rocky Mountain House

When you visit the Pembina River Provincial Park, you can also hit side attractions like Matthews Crossing Natural Area (north of Entwistle).

From Entwistle, you will be at the Rocky Mountain House in another hour. 

The Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site is a remarkable testament to the significant role of the fur trade in the Western region. You can embark on a journey to explore this historic trading post nestled along the banks of the North Saskatchewan River, where captivating tales of Indigenous Peoples and legendary explorers await. 

Edmonton > Smoky Lake > Metis Crossing > Skaro Shrine > Josephburg (return)

Drive to Smoky Lake and visit the Metis Crossing from there. On your return trip, stop at the Skaro Sharine and Josephburg. 

Till Next Time: Edmonton Day Trips

We hope you found this post on the best day trips from Edmonton useful. As an Edmonton local, we have enjoyed these trips and side stops over the years (and all year round). 

Whether it’s the serene landscapes of Elk Island, the historical whispers of Wetaskiwin, or the mesmerizing hues of the Devonian Gardens, nearby adventures abound.

So pack your bags, grab your friends or family, and hit the road for a memorable day trip in Alberta! 

Happy travels!

More Alberta Travel Tips

  • 3 days in Banff National Park
  • Best hikes in Banff National Park
  • Things to do in Jasper National Park
  • Things to do in Waterton National Park

Pin: Best day trips from Edmonton, Alberta

Best Edmonton Day Trips pin

Mayuri Kashyap is an Indian Canadian traveler, writer and photographer based in Alberta. She moved to Toronto as a student in 2009, and has been calling Canada home ever since. She started the blog - Canada Crossroads - to share her travel and living experiences in the Great White North!

A History graduate and an MBA, Mayuri is a destinations marketing expert. She loves traveling with her husband, Salil and soaking in experiences across Canada, India and Europe.

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alberta travel tips

Slow travel expected as Alberta snows continue into Sunday

E ven though the spring equinox is behind us now, the ever-increasing sun angle is no match for the latest bout of snow blanketing Alberta this weekend.

Highways and surface streets across southern Alberta are increasingly slick and snow-covered heading into Saturday evening as precipitation builds over the region. Expect snow to stick around into Sunday, with double-digit accumulations on the way for some communities.

DON’T MISS: Canada’s widespread drought may fuel the upcoming wildfire season

Through Sunday: Snow continues for southern Alberta

This storm will have similar travel impacts as the event that affected Alberta last week. Plan ahead and prepare for quickly changing and deteriorating travel conditions.

Snow began in Calgary early Saturday and spread east through the day. Colder temperatures will allow this to be a lighter, fluffier snow.

Travellers hitting the roads this weekend from Calgary south to the international border can expect slippery conditions and snow-covered surfaces as the snow picks up Saturday night and continues into Sunday. Snowfall warnings remain in effect.

Flurries will persist into Sunday before gradually easing throughout the day. A widespread 10-20 cm of snow is forecast. Calgary is forecast to see lower amounts than earlier this week, with projected totals ranging from 5-15 cm.

A wider range anticipated as a result of the uncertainty surrounding the storm's northern edge.

Snowfall warnings are in effect. Visibility may be suddenly reduced at times in heavy snow, so prepare for slow commutes.

Additional snow helpful to severe drought conditions

Although the snow may cause travel slowdowns and disruptions, the additional moisture continues to be great news in helping to alleviate the very dry and extreme drought conditions across the region. Any precipitation at this time certainly helps, especially up in the mountains .

Officials say the snowpack is really low for this time of year, which could be a major concern for the wildfire season ahead.

Stay with The Weather Network for all the latest on your forecast across Alberta.

WATCH: Patio weather turns to winter wonderland in Calgary

Slow travel expected as Alberta snows continue into Sunday

IMAGES

  1. What To See When You Visit Alberta

    alberta travel tips

  2. 15 Best Places In Alberta To Visit

    alberta travel tips

  3. Alberta Bucket List: 40+ Incredible Things to Do in Alberta, Canada

    alberta travel tips

  4. Alberta Tourism

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  5. 15 Beautiful Places You Have to Visit In Alberta, Canada

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  6. 15 Best Places In Alberta To Visit

    alberta travel tips

COMMENTS

  1. Alberta Road Trip (My Perfect 10 Day Itinerary + Map)

    The most beautiful road trips in Alberta are the Icefields Parkway, the Kananaskis Trail, and the Dinosaur Trail. That's it for our Alberta Road Trip Guide! For more tips on road trips and traveling to Canada, check out these 17 Things to Do in Nova Scotia and our comprehensive Canada Travel Guide. Have fun in Alberta!

  2. Travel Alberta

    In the spirit of respect, reciprocity and truth, Travel Alberta honours and acknowledges the traditional territories of the many First Nations, Métis and Inuit in Alberta. Alberta is situated within historical and present-day lands that Indigenous Peoples have cared for and lived on for generations. We honour the territories of Treaty 4, 6, 7 ...

  3. Alberta Tourism

    The Rocky Mountain Parks. The most iconic tourist destination in Alberta — and possibly the entire country — is the beautiful Banff National Park and its emerald-green Lake Louise.Containing over 6,000 square kilometers of unspoiled Rocky Mountain scenery, Canada's most popular outdoor resort is home to virtually every activity you could imagine, with over 1,000 km of hiking trails, a ...

  4. 27 Incredible Things to Do in Alberta That are Bucket List Worthy

    Lake Louise Travel Tips: To avoid disappointment, arrive at Lake Louise as early as possible to avoid the crowds. Or better yet, stay at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise which overlooks the lake. You can also head up to the Lake Louise Ski Resort (10 minute drive) and take the gondola up the mountain for views of the lake, too!

  5. How to See Alberta: A 10-Day Suggested Driving Itinerary

    Day 2: Banff. Next, head from Calgary to Banff, which takes about an hour and a half by car. Note: You'll need to purchase a park pass upon arrival at the gates just outside of town, or you can buy one online. The current daily rate for an adult is $10.00 CAD, and it will expire at 4:00 pm the following day.

  6. ALBERTA

    Plan Your Visit to Alberta Today. Ready to embark on an extraordinary journey through the natural wonders of Alberta? Start planning your visit today by exploring the official tourism website of Travel Alberta, www.travelalberta.com. Discover a wealth of resources, including travel guides, suggested itineraries, and practical tips to make the ...

  7. Alberta Travel Guide

    Because Alberta is so large, and its attractions so spread out, make sure to fly into the right airport. The Alberta Badlands, the Cowboy Trail, and Banff and Waterton national parks are closer to Calgary, while Jasper National Park is closest to Edmonton. Another scenic way to arrive in Alberta is by train. VIARail's Canada Line runs between ...

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    If you're looking to see Alberta's bison, the two best places to see them are at Elk Island National Park (about 35 minutes out of Edmonton) or up North at Wood Buffalo National Park. 3. Explore Alberta's Cities. EDMONTON. The City of Edmonton is Alberta's capital and is one of two cities with a major airport.

  11. 59 of the Best Things To Do in Alberta

    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.

  12. Alberta Travel Guide 2024: How to Enjoy Your Visit

    Conclusion: Alberta Travel Guide. In conclusion, Alberta, Canada, is a traveler's paradise that offers a diverse range of experiences for visitors. From its stunning natural beauty and national parks to its rich cultural heritage and vibrant cities, there is something for everyone in Alberta.

  13. Road Trips & Itineraries

    With so much land to explore in Alberta, it can help to start with a plan. The journey is often as rewarding the destination, and this is certainly the case in Alberta. Road trips are kind of a big deal here. From scenic mountain drives to expansive fields of yellow canola, picturesque hoodoo formations and more, you'll want to keep your camera ...

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    2. Canoe Lake Louise. Lake Louise is the most famous of all tourist attractions in Alberta and the first place most people stop when visiting Banff. Victoria Glacier and the surrounding mountains are reflected in the still turquoise waters making it truly one of the most beautiful places in Alberta.

  15. 20 Best Places To Visit In Alberta, Canada [2024 Travel Guide!]

    20 best places to visit in Alberta. 1. Banff Town. Banff is nestled in the Canadian Rocky Mountains, and is a gateway to incredible lakes, forests, and hiking trails! Due to its central location, it's one of the best places in Alberta to use as a base for exploring the surrounding area.

  16. Alberta travel

    Alberta. Canada, North America. Alberta does lakes and mountains like Rome does cathedrals and chapels, but without the penance. For proof head west to Jasper and Banff, two of the world's oldest national parks; despite their wild and rugged terrain, they remain untrammeled and easily accessible. They're majestic, breathtaking, awesome.

  17. Road Trip Alberta Itineraries & Travel Guides

    A curated list of where to eat and drink. Plus, details on festivals, guided tours, and more. Information on road conditions and driving tips, national park passes, and wildlife safety. Direct links to booking pages, to enable easy planning. A custom Google map you can launch on your phone to lead you around the area.

  18. 31 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Alberta

    Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel - The original Grand Dame of Banff. 7. Icefields Parkway. Icefields Parkway is one of the best places to drive in Alberta. The Icefields Parkway links Banff and Jasper national parks and is one of the most beautiful drives on earth. It truly is one of the greatest road trips in the world.

  19. Alberta Travel Guide

    The Rockies stretch along most of the Western border of Alberta, making the ultimate playground for adventurers and nature lovers alike. In this Alberta travel guide you can find information on some of the best experiences and attractions in Alberta, as well as some of the best tourism operators and outfitters in the province.

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    Athabasca Falls is surrounded by many hiking trails and viewing platforms, making it a perfect stop on your sightseeing tour. Experience North America's largest shopping mall. Mini-golf, ice skate, hop on a ride, splash around the waterpark, eat at one of over 100 dining options, shop at exclusive stores and even stay a night at the ...

  21. Alberta Tips & Resources

    Get information on Alberta Tips & Resources | Fodor's Travel Guide - Expert Picks for your Vacation hotels, restaurants, entertainment, shopping, sightseeing, and activities. Read the Fodor's ...

  22. Best Places to Visit in Alberta

    Best Time To Visit Alberta. The best time to visit Alberta, Canada is during the summer months of June to August.This is when the weather is mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C.It is also the peak tourist season, so you can expect crowded attractions and higher prices.However, this is also the best time to explore the stunning national parks such as Banff ...

  23. Alberta Travel Guide

    Alberta Travel Guide. National Geographic's latest travel stories about Alberta. Photograph by Keith Barraclough, Nat Geo Image Collection. Featured Articles. 10 Must-Have Experiences in Alberta.

  24. 17 Best Day Trips from Edmonton (by an Edmontonian)

    Strathcona Wilderness Centre: Winter Wonderland. 17. Gibbons and Jurassic Forest. Combine day trips from Edmonton for an epic itinerary: Travel Tips. Till Next Time: Edmonton Day Trips. Pin: Best day trips from Edmonton, Alberta. 1. Elk Island National Park: A Local's Escape. Distance from Edmonton: 35 to 40 minutes.

  25. Slow travel expected as Alberta snows continue into Sunday

    Through Sunday: Snow continues for southern Alberta This storm will have similar travel impacts as the event that affected Alberta last week. Plan ahead and prepare for quickly changing and ...