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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.

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.

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

" 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.

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

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.

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

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

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

Places to go

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.

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

Edmonton is Canada’s northernmost metropolis in the prairie heartland of Alberta, where bison roam in Elk Island National Park and a swath of parkland unfurls from the winding North Saskatchewan River.

Things to do

Inspiring local experiences

Exploring Calgary

7 of the coolest places to stay in Alberta

What to do on a spring trip to Alberta

The top 10 attractions in Calgary

Where to ski in the Canadian rockies

The best parks in Edmonton

6 vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Alberta

The top 10 attractions in Alberta

Itineraries.

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.

Travel packages

Great regional escapes

Western Canada Iconic Sites    External Link Title

From USD $2,744 per person (double occupancy)

7 days / 6 nights

This small-group tour provides a unique and truly Canadian experience with overnight stays in Whistler, Sun Peaks, Jasper, Banff, and Kelowna. You will have plenty of time to get off the beaten path and do some amazing hikes, in addition to experiencing the world-renowned sights of Maligne Lake in Jasper, Lake Louise, Columbia Icefields, Banff and more.

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

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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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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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

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

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

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

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…

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

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…

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…

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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Must Do Canada

The Best Things to Do in Canada

59 of the Best Things To Do in Alberta

June 1, 2020 By Matthew G. Bailey 172 Comments

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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.

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.

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.

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 .

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.

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 .

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 .

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 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 !

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 .

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.

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

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

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 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.

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.

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. 

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.

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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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

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.

January 9, 2018 at 2:55 am

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

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

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.

May 17, 2021 at 12:11 am

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

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.

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?

May 5, 2022 at 9:10 am

June 3, 2022 at 5:08 pm

We live in a beautiful country!

April 1, 2021 at 11:42 am

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

April 1, 2021 at 11:54 am

Thank you so much guys for the great ideas!

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.

May 19, 2022 at 8:26 pm

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

April 2, 2021 at 8:48 am

This is awesome. Thanks so much!

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

April 3, 2021 at 1:26 pm

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

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.

April 5, 2021 at 6:29 pm

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

April 5, 2021 at 11:48 pm

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

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!

April 6, 2021 at 11:21 pm

Cant wait to start exploring my province even more!

April 7, 2021 at 10:28 am

Awesome post!

April 8, 2021 at 7:38 am

April 8, 2021 at 11:57 am

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

April 8, 2021 at 12:27 pm

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

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 🙂

April 9, 2021 at 11:10 am

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

April 10, 2021 at 9:42 am

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

April 10, 2021 at 11:44 am

Lots of great staycation ideas 🤎

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.

April 14, 2021 at 11:50 am

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

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!

April 18, 2021 at 8:05 am

Thanks for all the great tips!

April 21, 2021 at 11:23 am

Awesome stuff way to keep giving great tips

April 23, 2021 at 4:53 pm

This is great! Thanks for the all the tips!

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.

April 25, 2021 at 1:43 pm

So many great ideas here!

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

May 24, 2022 at 2:02 pm

Beautiful parks here

April 28, 2021 at 9:27 am

Looking forward to a great summer

May 9, 2021 at 8:01 am

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

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.

May 10, 2021 at 12:42 pm

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

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!

May 12, 2021 at 9:14 am

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

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.

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!

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! ❤️

May 12, 2021 at 4:08 pm

Great list!

May 30, 2021 at 1:12 am

Awesome list!

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 ☺️

May 13, 2021 at 7:31 am

Johnson Canyon and Morraine Lake are amazing!

May 13, 2021 at 2:10 pm

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

May 13, 2021 at 2:15 pm

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

May 14, 2021 at 1:43 pm

I’d love to try the Road to 150!

May 14, 2021 at 3:18 pm

Thanks for all the tips

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!

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.

May 14, 2021 at 6:47 pm

Great resource.

May 14, 2021 at 11:47 pm

So many new opportunities to visit

May 15, 2021 at 3:36 pm

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

May 16, 2021 at 6:27 pm

The mountain views in Jasper National Park

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

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

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,

May 30, 2021 at 5:29 pm

Great ideas!!

May 30, 2021 at 6:51 pm

Lots of wonderful places to visit in Alberta

June 9, 2021 at 11:58 am

My home! Thank you for this!

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.

June 10, 2021 at 6:30 am

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

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 🇨🇦❤

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.

June 11, 2021 at 9:22 pm

Looks amazing. Great suggestions to visit.

June 22, 2021 at 8:14 am

Great article. Thanks for some great ideas!

June 24, 2021 at 9:27 pm

Information is interesting and informative

June 29, 2021 at 10:47 pm

Great ideas!!!

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!!

February 9, 2022 at 1:54 pm

Great blog!

February 9, 2022 at 2:29 pm

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

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!

February 13, 2022 at 6:38 am

Thanks for all the great info!

February 14, 2022 at 12:28 pm

Alberta truly is the best!

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

February 20, 2022 at 2:30 pm

Such a beautiful province!

February 21, 2022 at 12:37 pm

The hot springs are on my bucket list

March 10, 2022 at 11:13 am

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

March 10, 2022 at 4:30 pm

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

March 10, 2022 at 5:19 pm

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

March 11, 2022 at 7:29 am

Can’t wait to visit Alberta again

March 12, 2022 at 9:25 am

So many things to do in Alberta.

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!

March 14, 2022 at 2:37 pm

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

March 16, 2022 at 7:44 am

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

March 18, 2022 at 7:23 pm

Thanks for the great suggestions within my own backyard!

March 20, 2022 at 12:51 am

Thank you for the great suggestions

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

May 4, 2022 at 9:47 pm

Time to make a list!

May 5, 2022 at 6:16 am

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

May 5, 2022 at 9:51 am

So cool! ! Thank you for all your advises 😁

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.

May 7, 2022 at 7:41 pm

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

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!

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?

May 17, 2022 at 12:55 am

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

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!!

May 19, 2022 at 3:04 pm

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

May 20, 2022 at 7:59 am

Thanks for the info!

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…

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!

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!

May 24, 2022 at 5:14 am

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

May 24, 2022 at 2:12 pm

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

May 25, 2022 at 11:04 am

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

May 26, 2022 at 2:19 pm

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

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!

May 27, 2022 at 11:34 am

Love Alberta, thanks for the ideas

May 27, 2022 at 6:34 pm

Great Staycation

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

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

May 30, 2022 at 9:48 am

Looking forward to visiting some soon!

May 30, 2022 at 10:38 am

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

June 1, 2022 at 8:55 am

Thank-you!!!!

June 1, 2022 at 9:52 pm

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

June 2, 2022 at 5:55 am

Thank you for summer travel ideas.

June 3, 2022 at 2:29 pm

Excited to try some of these this summer

June 3, 2022 at 11:11 pm

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

June 5, 2022 at 7:57 am

That’s for the list!!

June 5, 2022 at 2:11 pm

So much to do in Alberta!

June 5, 2022 at 5:28 pm

Love Alberta and all it has to offer

June 6, 2022 at 9:51 am

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

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.

June 7, 2022 at 9:00 am

Wow so much to do’

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?

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!

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.

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.

June 9, 2022 at 11:09 am

Excellent information! Huge thanks!

June 10, 2022 at 1:18 pm

Loved this!

June 10, 2022 at 8:02 pm

Love this! Thanks for the great ideas!

June 12, 2022 at 8:00 am

Great list!!!

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!!!!

August 24, 2022 at 8:07 am

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

August 24, 2022 at 6:35 pm

Very comprehensive! Thanks for the info!

August 25, 2022 at 8:34 am

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

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!

September 5, 2022 at 7:59 pm

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

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.

September 13, 2022 at 12:16 pm

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

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

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ALBERTA , CANADA , NORTH AMERICA , TRAVEL DESTINATIONS · October 7, 2021 updated on March 30, 2024

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!

I have lived in Alberta my entire life, and have spent my free time exploring this beautiful province! Every year I get to visit new places and re-visit some of my favourite spots here.

In this article, we will talk about everything that has to do with Alberta travel! Including the best time to visit and what it’s like in each season, as well as how to get around, where to stay and what to see, the National Parks in Alberta, and things to know before visiting.

Please know this website is reader supported and includes some affiliate links. I earn a small commission when you click on or purchase from affiliate links at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support! !

Table of Contents

Best Time to Visit Alberta

Alberta is truly beautiful in each season, although there are pros and cons to visiting during each season as well! In Alberta, the summers can be incredibly hot, and with the increasing amount of wildfires each year, they can be smoky as well. Summer is also an incredible time to get outside and see all of the nature has to offer. Whereas winter can get incredibly cold and snowy! But winter can also be magical.

November – Late March: Winter

Winter is an amazing time to visit Alberta if you are interested in visiting frozen waterfalls, playing any winter sports ( ice skating on frozen lakes , snowboarding, skiing…), dog-sledding in the Rockies , snowshoeing, or hoping to see the mountains covered in snow.

During the winter the Northern Lights are also out a lot more, although they are still unpredictable during this time of year and require a bit of luck to see them on a short visit.

In Alberta, wintertime can also be freeeezing, so make sure you bundle up and come prepared with snow boots, jackets, toques, and mittens. The temperatures can fluctuate to around 0C, all the way down to feelinf like -40C.

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

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.

The crowds are also just starting to pick up in the Canadian Rockies, but it still isn’t as busy as the peak summer season.

The temperature in Alberta during Spring typically ranges from +2C to +20C (the weather can be wild!). Sometimes if winter is hanging around longer the temperatures can still be below 0C, but typically the weather averages around +10C.

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. Unfortunately, this can make it hard to get outside when the air quality isn’t great.

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

Temperatures in the summer can get up to around 35C in Alberta!

September – Late October: Fall

If you’re after the golden larch trees in the Rockies, you’ll 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). Larches are a type of tree that look like pine trees, but they are actually deciduous, so their needles turn yellow and fall during autumn. They grow mainly at high elevations in the Rockies, so if you’re wanting to see the larches in the fall, you’ll have to either hike up to see them or take one of the gondolas!

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

How to Get Around Alberta

Alberta isn’t the most “public transit friendly” place, just because it is quite big and takes a long time to drive from place to place, everything is pretty spread out. 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.

Or, check out Sundog Transportation . They have a couple of buses and charters to connect cities together (including a connection to Jasper National Park).

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

Because of the lack of public transportation, Alberta can be a hard place to backpack around.

Read more: Visiting the Canadian Rockies Without a Car

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.

Staying in Edmonton

Edmonton is the capital city of Alberta and is the closest city with an airport to Jasper National Park (small towns that are close to Jasper are 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

I would recommend booking a hotel nearby what you want to do and see while in Edmonton, because things can be spread out, and some areas of the city don’t really have a lot to offer!

Staying in Calgary

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!

If you are spending time in Calgary, I would recommend finding a hotel nearby what you are planning to do and see! If you are just staying overnight between flights and then driving to the Rockies the next day, it may be better to find an airport hotel and grab your car rental directly from the airport.

Staying in Canmore

Canmore is a cute little mountain town that is super close to Banff, but it isn’t as expensive to stay in (usually). It’s a great place to look into if you’re planning to visit Banff National Park .

Hostels are a great option in the mountains too (if you’re a hostel person), as they are all over the national parks!

• MTN House by Basecamp
• Mountain View Inn (not as modern, but can be a more affordable option)
• Canmore Downtown Hostel

Staying in Banff

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

Staying in Jasper

Jasper is not as popular as Banff is 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 –

• Forest Park Hotel
• Pyramid Lake Lodge
• Jasper Downtown Hostel
• Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

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)
• If you are visiting Kananaskis Country, you will need a separate, Kananaskis Conservation Pass to park there
• 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
• There is more to Alberta than just Banff and Jasper National Park! Although the Canadian Rockies are absolutely amazing!

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 Canadian National Parks pass.

Waterton National Park

Located in Southern Alberta, right by the border to Montana in the United States, Waterton National Park is an incredibly beautiful place to visit! In Waterton, there are mountains, they are just a little bit different than the mountains you see in the Rockies.

Waterton is also home to a bunch of amazing hikes, including the Crypt Lake hike – which National Geographic named one of the most thrilling hikes in the world!

Banff National Park

Of course, everyone knows Banff National Park. And just in case you don’t, you need to! Banff National Park is one of the best places you can add to your itinerary. It is the main spot to visit in the Rocky Mountains, with the cutest little mountain town, Banff, as the main and really only city in the National Park.

Here you will also find infamous Lake Louise , Moraine Lake , and so many incredible outdoor adventures like hiking to the Lake Agnes Teahouse , swimming in Banff’s glacial lakes , one of the world’s most beautiful drives (the Icefields Parkway) , and more!

Jasper National Park

Often overshadowed by Banff is Jasper National Park. Another mountain town in the Canadian Rockies that is just North of Banff! There is so much to do in Jasper National Park , including incredible hikes, outdoor adventures like canoeing to Spirit Island , and exploring Maligne Canyon (in the winter, you can explore the interior by doing a Maligne Canyon ice walk !),

Wood Buffalo National Park

This is the one National Park in Alberta that I have yet to visit! It is located in Northern Alberta is quite a distance from any major airport here.

Nontheless, Wood Buffalo National Park seems like the perfect place for an outdoor adventure. It is the largest national park in Canada and the world’s largest Dark Sky Preserve, meaning they limit the amount of light pollution allowed here, making it the perfect spot to stargaze and see the Northern Lights.

You can also camp here, hike, and keep your eyes peeled for herds of bison!

Elk Island National Park

Around a 30 minute drive from the city of Edmonton is Elk Island National Park!

This is a great place to get out in nature, go on a walk through pretty forests, and try to see bison! They roam free around Elk Island National Park, although you always don’t get a chance to see them (since they roam wherever they want to!).

In the winter time, Astotin Lake freezes and there is a path cleared for ice skating. You can also sign up for Snowshoe and Stargaze with Parks Canada during the winter time.

In the summer you can swim, although the lake usually gets overrun by blue-green algae, and when this happens, swimming isn’t really advisable!

But, it is a great place to spend the day out in nature on a daytrip from Edmonton!

Top 5 Things to do in Alberta

1. Explore the mountains –

The Canadian Rocky Mountains are the main thing that bring so many visitors to Alberta each year! They are absolutely stunning and cannot be missed during your trip to Alberta!

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 4 Day Banff Itinerary

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

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.

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.

Read more: Hiking Chester Lake in Kananaskis, Alberta

Read more: The Ptarmigan Cirque Hike in Kananaskis Country

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 .

Bison are an important part of Alberta’s past. If you do end up exploring Southern Alberta, I would highly recommend checking out Head Smashed in Buffalo Jump while there. It is a great way to learn about the Indigenous connection with the bison, and Alberta’s bison history!

3. Explore Alberta’s Cities

There are quite a few cities and towns in Alberta, but the two main ones are Edmonton and Calgary!

If you’re visiting one of these cities and there is a hockey game happening, they can be so fun attend! The fans in Alberta can go crazy for hockey!

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, although I honestly wouldn’t go out of my way to visit!

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 National Park 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 (Alberta’s badlands), and just under 3 hours to Waterton National Park.

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 .

4. See the Badlands in Dinosaur Country

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

Another provincial park nearby Calgary where you can see the badlands is Dinosaur Provincial Park. You can camp at both of these spots and it is a really cool landscape to see!

Drumheller also has a super cool dinosaur museum called the Royal Tyrell Museum. It is one of the world’s largest places where you can see dinosaur fossils, and is an awesome spot to explore whether you are an adult or a kid!

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(like Wood Buffalo National Park) are also great places to go Northern Lights hunting.

Tip: Check out Aurorawatch for the Northern Lights forecast

Other Areas in Alberta to Mention:

There is SO much to see and do in Alberta, it cannot possibly fit in one blog post!

A few other spots you might be interested in exploring are:

• Big Knife Provincial Park
• Medicine Hat and Southern Alberta
• Frank Slide
• Rochon Sands Provincial Park

Alberta Travel Guide Summary

Alberta is truly a beautiful place to visit in Canada, with so much to offer (especially if you love to be outside!). From the Canadian Rockies to Southern Alberta and the badlands, there is so much to see and do here.

I feel lucky to live in a place that has so many interesting spots to explore! Each season is super unique, with different activities and things to do in each month.

Getting around can be difficult if you don’t have a car – so I highly recommend renting one when visiting Alberta! Or, sign up for a tour or book seats on shuttle busses if you can.

Accommodation prices can really vary all over the province, but the earlier you look the more likely you are to find something in your price range! And if you’re visiting Banff, look into staying just outside of the National Park in Canmore instead.

Always be prepared for changing weather because it can be hard to predict, especially in the mountains!

And don’t forget to budget in the cost of a Canadian National Parks Pass if you’re planning to head to one of Alberta’s 5 national parks.

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

Other Resources to Help Plan Your Trip to Alberta

• TravelAlberta.com
• Parks Canada
• All Trails (for hiking)

Find me on: Instagram | Pinterest

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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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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The 62 Best Things to do in Alberta, Canada – The Ultimate Guide

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: February 8, 2024

Whether you visit Alberta in winter or summer its beauty shines through. We’ve had the pleasure of visiting Alberta on several occasions in all seasons and trust me, there are plenty of outdoor activities to keep you occupied year-round. In fact, a lot of the province comes to life in the dead of winter. We have rounded up the best things to do in Alberta, Canada from our half-dozen trips to our favourite province in Western Canada.

Table of Contents

Top Things to do in Alberta, Canada

We have broken down this Alberta travel guide into different areas so you can plan your trip in an easily organized manner. This guide shares the very best things to do in Alberta that we have done over the past 10 years of traveling to all corners of the province.

1. Banff National Park

Banff National Park is Canada’s first national park and its most beautiful. This year-round destination has countless outdoor activities from hiking trails into the backcountry, ski resorts, glacier lakes, and a great food scene. The Banff Springs Hotel was opened in 1888 to attract tourists to the area and has continued to draw visitors from around the world making Banff Alberta’s most visited tourist attraction. Read more: Things to do in Banff

2. Canoe Lake Louise

Lake Louise is the most famous of all tourist attractions in Alberta and the first place most people stop when visiting Banff. Victoria Glacier and the surrounding mountains are reflected in the still turquoise waters making it truly one of the most beautiful places in Alberta . The legendary Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise sits on its shores, and one could spend hours just taking in the views. A bucket list item for anyone visiting Lake Louise is to rent a canoe and experience a true Canadian tradition . When visiting Alberta in the summer months, this is a great way to take in the fantastic scenery away from the crowds. Read more: Canoe Lake Louise and Banff National Park, Alberta

3. Pond Hockey on Lake Louise

There is absolutely nothing more Canadian than playing pond hockey on a frozen lake. When the temperature drops, Canadians seek outdoor activities like pond hockey and if you visit Alberta in winter, you better skate on the world’s most beautiful skating rink! Imagine dropping a puck surrounded by Canada’s most impressive scenery. Located directly in front of the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, the rink attracts visitors from around the world whether they can skate or not! You can rent hockey gear from the hotel or from  Wilson Mountain Sports .

4. Moraine Lake

Located just a short distance from Lake Louise within the Valley of the Ten Peaks, Moraine Lake is considered one of the most beautiful places in Alberta. With hiking trails leading to views of the Valley of the Ten Peaks, it is not to be missed. Plus, a fun fact, Moraine Lake is the famous lake that was on our 20 dollar bill! Moraine Lake can be very busy in the summer months, so get there early to avoid the crowds. For more hiking trails in Banff and information on Moraine Lake Read: 12 Best Hikes in Banff National Park

5. Lake Agnes

The Lake Agnes Teahouse has been serving tea since 1905. The teahouse was built by the Canadian Pacific Railway in 1901 as a place where hikers could stop and rest. In 1905 it started serving tea and hasn’t stopped since. This popular hike starts out on a paved path before getting into the rugged forest. The Lake Agnes Teahouse hike is a 4.5-mile hike is considered a moderate hike and you can get to it from Chateau Lake Louise which is a mile outside of Lake Louise village. The trailhead is right off the parking lot of Chateau Lake Louise. 

6. Backcountry Lodges

There are several backcountry lodges in Alberta that make for an amazing active adventure that ends with a luxurious stay in a remote lodge surrounded by snow-capped peaks. We visited  Sundance Lodge  when exploring Banff and fell in love with the beauty of the area.

In the winter you can head out to lodges by cross country skiing or snowshoeing. In the summer you can hike or go by horse. Whichever season you visit Alberta in, a backcountry lodge is an experience you’ll never forget. Read more: Where to Stay in Banff

7. Explore Cave n’ Basin

Discovered by railway workers back in 1883, Cave n Basin is where Canada’s National Park System began. To attract visitors to Banff, Canada opened the first National Park and visitors flocked to swim and relax in the hot springs. Soon after the Banff Springs Hotel opened and the rest is history. Today it is a national historic site and there is no swimming in the pool to protect the endangered snails that inhabit the pool. Read: Best Canada National Parks – That We’ve Seen

8. The Banff Hot Springs

The Banff Upper Hot Springs is world-famous for its natural springs and outstanding view! The upper hot springs are named so because at one time the springs were located lower down the mountain at Cave n’ Basin and the historic pool. Today the springs have moved up the mountain to the Upper Banff Springs. You may also like: Discover Banff Canada – 24 Photos Inspire Wanderlust

9. The Banff Gondola

The Banff Gondola gives you incredible views of the snowcapped peaks and the village of Banff. If you don’t have the chance to ski or snowboard at Lake Louise or Sunshine Resort, this is a perfect way to get up into the mountains. The gondola takes you up Sulphur Mountain and you can either take the hiking trails back down or ride the gondola back. Sulphur mountain got its name from two sulfurous springs at the base of the mountain. It is this spring that made Banff famous. There’s a museum, and restaurant at the top and there are hiking trails to get outside.

10. Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel

The Fairmont Banff Springs hotel is one of the most historic hotels in Canada. Even if you are not staying there, make sure to stop in for high tea. You can go inside to see this luxury resort so have a look around, grab a coffee, or book dinner at the hotel if you are not going to splurge on a room. If you want to splurge on a room, we highly recommend it. See rates and availability on TripAdvisor / Booking

11. Lake Minnewanka Cruise

Lake Minnewanka is a popular spot in Banff for hiking, night photography, and for taking a scenic cruise. We took a Lake Minnewanka Cruise and it was a fun way to learn about the history of Banff and see views from a different point of view. The guides are fantastic and you learn all about the monster that drew visitors to this lake in the early 1900s.

12. Banff Town

The town of Banff is located right in the heart of Banff National Park. This tourist town is an amazing place to make a base when exploring Banff with many of the top tourist attractions within walking distance of downtown Banff. There are micro brewpubs, distilleries, plenty of eateries, and countless hotels, hostels, and apartment rentals. Boutiques line the streets and it’s a great place to sit back and relax after a day exploring the Rocky Mountains. Read more at: Where to Stay in Banff in 2022 – 17 Best Banff Hotels

13. Johnston Canyon

Johnston Canyon is open in winter and summer and is beautiful no matter what time of year you go. In fact, we think it truly comes to life in the winter! Enjoy the hiking trails through the canyon for gorgeous views of the high canyon walls with waterfalls plunging down. In the winter the waterfalls freeze creating a winter wonderland.

Discover Banff Tours  offers guided scenic winter walks and let me tell you, this is one of the most stunning walks we’ve ever taken. The steel catwalk runs 2.5 miles through a picture-perfect limestone canyon.

14. the Icefields Parkway

The Icefields Parkway is considered one of the most beautiful drives in the world and with good reason! Surrounded by the Rockies, this drive connects Banff and Jasper National Parks with lookouts at every turn! It is a short drive that can be done in a day, but there are so many things to see and do, it requires a few passes to see it all. These are a few of the must-stop places along the highway. For a full itinerary of the Icefields Parkway read: Driving the Icefields Parkway from Banff to Jasper Alberta

15. Reflections of Bow Lake

Our favourite lookout along the Parkway is Bow Lake with the most extraordinary reflections you’ll ever see. Located at Num Ti Jah Lodge, this is one of the first stops on the Icefields Parkway when driving from Banff National Park. You can go for a hike around the lake to take in different views.

There are plenty of other stops along the main highway to Jasper with hiking trails to lookouts and other lakes such as Peyto Lake, The Saskatchewan River Crossing, Sunwapta Falls, and The Weeping Wall. Peyto Lake is the most popular stop on this drive as people hike up to Bow Summit for views of the surrounding area.

16. Athabasca Glacier and Columbia Icefield

The Columbia Icefield is North America’s largest sheet of ice and on it, you can discover the Athabasca Glacier located directly on the highway. Take a tour to see this massive glacier in all its glory. You can even drive on a glacier vehicle to go out and witness the giant crevasses up close! There’s a great visitor’s center where you can grab a bite to eat and see the glacier from the viewing platform as well.

17. The Glacier Skywalk

The Glacier Skywalk is one of Alberta’s newest attractions and it is definitely the most eye-catching. Walk along a glass floor that drops  280 m (918-foot) over the Sunwapta Valley if you dare. You can catch the bus from the Columbia Icefield visitor center and then spend an hour or so admiring the view and daring to walk along the glass floor.

18. Jasper National Park

When you come to the end of the Icefields Parkway drive, you arrive at the incredible Jasper National Park. Famous for its dark sky festival and dark sky preserve plus gorgeous rocky mountain views, this is a place to spend a few days. There is an abundance of outdoor activities including amazing hiking trails, backcountry lodges, the Marmot Basin Ski Resort , and beautiful mountain lakes. The town of Jasper is a pleasant small town located within Jasper National Park with plenty of eateries and coffee shops The Rocky Mountaineer train ride also leaves from here. Read: 14 Best Hikes in Jasper National Park – Alberta Canada

19. Hike Maligne Canyon

Maligne Canyon is my top recommendation for things to do in Jasper National Park. It is a stunning hike through a canyon dropping 50 meters (154 feet). With waterfalls and bridges, hiking trails, and scenic views, this is not to be missed! Read more: Amazing Things to do in Jasper, Alberta

20. Maligne Lake

Just a little farther along the road is Malign Lake. It is the longest lake in the Canadian Rockies. Take a boat cruise to Spirit Island and witness this beautiful view surrounded by emerald water of the glacier lake. Or go for a walk along the hiking trails lining the lake.

21. Pyramid Lake

Maligne Lake is the top lake for visitors to see in Jasper, but our favourite was certainly Pyramid Lake. With beautiful reflections of a pyramid-shaped mountain twinkling in the still waters, it’s easy to understand how it got its name. Go in the morning at sunrise to see for yourself.

22. Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

Staying at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge  is an attraction unto itself. The rustic setting of luxurious and chic log cabins is set on the shores of Lac Beauvert. There are canoes, hiking trails, and wildlife on the premises. You’ll see elk, moose, and whitetail deer scurrying about in the woods. The Queen of England has graced these grounds. If it’s good enough for her, it’s good enough for us!

23. Northern Lights at Lake Annette

Alberta has many places to see dark skies, night stars, and the Aurora Borealis. Jasper is known for its dark sky preserve. It has unrivaled clear skies, and when staying at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, we went to Lake Annette to photograph the night sky. That was when we were treated to the beautiful auroras ( northern lights ) dancing in the sky.

24. Side Car Motorcycle Tour

Our favourite excursion in Jasper is hands down the sidecar motorcycle tour. This is the coolest way to explore the roads of Jasper National Park. Hop in a Harley Davidson Motorcycle and take off to the high viewpoints of the Rocky Mountains from downtown Jasper. It’s one of the coolest and most unique things to do in Alberta that is for sure.

When driving to Jasper from Edmonton, keep an eye out for animals along the main highway. We saw bighorn sheep, bears and mountain goats on our way. This drive offered some of the best wildlife viewing in Alberta.

25. Canmore

Canmore is located just outside Banff National Park and has turned into a destination unto itself. It can be used as a base to explore Banff National Park and Kananaskis but now Canmore has turned into a tourist town that has a lot of the attractions in Alberta in its own right. There are plenty of hiking trails, cross-country ski trails, and gorgeous viewpoints. There are so many things to do in Canmore you will need to split your time between here and Banff.

26. Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary

The Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary is a rescue center for wolfdogs to rehabilitate abandoned and neglected wolf dogs. Wolfdogs are part wolf and part dog and often end up being too much for dog owners who don’t realize what is involved in owning a wild animal.

The sanctuary rehabilitates the dogs and finds them new homes. Visitors can sit with the wolfdogs and watch them interact and behave in their natural habitat. The wolfdog sanctuary is a magical experience visit their website for more details. Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary

27. Rock Climbing

Alberta is home to some of the best rock climbing and mountaineering experiences on earth. When in Canmore, be sure to get out on a wall for some great sport climbing routes. Yamnuska Mountain Adventures in Canmore offers guided ice climbing and rock climbing excursions with professional Rock Climbers.

28. Ice Climbing

If you are looking for an adventure that gives you the ultimate adventure travel bragging rights, ice climbing in Alberta is a must. Canmore is the ice-climbing mecca of the world drawing top athletes to its routes each year to train and explore.

We’ve done both Rock Climbing and Ice Climbing in Canmore and they are both a thrill of a lifetime. Read more about ice climbing at  Ice Climbing Adventure in Canmore

29. Skijoring

What on earth is skijoring you ask? It’s a mix between cross country skiing and dog sledding. Skijoring was invented in Norway, but Alberta has embraced it. We met Russell Donald of Mad Dog and Englishman Sled Dog Expeditions at Spray Lake outside of Canmore.

Skijoring was a thrill of a lifetime as two sled dogs pull you across the lake at breakneck speeds. Looking for more things to do in Alberta that involve dogs? See the Best Place to go Dogsledding in Banff

30. Scenic Flight over the Canadian Rockies

Located just an hour from Calgary and a short drive from Canmore or Banff, Rockies Heli is one of the premier helicopter tour companies in Alberta. Our helicopter tour took over Banff National Park to witness the famous peaks like Mt. Assiniboine, The Three Sisters, and Mount Lougheed.

This adventure offers the added bonus of landing on a peak just outside the park to go snowshoeing where nobody else dares to go. When landing a helicopter on the top of a mountain, you can be sure you won’t see crowds of people during your hike! Book your Alberta Helicopter tour with Rockies Heli located in two locations for your convenience

31. Snowshoeing

Canmore became popular as the population grew in Banff National Park. It’s now a town filled with outdoor lovers and very healthy people. You can do a lot of activities directly from town and we went snowshoeing from Canmore. It wasn’t long before we were surrounded by mountains and treated to spectacular views of the Three Sisters. If you are new to snowshoeing, hire a guide to take you out to the backcountry safely.

32. Southern Alberta

The south of Alberta will surprise and delight you. It is completely different from the more popular Banff and Jasper National Parks, but no less breathtaking or exciting. A road trip through this part of Alberta should be put at the top of every Alberta bucket list.

33. Bar U Ranch

The Bar U Ranch is a National Historic Site and a very cool place to learn about Alberta’s Cowboy Heritage. This was once the largest ranch in North America spanning 160,000 acres and had 30,000 heads of cattle. The Sundance Kid worked on the Bar U Ranch and the Prince of Wales loved the setting so much, he bought a ranch right next door! Have a cowboy coffee, try your hand at the lassoo and learn everything about Ranch Life.

• Cool Fact: Deb lived on the Bar U Ranch when she was born. Her dad was the head ranch hand!
• Read about it here: Back to my Roots at the Bar U Ranch in Alberta Canada

34. Waterton Lakes National Park

It may not be as famous as the national parks of Banff and Jasper, but Waterton Lakes National Park is one of the most extraordinary. This park is unique in the fact that it shares a border with Glacier National Park in the United States. Together, the two parks create the only UNESCO World Heritage Site, International Peace Park, and a Biosphere Reserve rolled all in one. It is here that you can see herds of buffalo roaming and head out on one of the extraordinary hikes into the foothills of the mountains. Book a night at the Prince of Wales Hotel located within the park for a truly royal experience.

35. Red Rock Canyon

Make sure to visit Red Rock Canyon, the grand canyon of Alberta. There are some great hikes here and if you pair it with Waterton, you can easily spend a few days here. Read more: Things to do in Waterton Lakes National Park

36. High Mountain Trail Ride

No trip to Alberta would be complete without riding a horse. This is horse country and in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, you can take one of the best trail rides you’ll ever have in your life. Sure, you’ve taken a trail ride in other places, but in Black Diamond Alberta, a high mountain trail ride takes you into the foothills. Hop on a sure-footed horse and bushwhack your way up a mountain trail pass to the backcountry of Alberta. If there is one time in your life to go horseback riding, this is it! Read about it here A High Mountain Trail Ride, Black Diamond Alberta

37. Crowsnest Pass

Crows Nest pass is a mountain pass along the continental divide where Alberta meets British Columbia . It is an interesting drive along this route with some cool sites to see! Read more: Things to do in Pincher Creek, Alberta

38. Frank Slide

When stopping at the home of one of Canada’s most deadly natural disasters, you really see the power of Mother Nature. In 1903 the town of Frank was buried under 110 tons of rocks that broke off from Turtle Mountain. Looking out from the interpretive center shows just how far the rock slide traveled and how the town never stood a chance. 90 people lost their lives that fateful day. You can walk along paved trails to see the devastation up close.

39. Photograph the Burmis Tree

One of the most unique things to see in Alberta is the lone Burmis Tree standing at the entrance to Crowsnest Pass. This tree is a symbol of endurance for the people of the region. At years old, it is hanging on by a thread. Or I should say wire. The tree died years ago, but residents loved it so much, they saved it by wiring it together with stainless steel brackets to stabilize the roots. See it before it is too late!

40. Head Smashed in Buffalo Jump

Although it isn’t the most exciting thing to see in Alberta, it is a very historic place to visit. Head Smashed in Buffalo Jump Interpretive Centre, It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an interesting stop. 6000 years of history of Plains Buffalo culture happened on this site where prehistoric plains people lured herds of buffalo to the edge of a cliff where they met their fate.

41. Writing on Stone Provincial Park

Writing on Stone Provincial Park is sacred to the First Nations of Alberta as it is a nature preserve containing many First Nations carvings. Located in the Milk River Valley, these carvings show evidence of life dating back 9000 years. It is a beautiful park with hoodoos and towering cliffs. There is a recreation of an RCMP outpost in the park commemorating the mounted police who patrolled the border in the late 1800s to prevent whisky smuggling

42. Canadian Badlands

Often overshadowed by Banff and Jasper when planning things to do in Alberta, the Alberta Badlands are one of the most beautiful places to visit in the province. There are so many attractions in Alberta and these are the best in the badlands!

43. Dinosaur Provincial Park

Dinosaur Provincial Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site housing one of the largest dinosaur excavations sites on the planet. Around 75 million years ago, dinosaurs ruled this land. You can take a guided hiking tour to an excavation site to see dinosaur fossils. Be sure to stay in the park in one of the glamorous camping tents. It’s an amazing experience. Read about it here: Dinosaur Provincial Park – Glamping Tour in the Alberta Badlands

44. Drumheller Valley

One of the best drives in the province is the Dinosaur Trail from Dorothy to Drumheller. Drumheller is a small town located just 90 minutes from Calgary and there is so much to do there. Spend a day or two in town to explore all of the sights of the Drumheller Valley like Horsethief Canyon, the Atlas Coal Mine, and the last chance saloon. This is where you’ll really feel like you’ve stepped into the wild west.

45. Hoodoos of Drumheller Valley

One of the most amazing sites in Alberta is the Hoodoos of Drumheller Valley. There are hoodoos throughout the badlands, but these are the most distinct and perfect hoodoos you’ll ever see in your life. Located directly on the side of the road, these fragile formations are formed over hundreds of years through erosion. This tiny cluster is a wonderful display of the beauty of Mother Nature. Read more about The Hoodoos of Drumheller

46. Royal Tyrrell Museum

One of the best museums we’ve ever been to is the Royal Tyrrell Museum. We’ve seen a lot of dinosaur bone recreations in museums around the world, but this one has the real deal on display! Here you’ll see one of the best-preserved authentic T-Rex skulls in the world among the large dinosaur collection on display in Dinosaur Hall. And there are archeologists working in a lab on sight. Read more: Things to do in Drumheller, Alberta

47. Calgary, Alberta

Calgary is the biggest city in Alberta and there are a ton of things to do downtown Calgary. It warrants its own article which we have right here: 21 Best Things to do in Calgary, Alberta . This Western Canada city has plenty of outdoor activities, urban adventures, an excellent food scene and it hosts the annual Calgary Stampede. This is a city that you must visit when exploring Alberta.

48. Bobsleigh – Canada’s Olympic Park

Who thought they’d ever get the chance to hop in a bobsleigh and barrel down the pipe with an Olympic athlete at steering the sled?  Bobsledders from around the world train at Calgary’s Canada Olympic Park and to make some money on the side, they take tourists down their home track! Feel the G-force push you down as you reach speeds of 125km per hour while banking the icy turns as you plunge down the World Cup track. See our experience at Whipping Through the Olympic Village in Calgary

49. World’s Fastest Zipline

At the park you’ll also be able to ride the world’s fastest zipline. This zipline is so fast you need to pull a parachute out when you land! Taking off from the top of the big Olympic ski jump, this zip line is a thrilling experience! I can only imagine the courage ski jumpers have flying off this ramp. A Zipline was enough for me! We also took the luge down to the parking lot once we finished our extreme sports. There’s mountain biking at the park, a museum and hiking trails, so make a day out of it! Read more: Canada Olympic Park – Fun in Calgary Alberta

50. Calgary Tower

Like all world cities, Calgary has its own tower that makes for a superb lookout over the city. Make sure to go up and enjoy its view from the top floor. With beautiful views of the city, it is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Alberta, let alone Calgary. Book this bus tour to see the best of Calgary. This sightseeing tour includes stops at Heritage Park Historical Village, Canada Olympic Park, The Stampede Grounds, downtown Calgary, the Calgary Tower and more!

51. Calgary Peace Bridge

The Calgary Peace Bridge spans the Bow River from Downtown to communities across the river. It’s become a popular path for cycling and an iconic symbol of the city.

52. Calgary Stampede

If you are in the city in June, check out the greatest outdoor show on earth. Calgary hosts the annual Calgary Stampede – the world’s largest rodeo has been running since 1912 and is the biggest ticket in town. Besides all the rodeo activities like bull riding and chuckwagon races, there are midway rides, food stands and performances at the grandstand show. Read more: 21 Best Things to do in Calgary, Alberta

53. Heritage Park Historical Village

Heritage Park Historical Village in Calgary provides a glimpse into Alberta’s past. The buildings cover four key periods in Calgary’s history from a 1860s fur-trading fort to the 20th century. There’s an old steam engine that you can hop on for a ride around the village to explore a series of historic buildings from the pioneer era with ample costumed interpreters to help you travel back in. Other activities include a paddlewheel tour on the scenic Glenmore Reservoir and a visit to Gasoline Alley Museum.

54. Edmonton

Edmonton is often overlooked when visiting Alberta, but it is worth adding to the list. With the world’s largest indoor amusement park, plenty of outdoor activities including Canada’s largest urban park and cultural activities, you’ll find something for everyone. Plus there is a festival in Edmonton for nearly every week of the year. Read more: The Best Things to do in Edmonton, Alberta

55. West Edmonton Mall

It is North America’s largest mall and probably what first put Edmonton on the map. The West Edmonton Mall is way more than a mall, it’s the lifeblood of Edmonton. If you like amusement parks, you’ll love this mall. With the world’s largest indoor amusement park, The World Waterpark, and an indoor skating rink, it is the original super mall! As Edmonton’s temperatures dip far below freezing in the Canadian winters, this mall is an oasis of warmth and fun.

56. Edmonton River Valley

The North Saskatchewan River Valley Park System covers 18,000 acres combining 20 different parks. It is Canada’s largest urban park. Anything outdoors that your heart desires is available in this green space. Hiking and cycling trails, a golf course, ravines and lakes and if you are into zoos, the Edmonton Valley Zoo is within the parks system. In the winter, there’s cross country skiing and even a downhill ski slope.

57. Fort Edmonton Park

Time has stopped at Fort Edmonton Park where the streets are frozen in time depicting Edmonton’s early history. The 150 acre wooded parkland traces history from the Indigenous People’s experience to the 1920s. Costumed performers walk the replica of an 1885 street and you can tour an 1846 fort from the days of the Hudson Bay fur traders. If you want a look at bits and pieces of Alberta and Canadian historythe heritage park offers memorable experiences for everyone. This is also Canada’s largest living history museum.  Visit the fort for details.

58. Kananaskis

A great day trip from Calgary or Banff is a visit to Kananaskis Country. Its views rival Banff National Park. You can stay overnight at the luxurious Kananaskis Mountain Lodge and use the spa, hike its trails and enjoy the luxury accommodation. It was one of our favourite places in Alberta.

59. Nordik Spa

The spa is a year-round outdoor Scandinavian Spa with hot pools, saunas, and cold plunge pools. It’s the perfect place to soothe travel-weary muscles.

60. Ski Alberta

There is no going to Alberta in winter without going skiing or snowboarding. Banff National Park houses three different ski resorts alone! We love Sunshine Village because it has the  Sunshine Mountain Lodge  located right at the side of the hill offering the only ski in ski out adventures in Banff. It also has Banff’s largest hotel hot tub where after a day on the boards, you can soothe your aching muscles in the tub. Read more at 15 Top Ski Resorts in Canada For Winter Fun

Lake Louise is Alberta’s premier ski hill with 4200 skiable areas in one of the largest ski destinations in North America and one of Canada’s top ski destinations. There are trails for all levels of Skiing and Snowboarding. Lake Louise is on the World Cup Circuit with a Terrain Park and a Snowcross Course. It was also home to the Calgary Olympics, and you can be sure to carve actual Olympic runs! It’s Epic.

Norquay is the closest ski hill to Banff and is great for a day trip or for families. If you want to try something different, head over to do some snow tubing. It’s the ultimate couch potato thrill ride. You ride the magic carpet to the top, let them put you on the tube, and push you down the hill. All you have to do is hoot and holler all the way down!

61. Wood Buffalo National Park

If you are looking for out of the ordinary things to do in Alberta, Canada make your way up to the far north to visit Wood Buffalo National Park. It is the largest national park in Canada and it is a national historic site. Established in 1922, Wood Buffalo National Park was designed to protect one of the last surviving herds of Bison.

62. the Rocky Mountaineer

We took the Rocky Mountaineer from Vancouver to Calgary, but you can hop aboard in either Banff Town of Jasper. The one-way luxury train journey takes you through the Rockies and it is a rip-roaring good time with fine dining and outstanding views of some of the top attractions in Alberta. Note, you’ll be eating and drinking a lot so get ready!

Alberta has five national parks that include, Banff National Park and Jasper National Park, Wood Buffalo National Park, Waterton Lakes National Park, and Elk Island.

The top attractions in Alberta are Banff and Lake Louise, Jasper National Park, the Icefields Parkway, Waterton Lakes National Park, Drumheller and its hoodoos, The West Edmonton Mall and Wood Buffalo National Park.

Exploring Alberta is one of the greatest places to visit in Canada. With five national parks, world-class cities, the Rockies, glacier lakes and extraordinary beauty, Alberta is a destination that is second to none. These are our favourite things to do in Alberta, but we know we have not yet scratched the surface. What did we miss and what should we do next? Leave your recommendations in the comments below.

Plan Your Trip to Alberta with These Resources

• Ice Climbing : Ice Climbing Adventure in Canmore
• Lake Louise: Pond Hockey on Lake Louise- A Good Old Hockey Game
• Winter Adventures: Banff Helicopter Tours and Snowshoe
• Banff National Park : The Best Things to do in Banff, Alberta
• Canmore: The Best Things To Do In Canmore, Alberta
• Calgary: Canada Olympic Park – Fun In Calgary Alberta
• Edmonton: The Best Things To Do In Edmonton, Alberta
• Southern Alberta: Things To Do In Drumheller, Alberta
• Jasper National Park: Amazing Things To Do In Jasper, Alberta

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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10 thoughts on “The 62 Best Things to do in Alberta, Canada – The Ultimate Guide”

Well at least you mentioned Edmonton. My goodness, the second largest Fringe Theater in the world, world class casinos, Elk Island is far easier to see Buffalo and about 45 minutes from Edmonton. The Ukrainian Village just 15 minutes from Elk Island Park Gates. Wood Buffalo and Elk Island are both dark preserves as well. My goodness Wood Buffalo is bigger than the Country of Switzerland! There are 5 golf courses in our river valley, boat cruising from Devon to Ft. Saskatchewan. Edmonton gets overlooked because for some strange reason people take the simple way out and don’t see what this amazing City has to offer. The Capital City has way more to offer than West Edmonton Mall. Do your homework!!

Perhaps you should have clicked on the link to the article where we discuss all of these great things to do in Edmonton and more than you have actually included yourself. This article is meant to touch on the highlights of places. Please don’t accuse us of not doing our research until you have actually done yours.

Very beautiful and cool video guide! I really liked it, and it is also very useful – thank you very much.

Great guide! – Many thanks to the author for this super useful material. I will keep this guide bookmarked so as not to lose, and not to forget what to do in Alberta when traveling as a family.

Winter in Alberta is not something everyone can manage. But, this guide is a pretty fantastic guide, and if you are looking to stay in Alberta for winter, this guide will help you get through the season without any problem.

Calgary is a cool place but freezing brutal cold winters ! I remember when the Olympics were there so cool.! I agree with getting regular massages ?

Thanks for sharing nice content with us. Keep on sharing such article, I love it lot.

“A bunch of happiness and excitement”. This might be one of the best winter experience I’ve seen. Glad you’ve shared this. Anyhow, Looking forward to more of this.

I made it to Banff and Jasper this summer for the first time. Visiting in winter would be a lot of fun. I didn’t know you could play hockey on Lake Louise!

wow, beautiful winter guide at Alberta. Those videos were nice an I like the 1st video the most. Good Work Guys… Keep on TRAVELLING…

7 Essential Places to Visit in Alberta

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

• Copy Link copied

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 1: Calgary

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to stay in Calgary

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

Day 2: Banff

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Nearby is also the stunning Banff Upper Hot Springs.

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

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

Where to Stay in Banff

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

Day 3: Banff and Lake Louise

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 4: Driving from Banff to Jasper

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Jasper

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

Days 5 & 6: Jasper

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 7: Driving from Jasper to Edmonton

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

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

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

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

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

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

Days 8 & 9: Edmonton

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Edmonton

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

Day 10: Driving to Calgary

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

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

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

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

Book Your Trip to Canada: Logistical Tips and Tricks

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

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

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

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

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

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

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

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

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Banff and Beyond: The Best Way to Experience Alberta

Ashley Rossi

Ashley Rossi is always ready for her next trip. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram for travel tips, destination ideas, and off the beaten path spots.

After interning at SmarterTravel, Ashley joined the team full time in 2015. She's lived on three continents, but still never knows where her next adventure will take her. She's always searching for upcoming destination hotspots, secluded retreats, and hidden gems to share with the world.

Ashley's stories have been featured online on USA Today, Business Insider, TripAdvisor, Huffington Post, Jetsetter, and Yahoo! Travel, as well as other publications.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "A reusable filtered water bottle—it saves you money, keeps you hydrated, and eliminates waste—win-win."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : "A week in a bamboo beach hut on India's Andaman Islands."

Travel Motto : "Travel light, often, and in good company."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Window—best view in the house."

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You’ll find a Dark Sky Preserve, five national parks, two major cosmopolitan cities, world-class ski mountains, and maybe the most-Instagrammed lake in the world all in Canada’s province of Alberta, and that’s just the start. The Northern Lights, long table dinners, Nordic spas, a Scandinavian-designed library, and one of the world’s largest displays of dinosaurs (which you can also sleep at) also await in this western Canadian province.

The Best Way to Experience Alberta and the Canadian Rockies

Drive a few miles outside of Calgary and you’ll see it. Out of nowhere, giant, towering, sharp granite spikes start to surround you. And that moment where the prairie meets the peaks is in fact magical.

The landscapes in Alberta range from dry prairies to the towering Canadian Rockies. Here’s why you should plan your next trip to Alberta, when to go, and what to do when you get there.

Major Cities in Alberta

Alberta’s two major cities are worthy destinations to visit in their own right, and both urban centers are close to national parks and other Alberta tourism attractions. So, when planning your trip to Alberta, it’s easy to bookend your nature-focused adventure with a night or two in either city.

The province’s capital is home to the largest museum in Western Canada, the Royal Alberta Museum , as well as a brand-new modern library, the Stanley Milner Library (opening in spring 2020). The city is in the process of developing a new mixed-use sports and entertainment district downtown, dubbed ICE. In summer, visit for the Edmonton Folk Music Festival and when the weather cools down, don’t miss the revitalized Flying Canoe Volant Festival —no canoes are actually flying, it’s a winter-time festival with music, food, art, and lights—and warm up at the new Edmonton Nordic Spa , slated to open in late 2020.

Edmonton is accessible via direct flights from major U.S. cities like Denver, Los Angeles, Minneapolis, Orlando, Las Vegas, Seattle, and more.

Check Prices for JW Marriott Edmonton ICE District in Edmonton

About a three-hour drive south from Edmonton is Alberta’s other major city, Calgary. It’s the gateway to Banff National Park , and it’s worth spending a few nights here, too. On a recent trip to Alberta, I was blown away by Calgary’s coolness and livability. From the newly opened modern library —it looks something like Noah’s ark in the middle of the city—to the city’s 135 breweries, there’s no shortage of culture here. Well-known for its famed festival, the Calgary Stampede held every July, the city has taken hold of its musical roots and transformed the urban center into a cosmopolitan destination. Don’t miss a visit to the Studio Bell, Home of the National Music Centre and explore the art and food scene in the nearby East Village .

Calgary is accessible via nonstop flights from major U.S. cities like Atlanta, Austin, Boston, Dallas, Denver, Chicago, Houston, Nashville, New York, Orlando, Phoenix, Portland, San Francisco, San Diego, and more.

Check Prices for Hotel Arts in Calgary

The national parks in alberta.

Canada’s western province is home to five national parks, which range in landscapes from a Dark Sky Preserve to emerald-colored lakes and activities from skiing to scuba diving (yes, you read that right).

Banff National Park

Banff National Park is Canada’s first national park and it’s full of unique features—like its two alpine towns, Banff and Lake Louise, as well as the only distillery in a national park in Canada.

While Banff National Park is a popular tourist attraction in Alberta, visiting in the off- or shoulder-season can bring fewer crowds and just as many outdoor experiences. Stay at least one night in the town of Banff itself and then drive the 35 miles or so to some of the most famous lakes, like Lake Louise and Lake Moraine, in the Rockies.

In the town of Banff, soak at Banff Upper Hot Springs , experience the mountains at eye level with a trip up the Banff Gondola , immerse yourself in a form of therapy known as forest bathing, shop and eat on Banff Avenue, and pay a visit to the Banff Centre for Arts & Creativity .

Another highlight in the national park is the famed Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise . The property directly abuts the popular lake, but by staying overnight you can experience all the lake has to offer without the day crowds. You’ll find a variety of hiking trails around the lake, which offers different experiences in winter and summer. But don’t try and go swimming; the lake is filled by glacier water, meaning it’s too cold to swim in (although some locals occasionally jump in).

Other activities in Banff National Park include ice walking, skiing at any of the three mountains ( Banff Sunshine , Lake Louise , and Mount Norquay ), canoeing, visiting a glacier, and more.

In order to gain entry inside the national park, even the towns, you’ll need a Parks Canada Pass. You can purchase either a Day Pass or annual Discover Pass, here .

Check Prices for Mount Royal Hotel in Banff

Jasper national park.

About three hours away from the town of Lake Louise and four hours away from Edmonton is one of the more accessible places in Canada to view the Northern Lights (your best shot at seeing them is between September and May). Every October, the national park is home to a Dark Sky Festival, with special programming around star gazing and nighttime activities.

Climb frozen waterfalls, gaze at the starts, hike the backcountry, and more at the largest park in the Rocky Mountains, Jasper National Park . Popular natural tourist attractions in Jasper include the Maligne Canyon area, Columbia Icefield, Athabasca Falls and Glacier, and Pyramid Mountain and Lake. Jasper itself is an alpine town with a SkyTram , galleries, relaxing day spas, and more. The national park is also home to a golf course and ski mountain.

Check Prices for The Glacier View Lodge in Jasper National Park

Elk island national park.

For wildlife lovers, Elk Island National Park should be your first stop in Alberta. Visitors have the chance to see bison, elk, moose, white-tailed deer, mule deer, and even Alberta lynx. The closest town is 25 minutes away in Fort Saskatchewan, which is home to a heritage center and two golf courses. Accommodations here are more basic, and camping (and glamping) is a popular choice. Edmonton is only 35 minutes away, so a visit here makes for a convenient day trip.

Check Prices for Elk Island Retreat in Fort Saskatchewan

Waterton lakes national park.

Located at the most southwestern point of the province is this small but substantial national park. It even borders Montana’s Glacier National Park. But what it lacks in size it makes up for with its UNESCO World Heritage site, international peace park, and Biosphere Reserve designations.

This park is ideal for day hikers and those looking to pack a lot in on one trip. The park is home to countless lakes (hence the name) as well as thundering falls and even Red Rock Canyon. Check out the tourism board’s website for more information on hiking in Waterton National Park .

Check Prices for Prince of Wales Hotel in Waterton Lakes National Park

Wood buffalo national park.

Alberta is home to the largest national park in all of Canada (and the second-largest in the world), one that’s even larger than the country of Switzerland. Wood Buffalo National Park crosses over into the Northwest Territories, and while it’s not often visited due to its remoteness, the park is open year-round. It’s home to rare wildlife, like whooping cranes, as well as natural attractions like Pine Lake and the Peace-Athabasca Delta. The park is accessible by two gateway communities: Fort Smith (located in the Northwest Territories) and Fort Chipewyan (located in Alberta).

Lesser-Known Places in Alberta

While Alberta is a large province, many people only concentrate their time in the town of Banff and the Lake Louise area. But there are so many other natural wonders in the Canadian Rockies to explore. Here are a few tips on visiting Alberta, Canada with fewer crowds.

Kananaskis Country

About an hour from Calgary is a recreational area right at the foothills of the Rockies that rivals the landscapes of the national parks. Whether you visit in winter for dog sledding, skiing, or snowshoeing; or in the summer for hiking, fishing, whitewater rafting, and mountain biking, you’ll have plenty to do and see. In the fall shoulder season, many of the area’s resorts and lodges host wellness retreats, and the area even has Alberta’s first Nordic spa , an increasingly popular attraction in Canada.

Check Prices for Crosswaters Resort in Kananaskis Country

The town of Canmore is another area that’s popular among locals. It’s about an hour’s drive outside of Calgary and is close to the entrance of Banff National Park. The town has its own Nordic center for winter sports as well as mountain summits and turquoise blue lakes. You can even explore underground with a cave tour . Don’t miss out on the quaint downtown either: it’s a quintessential Main Street with Rocky Mountain views.

Check Prices for Lamphouse Hotel in Canmore

Visiting alberta in shoulder season.

Like many beautiful places in the world, certain parts of Alberta are crowded with tourists during peak season, which for Banff National Park is the summer season. Consider visiting Banff outside of this time period, like the late fall, winter, or early spring for fewer crowds.

Getting Around Alberta

The best way to get around the province is by rental car. However, there is a reliable public bus system that runs year-round throughout the Bow Valley region. Check out Roam’s website for up-to-date fare information and scheduled routes. Many hotels and resorts also have their own shuttles and there are plenty of private car hire companies to choose from (see Viator for more information).

More from SmarterTravel:

• Tipping in Canada: The Canada Tipping Guide
• Canada Forever: The Ultimate Canada Holiday for Every Month
• Canada Passport Requirements: Do I Need a Passport to Go to Canada?

Ashley Rossi visited Alberta, Canada as a guest of Travel Alberta . Follow her on   Twitter   and   Instagram   for travel tips, destination ideas, and off the beaten path spots.

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16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Alberta

Written by Lana Law and Michael Law Updated Sep 16, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Alberta is home to some of Canada's most impressive scenery and five UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This is where the prairies meet the mountains, and spectacular snowcapped peaks dominate the skyline.

The glaciers and turquoise lakes of Banff and Jasper National Parks are the main attractions in summer, drawing millions of tourists each year to the province. These parks are also home to some of Alberta's top ski resorts , offering some of the best skiing in Canada . To the east, the plains and badlands hold important historical and cultural attractions.

The main cities in Alberta are Calgary and Edmonton . Calgary is a modern city with a wealth of things to do. It's most famous for the annual Calgary Stampede. Farther north, the provincial capital of Edmonton is home to West Edmonton Mall, the largest shopping center in Canada, along with numerous other cultural attractions.

A visit to Alberta should definitely be on your western Canada itinerary . For a better understanding of the province and ideas for things to do here, see our guide to the top tourist attractions in Alberta.

1. Banff National Park

2. lake louise, 3. icefields parkway and the columbia icefield, 4. moraine lake, 5. waterton lakes national park (waterton-glacier international peace park), 6. jasper national park, 7. lake louise ski resort, 8. sunshine village ski resort, 9. calgary stampede, 10. drumheller and the royal tyrrell museum of paleontology, 11. kananaskis country, 12. west edmonton mall, 13. calgary tower, 14. canmore, 15. wood buffalo national park, 16. head-smashed-in buffalo jump, map of tourist attractions in alberta.

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.

Wildlife is abundant here, with grizzly bears, black bears, wolves, caribou, and elk, many of which are frequently sighted along the main highway through the park.

Hiking is one of the main summer activities in Banff , and there are many frontcountry and backcountry trails to choose from. Many people explore the park from the comfort of their car, stopping at the numerous roadside lookouts that offer impressive views over the mountains, lakes, and glaciers.

One of the top attractions in the town of Banff is the Sulphur Mountain Gondola . Take a ride to the top and enjoy the spectacular views out in all directions, made even better by recent renovations and improvements to the building at the top.

Banff National Park is a large area to explore, and it definitely makes sense to either stay a few nights in a hotel or set up camp in one of the excellent campgrounds in the park. If you prefer something a bit more refined than a nylon tent and a patch of dirt in the trees, consider checking in at the world famous Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel. Dating from 1888, this iconic Banff hotel has been hosting discerning customers for generations.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Banff National Park

Lake Louise, the jewel of Banff National Park , is famous for its beautiful turquoise colored water that reflects the surrounding mountains and Victoria Glacier. Located just a short drive north of the town of Banff, the lake is an easy day trip from Calgary.

From the grand Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is a fabulous view across the lake. A walkway runs along the shoreline allowing visitors a lovely place for a leisurely stroll to absorb the atmosphere. Canoe rentals are also available for those who want to paddle out on the lake.

From the lakeside path, there are excellent hiking trails leading either up the mountain or beyond the lake towards the glacier. One of the most popular hiking trails is the hike up to the Lake Agnes Tea House .

In winter, the lake is frozen, and trails are covered deep in snow. Many people come to Lake Louise during this time of year to enjoy the nearby Lake Louise Ski Resort , one of Canada's most popular ski destinations.

Lake Louise Village , just a short distance from the lake, has some tourist-related retail shops, small restaurants, and coffee shops. However, there is not much here beyond the main plaza. Nearby, is a large campground in a lovely natural setting.

During the busy summer months, from May to October, parking is extremely limited. You can take a Roam Transit shuttle from the town of Banff to Lake Louise, or book a Parks Canada Shuttle from the park and ride outside of Lake Louise. These now must be booked in advance, walk-up seat sales are not available. There are several ways to get from Banff to Lake Louise .

The Icefields Parkway runs from Lake Louise to Jasper and is one of the most beautiful drives in Canada. This 230-kilometer stretch of highway leads past lakes, mountains, glaciers, and waterfalls, with stopping points for visitors to get out and experience the landscape. Numerous hiking trails along the way , most of which are day hikes, lead to scenic lookouts over surrounding glaciers or lakes.

One of the main attractions along the Icefields Parkway is the Icefields Centre . This large visitor's center features excellent displays on the Columbia Icefields and looks out over the Athabasca Glacier . From the road, it is difficult to comprehend the layout and size of the icefields, but models and photos at the center offer a unique perspective.

Across from the center, it's possible to walk up to the toe of the glacier. Alternatively, tours in specially outfitted buses are available, which drive visitors out onto the glacier. One of the newest attractions is the Glacier Skywalk , a huge observation platform standing 280 meters above the valley below, with a glass floor and glass railings. A shuttle service runs from the Icefields Center to the Glacier Skywalk.

You can also do a full-day Columbia Icefield Tour from Banff , which includes the Glacier Skywalk, a trip out onto the glacier in an all-terrain vehicle, and the scenic drive along the Icefields Parkway.

To fully explore this area, you'll likely need a few days, and most people stay in nearby Lake Louise. Alternatively, and substantially cheaper, is camping. Along the Icefields Parkway are a number of wonderful campgrounds, some with incredible views and excellent hikes nearby.

Beyond Lake Louise , at the end of a scenic 13-kilometer-long twisty mountain road, is Moraine Lake in the Valley of the Ten Peaks . Like Lake Louise, this is another scenic setting with similar turquoise water and snow-capped peaks. It was for many years the location of the image on the reverse side of the old Canadian twenty dollar bill and is one of the most popular places to photograph in Canada .

Moraine Lake is surrounded by ten peaks, each more than 3,000 meters high, containing the Wenkchemna Glacier. There is a great view across the lake from an overlook reached by hiking up a short path known as the Rockpile Trail , located near the parking lot. In the spring, the thunder of falling glaciers or landslides can be heard in the distance.

From Moraine Lake, there is a day hike to Larch Valley and Sentinel Pass , one of the best hikes in Banff National Park. It is a somewhat exhausting day hike, but the reward is the stunning view back towards the lake and down into Paradise Valley. This hike is often snow covered in the upper region even into July. The area is particularly beautiful in autumn when the larches are changing color. The hike to the Sentinel Pass (elevation 2,611 meters) involves climbing a total of six kilometers and ascending 520 meters.

Like Lake Louise, Moraine Lake is an extremely popular area, and parking will likely be unavailable if you arrive in your own vehicle between spring and fall. The Parks Canada Shuttle from the Park and Ride outside Lake Louise is the best option for visiting the lake.

The Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park in the Rocky Mountains straddles the border between Alberta and the U.S. state of Montana. On the Canadian side of the border is Waterton Lakes National Park, while on the American side is Glacier National Park .

Waterton Lakes is the smaller of the two parks but features some fantastic scenery with mountains and Waterton Lake . Overlooking the lake, from a fabulous position on the north shore is the Prince of Wales Hotel , a National Historic Site of Canada. Nearby, is the town site with tourist amenities. Many people come to the park to hike on the alpine trails, camp, or take a sightseeing tour.

Official site: https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/ab/waterton/index

Much like Banff, the name Jasper is associated with both the national park and the town of Jasper , which lies at the heart of this stunning park. Jasper is the biggest national park in Canada, covering an area of 10,878 square kilometers. It is an area of lakes, waterfalls, mountains, glaciers, and forests, but has a slightly different appearance than the parks and natural areas farther south.

Both the park and the town of Jasper are less visited than Banff and have a more remote feel, particularly in winter when many facilities in the area are closed. Unlike Banff, the town of Jasper sees very few tourists outside of the peak summer season giving it a much more seasonal character.

Some of the key highlights in Jasper National Park are Maligne Lake , which is frequently pictured in advertisements for the Canadian Rockies, Mount Edith Cavell with the stunning Angel Glacier , and Maligne Canyon . Hiking trails and scenic lookouts can be found throughout the park. In winter, locals enjoy the Marmot Basin Ski Resort .

Official site: https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/ab/jasper/index

• From Banff to Jasper: Best Ways to Get There
• From Lake Louise to Jasper: Best Ways to Get There

Lake Louise Ski Resort is one of the best ski resorts in Canada and is known around the world as a stop on the World Cup of skiing. Home to 164 named runs, plus a few through the trees that only locals know about, this ski hill has something for everyone.

Lake Louise Ski Resort is a popular family ski vacation destination for its well-regarded ski school, varied terrain, and good facilities. The resort is only a couple of hours from Calgary International Airport, making it easy to get to from destinations near and far.

Skiers take note: the resort has made significant investments in infrastructure over the past two years that include a new lift opening up the West Bowl area and a new quad chair at the base area to alleviate the morning crush.

In the summer, the ski resort operates its gondola. In mere minutes, it will whisk you to the top of the mountain where you'll enjoy spectacular views out to the surrounding mountains and across the valley to Lake Louise. If you are lucky, you may spot a grizzly bear on the way up; they enjoy grazing in the open grassy areas where the ski runs are in the winter.

Official site: https://www.skilouise.com/

Sunshine Village, located just outside the town of Banff , is one of Alberta's most popular ski resorts, but it is also a beautiful area for hiking and walking in summer. In winter, the mountain, which offers a good mix of intermediate and advanced runs, attracts skiers from all over the world. It's one of the best ski resorts in Canada and one of the best ski resorts in Alberta .

In summer, following the snowmelt, the area is open to hikers. Take the gondola from the base of the mountain to the Village terminal to explore Sunshine Meadows . From here, trails of varying lengths lead into the mountains. Hike on your own or join a guided hike.

Official site: http://www.skibanff.com/

Calgary takes particular pride in its cowboy roots. This becomes most apparent during the city's biggest event, the annual Calgary Stampede. This is a ten-day event held in early July, drawing rodeo participants and over 1 million fans from across North America. Calgary becomes the center of attention for all Wild West fans, with rodeo attractions, cultural exhibits, country music, and a range of other outdoor spectacles.

In addition to what goes on at the Stampede Grounds, local establishments around Calgary also participate in the festivities by offering free "Stampede breakfasts" throughout the week. Stores decorate their windows, cowboy hats and boots become the primary fashion, and temporary petting zoos and midway rides pop up in parking lots.

Official site: http://www.calgarystampede.com/

Read More: Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Calgary

Located approximately 140 kilometers northeast of Calgary is the small town of Drumheller, which proudly calls itself the "Town of the Dinosaurs." Around 75 million years ago, various species of dinosaurs inhabited this region, and many fossils have been discovered in and around Drumheller. The Royal Tyrrell Museum of Paleontology displays some of the finds and offers an in-depth look at the history of the area.

The landscape around Drumheller consists mainly of badlands . Interesting hiking trails lead past hoodoos and through unique rock formations. The " Dinosaur Trail " is a driving tour that leads through some of the area's main attractions.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Drumheller

About 80 kilometers west of Calgary is a beautiful area known as Kananaskis Country. This is a favorite spot for hikers in the summer with trails that lead to peaks, meadows, and lakes. Kananaskis Village has resort facilities and a popular golf course.

Kananaskis Country has an amazing collection of wonderful campsites . You'll generally find them set among pine trees and near crystal-clear lakes or rivers. They are popular in the high season, so be sure to book well in advance.

Peter Lougheed Provincial Park is one of the main highlights of Kananaskis, particularly for those who want to spend some time immersed in nature. The park forms the very heart of the Kananaskis region where elk, bighorn sheep, mountain-goats, grizzly bears, and black bears roam free.

The park covers 508 square kilometers, which makes it the largest provincial park in Alberta. In summer, locals and visitors are attracted here by the superb mountain scenery, traversed by various trails and dotted with alpine lakes.

Official site: http://www.albertaparks.ca/kananaskis-country.aspx

The West Edmonton Mall is more than just shops. Contained within this huge complex is the World Waterpark , the Ice Palace ice rink, mini golf, an aquarium with live shows, a bowling alley, a mirror maze, indoor electric go-kart racing, and movie theaters. Of course shopping is important, too. The mall has all kinds of stores for everything you could imagine.

The mall is a destination within Alberta, particularly in winter, where families can come to escape the cold and enjoy some indoor fun and shopping.

Official site: http://www.wem.ca

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Edmonton

The Calgary Tower is one of the prime tourist attractions in Calgary. Standing tall on the city skyline, the tower offers the highest 360-degree observation deck in the world. On clear days, there are outstanding views to the mountains, and on any day, the glass floor offers a direct view down over the city. Depending on the event or celebration, the Calgary Tower will light its massive torch mounted on the very top.

The Sky 360 is a revolving restaurant located at an elevation of 155 meters, and directly above this is Ruth's Chris Steakhouse.

Official site: http://www.calgarytower.com/

Just outside the entrance to Banff National Park, Canmore is a lively small town with restaurants, shops, and services. This growing community attracts people who are interested in enjoying a mountain lifestyle. In the surrounding area are hiking and mountain biking trails, and Alberta's best ski resorts are just a short drive away. Calgarians use the town as an escape, and many have second homes or condos here. Some people prefer to camp in one of the fine campgrounds nearby.

For visitors, one of the key attractions are the Canmore Cave Tours . These tours last about 4.5 hours and take you to Rats Nest Cave, known for being one of the longest in Canada.

If you are interested in hiking trails, the hike to Grassi Lakes is one of the most popular and it's relatively easy. The trail was closed and significantly upgraded in summer 2022, the new improvements are expected to make this already amazing hike even better.

You can also base yourself in Canmore and explore the hiking trails in nearby Banff National Park and Kananaskis Country.

Wood Buffalo National Park is the largest park in Canada and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Due to its remote location on the border of Alberta and the Northwest Territories, the park sees fewer visitors but holds a number of treasures.

Wood Buffalo extends across the Athabasca-Peace River Delta , one of the largest inland deltas in the world, but the main attraction here is the wildlife, including the park's wood bison . The park was established in 1922 to protect the last herds of these beautiful animals, often called wood buffalo, which now thrive here. Moose, black bear, caribou, and beaver also call the park home, and whooping cranes breed here.

While most people visit in the summer, the park is open all year, and you can find an assortment of winter activities. Wood Buffalo National Park is a dark-sky preserve , making it a good place to see the northern lights in winter.

• Read More: Exploring Wood Buffalo National Park

On the edge of the prairies, a rise in the landscape terminates at the edge of a cliff. For thousands of years, indigenous peoples in the area used this natural feature to drive herds of buffalo over the edge.

The 11-meter fall would break their legs and injure them enough for the Blackfoot hunters to move in and kill them. The bodies were then processed and used for food and other purposes. Buffalo jumps were also used in other areas of the plains but this site is the largest, oldest, and best preserved in North America .

The area is today a UNESCO World Heritage Site . The Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump Interpretive Center offers detailed information on the site and the Plains Buffalo culture.

Official site: https://headsmashedin.ca/

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About Travel Alberta

Building a thriving visitor economy that benefits all Albertans.

Travel Alberta is the destination management organization of the Government of Alberta. Established as a Crown corporation on April 1, 2009, we operate under the authority of the Travel Alberta Act within the Ministry of Tourism and Sport. 

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Travel Alberta acts as convener for regional destination organizations, businesses and economic development organizations who make up the visitor economy. Together, we lead, influence and coordinate destination development and promotion activities, taking account the needs of visitors, residents, businesses, and the environment.

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Alberta minister figures out how to keep the lights on: 'I don't have any grudge against renewables'

Grid failure is a big deal. Nathan Neudorf is the Alberta government minister tasked with the gnarly job of restructuring the province's electricity system

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This is a conversation series by Donna Kennedy-Glans, a writer and former Alberta cabinet minister, featuring newsmakers and intriguing personalities.

Alberta minister figures out how to keep the lights on: 'I don't have any grudge against renewables' Back to video

Albertans are in the dark about what’s going on.

Early this month, Albertans were jolted by electricity grid alerts and rolling blackouts. In a province endowed with such vast energy resources, both renewable and non-renewable, grid failure seems inexplicable especially given the balmy, spring weather.

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“We’ve built the system completely backward,” was the blunt assessment of Alberta Premier Danielle Smith.

Alberta’s electrical system, with more intermittent electricity generation (wind and solar) than the rest of the country combined, gives priority to renewables. When the sun doesn’t shine and the wind fails to materialize, it takes a couple of hours to power up thermal, largely natural gas, generators and feed the grid (coal is completely off the books). The jigsaw of moving parts makes the system less affordable and less reliable — a politician’s worst nightmare.

Nathan Neudorf, Smith’s minister of affordability and utilities, is tasked with the gnarly job of restructuring Alberta’s electricity system. Before politics, Nathan was a commercial construction guy; he’s used to building and renovating.

We meet up in Calgary at my favourite coffee shop, Euphoria Cafe, on a warm Saturday afternoon, a pit stop for Nathan in his now familiar trek, between his Lethbridge constituency and Edmonton’s legislature. He shows up in jeans and a T-shirt, and after hours in his vehicle, is happy to sit outside in the sunshine, even if the available wire-mesh seats are brutally uncomfortable.

Get a dash of perspective along with the trending news of the day in a very readable format.

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First off, what just happened?

On one of the days of rolling blackouts in April, technical folks responsible to keep electricity flowing in the province — the Alberta Electricity System Operator (AESO) — forecast high winds and sunny skies, a signal for thermal electricity generators to deliberately hold back some of their supply. AESO’s forecast proved wrong; the wind stopped blowing and the skies grew cloudy. And natural gas generators called on as backup unexpectedly disconnected from the transmission network, triggering rolling blackouts. Prices paid by AESO to generators for electricity literally went from $0/MWh to $999/MWh, within two hours.

I am moving very strongly forward on a power authority, for lack of a better term

“I don’t have any grudge against renewables,” Nathan shrugs, “but the fact is that our priority of purchasing, based on the lowest bid, and they (renewables generators) bid into the market at zero dollars, means we have to buy all of that electricity when it’s there, and we can’t predict when it’s there, before we buy the thermals. So the thermals are doing a yo-yo, and then we’re blaming them for economic withholding, which is legal … they’re doing it to protect their business.”

Grid failure is a big deal, and fingers of blame are pointing in all directions. How’s the minister sorting all this out? AESO doesn’t take kindly to politicians asking too many questions — that was my experience a decade ago when I was minister responsible for electricity and renewables.

“In one of my very first meetings with the AESO,” Nathan nods, knowingly, “they were very guarded.” But after 10 months in the role, this minister’s laying down clear mandates for transparency and accountability. “I am moving very strongly forward on a power authority, for lack of a better term,” he explains, to bring government, regulators and industry to the same table on electricity. And he’s embarking on an ambitious restructuring of Alberta’s power market — advancing policies to modernize Alberta’s grid and improve the ability of AESO and other regulators to keep the grid both reliable and affordable.

And in all this, Nathan’s keeping a close eye on how the province retains and attracts natural gas electricity generators. Demand for power is anticipated to grow significantly — Alberta’s population is booming, more EVs are expected on the roads, and artificial intelligence and server farms gobble up astounding volumes of power. The minister understands his conundrum; he needs low power prices for consumers and at the same time requires continued investment in natural gas generation.

Alberta can’t just say to natural gas generators, “come and invest a billion dollars so we can give you the lowest possible return and you may not make money,” Nathan contends.

“Now the second problem that we’ve identified,” Nathan continues, “…we’re going to have a massive amount of surplus (electricity) on many days of the year. So what do we do with that?” With a flourish of hands, he posits, “Why don’t we export it?”

Getting energy to markets is a priority for Albertans, but as a former politician, I know how prickly the issue of importing and exporting electricity can be to voters. My eyes widen and I lean in, to hear more.

“B.C., Manitoba, Ontario and Quebec export a billion dollars (of electricity) a year. Why don’t we?” the minister asks, pointedly. Look at a demand map — not just California; Idaho’s population is also exploding with in-migration. We have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to stabilize our domestic market and allow for that export, the minister pitches, fully animated now. “If we do this well, we stabilize our domestic market and allow for exports,” Nathan contends, boosting our renewables too as intermittency matters less when it’s diffused across several foreign markets.

And, he adds, long-term storage can help soften volatility. The province of B.C. knows how this can work, Nathan explains, “they’ll buy (electricity) from us when we have tons of surplus, for next to nothing and store it, and then when we’re in an emergency, of course they’ll sell it back to us at the peak. Can you really blame B.C.? Because that’s just the market and that’s what hydro storage does.”

Nathan’s impatient to get moving on all this; he isn’t waiting for regulators to fix the problem. “In my opinion, that’s the role of government, to be accountable and say, this is the best solution. It’s not (necessarily) the lowest cost, but it’s the best solution.” Exactly what you’d expect from a minister tasked with responsibility for affordability and utilities.

Electricity policy can be a lot like physics: inertia makes it difficult to put change into motion, but once there’s movement, it’s difficult to slow down.

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Canada Letter

Alberta draws academia into its fight with justin trudeau.

Alberta is seeking powers to veto funding agreements between the federal government and provincial entities, including postsecondary institutions.

By Vjosa Isai

Federal funding promises can shape how much, or how fast, provinces advance their own agenda items, and Alberta wants Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to know that his to-do list will have to wait.

Premier Danielle Smith announced that the province would take steps, through a bill introduced this month, to reinforce the work that she contends is most important to Albertans and to her United Conservative Party government. This latest attempt to square off with the federal government in Ottawa continues to deepen her party’s view that Mr. Trudeau, a Liberal, has thrust his ideological agenda onto Albertans.

“Albertans don’t want federal funding to show the world how virtuous we are, or to polish Canada’s halo internationally,” Ms. Smith said at a news conference on April 10. “After all, a lot of that money came from hardworking Alberta taxpayers in the first place, but this federal government has not let reality get in the way of a good headline, and never missed an opportunity to grab more control from the provinces.”

[ Read Ian Austen’s article from 2022: Conservatives in Western Canada Pass Law Rejecting Federal Sovereignty ]

The bill, called the Provincial Priorities Act, would essentially make the Albertan government an arbiter on federal funding deals, with the power to invalidate agreements that its municipalities and health agencies, for example, make with Ottawa. Consultations on the bill are planned for this summer, and it is expected to take effect in early 2025, the government has said.

Postsecondary institutions are also covered by the proposed legislation, raising alarm at university administrations that the government might impede academic freedoms.

Rajan Sawhney, the minister of advanced education, was not present to take questions at the news conference announcing the bill and has largely been silent on the issue. But Ms. Smith offered some insight behind the government’s thinking on the CBC program “ Power & Politics ,” saying that there wasn’t enough “balance” on university campuses and that she intended to complete a review of federal research grants to assess gaps. She zeroed in on journalism schools and her thoughts that not enough conservative journalists and commentators have come out of those programs.

“I have been given enough indication that the federal government uses its power through researchers to only fund certain types of opinions, certain types of researchers, and I don’t think that’s fair,” she said, adding that it could mean that Alberta uses some of its “own spending power” to support that research.

But colleges and universities in Alberta have seen years of staggering financial cuts that have created a postsecondary education system “on life support,” the University of Calgary Students’ Union said in response to the provincial budget, which was released in February.

Bill Flanagan, president of the University of Alberta, said in a statement that he and other postsecondary partners would be using the bill’s consultation period to push for “targeted exemptions.”

Federal research grants are adjudicated by independent panels of peers, and grants are allocated by three main agencies: the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada.

Daniel Paul O’Donnell, president of the Confederation of Alberta Faculty Associations and an English professor at the University of Lethbridge, has sat on some of those committees.

“There is a danger that people will self-censor in order to make sure that they make it through the bureaucrats in Alberta,” he said.

He told me about the strict process behind each application review, and the various criteria, such as the qualifications of the researcher and the capacity of the university to support the research, that drive grant approval decisions.

“It would be unethical to create a research question in order to ensure you get funding by matching the provincial government’s interests,” Professor O’Donnell said.

Trans Canada

Chad Nedohin is a part-time pastor in Edmonton. He’s also one of the Donald Trump supporters who have turned Trump Media into the latest “meme stock.”

Honda Motor announced a $11 billion investment to build batteries and electric cars in Ontario that is expected to create 1,000 new jobs. Mr. Trudeau called it the largest investment by an automaker in Canadian history.

“New Piano Works,” an album by Marc-André Hamelin, the Canadian virtuoso, makes the list of five classical music albums you can listen to right now .

An Australian journalist claims her Indian visa was not renewed because the Indian government disapproved of her coverage of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, the slain president of a Sikh temple in Surrey, British Columbia.

Vjosa Isai is a reporter and researcher for The New York Times in Toronto.

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Vjosa Isai is a reporter and researcher for The Times based in Toronto, where she covers news from across Canada. More about Vjosa Isai