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.

Table of Contents

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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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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Road Trip Alberta

100+ BEST Things To Do in Alberta (updated 2024)

Disclaimer: this page may contain affiliate links. please review our full terms and conditions for more information and our privacy policy. note that any pricing, operating hours, or other such information provided below may have changed since initial publication..

Compiled by the Road Trip Alberta team

Last updated on January 26, 2024

There is no other province in Canada that invites visitors to explore such diverse scenery and activities. In the span of one day, you can climb a mountain and a hoodoo or watch a world-class rodeo and then shop at the largest mall in North America. And that’s just for starters. Consider this your essential guide to the best things to do in Alberta .

Alberta Flag Feature Image

We didn’t stop at just 100 things – the list currently clocks in at 126! We’ve divided the post up into sights and activities in the two biggest cities – Edmonton and Calgary – and then into the mountains, north, central, and south.

Use this to plan your ultimate Alberta outing ! And whatever you do – don’t you dare say you’re bored.

Best Things to Do in Edmonton

Playing in the edmonton river valley.

Edmonton is home to the largest urban park in Canada, with 160 km of maintained trails and 20 major parks, all nestled up to the North Saskatchewan River that runs from the Rocky Mountains and right through the city. You can play in the Edmonton river valley all year round by walking/running/biking the trails in summer and even taking fat-tire Segways in winter!

alberta travel places

Get Artsy in the City

Discover some of Edmonton’s most diverse and controversial art in the heart of the city. Choose from a variety of self-driven tours found online to experience the diverse sculptures and more throughout the downtown core. There’s also plenty of street art perfect for your Instagram feed!

Street Art Edmonton

Visit the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village

Experience the history and life of the Ukrainian pioneers who settled in Alberta from 1892-1930 by exploring this town alongside people in costume portraying the lives of actual pioneers. Explore more than 30 restored buildings including a school, grain elevator, blacksmith shop and three churches.

Ukrainien Village Dancers

Stroll and Shop on Whyte Ave and in Old Strathcona

In one of Edmonton’s trendiest neighbourhoods – the Heritage District – lies one-of-a-kind boutiques, trendy art galleries and music shops, and unique restaurants and cafés.  If you happen to be in the area on a Saturday, make sure to also take in the year-round Old Strathcona Farmers’ Market and find over 130 vendors selling only the freshest local food and handmade arts and crafts!

The always busy Strathcona Farmers Market in Edmonton, Alberta

Take an Alberta Legislature Tour

Alberta became a province in 1905 and the impressive five-story Legislature Building was built and completed in 1912. It is recommended (but not required) to get a Heritage Interpreter guide for a booked visit, which can include a standard Legislature Building tour, a visit to the Legislative Assembly Visitor Centre and watching Session from the galleries in the Chamber. All tours at the Legislature are free to visitors but a reservation in advance is required.

Experience Life as a Pioneer

Nestled along Edmonton’s river valley in wooded parkland, Fort Edmonton Park is a unique place to experience the evolution of Edmonton’s early history.  Travel back 150 years in time and experience the fur trade and the life of the pioneers, dating as far back as 1885.

Dancers at Fort Edmonton Park

Stroll Through the Neon Sign Museum

The City of Edmonton gathered 20 historic neon signs, restored them, affixed them on downtown buildings (to the Mercer Warehouse and the TELUS building), and introduced a very unique-to- Edmonton museum . The first of its kind in North America, it is open 24/7, requires no admission fee, and is a hot spot for Instagram photos.

Neon Museum in Edmonton at night

Segway Like a Pro – in Winter!

Yes, Segways come with fat tires, too! Dress the part (layer up) and take a cruise through the Edmonton River Valley on a trusty segway with River Valley Adventure Co . While you’re at it, they also have snowshoes for rent to allow you to tramp around in the area as well.

Shop ’til you Drop

One of Edmonton’s biggest attractions is the iconic West Edmonton Mall – the largest shopping mall in North America. There are over 800 stores to drop money in and the famous Fantasyland Hotel to crash in after. Bored of shopping? Then splash in the World Waterpark, ride all the rides in Galaxyland, go for a skate at the Ice Palace, and sate your appetite at one of over a hundred dining venues

West Edmonton Mall Alberta

Take on the Telus World of Science

Experience science like never before! Fun for all ages, the Telus World of Science has no shortage of activities. Marvel at Canada’s largest planetarium, watch an IMAX movie on the biggest screen in Alberta, take part in interactive galleries and experiments or explore feature exhibitions that happen several times a year and have included Harry Potter, Star Wars, Indiana Jones and Body Worlds.

Glamp on an Island

Glamping on an island near Edmonton? You bet! Just opened in 2020, book a night (or more) with Urban River Adventures and you can stay in a dome tent, bell tent, or tree tent! Price includes Jetboat transportation on the South Saskatchewan River to your spot, and you can also book river adventures like kayaking, paddle boarding, gold panning, and more for a truly unique adventure.

Go Bison Spotting

Nearby, Elk Island National Park has some of the best wildlife viewing in Alberta and is widely known for its bison and wildlife conservation efforts.  Packed with hundreds of free-roaming bison, there is a good chance you might just catch a glimpse of a herd grazing in a meadow or you could end up getting stuck in a bison traffic jam.

Bison at Elk Island National Park

Explore the world’s plant life by visiting the Muttart Conservatory which is nestled in the Edmonton River Valley and home to three glass pyramid biomes: arid, temperate, and tropical. Take a guided or self-guided tour to learn and experience more than 700 species of plants.

Spot Some Big Balls

(Sorry, we couldn’t resist.) We’re referring, of course, to the Talus Dome – a sculpture composed of nearly 1,000 handcrafted stainless steel spheres forming an abstract talus shape. The Dome will take on different colours with the changing seasons and hours of the day which make it a very fun spot to get a photograph or two. It is on a major junction of the river valley trail system, so it’s easily accessible (at Quesnell Bridge and Fox Drive).

From spring through fall, take a ride on the historic heritage street car on top of the Edmonton High Level Bridge. Official streetcar service in Edmonton ended in 1951 but reopened again over the bridge in 1979 to celebrate Edmonton’s 75th anniversary. Follow it up with a visit to the Streetcar Museum in the nearby Strathcona neighbourhood.

An old streetcar at the Whyte Avenue stop in Edmonton

Where to stay in Edmonton

Luxury – Nothing beats the iconic Fairmont Hotel MacDonald . You can’t miss this hotel as it offers spectacular views of the Edmonton river valley and features a restaurant and spa. This hotel is worth the splurge even if it’s just for one night!

Mid-range – The Meterra Hotel on Whyte is close to the shopping and vibrant amenities Whyte Ave is known for. Fitting in with the funky vibe of Old Strathcona, it offers rooms decorated in fire, earth, air, or water themes.

Budget – Close to Whyte Ave and West Edmonton Mall, Travelodge by Wyndham Edmonton South gives you access to Edmonton sightseeing without breaking the bank. Great for kids, it also has a hot tub and pool and also includes a complimentary continental breakfast.

Best Things to Do in Calgary

Start with a cocktail.

Canada’s official cocktail (YES, that is a thing!) – the Caesar – was born in Calgary in 1969. This Canadian brunch-time classic was invented by beverage manager Walter Chell at what is now The Westin Hotel . Many restaurants in Calgary now offer their own version, but we recommend trying one at The Beltliner and choosing your own accompanying skewers from chicken and waffles to chocolate cake and many more!

Caesar

Go to Where the Wild Things Are

Calgary is home to the second-largest zoo in Canada.  Visit the penguins at the Penguin Plunge, discover the animals that call Canada home at Canadian Wilds, take a walk through the tropical rainforest pathways, view gorillas, snakes and crocodiles at Destination Africa, or explore Eurasia and say hello to the tigers and the red pandas.

Make Peace with the Calgary Peace Bridge

Its construction was a contentious topic for locals as it was being built (with an over $20 million price tag), but the Calgary Peace Bridge quickly became an iconic symbol for the city and is well used by pedestrians and bicycle enthusiasts alike to get across the Bow River into downtown. Take a stroll in it to see what all the fuss is about, and don’t forget to take a selfie in this Instagram hot spot.

alberta travel places

Explore the Heritage

Visit Canada’s largest living history museum at the Heritage Park Historical Village , one of the best museums in Calgary . With so many activities available, it will be hard to decide which to do first! You can explore preserved heritage buildings and homesteads, take a tour of the park on an antique steam train, make yourself some old-fashioned ice cream, help build a tipi in a First Nations’ Encampment, and so much more.

Heritage Park Historical Village steam engine train

Horse Around at Spruce Meadows

This multi-sport facility situated just south of Calgary is best known as the home to world-class equestrian show-jumping events. Each year it hosts six outdoor and eight indoor tournaments, offering lots of options for equestrian event lovers. ATCO Field was also constructed on site in 2019 and is home to the Calvary FC, a soccer team in the Canadian Premier League.

Rise Above at the Calgary Tower

Originally built to honour Canada’s centennial celebrations as well as to promote the downtown core, the Calgary Tower soars a whopping 191 metres and arguably provides the best view in Calgary from its observation deck. You’ll be able to see the Rocky Mountains to the west, the prairies to the east and stand on a glass floor while looking straight down on a busy 9th avenue below. A visit to Calgary is only complete when you take a trip up the tower!

View Below from Calgary Tower

Take a Self-Guided Food Tour

Stroll through Kensington and sample good eats via the Alberta Food Finder Game from Alberta Food Tours . It is Canada’s first such tour delivered on a GPS-enabled mobile device – clues to help you complete your mission will pop up on a map of the area. Not only will you have access to food samples that no one else will, but you’ll also receive valuable discounts while having a great time sleuthing!

Live Your “Cool Runnings” Dream

** Note that it is currently under repair and unavailable.

The bobsled track from the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary is open and waiting for you to take a run on it. Strap on a helmet, squeeze into the sled, and let a professional driver race you to the bottom in just over a minute. Try counting the turns as you go and we bet you’ll lose track after turn four. (Warning: you may also forget your own name by the end of it!)

The bobsled run in Calgary Alberta

Indulge Your Need for Speed

Imagine soaring down a ski jump but without skis. This is absolutely possible at the WinSport facility during summer months, where you fly down a zipline that starts at the top of the ski jump. It is North America’s fastest zipline: you can reach speeds of 120 km/hr as you travel 500ms with a vertical drop of 100ms.

Downhill Karting

Race your family and friends by ripping downhill in a kart at Calgary Winsport’s Downhill Karting . The track is 1.8km long and has 50 twists and turns to get the heart pumping. The best part is when your first rip is done, is that you can take the chairlift to the top (elevation at 1250m) and do it all over again!

Downhill Karting Calgary

Get Thrilled at Calaway Park

Release your inner child at Western Canada’s largest outdoor family amusement park. With 32 rides, 24 food locations, 23 fair games, live entertainment and a 3D theatre, you are sure to find fun for the whole family.

Go for the Books, Stay for the Architecture

Opened in 2018, the Calgary Central Library is a marvel of design and has taken home multiple big awards and was even named by TIME magazine as one of the “100 Greatest Places of 2019”.

alberta travel places

Fly Without Actually Flying

Skydive without the fear of SPLAT! At iFLY in northeast Calgary, you can try indoor skydiving in a vertical wind tunnel and get the feel of flying through the air for 60 seconds without actually being that far off the ground. Upgrade to get the photos and videos of this memorable experience.

Name That Tune

Experience music like you never have before in a building that is out of this world. With five floors of exhibitions to explore at the Bell National Music Centre , you can celebrate music icons at the Canadian Halls of Fame, bring out your inner rockstar with their interactive instrument installations, sing along to your favourite song in a vocal booth, and so much more.

Playing Piano in Studio Bell Calgary

Explore the Dynamic Glenbow Museum

**The Glenbow Museum is currently under restoration and is set to reopen in 2024

This independent, non-profit, downtown Calgary museum is perfect for the art lover, pop culture enthusiast, and history buff as they can all find something inspiring. Immerse yourself in historical galleries and exhibitions of art and culture from around the world. And thanks to the $25 million donation from the Shaw Family Foundation, you can visit the museum for FREE when it reopens in 2024.

Glenbow Museum Horse

Get Hooked on Fish

The Bow Habitat Station in Calgary is the perfect place for the fish enthusiast, or for those wanting a unique experience that features Alberta’s fish, wildlife, and water. Explore the Discovery Centre with hands-on exhibits, feed thousands of fish in the hatchery, fish in a Trout Pond, or stroll the trails of the Interpretive Wetland.

Are you an avid angler and want to spend a day catching your dinner? The Bow River, connecting the Rocky Mountains and Calgary, is a very popular spot for fishing in Alberta and an excellent source of trout (and other species).

Float Down the Bow River

Admire Calgary’s skyline while lounging in an inflatable raft and coasting down the Bow River that runs through the heart of the city. Whether you want to float for an hour or make it a whole day trip, it’s the perfect summer activity. If you don’t own your own raft, don’t worry, there are plenty of places to rent one.

Rafting down the Bow River in Calgary

Where to stay in Calgary

Luxury – Stay in the heart of downtown Calgary in the historic Fairmont Palliser Hotel . You’ll be walking distance to some of the city’s most renowned shops, entertainment, and restaurants! There is a spa with a pool to pamper yourself too.

Mid-range – Hotel Arts offers a beautiful and eclectic space. Sip cocktails and eat world-class food around the poolside (open to non-hotel guests too). The hotel features two superb local restaurants and it sports its own commuter bike program to help you explore the city.

Budget – If you’re looking to budget more for excursions than where you rest your head, check out Canada’s Best Value Inn . It’s close to the transit system and great shopping at nearby Chinook Centre.

Home away from home – Airbnb is always one of our favourite ways to stay in new places and Calgary has many options to choose from .

Best Things to Do in the Rocky Mountains

Rise above (banff).

Experience a whole new side of the Canadian Rockies and take this 8-minute journey to the top of Sulphur Mountain by way of an amazing Banff gondola experience year-round. Once you have arrived, enjoy a mountaintop experience by walking the boardwalk and stopping at the 360-degree rooftop observation deck. Step indoors and visit the interpretive centre and theatre or grab lunch or dinner at one of the dining options that offer an unforgettable view.

The viewing platform from Sulphur Mountain in Banff, Alberta

Go Caving (Canmore)

Explore the Rat’s Nest cave year-round.  This full-day tour is not for the faint of heart – it includes rappelling, hiking uphill, sliding, shimmying, crawling, and ending at a crystal-clear pool with stalactites and stalagmites. It is one of the longest caves in Canada (at 4km) and is actually a Provincial Historic Resource because of its archaeological importance.

Walk on the Edge (Mount Norquay)

Via Ferrata means “Iron Road” in Italian, and it is indeed thin pieces of iron and steel that will keep you clipped in and safe along narrow paths that skirt the edge of Mount Norquay near Banff. Get your adrenaline rush on these challenging paths you could not walk otherwise that offer views you would not otherwise see!

Mt Norquay Via Ferrata

Dive into a Ghost Town (Lake Minnewanka)

Although on the surface Lake Minnewanka looks serene and much like the other lakes in the area, underneath the depths lay an old resort hotel that is a popular scuba diving destination! The popular Minnewanka Landing resort was purposely flooded under nearly 100 feet of water for wartime necessity to bring more hydroelectric power to the area in 1941. The remnants of the resort, several houses, and wharves were abandoned to be frozen in time beneath the glacial meltwater and now the only visitors are divers and curious fish.

Tour Through an Iconic Hotel (Banff)

The iconic Banff Springs Hotel is one of Canada’s grand railway hotels and dates back to the inception of Banff National Park. The hotel is steeped in history; tales of ghosts, celebrity visitors, and secret passageways which make this hotel not only impressive to look at but incredible to walk through. Want to “Eat the Castle” with a food tour through the Banff Springs? You can do that too .

The iconic Banff Springs Hotel

Hike a Canyon (near Banff)

Johnston Canyon is a moderately rated hike and is one of the busiest known trails in the Canadian Rockies. Explore both the upper and lower falls during any season as you wind your way through the canyon. If you are feeling even more adventurous, make sure to venture 3 km further to experience the ink pots – seven mineral springs that bubble to the surface in the open meadows beside Johnston Canyon Creek. Trek it in winter for a totally different (and frozen) view – try it with an informative guide for a daytime or nighttime tour to enhance your new perspective.

Snowshoe on a Mountain Top (Sunshine Village)

Nothing beats the crunch of snow under your feet while trekking on the epitome of Canadian transportation – snowshoes. Journey above the treeline at Sunshine Village Ski Resort via gondola and chairlift and enjoy crisp powder and a guided tour that gives you a true backcountry snowshoe experience complete with 360 views of Mt. Assiniboine.

Snowshoer in Banff National Park

Skate on or Canoe in a Postcard (Lake Louise)

With stunning blue waters and surrounding snow-capped peaks, it is easy why Lake Louise is one of the world’s most photographed glacial lakes and one of the greatest natural wonders in Alberta . Step onto the lake in either winter with your ice skates or when it’s thawed for a gentle canoe or kayak ride and get your own picturesque snapshot.

Go by Dog Sled (Canmore)

Drive your team or snuggle in tight as your guide and pack of excited husky dogs guide you through the Rockies just outside Canmore. This is a unique opportunity for the romantic, adventurer, and thrill-seeker.

Dog sledding in Kananaskis

Soak in Springs (Banff & Jasper)

Stories of hot springs in Alberta and within Banff National Park go back thousands of years and these pools of hot mineral water have Indigenous significance and importance. Cave and Basin is called the birthplace of Canada’s National Parks and the guided tours offer a natural and cultural history of the mountains that you can take in before or after a dip in the pool. Discover the hot water that seeps from the rocks with the distinct smell of minerals straight from the earth. For a more luxurious experience without the history, visit Banff Upper Hot Springs. If you’re in Jasper, nearby Miette Hot Springs will help you soak away sore muscles earned in all your adventures.

Banff Upper Hot Springs

Strap on Cross-Country Skis (Canmore)

One of the top-rated things to do in Canmore , cross-country skiing is an excellent way to take in a winter destination. With its endless supply of mountain views and scenic trails, Canmore lends itself as a picturesque Alberta destination to explore this heart-pumping activity. The Canmore Nordic Centre Provincial Park, with over 100km of trails to trek, is the place to go for cross-country skiing in Alberta.

Seek out Ice Bubbles (near Banff)

Imagine millions of bubbles visible just under the surface of a frozen lake. These bubbles trapped by methane gas in Abraham Lake (and others in the area) cause quite a sensation in the winter months. Closer to Banff, check out Lake Minnewanka . They are definitely a sight to see.

Abraham Lake Bubbles

Take a Sleigh Ride

Live out your Canadian winter fantasy by taking a horse-drawn sleigh ride in the Canadian Rockies. Snuggle up in the backseat with a loved one as you glide over meadows in Banff National Park. With the white snow sparkling and the mountains towering overhead, this will give you fond memories to last for ages. (Want some more ideas for guided tours in the area? See our guide to the best Banff Tours .)

Ski the Big3 (near Banff)

Canada’s first National Park is home to not one, not two, but THREE world-class ski resorts! Conveniently, with a SkiBig3 Pass, you can easily ski the breathtaking and exhilarating runs at Banff Sunshine, Lake Louise, and Mt. Norquay. Another perk? The resorts found in Banff & Lake Louise have the longest ski seasons in North America. For more information, see our full guide to skiing in Alberta .

Lake Louise Ski Hill

Tube Down a Mountain (Mount Norquay)

If you are looking for an adrenaline rush and some family fun, try jumping on an inflatable snow tube to slide, spin and speed across the snow at Banff’s Mt. Norquay’s Tube Park.

Go Knordic (Kananaskis)

The Kananaskis Nordic Spa is the first of its kind in Alberta, and this alpine sanctuary invites you to spa-like the Nordics do. Go from a sauna to a cold pool and back to the hot tub to feel an invigoration like never before, and it’s good for your heart! Entrance to the spa is on a first-come-first-serve basis (check their Twitter account for wait times), or consider also booking a massage to guarantee your spa spot.

Relaxing at the Kananaskis Nordic Spa

Find a Cold War Bunker (Kananaskis)

Yes, it’s true! Initially built to store Canada’s most important documents and keep them safe in case of any nuclear fallout during the Cold War, the large tunnel carved deep into Mt. McGillivray leads to two chambers that are roughly 80 feet by 25 feet. The original plans called for a system of impenetrable chambers and vaults that were climate-controlled and protected from all elements and dangers from mildew to a hydrogen bomb. Unfortunately, the company went bankrupt before the plans could be finished and so the tunnels sit unfinished within the north-facing slope of Mt. McGillivray and have become a favourite spot for amateur hikers and cavers.

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Soar over the Rockies (Canmore)

You can walk on them and you can ski down them, but how about soaring over them? A helicopter ride in the Rockies doesn’t have to break the bank – Alpine Helicopters in Canmore offers a 12-minute tour for just $150. It’s a quick ride, but a truly unforgettable thing to do in Alberta.

Helicopter Canmore Alberta

Visit the Smallest Museum in the World (Canmore)

The Curbside Museum is the world’s smallest museum, tucked inside a fence along a public sidewalk in Canmore. This ongoing project changes its exhibit every 7-8 weeks, exploring ideas both large and small, on subjects that are factual or fictional and can range from whimsical to serious. This museum has no limits, except for what can fit into its tiny space.

Hike to the Tea House (Lake Louise)

Situated near Lake Louise in Banff National Park, Lake Agnes Tea House rests at an altitude of 2,135 m right on the shores of Lake Agnes. After a 3.5 km hike through the forest and an elevation gain of 400 m, enjoy a cup of fine loose-leaf tea at one of the ‘Lakes in the Clouds’ like others have done since 1905. If the hike is too daunting, rent a horse for the trek!

Drive (or Cycle!) the Icefields Parkway

Spanning 230 km (142 mi), the Icefields Parkway connects Banff National Park and Jasper National Park. It may seem like a short drive, but trust us and make a full day of it. This stretch of highway is perfect for taking in the rugged beauty of the Canadian Rocky Mountains including abundant wildlife sightings, roadside waterfalls (some of the most stunning waterfalls in Alberta !), and breathtaking glaciers. There are plenty of viewpoints along the way so make sure to stop and breathe in the fresh mountain air while drinking in the landscape.

The aqua blue waters of Peyto Lake, Alberta

Where to stay in the Banff/Canmore area

Luxury – For over 130 years, the iconic Fairmont Banff Springs has been the epitome of class and a must-see destination in Banff National Park. This is a once-in-a-lifetime type stay that is totally worth the experience. (We’ve stayed once, so can say that!)

Mid-range – We booked at the recently renovated Canalta Lodge and really enjoyed our stay amid its eclectic design. In a small town such as Banff, the underground parking feature that this property offers is a huge perk. Additionally, this property has been recognized as the best value in Banff.

Budget – Save your budget for exploring all that Banff has to offer and stay at the Banff International Hostel . It’s located on the beautiful property of the Banff Centre, has a fully equipped kitchen for all to use, free breakfast, and is highly rated.

Walk on a Glacier (Columbia Icefield)

The Columbia Icefield is rich in stories and standing on the ancient sheets of ice of the Athabasca Glacier, history comes alive. Discover glaciology and learn about the past and how the glaciers may look serene but continue to form and shape the regional landscape as you trek on a giant Ice Explorer. This is a place where time is measured in millennia and yet the present moment is incredibly powerful. Go explore hidden spots in the Athabasca Glacier with a half-day tour .

Walk on the Edge (Columbia Icefield)

At the Jasper Skywalk, encounter waterfalls, wildlife, fossils, and more as you walk along the 1 km walkway that leads to a lookout that you have never experienced before! Step out on a glass-floored platform which is the only thing that separates you from the Sunwapta Valley and a 918-foot (280m) drop.

Jasper Skywalk

Rise up in a Sky Tram (Jasper)

Hop aboard the longest and highest guided aerial tramway in Canada and be prepared to view Jasper National Park in a whole new way.  After your seven-minute, one-way trip has concluded and you have reached the top, make sure to get out and have a look around. Feast your eyes on six mountain ranges, glacially fed lakes, rivers, and the town of Jasper.

Kayak/Canoe to Spirit Island (Jasper)

Spirit Island is only accessible by water which lends itself to a mysterious and tranquil air as it sits nestled in the heart of a turquoise alpine lake and surrounded by majestic mountains. You could take the 14km journey from the docks at Maligne Lake by tour boat, but we highly recommend taking a half-day and doing the journey via canoe or kayak.

Jasper Spirit Island Maligne Lake

Go Star Spotting (Jasper)

Jasper National Park is one of 17 designated Dark Sky Preserves in Canada and is the second-largest Dark Sky Preserve in the world. Learn about the celestial bodies and planets in the solar system at the Planetarium Dome Theatre and through the powerful telescope from astronomy experts. If possible, try to plan your visit during October and take part in the annual Dark Sky Festival !

Jasper Dark Sky

Try Ice Climbing (Jasper)

Within the national parks are hundreds of ice climbing opportunities, but the largest concentration of them can be found along the Icefields Parkway between Lake Louise and Jasper. Within this cluster of world-class ice climbing opportunities, arguably the most popular climb is in Maligne Canyon (very near Jasper) as it is accessible to a wide range of ice climbing opportunists from novice to expert.

Dine on a Mountaintop (Jasper)

Enjoy a three-course meal atop a mountain overlooking the Jasper townsite. Included in the ticket is a gondola ride up the mountain, a meal at Sky Bistro, and a complete panoramic view of the valley and surrounding peaks. If you’re feeling adventurous when arriving at the top, take a hike all around, and after dinner take some more time to gaze at the stars above.

Ride in Style (Jasper)

From the comfort of a sidecar attached to a Harley Davidson, take in the fresh mountain air and have unobstructed views of Jasper National Park. On this tour with Jasper Motorcycle Tours , you’ll drink in the fresh air while cruising by stunning scenery including snow-capped mountains, emerald green lakes, and bright blue glaciers.

See Jasper, Alberta on a motorcycle

Swing Clubs at One of Canada’s Best Courses (Jasper)

The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge hosts one of the best Alberta golf courses ; it has made many “top” lists in Canada and across the world, and for good reason. Set in the rugged majesty of Jasper National Park, this 18-hole course offers dramatic bunkers and holes that line up with spectacular views. The wide fairways will also make it pleasurable for beginners and competitors alike.

Where to stay in Jasper

Luxury – If you are going to splurge during your vacation to Jasper National Park, we highly recommend staying at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge . This luxurious hotel has tons of amenities such as 8 on-site restaurants, a spa, and an award-winning golf course while providing breathtaking lakefront views of Beauvert Lake.

Mid-range – Surrounded by mountain views and just a 14-minute walk from Athabasca River and a 30-minute drive from Jasper town center, relax in your own wood cabin at Jasper East Cabins ! You get the amenities of a hotel room stay but with enough quiet and serenity that it kind of feels like you are “roughing it”.

Budget – A good budget hotel option in Jasper is Maligne Lodge . Apart from the stunning mountain views, the lodge has a sauna, an indoor pool, and an outdoor hot tub!

Want more options? Check out our entire guide dedicated to accommodations in Jasper

Discover a Town Buried in a Slide (Crowsnest Pass)

In April of 1903, with no warning in the wee hours of the morning, 110 million tons of rock slid down from Tunnel Mountain and consumed most of the town of Frank in the Crowsnest Pass. Up to 90 residents perished, most of whom remain buried under the rubble. It is now a Provincial Historical Site and home to a popular interpretive center.

Frank Slide

Take an Underground Mine Tour (Crowsnest Pass)

One of Canada’s underground coal mines, the Bellevue mine was active from about 1905 until 1961.  It is now a place to experience and learn about the history of mining in the area as you walk in miners’ footsteps and adventure 1,000 feet into the mine and 150 below the surface.

Explore Alberta’s Newest Provincial Park (Castle Provincial Park)

Designation for this park was just approved in 2017, protecting a massive amount (>25,000 hectares) of stunning land. Four campgrounds are on site, and a large number of outdoor activities are available onsite: hiking, fishing, mountain biking, hunting, and even skiing at nearby Castle Mountain Resort. Don’t miss splashing around at Castle Falls, or climbing the arduous (but very rewarding!) Table Mountain.

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Hike Crypt Lake (Waterton)

Accessible only by the Waterton Shoreline Cruise, this hike is bucket list-worthy and one that should not be missed! Rated among National Geographic’s “World’s 20 Most Thrilling Trails”, you will be required to climb a ladder, scale a portion of the mountain using a cable, crawl through a tunnel, and trek a total of 17 km before reaching your destination – a beautiful pristine mountain lake. This hike may not be for the faint of heart, but if you are feeling adventurous, you will embark on an experience of a lifetime.

Go International (Waterton)

Join in a 30+ year tradition by beginning a hike in Waterton all the way to Glacier National Park, USA. The 13km one-way hike is led by both a Canadian Park Interpreter and an American Park Ranger. At the end of the hike, you return to Waterton by boat. The hike is free, but the boat transfers are not and reservations must be made in advance. Most importantly, don’t forget your passport!

Take Tea at the Prince of Wales Hotel (Waterton)

Take in a traditional High Tea experience at the iconic Prince of Wales Hotel in Waterton Lakes National Park. Enjoying this afternoon tea is one of the hottest things to do in Waterton , and is perfectly paired with petite finger sandwiches and a stunning view of Upper Waterton Lake.

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Looking for more info? Read our ultimate guide to visiting Banff for details on where to stay, what to eat, and more! We also have one for what to do in Jasper .

And if you do plan to make a drive along the incredible Icefields Parkway, we also have a detailed guide on where to stop along the way from Banff to Jasper (or vice versa)!

Best things to do in Northern Alberta

Paddle the mighty peace river (peace river).

Climb aboard a canoe and relive the feeling of discovery like the explorers who used this water route to traverse the Canadian wilderness in the 1800s. Stay on the riverbank in your own cabin through Peace River Cabins and Outdoors and take the time to connect with nature and maybe even reconnect with yourself in the vast northern Alberta wilderness

Drive the Dunvegan Valley (Dunvegan)

This iconic spot southwest of Fairview is home to Alberta’s only driveable suspension bridge. Cruise over the mighty Peace River and visit the historic Provincial Park. Walk along the many scenic riverside trails and take a tour of the former trading post side and Indigenous gathering place. This spot is especially spectacular in autumn colours.

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Visit a U-pick Farm (Shaftesbury Trail)

The Shaftesbury Trail, running along the Peace River for 26km, is one of the most scenic in the Peace Country. It’s dotted with several important historic sites but is particularly popular with locals because of the Bridgeview Gardens. Let’s face it: there’s nothing quite like a piece of fresh ripe fruit, and U-Picks are a great option for those who don’t have a green thumb but would still like to enjoy the fruits of somebody’s labour.

Dig for Dinosaurs (Wembley)

When you think of dinos, you undoubtedly think of Drumheller and the Canadian Badlands, but now it’s time to turn your attention north. Opened in 2015 in the small town of Wembley, the location of the Philip J. Currie Dinosaur Museum was chosen because of the proximity to the River of Death which has been the source of many fossils. During summer months, you can literally rub shoulders with paleontologists and join them for a dig on the famous Pipestone Creek bonebed.

Stroll thru Muskoseepi Park (Grande Prairie)

A gem in the heart of Grande Prairie, and rated the #1 thing to do in the area, this 1100+ acre parkland is a great place to bask in the sun and adventure outdoors. After taking a wander, the alternate activities are endless! Bike, swim in the outdoor pool, play tennis or basketball, visit the skateboard park … the list goes on and on.

Spot Northern Lights (all over, but increase your odds in Fort McMurray)

It is sometimes possible to spot aurora borealis in the southern reaches of Alberta, but to increase your odds, head way north. The city of Fort McMurray is located within the auroral band that roughly centers on the 65th parallel which means that on most cold and clear nights (between October and March), chances are you will see at least some colours dance overhead. Watch in coming years for a resort of giant glass igloos to be built so that overnight visitors can be mesmerized throughout the night. Really, who needs to sleep when northern lights are present?

For more information, click through to our guide on how to see the northern lights in Alberta .

alberta travel places

Tour the Oilsands (Fort McMurray)

Some may consider this a controversial visit, but you can only benefit from learning more about it! Gain a new perspective from the sky with an aerial tour or visit the Oilsands Discovery Centre and explore interactive displays, various educational films, and informative demonstrations about the history, science, and technology of the Alberta Oil Sands.

Float in, Hike, Paddle, and Camp (Wood Buffalo National Park)

The largest national park in Canada and the second-largest in the world, Wood Buffalo National Park was established in 1922 to protect the last remaining herds of bison in northern Canada. The number of activities to do are plentiful, including canoeing, hiking, camping, mountain biking, swimming, boating, snowshoeing, animal watching, and some of the best star gazing around!

Explore Jurassic Forest (Gibbons)

Take the kids just north of Gibbons to a prehistoric adventure just waiting to be had. Travel back millions of years in this 40-acre prehistoric preserve and experience gigantic, life-sized, and realistic-looking dinosaurs in their natural habitat! Enjoy an expert-guided safari, dig for ancient remains, peruse the gift shop, and much more!

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Ride the Golden Triangle (Whitecourt)

Whitecourt is known as one of the premier snowmobiling stops in Canada and it is a perfect place to start the 350km Golden Triangle Trail. Connecting this small city with Fox Creek and Swan Hills, you’ll find warm-up shelters along this winter wonderland route. The best time to take on the trail is February through April.

Go Birding (Sir Winston Churchill Provincial Park)

This is Alberta’s only island park surrounded by watery Lac La Biche. A 300-year-old boreal forest sits on the island and sandy beaches skirt its edges. Bring your binoculars to spot birds while walking through trees on over 3 km of trails. Camping is also available here year-round.

Spot a UFO (St. Paul)

The truth is out there. At least the fine folks in St. Paul sure believe it is. So much so that in 1967, the residents organized to build the world’s first UFO Landing Pad as a landmark for the town. Be sure to drop into the Visitor Centre and check out the UFO exhibit including actual UFO photographs and unexplained crop circles.

alberta travel places

Visit a City Divided (Lloydminster)

Lloydminster has the unique situation of literally straddling the provincial border of Alberta and Saskatchewan. The border runs along the Fourth Meridian from north to south through the town on 50th Avenue. Addresses east of 50th Avenue are considered to be in Lloydminster, Saskatchewan and addresses west of 50th Avenue are considered to be in Lloydminster, Alberta. A monument of four 100-foot survey markers stands near the city’s downtown core to commemorate this distinctive and unique bi-provincial status.

Eat Ukranian (Glendon & Mundare)

Ukrainian heritage is so strong in northern Alberta that there are giant statues to make sure you remember that. And our favourites are in the towns of Glendon and Mundare because they are of food . Stop in Glendon to get a selfie in front of the world’s largest perogy, and then drive an hour and a half to Mundare to stand in front of the world’s largest kielbasa (and don’t forget to buy some delicious sausage at the famous Stawnichy’s).

Celebrate Easter Year-Round (Vergreville)

Add one more Ukrainian stop to your route with a visit to Vegreville, the home of a giant Pysanka sculpture (the second largest in the world). It is 31ft long and three and a half stories tall! Be one of the thousands who stop to see it every year.

alberta travel places

Best things to do in Central Alberta

Go prehistoric (drumheller).

One of the indisputably coolest museums in the world is the Royal Tyrrell Museum in Drumheller. It features the world’s largest display of dinosaurs and a variety of fun interactive displays for the whole family to enjoy. Visitors also can get outside and follow the 1.4km interpretive trail that winds through the Badlands. And to get really interactive the museum hosts both a “Dinosite” where one can dig for fossils and see real dinosaur remains on this hike through the badlands.

Royal Tyrrell Museum Drumheller

Get an Epic Selfie at Horseshoe Canyon (near Drumheller)

Just 17km east of Drumheller, the top of this canyon is a marvel to view and appreciate the unique, prehistoric topography of the Canadian Badlands. You can stand on the edge of this U-shaped canyon for some epic selfies, or if you’re feeling adventurous, dip down into it for a scenic day hike. Each arm of the canyon extends approximately 5km.

Take a Short Hike in Horsethief Canyon (also near Drumheller)

Located on the Dinosaur Trail near Drumheller, this moderate 0.8-kilometer hike is a must-stop while exploring the Badlands. Admire the valley below as you gaze down from the top, or explore the canyon from below which was named after the outlaws who hid their stolen livestock there more than 100 years ago.

alberta travel places

Throw One Back at the Last Chance Saloon (Wayne)

This saloon at the Rosedeer Hotel is just about all that keeps the hamlet of Wayne from being a ghost town, but it has stood the test of time. Relics from nearly 100 years ago still exist inside (like a piano from 1927); in those days when the bar was actually called the “Bucket of Blood” because of how rowdy its patrons were. It promotes a much more pleasant atmosphere now, including a menu of comfort food and regular live music performances.

Walk a Long Suspension bridge (near Drumheller)

Placed over the Red Deer River and located just east of Drumheller, the 117 m (384 ft) Star Mine Suspension Bridge was originally in the early 20th century, an aerial cable which transported buckets of coal from the east side of the river to the west.  When the mine shut down, the cable was converted into a suspension bridge and is now a popular tourist attraction, fishing stop and the gateway to great Badlands terrain.

Spot a Hoodoo (near Drumheller)

Technically, hoodoos can be found in many spots in eastern Alberta, but the easiest place to get up close and personal with this natural phenomenon is near Drumheller. Just outside of town (on Highway 10) is a small protected site where you can see some of the biggest hoodoos (averaging 5 to 7 feet tall). They are super cool but also extremely fragile, so please promise not to climb on them!

Hoodoos outside of Drumheller, Alberta

Looking for more info? Read our ultimate guide to visiting Drumheller for details on where to stay, what to eat, and more! We also have all the details on getting to Drumheller from Edmonton or Calgary.

Tube Down Discovery Canyon (near Red Deer)

Take a break from the summer heat and visit this hidden gem right near the city of Red Deer. Bring a tube or rent one on-site, and take a ride down this lazy river or chill in the beach area. Grab a snack at the concession, enjoy a picnic lunch, or head to one of these great Red Deer restaurants .

Try Not to Get Caught (Red Deer)

For the thrill-seekers that are looking for something out of the norm, nothing makes the blood pump faster than the thrill of being a pretend fugitive who is on the run at Heritage Ranch. The purpose? Try to not get caught for one hour as you try to capture four flags throughout the ranch. Bonus: Win or lose you get a ribeye steak dinner!

Visit a Secret(ish) Buffalo Jump (Dry Island Provincial Park)

As far as “secret gems” go in Alberta, this might be the secret-est and the gem-est . This Provincial Park is the site of an ancient buffalo jump where the Cree people drove bison over the cliffs in large numbers. Today, the area is popular with nature enthusiasts and bird watchers. It offers stunning views of the Red Deer River and a hand boat launch to experience the area by a paddle on the water.

The view of Dry Island Buffalo Jumpfrom above. From here you can see the coulee, winding river, ponds and trees.

Or, Get Robbed! (Stettler)

Head to Stettler for an unexpected adrenaline rush onboard a vintage passenger train from the 1920s. Hold onto your valuables, because the train is undoubtedly going to be halted by a robber during the excursion. Keep your head down while a short “gunfight” ensues! This is just a small part of the fun though, because the Alberta Prairie Railway also offers dinner, murder mystery parties, and more.

Attend a Long Table Dinner (Stettler)

This is a true Alberta farm-to-table experience for the whole family. The annual Stettler long table dinner takes place each August right on the main street downtown. 100 people can taste the diverse dishes that are locally sourced from the surrounding farms and cooked by chefs from the central region.

See a “Furry Freak Show” (Torrington)

The Torrington Gopher Hole Museum has been called a “furry freak-show”, and for good reason. This tiny museum, open since 1996, features stuffed gophers posed in a variety of dioramas that showcase local scenes (think: curling gophers, hunting gophers, a beauty shop, and more).

alberta travel places

Beach it (Sylvan Lake)

Sylvan Lake is a thriving lakeside community just west of Red Deer. It’s known province-wide for its pleasant beaches and is a popular spot to camp in the summer (check out our article on Sylvan Lake campgrounds if this sounds appealing). But Sylvan Lake also offers fantastic amenities and activities as well. Most recent additions worth exploring: two craft breweries (Snake Lake Brewing Company and Undercurrent Brewing) that are worth a stop at. Snake Lake Brewing Company made our list of the best Alberta breweries for craft beer!

Splash in White Water (Sundre)

The Red Deer River runs right through Sundre, Alberta, and has actually been touted as the most fun rafting river in Western Canada! Get ready for the ride of your life as you traverse down exciting rapids with Mukwah Rafting Tours.

Hit a Backcountry Trail by Horse (Sundre)

The best way to view the foothills of the Canadian Rockies is undoubtedly by horseback. Crisp mountain air paired with an authentic western experience soothes the soul and instantly brings you back to Alberta’s roots. Witness rushing waters, high mountain meadows, and exquisite panoramas that are the perfect setting for horseback riding right outside Sundre, Alberta. 

alberta travel places

Boost Your Outdoor Skills (near Sundre)

Visit Painted Warriors, an indigenous outdoor adventure company near Sundre, and experience the traditional and modern-day lifestyle of the Cree and Saulteaux people. Try your hand at animal tracking, snowshoeing, horse riding, and archery, or you can even spend the night in an authentic Métis-style trapper tent. This is one of many exceptional Indigenous experiences in Alberta !

Watch Ram Falls (near Nordegg)

Just south of Nordegg lies Ram Falls Provincial Park and the home of the beautiful Ram Falls.  Pack a picnic lunch and make use of the large picnic shelters or day-use area that include the use of fire pits.  Explore the area by way of several easy hiking trails that can be used for either walking or by bike.  If you would like to extend your stay in the area, Ram Falls Campground is a great place to hunker down for the night! 

Visit with Wolfdogs (Cochrane)

It’s often a desire for people to want a dog that looks like a wolf, but soon after they acquire a wolfdog, they realize that it doesn’t often behave like a regular dog. Enter the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary, a non-profit rescue organization that rehabilitates and also rehomes displaced wolfdogs. It is open for visits and tours to learn about wolfdogs and interact with their beautiful “ambassador” dogs.

Seeing wildlife is a *must* experience for any visitor to this province. For a guide on how to do it safely, read this post on seeing wildlife in Alberta

Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary Alberta

Best Things to do in Southern Alberta

Celebrate national indigenous persons day (head-smashed-in buffalo jump).

This important day of June 21 would be the perfect time to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump , but in truth, any time is a good time! The facility onsite preserves and interprets over 6,000 years of the fascinating Plains Buffalo culture. And if you visit any Wednesday from July to August, you can experience authentic First Nations culture by listening to Blackfoot drummers, singers, and dancers perform at this sacred location.

Teepee at Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump

Stroll and Shop on Antique Row (Nanton)

You likely won’t leave without opening your wallet. On the main street through the small town of Nanton is a string of four well-appointed antique shops. Plan for a full day of it so that you can also stop in the miniature museum and the famous Candy Store that can’t be missed.

Spot the ‘Big Rock’ (Okotoks)

Southwest of the small city of Okotoks is a glacial ‘erratic’ that gave the city its name (Okotoks means ‘Big Rock). This large boulder sits seemingly in the middle of nowhere, left behind by a retreating glacier during the last ice age, about 30,000 years ago. It is roughly the size of a 3-storey apartment building, and well worth a look.

The Okotoks glacial erratic

Taste Craft Spirits (Turner Valley)

Visit the Eau Claire Distillery in Turner Valley for a behind-the-scenes look into the world of how spirits are made. Tour their working distillery or visit their bottling warehouse to taste some Eau Claire products, some of which are exclusive to this location. Be sure to try their signature Equinox Mule cocktail and we promise you won’t be disappointed.

Go Balloon Spotting (High River)

Hot air balloon pilots from North America and Europe meet every year in September to take to the skies and put on the Heritage Inn International Balloon Festival! Several pilots even compete in competitive flights during the festival which requires them to drop markers as near as possible to specific goals on the ground. The Balloon Night Glow is also a spectacular sight to see with balloons lit up like light bulbs throughout the night sky.

Live Long and Prosper (Vulcan)

The residents of the small town of Vulcan realized the potential they had by being named the same as the fictional Star Trek planet. They built a visitor center to look like a space station which features a large set of memorabilia from the popular TV show. The staff are all in character and ready to answer your questions about the town and the show.

alberta travel places

Learn the Nitty-Gritty of Cowboy Life (Longview)

At Bar U Ranch near Longview, this National Historic Site has exciting offerings that allow visitors the chance to discover what the life of a ranching cowboy in the late 1800s was like. Learn cowboy skills and old-style ranching ways, and take in the gritty stories of Alberta’s humble ranching beginnings.

Watch the RCMP Musical Ride (Fort Macleod)

What started as relief for the officers from the daily drills and routine duties that were expected of members of the North-West Mounted Police turned into an intricate routine on horseback set to music that drew a crowd! Now it is recreated multiple times daily at The Fort Museum in the summer months.

Scout Filming Hot Spots (Fort Macleod)

We’re not saying that Fort Macleod is basically “Hollywood North”, but we’re not NOT saying it either! So many blockbuster films and TV have been shot here, including Ghostbusters: Afterlife , Brokeback Mountain, scenes from Fargo , and more. While many of these shows include shots from all over Alberta, Fort Macleod is often featured. If you want to learn about Alberta movie locations , expect to make a spot here. And you’ll also stop in Fort Macleod if you follow our road trip guide to see The Last of Us filming locations !

Detour to Lundbreck Falls (Lundbreck)

In the southern foothills of Alberta, you’ll find these sparkly falls near the small hamlet of Lundbreck. They only fall about 12ms but they sure are mighty, and very worth the quick little detour off of the main highway. Observe from above or hike down below and feel the spray!

alberta travel places

Golf in Paradise (Lethbridge)

Surrounded by the hills and cliffs of the Old Man River lies an oasis which is the Paradise Canyon Golf Resort. This golfer’s dream is rated the number one course in southern Alberta and one of Canada’s top sixty courses by Golf Digest. It’s perfect for all ages and all skill levels!

Find A Moment of Zen (Lethbridge)

Nikka Yuko, a 3.75-acre garden was built to recognize the contributions made by citizens of Japanese ancestry to the multicultural community of Lethbridge. A symbol of international friendship, exploring this beautiful tranquil garden will sure to give you a sense of peace and serenity. Looking for something more adventurous? In summer months, watch for announcements of “Sumo Sumo Sundays” where you can see if you have what it takes to wrestle with the big guys. And don’t miss the popular Winter Lights Festival where the entire garden is lit up with colourful lights (one of our favourite spots in Alberta to enjoy lights at Christmas ).

Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden, Lethbridge Alberta

Spot the Highest Train Bridge in the World (Lethbridge)

It’s pretty hard to miss it! The Lethbridge Viaduct (also known as the High Level Bridge) is a massive steel trestle over the Oldman River that divides the city and is the largest of its kind in the world. Trains from the Canadian Pacific Railway run over it, and the bridge has stood tall for over 100 years.

Train Bridge in Lethbridge, Alberta

Looking for more info? Read our ultimate guide to visiting Lethbridge for details on where to stay, what to eat, and more!

See a Dinosaur Egg (Warner)

In 1987, a young girl found what she believed was a dinosaur egg along the Milk River Ridge. She actually had stumbled upon a Hadrosaur (duck-billed dinosaur) nesting site! The full story, along with a reconstructed nest and embryo is on display at the Devil’s Coulee Dinosaur & Heritage Museum just south of Lethbridge.

Learn From Birds (Coaldale)

Get up close and personal with feathered friends at the Birds of Prey Foundation. Active since 1982, this exemplary conservation centre rescues and rehabilitates all kinds of birds. Visitors can wander through the complex, learning about hawks, owls, eagles, and more.

Birds of Prey Centre

Go Backcountry Hiking with Hoodoos (Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park)

The sandstone rock formations called hoodoos provide a fun “do it yourself” hiking adventure just beyond the river (ask for a map at the Visitor Center). Rumour has it there is a slot canyon there! Dress for a river cross and beware of rattlesnakes. Bring plenty of water for your adventure too. (If you prefer more of a guided experience, there are three well-groomed trails near the Visitor Center as well.)

We’re so sure you’ll fall in love with this area that we urge you to bring your camping gear too! Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park is one of our picks for the coolest campsites in Alberta .

Take a Rock Art Tour (Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park)

First Nations people camped at Writing-on-Stone as far back as 3,500 years ago – the steep sandstone cliffs have a deep spiritual meaning and are still regarded as a sacred place. In fact, Writing-on-Stone contains the highest density of rock art anywhere in the plains of North America.  Bonus info: Áísínai´pi (the traditional name of this spot) means “where the drawings are”.

Rock Art Tour, Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park

Go to the Corn Source (Taber)

Every summer, the Corn Capital of Canada hosts the largest free family festival in western Canada. “Corn is King” at Cornfest, and the famous Taber vegetable is celebrated in displays, events, and of course food. The festival also has live music, carnival rides, chilli cookoff, a corn-eating contest, and even a skateboard corn -test.

Visit Red Rock Coulee (near Medicine Hat)

But how? This is the first thing you’ll ask yourself when arriving at the Red Rock Coulee Natural Area. Dotting the landscape are many rust-coloured spherical boulders (called “concretions”), some of which are as wide as 10ft. Some are near-perfect circles, and others have been split over time. This is designated a Provincial Natural Area and can be found 54 km southwest of Medicine Hat.

alberta travel places

Get Fully Caffeinated (Medicine Hat)

This sixth-largest city in Alberta has an unmatched love for coffee with a surprisingly strong (pun intended!) café culture. Take a walking tour and tasting with Indy Coffee Tours – start by roasting your own beans and come away with a caffeine jolt to last you all day.

See the World’s Largest Teepee (Medicine Hat)

It weighs 800 tons and stands at the height of a 20-storey building. This tribute to Canada’s Indigenous heritage was built for the 1988 Winter Olympics held in Calgary, and its assembly was astoundingly completed in less than one week. The Saamis Archeological Site is within walking distance in the coulee below, where experts believe there are upwards of 80 million artifacts buried.

Medicine Hat Teepee

Catch the Big One (Medicine Hat)

Cast a line in the South Saskatchewan River for Alberta’s largest game fish – the powerful sturgeon. This fish does not give up easily so prepare for the fight of your life! Other fish varieties that you could hook are walleye, sauger, goldeye, pike, mooneye, and burbot. For more info, read our guide to fishing in Alberta .

Learn from Clay (Medicine Hat)

The Medalta Museum is situated against the dramatic cliffs of the South Saskatchewan River in the Hat. It was this river that provided the expanse of clay giving the factory its resource. What was once home to some of the earliest industries in Western Canada is now an impressive interactive museum. You can tour the old factory floors, pick up some of the old bricks, peer into the old kilns that were once fired up, and of course, hear the stories of the importance of industrial history. Included in admission is access to the number of galleries set up by local and Indigenous artists.

alberta travel places

Click through to read more in our guide to visiting Medicine Hat !

Dine in a Train Car (Mossleigh)

An 1887 Pullman Dining Car that was once the private business car for Prime Minister John Diefenbaker sits at Aspen Crossing, near the small town of Mossleigh. Everything on the menu is made from scratch and many of the ingredients are locally sourced. Book a table in advance and dine in a piece of history throughout the year (closed January through March).

Get Your Grill On (Patricia)

How do you like your steak cooked? Rare? Well done? The famous steak pit at the Patricia Hotel Restaurant gives you the chance to cook your own juicy beef or buffalo steak to your liking. The hotel was originally built in 1915 and since then it has added extra rooms plus the famous Steak Pit.

SUP (and More) in Cypress (Elkwater)

As you drive in the southeast of Alberta across flat plains towards Saskatchewan, the area of Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park can come as a bit of a surprise. In the middle of prairie land, this large region boasts a unique mix of forests, rolling hills, grasslands, and an outstanding array of plants and animals. On the Alberta side of the park (it also stretches into Saskatchewan), spending a few days in the small town of Elkwater can open up an array of adventures. Camp, hike, eat well, kayak, and finally, get up on that SUP board to enjoy Elkwater Lake at your leisure.

alberta travel places

Learn Important History (Blackfoot Crossing)

The language, culture, and history of the Siksika (Blackfoot) people are presented and preserved at Blackfoot Crossing Historical Site. The entire building pays homage to the vast range of Blackfoot culture through various metaphors and concepts utilizing sacred icons and stories of the people. Immerse yourself in traditional Blackfoot culture through the many interactive exhibits, yearly Powwows, and even partake in a Tipi sleepover in Chief Crowfoot’s Tipi Village.

Glamp Among Dinos (Dinosaur Provincial Park)

This UNESCO World Heritage Site takes you back to the time of the dinosaurs while providing all the amenities for a good night’s sleep. Comfort camping takes place in one of the Park’s high-quality canvas tents that have wooden floors, plenty of ventilation, and even an electric fireplace, mattress, and a mini-fridge! Take to the Badlands by day, looking for dinosaur fossils, and relax in comfort by night. Dinosaur Provincial Park is home to some of the most important fossil discoveries – specifically 35 species of dinosaur – which date back 75 million years.

PHEW! That was a massive list of things to do in Alberta. Although we are sure that some of you have more suggestions of what should be on this list, so let us know!

And…don’t forget to download our fun and free Road Trip Alberta bingo cards to track how much of the province you’ve seen, or to help you plan your next road trip!

alberta travel places

Dalene Heck is a co-founder of Road Trip Alberta. She was born in Edmonton, grew up in the Peace Country, and has ventured to almost every corner of Alberta and the world (she’s travelled to 60 countries)! She is a serial blogger, the CEO of HMI Marketing , co-creator of the Trip Chaser card game, a leukemia-slayer, and cat whisperer.

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7 Essential Places to Visit in Alberta

From expansive national parks to lively cities, the canadian province will keep you busy for days..

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7 Essential Places to Visit in Alberta

Abraham Lake may be lesser known than Lake Louise but it’s no less spectacular.

Photo by David Wirzba/Unsplash

With turquoise glacial waters set against soaring, snow-capped peaks, the iconic alpine scenes of Alberta ’s Banff National Park are arguably the poster child of Canada . And while the rugged Canadian Rockies live up to their reputation, they’re just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Alberta’s striking landscapes. From the mushroom-shaped hoodoos of the fossil-laden Badlands to the ice bubbles trapped beneath the surface of Abraham Lake —there is no shortage of natural wonders to discover.

Four national parks and five UNESCO World Heritage sites offer year-round adventure for outdoor enthusiasts. But with a burgeoning Indigenous tourism industry and the two main cities– Calgary and Edmonton—becoming increasingly cosmopolitan, all while maintaining their western charm—Alberta is ripe for cultural exploration, too.

From the rowdy Calgary Stampede to the spiritual mountain lakes to the desolate northern parklands, where you can catch a rare glimpse of the world’s last remaining wild buffalo and, if you’re lucky, the Northern Lights —these are the places you won’t want to miss on your next trip to Alberta.

Visit in July for the Calgary Stampede.

Visit in July for the Calgary Stampede.

Photo by Steve Estvanik/Shutterstock

While skiers and snowboarders still hit the slopes at the former 1988 Olympic venue Winsport , Canada’s fourth largest city is no longer just a gateway to Alberta’s alpine attractions. In the summer, you’ll find locals and visitors floating on tubes down the Bow River that splits the city in two. While in the winter, penguins waddle freely at the Calgary Zoo , home to nearly 1,000 animals spanning 119 species. Across the river in the popular East Village, music lovers appreciate the 2,000 rare instruments housed at Studio Bell. Around the corner, the Calgary Central Library attracts architecture enthusiasts and bookworms alike for its collection of over 400,000 books stacked amid soaring cedar arches and winding terraces inspired by Alberta’s foothills and Chinook winds.

Creativity also abounds in the East Village’s many kitchens, where chefs and mixologists rewrite “Cowtown’s” culinary reputation as the beef-loving city where the popular Caesar cocktail—a savory mix of vodka and Clamato juice served in a celery salt-rimmed glass–was born.

Locally grown vegetables take center stage at the beloved Coup and Japanese-style Nupo (don’t miss the omakase and hidden eight-seat restaurant in the back). Cheap beer and Caesars are swapped for sophisticated cocktails at Bengali-style curry house Calcutta Cricket Club and Cannibale , a speakeasy concealed behind a full-service barbershop.

Still, Calgary hasn’t forgotten its western roots. Every July, you can find Calgarians shading the hot prairie sun with their cowboy hats while waiting in line for “stampede breakfast.” The complimentary pancakes are doled out by businesses across the city in celebration of the annual Calgary Stampede , a world-class rodeo known as “the greatest outdoor show on earth.”

2. Drumheller

Seventy-five million years ago, dinosaurs roamed the lush, subtropical environment just northeast of Calgary. Today, it’s an arid tundra known as the Canadian Badlands, and home to the richest dinosaur fossil collection in the world. Housing over 130,000 fossils and a 67-million-year-old T-rex, the Royal Tyrrell Museum is a must for dinosaur fans. As is a stop in the nearby former coal town of Drumheller , to climb inside the mouth of the world’s largest dinosaur. It may be the “Dinosaur Capital of the World,” but with its mystical hoodoo rock formations and dusty desolate canyons, you don’t have to be a science whiz to be wowed by the Badlands.

3. Banff National Park

Sore muscle relief is available on the lower slopes of Sulphur Mountain at the Banff Upper Hot Springs . For more impressive views, take the Banff Gondola up to the summit, where you’ll find an interpretative center, boardwalk, and locally sourced Canadian cuisine served 2,292 feet in the sky. The experience is offered year-round, but skiers and snowboarders will want to wait for winter to hit Banff’s pristine slopes. Adrenaline junkies can also find their fix climbing the Via Ferrata cliffs above Mount Norquay or traversing the frozen waterfalls of nearby Johnston Canyon .

Back at sea level, an hour-long cruise of Lake Minnewanka —also known as the “Lake of the Spirits”—offers Indigenous history and wildlife sightings on its placid shorelines. Stretching over 17 miles long, Minnewanka is the largest lake in Banff National Park, and more than a pretty picture—cold-water divers can explore Minnewanka Landing , a sunken resort town dating back to 1886. Spirit-chasers will want to head south afterward to visit the ghost town of Bankhead .

Where to stay at Banff National Park

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

Book now: From $299 per night, expedia.com

With countless outdoor activities on offer—such as canoe rentals and forest bathing—the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise makes a convenient home base for exploring Canada’s first national park any time of year. History buffs will revel in Renaissance revival architecture dating back to 1890 while wellness-seekers take in the mountain air at an outdoor morning stretch session or pamper themselves at one of the spa’s 20 indulgent treatments.

4. Icefields Parkway

Arguably one of the most scenic drives in the world, the three-hour stretch between Banff and Jasper is a must to experience Alberta’s more rugged natural wonders. It’s worth braving the crowds midroute to marvel at the thick ice sheets and frozen rivers of the 10,000-year-old Athabasca Glacier —one of the six glaciers of the Columbia Icefield .

For a more capacious experience, head to the Glacier Skywalk at night to view the Icefield beneath a blanket of stars from the glass-floored balcony. Equally impressive are the methane ice bubbles that form on the surface of Alberta’s largest reservoir, Abraham Lake . Stops at Sunwapta Falls and Athabasca Falls offer more opportunities to witness aquatic forces of nature.

5. Jasper National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest park in the Canadian Rockies, Jasper National Park is teeming with fossils, flora, and fauna to explore. In the summer, a half-day canoe journey or relaxed boat cruise takes you out to Spirit Island , one of Canada’s most photographed destinations due to its remote location and the distinct emerald color of the surrounding Maligne Lake, while the six suspension bridges that soar above Maligne Canyon are a hiker’s dream. Ice climbers will want to wait until the winter, when the 50-meter-deep canyon transforms into a winter fortress of frozen ice floes.

For a more laid-back adventure, the Jasper Skytram transports you 7,000 feet above sea level to the summit of the Whistlers in a mere eight minutes. Spectacular sky views are also had at the Jasper Planetarium, where you’ll find the most powerful telescopes in the Rockies, and astronomers explaining the stars and Northern Lights, from the 50-seat outdoor domed theater. A short drive south will land you at Jasper Brewing Company , the first brewery in a Canadian national park.

6. Edmonton

Home to the largest stretch of urban parkland in North America, Edmonton River Valley , Alberta’s capital city embodies the province’s main draw—nature. The North Saskatchewan River that cuts through the heart of the city makes for a peaceful urban kayak or canoe, while the Valley’s more than 20 parks offer 100 miles of trails for hiking, cycling, and cross-country skiing.

When the harsh winter proves too cold for outdoor pursuits, head indoors to West Edmonton Mall . Housing the world’s largest indoor amusement park, indoor lake, and indoor wave pool, plus a zoo, skating rink, and over 800 shops—North America’s largest mall is a destination in its own right.

Calgary’s rival city also has an artistic side. In the vibrant Arts District , you’ll find an eclectic mix of Indigenous and contemporary art at the Royal Alberta Museum and Art Gallery of Alberta . With over 60 annual festivals, most notably the summer Fringe Theatre Festival (the largest and oldest of its kind in North America), the aptly nicknamed “ Festival City ” is a delight for theater buffs. The city’s growing dining scene sees Alberta beef reimagined nose-to-tail style at Rge Rd and drinks infused with juniper foraged from the Alberta Badlands at Strathcona Spirits , the smallest distillery in North America.

Métis Crossing is expanding in 2022.

Métis Crossing is expanding in 2022.

Courtesy of Travel Alberta

7. Elk Island National Park

Once numbering in the millions, Canadian bison—Alberta’s most emblematic animal—have dwindled to a wild population of less than a thousand. This “ island of conservation ,” located a 30-minute drive east of Edmonton, is the best place to encounter the remaining few, and the Northern Lights, at the light pollution–free Beaver Hills Dark Sky Preserve .

Despite its remote nature, the national park gets a glamping glow-up in the summer with luxury Geo Domes , complete with gas fireplaces and charcuterie delivery. The culturally savvy will want to head north to rest at the forthcoming Métis-designed boutique lodge at Métis Crossing , which also features Indigenous-led experiences—among them, wildlife tours and stargazing workshops—and hearty Canadian fare, like bannock, crafted by Indigenous chefs.

>> Next: Discover a Side of Indigenous Canada at Métis Crossing, Newly Expanding in 2022

A woman laying in a super bloom of golden California poppies in Antelope Valley

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10 Best Places to Visit in Alberta

Last updated on November 2, 2023 by Carl Austin - 1 Comment

Alberta, a province in western Canada, has scenery to delight everyone, from vast prairies to gorgeous snow-capped mountains. Its largest cities, Edmonton and Calgary, are cosmopolitan yet retain a frontier atmosphere.

The arts rule in Alberta, which cherishes its ethnic heritage; film and music festivals abound. Whether you’re into winter or summer outdoors recreation, Alberta is where it’s happening. And if you have budding paleontologists in your family, they’ll love seeing some of the world’s richest dinosaur fossil beds. An overview of the best places to visit in Alberta:

10. Lethbridge [SEE MAP]

Lethbridge

Lethbridge, in the foothills of the Canadian Rockies, is heart of southern Alberta. The region’s largest city with 93,000 residents, Lethbridge was once known as Fort Whoop-Up because of illegal activities there.

It was named a Cultural Capital of Canada because of its ethnic heritage and promotion of arts across many cultures. It has three major museums, the contemporary Southern Alberta Art Gallery, the University of Lethbridge Art Gallery, and Casa, a community arts center. The town is home to the Lethbridge Viaduct, the highest and longest steel trestle bridge in North America.

9. Drumheller [SEE MAP]

Drumheller

If you want to dig into the past, Drumheller is the place to go. It’s located 110 km (68 miles) northeast of Calgary in the Red Deer River Valley, which is also known as Dinosaur Valley. Just south of the town is the world’s largest dinosaur, a 26-meter (86-foot) high tyrannosaurus rex. Next to it is one of Canada’s largest water fountain.

Plus, you can learn more about dinosaurs at the Royal Tyrrell Museum of Paleontology, Canada’s largest fossil collection. But Drumheller is more than dinosaurs. Next to the ski hill is where the Canadian Badlands Passion Play takes place every July.

8. Canmore [SEE MAP]

Canmore

Canmore is a pleasant town between Calgary and Banff National Park. It is named for Malcolm III of Scotland, whose nickname was Canmore. The former coal mining town gained fame when it hosted the Nordic events for the 1988 Calgary Olympics.

Movie buffs may be interested to know Brokeback Mountain, Shanghai Noon, or Yhe Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford are among the films shot in Canmore. If you’re on a budget, but still want to enjoy the delights of Banff and Lake Louise, Canmore accommodations are less expensive.

7. Waterton Lakes National Park [SEE MAP]

Waterton Lakes National Park

Waterton Lakes National Park, founded in 1895, is named after the Victorian naturalist Watertown. It’s located in southwest Alberta, just across the border from the U.S. Glacier National Park. Indeed, the two parks share the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park.

Like its American counterpart, Waterton Lakes showcases rugged mountains and wilderness terrain, with miles of scenic hiking trails. Its lakes are the deepest in the Canadian Rockies. The only services in the park are available at the Waterton Park town site, where you may see deer wandering the streets as if they owned the place.

6. Edmonton [SEE MAP]

Edmonton

Alberta’s capital, Edmonton , is the most northern city in North America with a population of more than one million people. At one time, the city was home to the largest mall in North America, the West Edmonton Mall, but another mall now claims that honor.

Edmonton is known for hosting festivals throughout the year; hence, its nickname: Canada’s festival city. Its biggest festival is K-Days; the K stands for Klondike. Its July street performers festival attracts artists from all over the world. Edmonton also hosts an international Fringe festival also as big as the one in Edinburgh, Scotland.

5. Dinosaur Provincial Park [SEE MAP]

Dinosaur Provincial Park

If dinosaurs are your passion, you’ll love visiting Dinosaur Provincial Park, where more than 40 species of dinosaurs have been discovered. It’s one of the richest dinosaur finds in the world; specimens unearthed here can be found in museums around the world.

Dinosaurs aside, you’ll also see plant fossils, plus the park is a good place to see wildlife, such as coyotes, deer and pronghorns. Curlews and Canada geese are among 165 bird species found here. Near the visitor center, you’ll find the cabin of John Ware, an African-American who was a notable rancher in the area.

4. Calgary [SEE MAP]

Calgary

Situated at the confluence of the Bow and Elbow rivers, Calgary is Alberta’s largest city with 1.4 million people. Named for a village on the Scottish Isle of Mull, Calgary played a role in the early Northwest fur trade.

Though it hosted the 1988 Winter Olympics, it is perhaps better known for its annual Calgary Stampede, one of the top rodeos in North America that attracts more than a million people annually. The city has an impressive skyline, one punctuated by skyscrapers. When it comes to the arts, Calgary is home to the Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium, a major performing arts center.

3. Elk Island National Park [SEE MAP]

Elk Island National Park

Elk Island National Park is more than just a sanctuary elk, which was its original purpose long before it became a park. Located just over 30 km (20 miles) from Edmonton it was established to save bison. The park is not Canada’s largest, though it is the largest fully enclosed national park.

Besides elk, moose and bison, you may also see deer, beaver coyotes and lynx. Wolves and black bears inhabit the park but usually aren’t seen by visitors. Winter and summer outdoors recreation abounds. Inside the park, you’ll also see the Ukrainian Pioneer Home, the first Canadian museum dedicated to Ukrainian immigrants.

2. Jasper National Park [SEE MAP]

Jasper National Park

If you’re seeking awesome glacial scenery, Jasper National Park is the best place to visit in Alberta. The park is home to Columbia Ice Fields, the largest ice field in the Rocky Mountains and one of the largest non-polar ice fields in the world.

You can ride a special vehicle onto the ice fields, drink from glacial waters and then take a glass-floored skywalk out over the glacier. As the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies, Jasper National Park is also home to a variety of wildlife, so you might see moose, caribou, deer, wolverines and grizzly bears, among other animals.

1. Banff National Park [SEE MAP]

best place to visit in Alberta

Alberta is filled with beautiful scenery, but it doesn’t get much better than Banff National Park. The gemstone of Canada’s oldest national park is the indisputably beautiful Lake Louise with its deep blue glacial waters. Not too far from Lake Louise is the equally pretty Moraine Lane, which has been featured on a Canadian $20 bill.

The park is a year-round tourist destination, drawing hikers in the summer and skiers in the winter. The town of Banff, which hosts an annual winter carnival, is located within the park. About three million people pass through the park annually.

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March 11, 2018 at 9:01 am

This is a great list! I want to travel to Banff and Jasper National Parks next year and so I am definitely saving this for later as a reference.A more detailed review could help new travelers like me Thank you!

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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 places

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 places

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 places

" 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 places

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

alberta travel places

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 places

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 places

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

alberta travel places

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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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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A lake in Jasper

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Where big meets bold

Alberta is the kind of place that delivers no matter what you’re after. From towering Rocky Mountains, glistening lakes and sprawling grasslands, to the spirited city life and renowned festivals of Edmonton and Calgary, there’s something for everyone. Alberta is home to eight Métis settlements and 48 First Nations — with their own languages, traditions and beliefs. Whether you’re seeking cultural enrichment in the cosmopolitan city of Calgary, adventure in the majestic Rocky Mountains or nature in the wilderness of northern Alberta, there are a variety of ways to gain a deeper sense of place. Spend the night in a teepee at Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park as Knowledge Keepers share tales of the Blackfoot People. Deepen your connection with the land as a Cree guide shows you how to use local flora for medicine in Canada’s oldest National Park. Or hear the lesser-told stories of the Métis Peoples at Métis Crossing, Alberta’s first cultural interpretive centre. The possibilities are endless.

A view of the Calgary skyline from Bridgeland

Nestled at the base of the Canadian Rockies, Calgary boasts a frontier attitude and historic neighbourhoods that buzz with bravado.

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Elk Island National Park

The best parks in Edmonton

Noorish Vegetarian Food

6 vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Alberta

Moraine Lake

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Don’t miss the iconic spots and hidden gems. No matter where you go in Alberta, there are amazing itinerary ideas for you to explore.

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Coastal BC Inside Passage & Rockies    External Link Title

From USD $4,133 per person (double occupancy)

12 days / 11 nights

This small intimate tour provides a journey of a lifetime through one of the wildest, most diverse and unbelievably beautiful parts of the world. Starting and finishing in Vancouver, we explore some of the most scenic places in British Columbia & Alberta, navigating routes that are embedded into Canadian History. We follow the Fraser River as we leave Vancouver, and make our way to the Rocky Mountains and the Continental Divide before following the Skeena River and embark on a cruise on the Pacific Ocean. Along the way, you will experience distinctly Canadian activities that will deepen your understanding of the culture, nature and landscape. Be sure to pack your binoculars for this tour!

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Rockies Winter Premium    External Link Title

From USD $1,052 per person (double occupancy)

4 days / 3 nights

The Canadian Rocky Mountains are stunning at any time of the year, but there’s something magical about visiting in the winter, when the mountains are covered in a blanket of glistening snow. The entire region becomes a true winter wonderland, surrounded with snow-capped mountains, frozen lakes, and dense snowy landscapes. It’s the perfect setting for an array of winter activities. This tour includes 2-nights in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, the town of Banff. You will visit many spectacular sites on the journey to the Rocky Mountains, enjoy an authentic Indigenous experience, and have ample free time to try an exciting winter activity.

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13 Day Inspiring Canada & Alaska With Inside Passage Cruise    External Link Title

From USD $1,999 Per Person

Incredible sightseeing including Banff National Parks snow-capped peaks, explore Vancouver and Calgary's cosmopolitan heartbeat, visit iconic Lake Louise and cruise the Inside Passage to Alaska 5 nights accommodation in comfortable 3 star accommodation 7 nights Alaska cruise with Royal Caribbean including gratuities Breakfast daily, 6 lunches and 7 dinners

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Rocky Mountaineer passing through Banff National Park.

Pete Seaward

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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Banff National Park

Banff & Jasper National Parks

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…

Jasper National Park

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Jasper Town & Around

Jasper is a rugged beauty; it's more raw and less tourist-pampering than its southern cousin Banff, and hence host to a more ambitious, adventurous…

Lake Louise; Canada

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…

Moraine Lake.

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

Encompassing 11,228 sq km of Rocky Mountains wilderness, including jagged peaks, vast forests, glacial lakes and the magnificent Columbia Icefield, Jasper…

June 7, 2015: The red-white snowcoatch bus carrying tourists to Athabasca Glacier.

Athabasca Glacier

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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Waterton Lakes National Park

Southern Alberta

Here flat prairies collide dramatically with the Rockies, with a sparkling lake and a hilltop castle that may make you wonder if you've fallen into a…

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Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump

The story behind this Unesco World Heritage site with the strangest name of any attraction in Alberta is one of ingenuity and resourcefulness – and is key…

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A girl sits on the shore of Lake Louise in Banff National Park in the Rocky Mountains.

National Parks

Jul 13, 2022 • 5 min read

As the holidays roll around, Banff and Lake Louise become a wintry wonderland with plenty of frosty fun.

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15 Best Places In Alberta To Visit

Best Places In Alberta (15)

Arguably one of the most scenic provinces in all of Canada , Alberta is stunning! Not only that, but it’s also home to two of the oldest national parks in the world. This alone makes this province incredible, but there are so many epic and best places in Alberta that are too incredible to miss. 

Driving Canada's Epic Icefields Parkway And Finding The Frozen Bubbles Of Abraham Lake (9)

There’s so much outdoorsy stuff to do here all year round (even for people who aren’t usually keen on time outdoors) that Alberta is just the perfect holiday destination, regardless of the time of year you visit.

For starters, they do seasons here properly. Winter is winter, complete with heaps of snow, frozen bubble lakes and more ice skating than you can handle. That being said, in summer it’s scorching, just as summer should be.

All in all, Alberta is incredible at any time of the year. And, truth be told, this is exactly why we’ve headed to visit the best places in Alberta in all the seasons. The whole province changes so much with the seasons as it’s incredible. 

Now, this then begs the question; where should you visit in Alberta? Obviously, you’ve got some iconic places like Banff , Jasper and the cities like; Edmonton and Calgary , but there is so much more to Alberta. 

Oh, and take a little look at our one-week itinerary to explore Banff and the surroundings, here .

Best Places In Alberta (16)

Anyway, I’m rambling on but I really wanted to show you some of our favourite and best places in Alberta you should really think of visiting.

1.) Banff (region and town)

Driving Canada's Epic Icefields Parkway And Finding The Frozen Bubbles Of Abraham Lake (8)

Banff constantly tops the list of the world’s most beautiful national parks and it’s easy to see why. It really is one of the best places in Alberta to explore. 

Established in 1885, it is Canada’s oldest national park and is located in the ruggedly wild Canadian Rockies. With trails, lakes, forests and mountains to keep you enthralled, Banff is every outdoor enthusiast’s dream destination.

Driving Canada's Epic Icefields Parkway And Finding The Frozen Bubbles Of Abraham Lake (19)

Honestly, the whole area is incredible and it’s hard to bullet point into a few sentences. That being said, check out our full 1-week Banff itinerary to explore Banff National Park. It really is incredible. 

Read more: 1-week itinerary to explore Banff

2.) Medicine Lake

Best Places In Alberta (11)

Located not far from Jasper town (it’s actually in the National Park), Medicine Lake is often described as a sinking lake that has holes in the bottom of its bed.

It’s something of an anomaly and it’s so much more fascinating than I can describe on here. Also, mostly because, I’m pretty sure my attempt at describing the geological/geographical phenomenon that makes this lake disappear would actually be quite bad. Ha! 

Think of it as a bathtub without a plug that’s essentially constantly filled faster than it can drain off.

As a result, Medicine Lake has two distinct “looks” one where the lake fills with more water than it can drain away and it appears deep and bottomless. Whilst the other is when it all disappears through an underground system leaving the lake to shrink to the size of a stream.

Read more: Best hikes in Alberta

3.) Calgary

Finding The Best View In Calgary + Where To Eat For Lunch And Dinner (33)

Often overlooked for Canadian hard hitters like Montreal and Vancouver , Calgary manages to combine big-city cool with understated charm.

Finding Calgary's Architectural Masterpieces - Studio Bell And The Central Library (8)

It has heaps of tasty restaurants, like Native Tongues (for the best Mexican food and cocktails), plus Studio Bell and the Old Mattress Factory for a bite to eat. 

Finding Calgary's Architectural Masterpieces - Studio Bell And The Central Library (36)

Calgary is also a great entry spot for Banff National Park so if you plan on visiting Banff, you might as well spend some time making the most of city life in Calgary.

Finding The Best View In Calgary + Where To Eat For Lunch And Dinner (45)

After all, it’s only around 180-minutes away (tiny in Canadian terms). Ha! 

Read more: Best things to do in Calgary

4.) Waterton Lakes National Park

Best Places In Alberta (3)

What do you get when flat prairies meet the Canadian Rockies?

The amazing Waterton Lakes National Park; it’s easily one of the best places in Alberta to visit as it’s totally beautiful.

Best Places In Alberta (8)

For me, the jewel in the park’s crown is the sparkling sapphire lake and hilltop castle that make it look like something out of a movie.

Best Places In Alberta (10)

Now, while Banff and Jasper are often more popular with visitors, Waterton seems to have escaped some people’s radars.

So, if you looking to escape the crowds and still make the most of that stunning Canadian natural scenery, Waterton is really where you should visit.

5.) Jasper National Park

The Amazing Beauty Of Jasper National Park... In Alberta, Canada (39)

First off, I totally love Jasper National Park!

It’s absolutely stunning and such a great place to visit. If you ever wondered what Nature showing off looks like, then come to Jasper National Park and you’ll soon find out. It really is one of the best places in Alberta to visit in any season. 

Deep canyons sliced by roaring waterfalls ( Hey Maligne Canyon ), jade-coloured forests, frosty mountain peaks and emerald lakes. Jasper National Park is nature untamed and quite the showstopper.

Read more: Exploring Maligne Canyon in Jasper

6.) Lake Louise

The Magnificent Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise (16)

Sculpted out of liquid sapphires, Lake Louise is the Prima Donna of Banff National Park (so much so that it gets a separate highlight from the afore-mentioned Banff National Park).

The Magnificent Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise (3)

Plus, the whole region is surrounded by fantastic hiking trails and tea houses that you can’t miss. If you fancy a luxurious few days, check into the Fairmont Lake Louise and relax on the lake edge.

The Magnificent Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise (13)

In winter, this place is totally magical and the rooms are gorgeous inside, too. We loved staying here! 

The Magnificent Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise (24)

Oh yeah, you can also organise the Fairmont’s guide to take you out to explore some of the wider area, too. We headed out to hike Johnston Canyon with them and loved the frozen waterfalls. It really is one of the best places in Alberta to visit.

Read more: Exploring Lake Louise 

7.) Canmore

Grotto Canyon, Wolfdogs And The Canadian Rockies (6)

Once a hidden gem and underground alternative to popular Banff, the town of Canmore has become increasingly popular over the years and has expanded more and more as travellers start to take note and visit this fun place.

Grotto Canyon, Wolfdogs And The Canadian Rockies (19)

A former coal-mining town, it lies about 26km from Banff and sits at the threshold of some of the most beautiful scenery in the region. Less ritzy and flashy than Banff, Canmore has managed to retain its edge despite its burgeoning popularity.

Grotto Canyon, Wolfdogs And The Canadian Rockies (31)

We took a helicopter tour over the Canadian Rockies from here and totally loved it.

The Most Beautiful View In All Of Canada! (25)

It’s so easy to see why it’s one of the best places in Alberta to visit. It’s also a great place to explore Grotto Canyon and see wolf dogs that have been saved within a sanctuary, too.

Read more: Taking a helicopter over the Canadian Rockies

8.) Drumheller

Best Places In Alberta (4)

Just when you thought that Alberta couldn’t surprise you anymore. You see, Drumheller is so different from the other snowy and glacial landscapes you might be familiar with.

Drumheller dips down into Red Deer Valley and links Alberta with Dinosaur Trail, an area rich in paleontological secrets that’s too amazing to miss. 

Prairies abound, there’s a heap of museums and excursions on all things dinosaur-related that I’m sure you’ll love. It’s honestly one of the best places in Alberta to visit if you love natural history. 

9.) Columbia Icefield

Best Places In Alberta (1)

The Columbia Icefield is part of the Icefield Parkway between Banff and Jasper. This unfathomably vast icefield covers an area the size of Vancouver and is easily one of the best places in Alberta to see in the milder seasons.

Best Places In Alberta (6)

Even more mind-boggling is that this is the remnant of the last ice age and covers a large plateau (the largest in the Rockies) that feeds into eight glaciers.

Best Places In Alberta (7)

You absolutely have to check out the Athabasca Glacier when you’re here, too. It’s totally iconic. 

10.) Lethbridge

Best Places In Alberta (9)

Nestled in the heart of Alberta farm country, Lethbridge is a former coal-mining town and provides a good base from which to explore the Oldman River Valley.

This 100m deep is bisected by the crème de la crème of steel railway bridges – The Lethbridge Viaduct (the largest railway structure in Canada and the largest of its kind in the entire world. It’s definitely worth a stop when you’re in the area driving south to Glacier National Park in the US. 

11.) Edmonton

The World's Tallest Indoor Roller Coaster... In Edmonton, Canada (37)

If all the hiking, fresh air and fun have left you feeling weak of limb, kick back, relax and eat your weight in delicious food in the ultra-modern city of Edmonton , Alberta’s second-largest city and capital.

With a trendy downtown area that’s guaranteed to give you that much-needed fix of good old-fashioned Canadian city fun, a trip to Edmonton is one that definitely needs to be on your travel plans.

Fat Biking Across The Frozen River Valley To The Ice Castles Of Edmonton, Canada (15)

Don’t forget, if you visit in winter, you’ll also get to see the city’s iconic Ice Castles , too. They are stunning and can’t be missed. 

Fat Biking Across The Frozen River Valley To The Ice Castles Of Edmonton, Canada (43)

Oh yeah, I almost forgot, if you’re looking to visit Jasper National Park, then you’ll probably need to fly into Edmonton . This means you should definitely set some time to enjoy the city, too.

Read more: Best things to do in Edmonton

12.) Lake Minnewanka

Best Places In Alberta (5)

An ideal fun and an activity-filled area set in the heart of Banff National Park (another park offshoot totally worth a mention in its own right).

You see, Lake Minnewanka is an excellent place to go swimming, fishing, sailing and boating in the summer. Though, it’s just as beautiful to see in the winter, too. It really is one of the best places in Alberta to see at any time of the year.

Some of the easiest (and most beautiful trails) straddle its shorelines and the azure waters make the perfect spot to take a rest and admire the ridiculously picturesque views.

13.) Moraine Lake

Best Places In Alberta (15)

Moraine Lake is a glacially-fed lake located about 14km outside of Lake Louise Village (yes, I know this is another Banff spot but it’s totally worth a mention).

Best Places In Alberta (14)

It is (rather ideally, I might add) located in the Valley of the Ten Peaks at an elevation of 6,183 feet!

Best Places In Alberta (2)

More rugged and remote than its well-known sister Lake Louise, the hike there takes you down a narrow winding path that offers dazzling views of the imposing peaks. It’s stunning.

14.) Maligne Canyon

The Most Beautiful Place In Jasper (Canada) You've Never Heard Of! (41)

Maligne Canyon is one spot you definitely don’t want to miss when you’re in Jasper National Park. 

Maligne Canyon is impressive to see at any time of the year but when it gets really special is in the middle of winter where the Canyon freezes over which not only allows you to walk through it and explore it properly but also filled the canyon with frozen waterfalls.

We loved it; even in the freezing cold! 

Read more: How to hike in Maligne Canyon

15.) Banff Upper Hot Springs

Best Places In Alberta (13)

The final item on this list is the thoroughly relaxing hot springs located in Banff National Park.

Gushing out from Sulphur Mountain, the warm waters are the perfect panacea for soothing your poor, overworked muscles. This is especially good if you’ve been skiing at Banff’s Sunshine Village and need some time to just chill.

It really is one of the best places in Alberta to just chill out and not break the bank, either. 

Read more: Best things to do in Alberta

17 Best Things To Do In Alberta, Canada

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13 Awesome Places to Visit in Alberta (Besides Banff & Jasper)

Alberta, one of Canada’s 10 provinces, is a vast land of diverse landscapes. If it were a country, it would be the 40 th largest in the world! With so many awesome places to visit in Alberta, you can find snow-capped Rocky Mountain peaks, rolling grasslands, dinosaur-bearing badlands, and unending boreal forests.

When visitors come to Alberta, they gravitate to Jasper and Banff National Parks. Banff is Canada’s first and most popular national park, and the two parks combined receive over six million tourists per year. While Jasper & Banff’s turquoise lakes, dramatic mountain landscapes, and world-class ski hills are undeniably bucket list-worthy, there is so much more to Alberta.

Places to Visit in Alberta, Canada

Authored by local travel expert Nick Kembel.

In this article I’m going to introduce 15 of my home province’s other worthwhile attractions. So go ahead and visit Jasper & Banff, but make sure you go the extra mile in Alberta to find out what this compelling Canadian province is really all about!

If you’re interested in Arctic destinations, you may like these useful related posts: * A 7-day Alaska itinerary ; * An Iceland nature itinerary ; * A once-in-a-lifetime visit to Greenland ; * Travelling on Greenland’s coastal ferry .

1. Drumheller

Billed as the ‘dinosaur capital of the world’, Drumheller is a dinosaur lover’s dream. Set in the midst of the fossil-rich badlands, this small town is home to a whole host of dino-related attractions. These include the world’s largest T-Rex (4.5 times larger than a real one), dino statues galore, and the Royal Tyrrell Museum of Paleontology, arguably the world’s best.

Huge dinosaur statue at Dumheller, one of the places to see in Alberta with kids..

But Drumheller isn’t just for kids. You can’t experience the badlands without seeing a hoodoo, a flat-topped tower of stone eroded on the sides by the wind. Drive the Dinosaur Trail to the awe-inspiring Horsethief Canyon, and don’t miss Little Church, a functioning church that only holds a handful of people. South of town, Atlas Coal Mine is national historic site.

2. Dinosaur Provincial Park

Speaking of dinosaurs, true aficionados must also include lesser-known Dinosaur Provincial Park , two hours away from Drumheller by car. Dinosaur Provincial Park is like Drumheller minus all the tacky shops, restaurants, and tourists. It also produces even more dinosaur fossils than the Drumheller area, and you are quite likely to find some (just don’t take them home!).

Nick's daughter looking at prehistoric remainsat Dinosaur Provincial Park in Alberta.

The best way to experience Dinosaur Provincial Park is by spending the night in the excellent campground, which is surrounded by gorgeous badlands scenery. Much of the park is inaccessible to the public for conservation reasons, unless you join one of the tours led by a park ranger, including some aimed at kids. We aren’t usually the tour-type family, but we loved it.

3. Medicine Hat

Medicine Hat is Alberta’s sixth largest city and lies in the southeast corner of the province, a region of arid grasslands. Probably more non-Albertans visit Medicine than locals, since it sits right on the Trans-Canada highway, but is quite a way from other major cities in the province.

Trail along the riverside at Medicine Hat in Alberta, Canada.

Having made the 5.5 hour drive from my city to Medicine Hat, though, I loved it. The city features a lovely historic center, the Medalta pottery district, huge murals all over town, some excellent breweries and the world’s largest teepee. There are some magnificent parks in and around town too, some of which occupy coulees (ravines formed by glaciers which once covered the land).

4. Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park

Just a stone’s throw from the US border, remote Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park is one of Alberta’s relatively unknown gems. The name is derived from the fact that the park protects some of the best indigenous rock carvings and paintings in North America.

Rock carvings at Writing-in-Stone Provincial Park in Alberta, Canada.

While Drumheller is more famous for its hoodoos, I found the ones in Writing-on-Stone to be more stunning. The network of trails following the Milk River takes you right through the towering stone giants, and the sunsets here are out-of-this-world. There’s also lots of cool wildlife to spot, including turkey vultures, pronghorns, and rattlesnakes. The excellent campsite in the park is highly recommended.

5. Waterton Lakes National Park

Alberta’s far lesser-known Rocky Mountain National Park is Waterton Lakes National Park in the province’s southwest corner. A lot of Americans are familiar with the park, as it is connected to Glacier National Park in Montana. Together they form the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, and in normal times, it is easy to travel between the two.

Alpine scenery at Waterton Lakes National Park in Alberta, Canada.

Waterton features stunning alpine scenery, lakes, waterfalls, outdoors activities galore, abundant wildlife, and the impressive Red Rock Canyon. The iconic Prince of Wales Hotel rivals Banff Springs Hotel and Chateau Lake Louise.

6. Kananaskis

Where do local Albertans go when they want to visit the Rockies, but without the tourist crowds of Jasper and Banff? Kananaskis!

Pine clad river valley in Alberta's Kananskis foothills, Canada.

Kananaskis ‘country’ is a vast (4,000 km 2 ) region of foothills and mountains offering year-round nature focused activities. Caving, dogsledding, snowshoeing, skiing, whitewater rafting, mountain biking – you name it, it can be done in Kananaskis. At the end of the day, don’t miss going for a soak in the adults only Kananaskis Nordic Spa.

The hottest local tip for visiting in Banff is to not stay in Banff. Instead, stay in Canmore. This lovely mountain town is only 20 minutes away from Banff town and just outside of Banff National Park. Canmore has a way less touristy vibe than Banff, some great restaurants and breweries, and far more reasonably priced accommodations.

Mountain hotel in the snowy Canmore mountains near Banff, Alberta.

It’s so close to Banff that you can easily visit all of Banff’s attractions from Canmore. But you don’t have to, as Canmore has enough of its own to keep you occupied, including the excellent Canmore Nordic Centre , Grassi Lakes, and the popular hike to Ha Ling peak.

In addition to Kananaskis and Canmore, the best kept secret in Alberta is the Nordegg region. Highway 11 traverses the region from Red Deer (halfway between Edmonton and Calgary) to the famed Icefields Parkway (this gorgeously scenic road connects Jasper and Banff).

Ice bubbles at Nordegg Icefields in Alberta, Canada.

Along this uncrowded highway, you’ll pass numerous lakes perfect for fishing and camping, the very impressive Crescent Falls, and stunning Abraham Lake (actually a made-made reservoir), which is especially famous in winter for its methane ice bubbles .

9. Lethbridge

Lethbridge , Alberta’s 4 th largest city, is not typically considered a tourist attraction but I think it should be. Some of its biggest draws are the Lethbridge Viaduct (the longest of its kind in the world), the serene Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden (where you can take part in the Japanese tea ceremony), and the lovely historic town center.

Lake and pagodas at Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden in Lethbridge, Alberta.

Lethbridge also has an unbelievable amount of green space; you could spend days strolling the many huge parks and coulees around town, especially in the gorgeous Old Man River Valley.

10. Edmonton

Alberta’s capital city, and the place I call home, has a lot going for it. Visit in summer, when the ‘city of festivals’ really comes alive. The North Saskatchewan River Valley is the largest urban green space in Canada while in winter inhumanly low temperatures don’t stop us from skiing, ice skating, and more.

Nick's daughter and son in Edmonton's Fantasyland hotel, Alberta.

The city’s biggest attraction, but one that many locals loathe, is West Edmonton Mall , once the world’s largest. WEM, or ‘The Mall’, features an enormous indoor waterpark, amusement park, bungee jumping, Chinatown, European boulevard, bowling alley, and replica of Christopher Columbus’ Santa María. We loved our stay in a space-themed room at the mall‘s Fantasyland Hotel.

11. Elk Island National Park

Little Elk Island National Park is Edmontonians’ favorite escape. Just 30-minutes from the city center by car, the park is a natural oasis. The park has played an important role in the international conservation of plains and wood bison, and it preserves a beautiful slice of Alberta’s plains ecosystem, showing what it looked like before much of it was converted to farmland.

Elks traipsing through the snow at Elk Island in Alberta, Canada.

The best thing to do at Elk Island is to stroll one of the 11 well-marked trails. In winter, it’s an ideal place for snowshoeing, while in summer, kayaking or canoeing are a must. There are also some excellent back and frontcountry campgrounds, the latter of which has oTENTiks (A-frame tent cabins) you can stay in.

In terms of wildlife, expect beavers, elk, moose, porcupines, woodpeckers, and you are pretty much guaranteed to see bison.

12. Calgary

Alberta’s largest city is more frequently visited by non-Albertans than the capital, because unlike Edmonton, it is located on the Trans-Canada highway and doesn’t require a lengthy detour to visit. Calgary is so close to the Rockies you can see them from town, and Banff National Park is only an hour away.

Calgary cityscape with the iconic observation tower, Alberta.

Banff’s claim to international fame was that it hosted the 1988 Winter Olympics, and the Canada Olympic Park is still in use. Calgary also has the enormously popular Calgary Stampede rodeo and one of the country‘s best zoos. Last but not least, the Calgary Tower and the relatively new Calgary Peace Bridge are two iconic attractions.

13. Fort McMurray

I’m finishing with an entry that may surprise some people. Fort McMurray, an isolated community in wild northern Alberta, is practically synonymous with the oil industry in Canada. The area is home to the world’s largest bitumen (and third largest oil) reserve, producing millions of barrels of oil per day. If you really want to understand how vast the oil sands are, you can take a scenic flight over them like we did.

Aerial view of Fort McMurray landscape in Alberta, Canada.

While Fort Mac has a bad rep in other parts of Alberta, it is a surprisingly beautiful and fascinating place to visit. You can learn all about the oil industry by visiting the Oil Sands Discovery Centre and the impressively large Giants of Mining.

The town is surrounded by nature, with opportunities for every type of outdoor activity you can think if, and bears regularly make their way through town. Last but not least, Wood Buffalo National Park, the second largest national park in the world, can be accessed by a winter-only ice road from Fort Mac.

That brings us to the end of my list awesome but lesser-known places to visit in Alberta. I hope you’ve found some inspiration and ideas for planning an epic road trip across this vast, rewarding Canadian province!

Nick Kemble who writes about the best places to see in Alberta.

Nick Kembel is an Edmonton native who has spent much of his adult life backpacking and living abroad, but now finds himself back in his hometown and getting to know Alberta more.

He blogs, mainly about Canada and Taiwan, at nickkembel.com .

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So many things to do and see in Alberta! I’d definitely have to visit Kananaskis for a trekking trip – The greenery looks so beautiful!

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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 places

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 places

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 places

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 places

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 places

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

emerald lake british colombia

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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Endless Wonder

Your guide to travel and exploring the endless wonders of life

ALBERTA , CANADA , NORTH AMERICA , TRAVEL DESTINATIONS · October 7, 2021 updated on April 7, 2023

Travel Alberta: Your Guide & Everything You Need to Know

Alberta is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Canada. There is so much that it has to offer – the amazing rocky mountains of Banff, Jasper, and Waterton National Park, the rolling prairies, the dinosaur capital of the world and the badlands, the chance to see the Northern Lights, buffalo watching at Elk Island National Park, and SO MUCH more!! This is your guide to travel Alberta, and includes everything you have to see when traveling this amazing place!

alberta travel places

Table of Contents

When to Visit Alberta

snowy Maligne Canyon in Jasper during winter. Girl in a red jacket with her hands in the air while on the ice walk in Maligne Canyon

NOVEMBER – LATE MARCH : WINTER

Winter is an amazing time to visit Alberta if you are interested in visiting some frozen waterfalls, playing any winter sports ( ice skating , snowboarding, skiing…), dog-sledding, snowshoeing, or hoping to see the mountain covered in snow. In Alberta, wintertime can be freeeezing, so make sure you bundle up and come prepared with snow boots, jackets, toques, and mittens.

Read more: The 12 Best Places to Ice Skate in Banff National Park

alberta travel places

LATE MARCH – MAY: SPRING

Spring is a beautiful time of the year to visit Alberta. The snow is melting and trees are starting to get their leaves back. Animals are waking up from a long winter and wildlife babies are starting to come out! It can get pretty slushy in the spring, but because of the melting snow, the waterfalls are at their best.

alberta travel places

JUNE – SEPTEMBER: SUMMER

Summer is another amazing time to visit Alberta. It is actually warm out, which makes it perfect for getting outside and enjoying the stunning nature in the province. Summertime in Alberta is great for seeing the wildflowers while on hikes, camping, swimming in glacial lakes, and just enjoying Alberta while it’s nice out. There is the risk of wildfires during the summer season, so sometimes the air can get very smoky around the province.

As summer continues on, the lakes of the Rockies turn bluer and bluer in colour.

alberta travel places

SEPTEMBER TO LATE OCTOBER: FALL

If you’re after the golden larch trees in the Rockies, you want to visit Alberta in the fall time. Yellow trees are so so sooo pretty to see all over the province as everything starts to turn golden, but the larch trees do it best (in my opinion). The fall is the perfect time to visit for fall hikes, or for autumn festivals around the province. It starts to get chilly in the fall though and there is a risk of snow, so come prepared!

Read more: This is the Perfect Fall Hike to do in Banff National Park

alberta travel places

How to Get Around Alberta

Alberta isn’t the most “public transit friendly” place, just because it is so so huge and takes a long time to drive from place to place. But really, it depends where you are. Places like Edmonton, Calgary, and even Banff are very easy to get around using public transportation such as busses.

Other places, like Jasper, do not have public transportation options.

If you’re looking to travel far distances, I would highly recommend renting a car to drive yourself around or check out Sundog Transportation . They have a couple of buses and charters to connect cities together (including a connection to Jasper).

In the bigger cities (Edmonton & Calgary) uber is a very popular service to use as well.

alberta travel places

Where to Stay

You can find accommodation to match your budget no matter where you’re heading in Alberta. Prices do vary depending on where you are planning to go, though.

Edmonton is the capital city of Alberta and is the closest city with an airport to Jasper National Park (closer towns to Jasper include Edson and Hinton). If you’re looking to stay in Edmonton and explore for a day or two, I would recommend checking out these places –

  • Metterra Hotel
  • Fantasyland Hotel (inside West Edmonton Mall)
  • Air BNBs are also a great option in Edmonton

Calgary has the biggest airport in Alberta and is only an hour drive from Banff, which makes it one of the most popular cities to stop at when heading to the mountains.

  • Sheraton Suites Calgary Eau Claire
  • Westin Hotel
  • Air BNBs are great all over Alberta

Canmore is a cute little mountain town that is super close to Banff, but it isn’t as expensive to stay in (usually). However, it is still an awesome little town and is a place to look into if you’re planning to visit Banff. Hostels are a great option in the mountains (if you’re a hostel person), as they are all over the national parks!

  • Canalta Lodge
  • Canmore Inn & Suites
  • Canmore Downtown Hostel

Banff is the place everyone wants to visit when they are traveling Alberta. For this reason, Banff can usually get pretty pricey to stay in! (I usually stay in Canmore or camp during the summer, to save some money).

  • Moose Hotel & Suites
  • Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
  • Banff International Hostel

Jasper is a little bit of a lesser known location in the Rockies, but it is becoming more and more popular throughout the years. Either way, it is an awesome place to visit in Alberta, and I would recommend checking out these places if you’re looking to stay in Jasper –

  • Bear Hill Lodge
  • Jasper Downtown Hostel
  • Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

RESOURCES FOR BOOKING

Hostelworld.com

Booking.com

Or book with the place directly.

Things to Know About Traveling Alberta

  • Weather can change at any moment, come prepared with a jacket no matter the season!
  • Wildlife is everywhere (even in the prairies). If you’re driving on highways or in National Parks, always watch for deer and moose that can jump out of nowhere
  • You will need a Canada National Park Pass if you are stopping in a National Park (you can get them at the entrance to National Parks)
  • Distances between places of interest can be quite far, so make sure you google map distances of places you’re hoping to visit, and factor in the time it takes to get there

alberta travel places

National Parks in Alberta

Alberta is home to 5 National Parks, and they are all worth a visit if you are traveling Alberta for a while! If you have a vehicle and are stopping in one of these parks, you will need a proper pass.

WATERTON NATIONAL PARK

BANFF NATIONAL PARK

JASPER NATIONAL PARK

WOOD BUFFALO NATIONAL PARK

ELK ISLAND NATIONAL PARK

Top 5 Things to do in Alberta

alberta travel places

1. Explore the mountains –

alberta travel places

Banff, Alberta is FULL of amazing things to do. During Alberta’s winter, you can go wild ice skating , dog sledding, skiing, and snowboarding in Banff. In the fall you can hike and be surrounded by amazing golden alpine larches . In the summertime, you can hike around popular places like Lake Louise (with a teahouse in the mountains), swim in glacial lakes, or head out on a canoe tour. Springtime in Banff gives visitors incredible opportunities to beat the crowds (especially to Moraine Lake) , and see waterfalls at their peak as the snow melts.

Read more: Your Banff National Park Bucket List

alberta travel places

Jasper National Park is another INCREDIBLE place to visit in Alberta. Surrounded by mountains (just like Banff), there are so many amazing things to do in this National Park. One of my favourite adventures is renting a canoe to visit iconic Spirit Island , or taking the Jasper Sky Tram up the mountain to get amazing views of the surrounding mountains. Jasper is also home to so many amazing hikes, you could spend a lifetime exploring the nature here.

Read more: Your Jasper National Park Bucket List: 25 Things to See & Do

alberta travel places

ICEFIELDS PARKWAY

The Icefields Parkway is another incredible stop to make on a trip across Alberta. This is the road that connects the town of Banff to the town of Jasper and is rated as one of the most beautiful drives in the world. You’ll have to budget quite a bit of time to drive this road because you’ll want to stop every 5 minutes to look at the amazing viewpoints and lakes along the way.

Read more: Where to Stop Along the Icefields Parkway

Read more: How to see the Frozen Methane Bubbles of Abraham Lake

Hike, swim, and camp at Waterton National Park. It is located at the very southern end of Alberta and is an awesome (and a little lesser known) place to visit. Waterton National Park is basically the Canadian side of Glacier National Park in Montana, which makes it the perfect place to hike if you’re trying to stay in Alberta.

alberta travel places

KANANASKIS PROVINCIAL PARK

Kananaskis Provincial Park is located just outside of Banff and is a hikers dream. There are soo many amazing places to hike and camp here, it is worth a stop on any Alberta itinerary. One of my favourite spots in Kananaskis is the Blackshale Suspension Bridge , which isn’t too bad of a hike to visit! (and it is also free).

Tip: If you’re stopping in Kananaskis, you will need to purchase a Kananaskis Conservation Pass.

2. See the Bison

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 .

Girl at UofA Botanical Gardens in Edmonton, on a bridge in the garden. One of the perfect places to include in your guide to travel alberta

3. Explore Alberta’s Cities

The City of Edmonton is Alberta’s capital and is one of two cities with a major airport. Edmonton is a cool place to explore if you have the time, but it is similar to most other cities in the world. Some popular spots to check out include the Muttart Conservatory, University of Alberta Botanical Gardens , Fort Edmonton Park , and the river valley. If visiting in the summer, there are a ton of festivals in Edmonton, such as K-Days, The Fringe, Taste of Edmonton, and Heritage Days. You can also take a day trip to Elk Island from Edmonton!

Calgary is the city that most people will fly into when visiting Alberta, and is a good base to explore from! The City of Calgary is only an hour drive from Banff, an hour and a half to Drumheller, and just under 3 hours to Waterton. If you’re spending some time in Calgary, I would recommend checking out Prince’s Island Park, the Calgary Zoo , or go to the top of the Calgary Tower .

Drumheller, Alberta - Albertas badlands

4. See the Badlands in Dinosaur Country

Drumheller is a town located in the heart of dinosaur country and is actually pretty close to Calgary. Here you’ll find landscapes of the badlands, the world’s largest dinosaur, and the chance to discover fossils.

Read more: The Top Things to see in Drumheller, Alberta

5. Hunt for the Northern Lights

There are dark sky preserves (places with little to no light pollution) in Alberta which are perfect for seeing the Aurora. Popular ones include Jasper National Park and Elk Island National Park, but if you can get out of the city you have a high chance of seeing the lights (if they’re out that night). Fort McMurray and up North are also great places to go Northern Lights hunting.

Tip: Check out Aurorawatch for the Northern Lights forecast

Hopefully, this guide helps you travel Alberta! Please let me know if you have any questions, or about your Alberta trip!

Other Resources to Help Plan Your Alberta Trip

TravelAlberta.com

Parks Canada

All Trails (for hiking)

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Hey! I’m Kat. Based in Alberta, Canada I love to travel to the Rockies and explore new places around the world. Follow along on my adventures and find inspiration and tips for your own travels.

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Healy Pass Hike in Banff National Park During Fall

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I'm Kat. Based in Alberta, I'm currently exploring and documenting my adventures in Alberta's Rocky Mountains. I'm also taking smaller international travel every now and then when I get the chance! Thanks so much for stopping by!

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Reasons we love Alberta’s new long-term tourism strategy

Date: Feb 21, 2024

Last week, the Government of Alberta announced a new long-term tourism strategy. This strategy will drive alignment across the sector and provide a road map to unlocking the full economic, social and cultural potential of our visitor economy.  

There is a lot to love about this strategy, from an ambitious new goal, to the extensive engagement that informed the approach, to the five key pillars that will guide us moving forward. Keep reading to learn five key things we love about this strategy.

An ambitious new target

The long-term tourism strategy outlines a plan to grow tourism revenues in the province to $25 billion by 2035. This ambitious new target is greater than previous commitments to grow tourism revenues in the province to $20 billion by 2030 and demonstrates Alberta’s commitment to tourism as a key driver of Alberta’s economy.

This new goal takes into account Alberta’s faster-than-expected recovery to pre-pandemic levels in 2022, which helped us achieve the goals of our Bootstrap Plan nearly two years ahead of schedule.

Tourism is Alberta’s #1 service export and plays a key role in our growing economy. More than doubling the size of tourism industry will establish tourism as an essential part of Alberta’s economic development agenda. 

alberta travel places

Extensive engagement

Over the past four years, the Government of Alberta and Travel Alberta engaged with communities and businesses across Alberta to understand the needs of the industry.

Feedback centered on five categories: building new and enhanced products, improving access, competitive marketing, creating a supportive operating environment, and investing in Indigenous Tourism.

The priorities outlined in the long-term tourism strategy align well with Travel Alberta’s Bootstrap Plan and provide a north star to guide our work as we move forward.

Five key pillars

Based on feedback and engagement from the tourism industry, this strategy outlines five key pillars that will guide the future of our sector:

  • Leadership and Alignment - Drive growth of the visitor economy through coordinated government action and an industry-leading, commercially focused Travel Alberta.
  • Competitive Product - Drive increased private capital for world-class, year-round nature-based tourism experiences, creating sustainable economic opportunities and increasing tourism revenues across the province.
  • People and Careers - Develop and implement policies that address short- and long-term labour challenges for employers, enabling communities to retain and attract residents.
  • Expansion of Access - Ensure visitors have safe, affordable and convenient access to and throughout Alberta, in all seasons.
  • Indigenous Tourism - Support Indigenous communities and entrepreneurs to deliver authentic experiences and share stories of their lands, cultures and peoples.

alberta travel places

A focus on Indigenous tourism

The inclusion of Indigenous tourism as a pillar in this strategy signifies Alberta’s commitment to supporting and partnering with Indigenous Peoples.

Indigenous tourism is a tool for economic reconciliation and provides a platform for Indigenous communities to share their cultures with the world. And the Indigenous tourism industry is booming – one in three international travellers are looking for authentic Indigenous tourism experiences.

In alignment with this strategy, we are excited to continue our work with Indigenous Tourism Alberta, investing in Indigenous tourism operators across the province.

Driving industry alignment

Travel Alberta is well-positioned to bring together various groups to support destination development across the province. This includes convening public and private investment to support signature developments and all-season resorts that inspire year-round, overnight visitation from domestic and international travellers.

Through our continued investments across marketing, access and place, investment in and partnership with Indigenous communities and organizations, and an increased focus on economic development, Travel Alberta is well positioned to drive tourism growth across the province.

The time for action is now. The competition to attract tomorrow’s visitors, both domestic and international, intensifies by the day. This strategy outlines a bold, visionary approach to create new provincial mountain destinations, unleash tourism’s potential and accelerate responsible and sustainable growth of the industry. Government of Alberta long-term tourism strategy

Click here to read the tourism strategy on the Government of Alberta's website. 

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Industry, innovation, and infrastructure: how sustainable tourism can drive positive change

As tourism continues to grow into a core economic driver across Alberta, we look to these operators to influence the sector’s future.

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Attracting international visitors as a fly-to destination

Alberta’s tourism operators can capitalize on this momentum by tailoring tourism experiences and marketing to travellers most likely to visit often and spend more in Alberta.

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Marketing Alberta to the world: Our personality is our unique advantage

There’s no doubt our rolling prairies, turquoise blue lakes and majestic mountains play a key role in attracting visitors from across the world. But we have a secret ingredient.

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Why Alberta is giving the tourism industry its own immigration stream

Move cheered by industry groups but one economist calls it ‘government coddling’.

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As Alberta hopes to more than double the size of its tourism economy in the next decade, the provincial government is taking a new step to fill labour gaps by giving the industry its own dedicated immigration stream . 

The industry hopes the program will help fix its long-standing labour shortage, but critics say the program could have unintended consequences. 

Meanwhile, a national tourism industry group is watching the new policy and hopes to see it adopted more widely. 

"It's a great initiative for us to consider as a kind of pilot example … [that] we can build on and, if we're lucky, extend the model beyond Alberta," said Philip Mondor, president and CEO of Tourism HR Canada. 

  • Jasper, Alta., tourism expected to rebound this summer, but businesses struggle to find workers

Some provinces, like Saskatchewan , have their own immigration policies in place aimed at hospitality workers. But Mondor believes these other policies haven't been on the scale of what Alberta has announced.

The new immigration stream is aimed at temporary foreign workers who are already working in the province's tourism industry and wish to stay in Canada permanently. 

Workers in 18 job categories will be eligible, the province told CBC News, from cooks and cleaners to dry cleaners and tour guides.

How it works

A person walks into the Rimrock Resort Hotel in Banff, Alta.

The new stream falls under Alberta's provincial nominee program , which nominates people for permanent residence in Alberta.

Temporary foreign workers will be eligible  if they've worked in tourism and hospitality for at least six months and have a permanent job offer in hand from an approved employer.

Businesses in food and accommodation have already been able to hire many more temporary foreign workers in recent years, after the federal government tripled the industry's hiring cap. 

But this new immigration stream means at least some of those workers will have a clearer path to staying in the province permanently. 

"Ultimately, there is a shortage of labour in this particular area, and we were contacted and we were lobbied by the industry to do something," said Alberta Immigration Minister Muhammad Yaseen in an interview with CBC News. 

The Alberta Hospitality and Lodging Association attributes its protracted hiring woes to "perceptions" about the industry, according to president Tracy Douglas-Blowers. She said it can also be tough in Alberta to lure people away from the oil and gas industry, which offers better wages, and to find workers in small towns, which have small pools of labour. 

"For a number of years, hotels have been sort of underneath a bit of a structural labour shortage, and that goes back to long before the the pandemic," said Douglas-Blowers in an interview.

She said this new program will help.

  • Rocky Mountain employers in Alberta see major boost in temporary foreign worker approvals

Alberta was given 9,750  nominations last year under the provincial nominee program, said Yaseen. He expects nominations under the new tourism sector stream will make up about eight to 10 per cent of the program's total. 

Pros and cons for workers

A Help Wanted sign in Banff, Alta. in the summer of 2022.

The change is good news for workers and employers in Rocky Mountain resort towns, said Karli Fleury, with Banff & Lake Louise Hospitality Association.

"These are real people who desperately want to make Banff or make Alberta their home, and previously we've had no possible way to support them," said Fleury, who is the association's director of workforce and destination initiatives. 

Jason Foster, an associate professor at Athabasca University who studies the experience of migrant workers, has mixed feelings.

On the one hand, he said, any additional avenues that temporary foreign workers can use to stay in Canada will be a positive step for them.

But giving bosses more power over their employees' immigration status isn't always a good thing, he said. 

"It actually also gives the employer a new threat, 'Do as I say or I'm not going to help you get your PR,'" said Foster, who specializes in human resources and labour relations. 

Mondor, with Tourism HR Canada, said there are "reasonable" concerns to be had with connecting immigration to a particular employer, but he said the industry has made "enormous efforts" to root out bad actors and that problems are few and far between. 

'Coddling' businesses

Another concern for Mikal Skuterud, a University of Waterloo economist, is that the program means employers will no longer need to raise wages and make their jobs more appealing to attract workers. 

If a tourism job offers a glimmer of hope at achieving permanent residency, people will work in these jobs no matter how bad they are, Skuterud said. 

"It's just a way to keep wages down and it's cheap labour," said Skuterud.

"Many economists will tell you Canada's economic problem is there's not enough competition, that we coddle businesses — well, here's a perfect example of it."

Mondor, for his part, said there are "competitive practices" happening within the tourism industry and the sector offers plenty of opportunity for career development and well-paid work. 

The average full-time income for a person working full-time in tourism in Canada is $47,925, according to Tourism HR Canada's 2023 compensation survey, though wages vary by region and by job. 

For example, the average full-time hotel front desk clerk in Alberta earns around $41,000, the report said, while restaurant and food service managers earn $63,122.

alberta travel places

Thinking of a Jasper, Alta., vacation? Here's why there may be disruptions

The new tourism immigration stream is set to kick off March 1. Minister Yaseen said the government will measure its success by how many people apply. 

  • Dire lack of housing for Banff workers spurs worst summer staffing shortage in years

Mondor believes other provinces will be keeping an eye on Alberta as hiring gets underway. 

"I think that eyes are watching this one.… I think it's a bold step, and I think it's going to really have some play outside of Alberta," he said. 

Full list of eligible jobs

According to a statement from the Alberta Ministry of Immigration and Multiculturalism, the new immigration stream targets 18 jobs: 

  • Program leaders and instructors in recreation, sport and fitness. The median wage, according to the Statistics Canada Job Bank, is $19.23 .
  • Restaurant and food service managers. Median wage $26.44 . 
  • Accommodation service managers. Median wage $34.67 . 
  • Food service supervisors. Median wage $18 . 
  • Chefs. Median wage $19 . 
  • Cooks. Median wage $17 .
  • Maitres d'hotel and hosts/hostesses. Median wage $15 . 
  • Bartenders. Median wage $17.50 . 
  • Hotel front desk clerks. Median wage $17 . 
  • Tour and travel guides. Median wage $18 . 
  • Outdoor sport and recreational guides. Median wage $18.50 . 
  • Food and beverage servers. Median wage $17 .
  • Food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations. Median wage $15 .
  • Support occupations in accommodation, travel and facilities setup services. Median wage $17 . 
  • Light duty cleaners. Median wage $18 .
  • Specialized cleaners. Median wage $18 .
  • Janitors, caretakers and heavy-duty cleaners. Median wage $21 .
  • Dry cleaning, laundry and related occupations. Median wage $16.50 .

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

alberta travel places

Reporter/Editor

Born and raised in Calgary, Paula Duhatschek is a CBC Calgary reporter with a focus on business. She previously ran a CBC pop-up bureau in Canmore, Alta., and worked for CBC News in Kitchener and in London, Ont. You can reach her at [email protected].

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Aerial view of downtown Cedarburg, Wisconsin.

  • 13 Best Places to Live in Wisconsin in 2024

Wisconsin has much to offer, from natural beauty and outdoor recreation to charming small towns and world-class cities. However, with over 5.8 million people spread across 72 counties, it can be difficult to pin down the very best places to call home in the Badger State. To help narrow down the options, learn more about some of the most desirable communities in Wisconsin heading into 2024 based on factors like job opportunities, affordability, culture and arts, education, access to amenities, and overall quality of life.

From serene suburbs in the outskirts of large metro areas to idyllic lake country villages, these top places represent some of the finest locations the state has to offer residents and families looking to plant roots. Whether you have called America’s Dairyland home your whole life or just moved in from another part of the country, keep reading to discover the top places to live in Wisconsin this year.

Root River Valley in Franklin, Wisconsin

As one of the most sought-after suburbs in the state, Franklin is an excellent option for those who want to enjoy all the urban comforts without having to break the bank to access it all. It is a generally affordable town, with the median home listing price is around $399,000. The atmosphere favors kids' play and development, thanks to outdoor venues like Kayla’s Playground and Whitnall Park. Furthermore, the Franklin Public School District is among the best in the region, offering seven schools with test scores above the national average. 

The job prospects are pretty enticing, and depending on your career, you can bring in a decent annual pay. This close-knit community enjoys a safe environment, a crime rate below the national average, and charming gathering spots where you can mingle and socialize, highlighted by Franklin Field.

Sturgeon Bay

Canal in the town of Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin.

Home to less than 10,000 people, Sturgeon Bay offers a beautiful setting on Door Peninsula to call home. It is surrounded by laidback open spaces with plenty of recreational opportunities, such as Potawatomi State Park and Cave Point County Park. It also boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage well preserved at sites like the Door County Historical Museum and Door County Maritime Museum.

The area is affordable; the median home price is around $382,000. Furthermore, the public school system is fantastic, and fun social events like the Fire & Ice Festival enhance close bonds among community members.

Aerial view of 7400 West State Street in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin.

Wauwatosa is another safe suburban location in Wisconsin, delivering a great balance between small-town charm and big-city comforts. There are numerous urban conveniences to take advantage of, including premium shopping locations like Mayfair Mall and charming outdoor spots like Hoyt Park, a hub for recreational activities like swimming, leisure hiking, picnicking, and sports. The median home price is a reasonable $369,000.

The downtown area is a bustling hub of activities, with exciting fine dining options, music venues, libraries, and galleries. Among the top spots in the neighborhood is the Arte Wine and Painting Studio, which invites the public to enroll in art lessons, along with wine, cocktails, and snack refreshments.

Summer's day view of the bicycle and pedestrian bridge on the Capital City Trail crossing Fish Hatchery Road, Fitchburg, Wisconsin

If you love being surrounded by lots of greenery in a quiet and serene environment, this adorable community of about 30,000 beckons you to revel in the beauty of rural Wisconsin. There is every reason to be in the open spaces, with locations like Quarry Ridge Recreation Area and Tower Hill Park providing countless outdoor opportunities. Fitchburg also boasts a rich German heritage, whose influences show across several businesses in town. The Great Dane Pub & Brewing Company offers a taste of German craft beer, whereas the Bavaria Sausage Kitchen lets you sample a mainstay in German cuisine.

With the average house costing less than $465,000 and a monthly rent average of around $1,200, Fitchburg is a pretty affordable town to settle in.

Whitefish Bay

Aerial view of Whitefish Bay Wisconsin looking north featuring Lake Michigan

Sitting less than 15 minutes from Milwaukee , this waterfront suburb charms with a serene rural atmosphere without denying you the conveniences of the big city. The laidback community of about 15,000 enjoys a wealth of outdoor opportunities at the popular Klode Park, which serves as a hub for recreation enthusiasts. Also, residents enjoy gorgeous views of Lake Michigan , making the most of water-based fun throughout the year.

While homes here cost an average of about $515,000, the thriving job market offers numerous opportunities to be in a position to afford one. The town has an unemployment rate of 1.5%, which is way below the national average.

Aerial view of Spur 16 commercial and residential area in Mequon, Wisconsin.

This bay town in Ozaukee County ranks high among the best places to live in Wisconsin, thanks to its remarkable natural scenery, which features delightful outdoor spots like Mequon Nature Preserve. While the median home price in Mequon is about $675,000, the thriving job market puts you in a comfortable position to afford a mortgage. The downtown corridor has lovely hang-out spots, with a chance to enjoy the delectable local cuisine at establishments like Spanky’s Hideaway.

The nightlife is not too shabby, allowing patrons to enjoy a scene close to nearby Milwaukee. With a crime rate below the national average and an unemployment rate of just 1.6%, the stars are lined up for you to live a high-quality life in Mequon.

A brown stone mill and bridge over the Milwaukee River in Cedarburg, Wisconsin

Cedarburg has come a long way from its milling days, transforming into a cozy suburb outside of Milwaukee. It is an enticing option for anyone seeking a rural setting with an impressive mix of old-time charm and a rich arts scene, which you can explore at venues like the Museum of Quilts & Fiber Arts and Cedarburg History Museum. The town is an excellent option for raising a family, boasting a good public school system.

The cost of living here is reasonable, with a median home price is about $459,000. You are also not too far from different urban conveniences, as Milwaukee is only a 30-minute drive away.

Cottage Grove

Dairy Farm near Cottage Grove, Wisconsin

About 15 miles from Madison is the charming community of Cottage Grove, home to about 7,500 residents. It is a brilliant home option that checks all the boxes, from a reliable public school system to an affordable cost of living. Add this to the proximity to the University of Wisconsin, and your kids won’t have to stray too far away after high school to get a quality education, and the home median price is $524,000.

The town also offers delightful opportunities to explore the open spaces at different parks, including Bakken Park and McCarthy Youth and Conservation County Park. It is also a vibrant space for those who want to shop and dine, with establishments like Oakstone Recreational offering the best of local cuisine.

Verona, Wisconsin: Epic campus. Epic Systems Corporation healthcare software company.

A tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of nearby Madison, Verona is an easy choice for anyone looking for small-town charm. It boasts pristine natural surroundings, drawing outdoor enthusiasts to take advantage of hiking opportunities along the Ice Age National Scenic Trail and bask in Mother Nature’s bounty at Fireman’s Park Beach. A home in Verona costs an average of about $609,000, which is slightly on the higher side, but you can always take a mortgage.

The town also enjoys one of the lowest unemployment rates in the area, at 1.9%. A strong sense of community makes Verona a great place to raise a family. Members gather frequently at Verona Downtown Farmers Market to mingle and socialize while trading in fresh-from-the-farm produce.

American flags waving at wisconsin memorial park cemetery to honor and celebrate fallen soldiers and veterans of united states wars for usa memorial day in Brookfield, Wisconsin

If you fancy the convenience of living close to Milwaukee without having to deal with its crowded streets and polluted air, Brookfield is the type of setting you should consider. This sparse suburban zone is an excellent site to raise a family, offering top public schools and plenty of parkland for kids to play, including Fox Brook Park and Wirth Park. With the median house price at about $419,000, living in Brookfield comes at a price, but the reward is access to all the premier social amenities in Milwaukee, about 20 minutes away.

Various events in town lined throughout the year result in a bubbly atmosphere with elevated relationships among community members. Some of these include Brookfield Days, held across June, and the popular farmers’ markets on Saturdays.

Chippewa River approaching the confluence in downtown Eau Claire, Wisconsin.

This scenic hamlet along the banks of the Chippewa and Eau Clair Rivers has one of the most spectacular sceneries you can find in a small town. It is an enticing prospect for nature lovers, who will fancy exploring recreational opportunities at Mount Simon Park and Phoenix Park. Eau Claire has abundant job opportunities for young professionals, with a large chunk of the positions coming from the medical field. Fortunately, the town has a fairly well-educated populace, with more than 30% of the demographic holding at least a degree.

Despite this, the average home price is below the national average at $334,000. The quaint community also organizes a few festivals that bring people together, including the Eaux Claire Music & Arts Festival.

Fond du Lac

Family members come together to play mini golf at Lakeside park. in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin

This rural oasis in Fond du Lac County is a nature lover’s perfect playground, thanks to its proximity to sprawling landscapes like the Horicon National Wildlife Refuge and Lake Winnebago . Home to around 45,000 residents, the town welcomes swimmers, hikers, boaters, and other recreational enthusiasts to make the most of attractions like Lakeside Park and Mascoutin Valley State Park Trail. There is an impressive mix of aspects that will draw anyone to this beautiful community, including quality schools, a low cost of living, and limited crime.

With the median home price at around $228,000, affording a home may not be out of reach. Also, the Walleye Festival stands out as one of the best cultural spectacles held in the town, featuring an exciting fishing tournament.

Farm in Germantown, Wisconsin

This tiny village in Washington County was named among America’s most appealing places to live in. It has a lovely small-town atmosphere with plenty of greenery, offering beautiful parks like Spassland Park and Schoen Laufen Park. Rich golfing communities for adults and kids alike await at Swing Time Germantown and Blackstone Creek Golf Club, presenting exciting recreation opportunities. Although the housing market in Germantown has been rising in the recent past, with a median home price of $515,000, the median rent is still manageable at around $1,300.

Meanwhile, one of the best events to look forward to in Germantown is the farmers market, which best exemplifies the close ties within the community.

Wisconsin continues to provide many wonderful communities with both natural beauty and vibrant small-town culture. These towns and cities represent only a sampling of what the Badger State has to offer for residents seeking top-tier schools, safe neighborhoods, ample recreation opportunities, and reasonable costs of living. No matter your lifestyle or priorities, you are sure to find the perfect match among these towns. Their welcoming environments, enriching amenities, and high quality of life make any of them ideal places to establish a permanent home in 2024.

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IMAGES

  1. 15 Beautiful Places You Have to Visit In Alberta, Canada

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  2. 15 Best Places In Alberta To Visit

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  3. 15 Beautiful Places You Have to Visit In Alberta, Canada

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  4. Alberta 2021: Top 10 Tours & Activities (with Photos)

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  5. Athabasca River in Jasper National Park! Top 10 Amazing Things To See

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  6. 15 Best Places In Alberta To Visit

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COMMENTS

  1. 22 BEST Places to Visit in Alberta, Canada

    22 Best Places to Visit in Alberta. 1. Banff Town. Banff town is beautiful in winter - and it's a great place to base yourself for a ski holiday! Banff is a very popular town in the Rockies, attracting thousands of visitors each year.

  2. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Alberta (Updated 2024)

    7. Royal Tyrrell Museum. 3,133. Speciality Museums. Set in the rugged Alberta badlands, the Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology displays one of the world's largest collections of dinosaurs. With ever-changing exhibits and self-guided experiences year-round, there is always something new to discover.

  3. Travel Alberta

    Canada's Rocky Mountains hold unforgettable experiences for all who visit. Explore our mountains. Banff, Canada's first national park, was established in 1885. Banff has 1,600 km (994 mi) of maintained trails—that's like walking the length of New Zealand.

  4. 16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Alberta

    Canmore. 1. Banff National Park. Banff National Park is the most visited tourist attraction in Alberta and arguably the most impressive national park in Canada. Just 130 kilometers west of Calgary, the area encompasses spectacular mountain scenery, major ski resorts, beautiful lakes, and the tourist town of Banff.

  5. Places to Go

    The Canadian Rockies are home to turquoise lakes shimmering beneath towering peaks. With so many lakes, Lakelands boasts Alberta's only canoe circuit. Experience the wonder of northern lights in the Wood Buffalo region. Digging for dinosaur bones in the unique landscape of the Canadian Badlands.

  6. 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.

  7. The 12 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Alberta, Canada

    5. Moraine Lake/Larch Valley. Moraine Lake is a surreal-blue lake backed by the Valley of the Ten Peaks and one of the best places to go when visiting Alberta. You can easily spend a day here, hiking around the lake or Canoeing through the glassy water — if visiting in warmer months.

  8. 100+ BEST Things To Do in Alberta (updated 2024)

    Take an Alberta Legislature Tour. Alberta became a province in 1905 and the impressive five-story Legislature Building was built and completed in 1912. It is recommended (but not required) to get a Heritage Interpreter guide for a booked visit, which can include a standard Legislature Building tour, a visit to the Legislative Assembly Visitor Centre and watching Session from the galleries in ...

  9. 7 Must-Visit Places While Traveling in Alberta, Canada

    3. Banff National Park. No trip to Alberta would be complete without a visit to the picturesque sister lakes of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake in Banff National Park. Set in the Valley of the Ten Peaks, the latter attracts serious hikers to its surrounding strenuous trails in the summer, while Lake Louise is a more relaxed year-round affair, with ...

  10. 10 Best Places to Visit in Alberta (+Map)

    An overview of the best places to visit in Alberta: 10. Lethbridge [SEE MAP] Lethbridge, in the foothills of the Canadian Rockies, is heart of southern Alberta. The region's largest city with 93,000 residents, Lethbridge was once known as Fort Whoop-Up because of illegal activities there. It was named a Cultural Capital of Canada because of ...

  11. 33 BEST Things to do in Alberta (2024 Bucket List!)

    28. Visit Pyramid Lake in Jasper National Park. The Pyramid Island boardwalk on Pyramid lake, Jasper. As one of the top places to visit in Jasper National Park, the uniquely shaped Pyramid Lake (it's shaped like a kidney) just had to be added to my list of the best things to do in Alberta.

  12. 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 ...

  13. 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.

  14. Travel to Alberta

    Alberta is the kind of place that delivers no matter what you're after. From towering Rocky Mountains, glistening lakes and sprawling grasslands, to the spirited city life and renowned festivals of Edmonton and Calgary, there's something for everyone. Alberta is home to eight Métis settlements and 48 First Nations — with their own ...

  15. Alberta Travel Destinations

    Alberta. Edmonton. Banff National Park. Lake Louise. Southern Alberta. Drumheller. Where to go, best places to stay, travel tips and and best holiday destinations - inspiration from the experts at Lonely Planet.

  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. 12 Most Beautiful Places in Alberta to Visit

    Castle Mountain is a stunning vista that rises majestically against Alberta's backdrop. 4. Columbia Icefields. The Columbia Icefields appears as a sparkling tribute to nature's grandeur in the vastness of Alberta's wildness. This sprawling glacial area is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Alberta.

  18. 15 Best Places In Alberta To Visit

    1.) Banff (region and town) Banff constantly tops the list of the world's most beautiful national parks and it's easy to see why. It really is one of the best places in Alberta to explore. Established in 1885, it is Canada's oldest national park and is located in the ruggedly wild Canadian Rockies. With trails, lakes, forests and ...

  19. Best Places to Visit in Alberta, Canada

    Lake Louise. Located in Banff National Park, Lake Louise is iconic enough to warrant its own mention among the top places to visit in Alberta. A stunning backdrop of the Canadian Rockies and the Victoria Glacier greets you as you approach the shoreline of this famed Canadian lake. It's truly one of Canada's most spectacular scenes.

  20. 13 Awesome Places to Visit in Alberta (Besides Banff & Jasper)

    Alberta, one of Canada's 10 provinces, is a vast land of diverse landscapes. If it were a country, it would be the 40 th largest in the world! With so many awesome places to visit in Alberta, you can find snow-capped Rocky Mountain peaks, rolling grasslands, dinosaur-bearing badlands, and unending boreal forests.

  21. Best Places to Visit in Alberta

    Best Places To Visit in Alberta. 1. Calgary: Located in the heart of Alberta, Calgary is a vibrant city known for its lively atmosphere and stunning skyline. It offers a perfect blend of urban attractions and natural beauty, with the nearby Rocky Mountains providing a breathtaking backdrop. Visitors can explore the iconic Calgary Tower, enjoy ...

  22. 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.

  23. Travel Alberta: Your Guide & Everything You Need to Know

    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.

  24. Reasons we love Alberta's new long-term tourism strategy

    An ambitious new target. The long-term tourism strategy outlines a plan to grow tourism revenues in the province to $25 billion by 2035. This ambitious new target is greater than previous commitments to grow tourism revenues in the province to $20 billion by 2030 and demonstrates Alberta's commitment to tourism as a key driver of Alberta's ...

  25. Why Alberta is giving the tourism industry its own immigration stream

    According to a statement from the Alberta Ministry of Immigration and Multiculturalism, the new immigration stream targets 18 jobs: Program leaders and instructors in recreation, sport and fitness ...

  26. 13 Best Places to Live in Wisconsin in 2024

    Mequon. Overlooking downtown Mequon, Wisconsin. This bay town in Ozaukee County ranks high among the best places to live in Wisconsin, thanks to its remarkable natural scenery, which features delightful outdoor spots like Mequon Nature Preserve. While the median home price in Mequon is about $675,000, the thriving job market puts you in a ...