Alberta Vacation Ideas, Getaways & Itineraries

Take your summer vacation in Alberta off the beaten path this year. These interesting ideas for places to stay in Alberta will give you specific and general ideas on how to plan your summer weekends away from home. Many of these places are available for longer stays, too! Within the province are unique locations, romantic spots, different ways to camp or glamp, and different ways to add to your vacation. And these unique or cool places to stay around Alberta are available all across the province from north, central, to southern Alberta, to the foothills and Rockies in the west, ...
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Canada’s landscapes change within 100km along the highway. They are vast and varied landscapes and include a small handful of northern deserts and sand dunes.While there are relatively few deserts or desert-like areas in Canada, some of those few are huge in terms of area. Canada has small deserts to visit, massive shoreline sand dunes, and those deserts in between; each offers unique or exotic flora and fauna, excellent nature photography, and wildlife viewing. In some cases, the sand dunes are part of public beaches, too. Carcross Desert, Yukon Carcross, in Yukon’s south, is a small town on the confluence ...
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Embark on an enchanting journey through Alberta's Battle River valley on Battle River Train Excursions. The tours treat passengers to the picturesque views of the Alberta countryside and the charming communities of Flagstaff County carved along Battle River Valley, including Alliance, Galahad, Forestburg, Heisler, Rosalind, and Kelsey aboard a classic 1950s vintage passenger car. Each excursion combines scenic train rides with cultural and culinary experiences, showcasing the best of rural Alberta hospitality and traditions. The 2024 season kicks off with the Shake Off Winter Train Excursion on St. Patrick's Day from Kelsey to Forestburg, The roundtrip includes a live theatre ...
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Many of us have visited places like Lake Louise, Mount Edith Cavell, or Alberta’s parks. And some of us have visited these places over and over again. But have you ever wondered how some of Alberta’s locations receive their names? In honour of International Women’s Day, we can look at some of the women of Alberta’s history who now lend their names to landmarks, mountain peaks, or parks. These women received a place on the map for multiple reasons, including their philanthropy, familial connections, volunteering, or contributions to arts and culture, science, medicine, politics, and more. If you are interested ...
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As the old adage goes, it is not about the destination but rather the journey. This rule should apply to every road trip, especially between Alberta and BC. On these mountain highways are numerous natural and manmade attractions to explore. There are a total of five hot springs open to the public within a five-hour drive of Calgary, easily making a hot springs road trip more about the journey than the destination. Not only will this road trip bring you to the most beautiful hot springs and soaking locations in the country, but it will also prove to be a ...
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This winter was a busy time for new restaurants in Calgary. The city has welcomed new local restaurants as well as new locations of Canadian and American restaurants. One thing these places all have in common is the excitement building around each of their grand openings. Calgary has new restaurants to try this March for cocktail and wine-lovers, meat and barbecue lovers, sweet tooths, or veggie-lovers and vegans. You may like: Free and Cheap Things to Do in Calgary in March Things to Do in Calgary During March Francine’s Calgary’s new wine bar, Francine’s, intends to transport guests to the ...
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Experience the newest cuisine in Edmonton through new restaurant openings and a couple of exciting dining events this March. Over the past few winter months, Edmonton has welcome new casual spots, cafes, and restaurants more on the side of fine or gourmet dining. There are options for all sorts of food tastes and preferences, including fresh pastries and cakes, sushi, burgers, seafood, wine and cocktails, beer, or barbecue. Plus, there are four weeks in March dedicated to celebrating the best of downtown Edmonton dining and the best of cocktails in Edmonton. You may like: Free Things to Do in Edmonton ...
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Easter, or the start of spring: no matter which one you’re celebrating at the end of March, the celebrations may call for a weekend getaway in Alberta. The weekend may call for more time with family, loved ones, or for more time travelling and for enjoying the warmer weather. There are many ways to make an exciting Easter weekend getaway for Easter celebrations and events, special Easter dining experiences, or for making the most of spring in Alberta with camping, wildlife viewing, and other activities in nature. Early Spring & Wildlife in Alberta A handful of our Easter getaway ideas ...
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Valentine’s Day in Calgary will be made a whole lot sweeter with the help of these local bakeries. Among them, you’ll find sweets and treats for gifts, for yourself, or for large groups and party catering needs. These include cakes, large or small, cookies decorated or ready-to-decorate, cupcakes, donuts, chocolates, and chocolate-covered items. These are limited-time-only items, too, and many of these require pre-orders. Get yours in soon, or before these Valentine’s sweets in Calgary are all gone. Crave Cupcakes Expect a whole lot more than cupcakes this Valentine’s Day from Crave Cupcakes and their four Calgary locations. For more ...
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Sweeten up any Valentine’s Day plans with these sweet, themed treats available in Edmonton. Whether you’re planning a dinner for one, a get together with friends, or the ultimate date night, these treats are sure to add something special to the evening. These sweet treats are also perfect for treating larger groups like coworkers, classrooms, or kids’ parties. Each of these Edmonton bakeries and cafes have their own unique way of showing their love through the desserts, so you’ll find a wide variety with cookies, cakes, cupcakes, squares, donuts, and much more. Wild Rose Cakes Wild Rose Cakes have included ...
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Take time to unwind, relax, and indulge with your bestie or significant other. There are opportunities for relaxing couples’ massage in Calgary with the help of many of the city’s spas ...
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Nestled between Canmore and Kananaskis, Bow Valley Provincial Park is not just a seasonal delight but a year-round destination. Its proximity to various accommodations in Canmore and the surrounding areas enhances its appeal. The park's location near other provincial parks and Banff National Park provides visitors with abundant dining options and scenic beauty, making it an ideal spot for those seeking diverse outdoor activities and amenities in Alberta's majestic landscape. The recreation opportunities in the Bow Valley are also as abundant as the wildlife. So, during any activity at any time, listen and watch for birds, bears, large wildcats, deer, ...
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Located in Vermilion and the Vermilion River Valley, Central Alberta's Vermilion Provincial Park is a hidden gem, particularly for winter activities. Boasting 23km of trails, many of which are groomed for cross-country skiing, the park caters to skiers of all skill levels. In addition to skiing, visitors can enjoy the serene river valley scenery and engage in various winter activities. Lakeside Cross-country Skiing There are a few reasons which make Vermilion Provincial Park perfect for a day of cross-country skiing. First, Vermilion Lake and the lake side trail follow the Vermilion River Valley. This makes the terrain gentle, rolling hills, ...
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The Pigeon Lake area, including the village, the ice, and the Provincial Park, offer visitors a ton in terms of winter recreation. Now, in the winter of 2024, Pigeon Lake has something new and quite large to offer winter adventurers. The Grand View and Poplar Bay Pigeon Lake Skateway is now open on the south side of the lake. Pigeon Lake’s New Skateway A skateway, iceway, ice trail, or skating path are cleared trails on ice surfaces. These are areas open to recreational ice skating and can be found in most Alberta towns or cities. The Pigeon Lake Skateway, more ...
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The historically and culturally significant areas near the Milk River also provide a bit of year-round recreation. Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park sits among the coulees and hoodoos of southern Alberta on the north side of the Milk River. The location and scenery make it a peaceful and quiet place to escape to in the winters. The guided tours and hikes won’t run during the winter, but the trails remain open for self-guided exploration. The park, known and named for its large collection of ancient rock paintings and carvings, is recognized as a National Historic Site, and as a UNESCO World Heritage ...
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New winter adventures are around every corner in Alberta. From north to south and east to west are unique, memorable, or exhilarating winter experiences. Some include activities you may have already experienced, but in new and beautiful locations. Take, for example, ice skating. Across Alberta are frozen lakes and ponds that take the ice skating experience and place it on a whole new level with surrounding in places like Banff. Some of these winter adventures may be all new, too! Experience a new activity to check off your bucket list like dog sledding followed by the Nordic Spa in Kananaskis ...
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There are five National Parks in Alberta. A visit to the northernmost National Park, Wood Buffalo, requires a detour through the Northwest Territories with the campground located at Pine Lake in Alberta. In addition to Wood Buffalo, there are four more National Parks within Alberta: Elk Island, Jasper, Banff, and Waterton Lakes! All of these parks offer a place to camp in the spring, summer, or fall. Plus, Parks Canada also operates a campground at the Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site. It is almost time for the reservation dates to open for National Park campgrounds in Alberta. Each of ...
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Alberta’s lakes aren’t only meant for summer visits. When the cold hits and waters freeze around the province, a whole new category of recreation opens in Alberta. Alberta’s must-visit lakes include winter recreation on the ice, like snowshoeing, skating, or ice fishing. Plus, these areas are worth a visit for more snowshoe areas, hiking trails, groomed cross-country ski trails, winter camping, and wildlife viewing. Where to Go For Guided Ice Fishing Trips in Alberta Ice Safety: Before heading out on a lake, be smart and aware of ice conditions and weather. Ice safety is paramount; even seemingly solid ice can ...
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Make a Valentine’s weekend getaway in Alberta about the romance, about time with friends, or about family. This year, Valentine’s Day falls between the weekend of the 9th, and family day weekend. So, these getaway ideas are not just intended for couples, but those wanting to celebrate Family Day, or those wanting more of a “Galentine’s Day.” But when needed, all of these locations offer the romance and couple’s experiences, too! No matter the type of Valentine’s Day getaway you’re after, Alberta has options for recreation, romance, road trips, and more. Overnight Romance at Red Deer’s Heritage Ranch The Overnight ...
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Visitors to the Crowsnest Pass region of southern Alberta have options for year-round adventure. The landscape of foothills and mountains means room for sports like hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and photography. During the winter, the region is a snow-covered winter paradise, with just as many ways as in the summer to explore the beautiful scenery. These winter adventures in Crowsnest Pass are for all ages, and all levels of thrill-seekers! Downhill Sports at Pass Powderkeg The Pass Powderkeg Ski Area is a perfect place for all levels of skiers and snowboarders to enjoy. They offer everything from a bunny ...
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Sundre is located at the edge of the prairies and foothills in central Alberta, with the Rockies about an hour's drive from town. Winter, when the area is covered with ice and snow, is one of the best times to visit Sundre. The town embraces the season with an annual festival and uses the weekend as a chance to teach the public about winter recreation in Sundre. Nearby and in Sundre are many trails for many winter activities. The Snake Hill Recreation Area is the closest spot for these adventures and will bring your activities close to local dining. Take ...
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During the winter in Jasper National Park, Maligne Canyon is an awe-inspiring sight thanks to its deep walls and their snow and ice coverage. If you plan a hike around Maligne Canyon in this winter, it is essential to go prepared. During spring to fall, the canyon’s walls are flooded with raging waters and various waterfalls. And during the winter, all those falls freeze, creating that beautiful but equally dangerous landscape. The best and safest way to explore Maligne Canyon in the winter is with experienced guides and tour operators. These are considered ice walk or ice climbing tours, as ...
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Nestled in the Canadian Rockies, Fortress Mountain Resort, an hour from Calgary, boasts a magical terrain with around 750cm annual snowfall. The gorgeous scenery in this part of Alberta includes snow-capped rolling hills and mountains and a variety of wildlife. Currently undergoing its largest renovation in 55 years, it promises new lifts and facilities, aiming to rejuvenate its legendary ski experience. While closed for lift services, snowshoeing, downhill skiing and snowboarding adventures available at Fortress Mountain Ski Resort are unlike any others in the province. Its stunning natural beauty has also attracted Hollywood, hosting films like The Revenant and Jumanji ...
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Winter camping makes for a big adventure. And in a place like Alberta, it is certainly worth bearing the cold or the snow. Many of the winter campsites among Alberta’s parks will bring your trip to beautiful locations, peaceful lakes, and serene forested areas. Within Alberta’s parks are several different winter activities and chances for fun recreation. Hiking is an option in almost every Alberta Park, with different viewpoints to access and wildlife to see. Other activities available in these parks in the winter could include everything from snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, downhill skiing, ice fishing, snowmobiling, and ice skating to ...
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Find romance this winter in Alberta with several different getaway ideas. These romantic winter vacations in Alberta are perfect for Valentine’s Day, the adjacent weekends, or the Family Day Long weekend. And, if you can take the getaway during the week, you’re likely to save on hotel prices. These ideas do include more than hotel stays, however, as Alberta has options for winter camping, glamping, and other unique ways to stay overnight. Camping at Geodesic Domes Experience a romantic getaway in geodomes, offering cozy, warm interiors with 360-degree views of the outdoors, including the night sky, fire pits, fireplaces, and ...
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First, what IS an Icewalk (or ‘ice walk’)? Alberta’s Rocky Mountains are home to beautiful winter landscapes, and most can only be safely accessed with an experienced guide or the right equipment. So, many Rocky Mountain tour and adventure companies offer ice walks along some of Jasper, Banff, and Nordegg’s frozen surfaces. The Icewalks reveal views and scenery of frozen waterfalls, frozen rivers, and unique ice structures within mountain canyons. If you are still up for more adventure, some of the Icewalk tours can be combined with other winter adventures like snowshoeing, sleigh rides, or Abraham Lake’s ice bubbles. The ...
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What do we mean by revisiting, exactly? We want you to get out to Alberta’s towns which you know of and truly get to know them. You may pass these towns occasionally on road trips, you may stop in for work trips, or you may have never been at all. Winter is a wonderful time to rediscover and revisit these places to get to know their food scene, culture, shopping, or recreational opportunities. Things are moving a bit slower this time of year, and you won’t encounter the large crowds you may see in town in the summer. Whitecourt There ...
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What to do this winter in Calgary? Your options are many. There is ample opportunity to get outside and enjoy the fresh winter air not only in the city but also with the help of the nearby Rockies. Keep yourself busy this winter by snow tubing, ice biking, snowshoeing, or brush up on older skills like skating, skiing, or snowboarding. You can do many of these winter activities in Calgary and the nearby foothill/mountain areas. But it isn’t all snow, ice, and outdoor recreation for things to do in Calgary this winter; you can also mark your calendar for a few ...
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Despite the chill, Edmonton's winter is bustling with excitement. The city welcomes the return of beloved winter festivals like the Byzantine Winter Fete, Flying Canoe Volant, Silver Skate Festival, and Ice on Whyte. If you can’t make it for the festival dates, there are plenty of outdoor winter activities to enjoy around the city, many of which are free, like skating, sledding, and winter walks. There are numerous ways to make your own fun this winter in Edmonton, whether for your family, your friends, or for a special date night. I. Outdoor Winter Fun in Edmonton 1. Winter Walks with ...
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Find a little warmth with these winter date ideas in Edmonton. There is something to do for all interests during Edmonton’s coldest months. You’ll find various ways to treat your date to Edmonton’s best cafes, restaurants, or bakeries. Plus, you could combine the dining with a visit to one of Edmonton’s winter festivals. But if you would rather get a little peace and quiet with your date, there are other ways to have fun. You can explore all the natural areas in and around the city and different ways to traverse the snow. And if the cold is something you’d ...
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Enter 2024 with new ideas and answers to the age-old question of “where should we go to eat?” Calgary had a large number of new restaurant openings over 2023 which offer somewhere new to eat for breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, or somewhere new to sip. Among those new restaurants that opened last year in Calgary are cafes, bars and pubs, casual takeout spots, upscale restaurants, and dessert shops. These are all new restaurants that are local to Western Canada and Calgary, too! The Continental Restaurant Kensington welcomed the opening of The Continental Restaurant last year. This is a new ...
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Edmonton as a city has a wonderful amount of winter recreation to keep us moving all season, but these places are often loud, busy, or both. Take a moment, a day, or a weekend to enjoy the more serene winter scenes. The closest provincial parks to Edmonton offer a mix of activities, too. There are places to camp over the winter and extensive trail networks. These trails are suited to different types of fun, like snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, wildlife viewing, photography, hiking, or even skate skiing. Strathcona Science Provincial Park This makes for the closest winter trip from Edmonton, as ...
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Head into the New Year with this list of some of Edmonton’s best new restaurants which opened last year. The past year saw great variety with Edmonton’s new restaurants, pubs and bars, cafes and bakeries, and small takeout spots. With these different styles comes a huge array of different cuisines to try around the city in 2024. Edmonton has new places for Japanese, Egyptian, Mediterranean, Italian, Chinese, and many other international food styles! No matter the vibe- casual, upscale, or family dinner- Edmonton has new dining spots for all sorts of get-togethers. Tiki Tiki on Whyte Warm yourselves with a ...
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From mud festivals to cowboy gatherings, here is a list of music festivals to rock out to during the year of 2022 ...
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For many in Alberta, winter or Christmas break is from Christmas Eve to January 2 or 7. This allows for plenty of time to travel, explore, and experience something new for the holidays. This may allow for enough time to visit with friends and family. While you explore or visit, Alberta has many holiday happenings to consider. Each Alberta town and city has their own Christmas traditions, experiences, or events and its own unique reasons to visit for Christmas. **Towns of Banff, Lake Louise & Jasper are not included in this article.** Lethbridge Southern Alberta and cities like Lethbridge offer ...
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Find your next spot for after-work drinks, holiday dinners, and colourful desserts with these new eateries in Edmonton. Over the fall and early winter months, Edmonton saw a wide variety of restaurants open with pubs, bakeries, cafes, and new wine bars. These new restaurants in Edmonton are opening up on all sides and in all corners of the city. Rock N’ Tofu Edmonton has a new place for getting a taste of the best of Korean foods! Rock N’ Tofu recently opened in south Edmonton with a menu inspired by Korean barbecue and street foods. The three main parts of ...
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‘Tis the season for trying new places to eat in Calgary. Over the fall and early winter, a handful of new restaurants opened in the city. With those, the people of Calgary have new spots for drinks and brews, international cuisine, and desserts. We recently saw the opening of a few local chains in the city, along with a big North American chain. The 6 Book a seat with Calgary’s newest restaurant, The 6, in to help them celebrate their one month in business. The 6 is, more specifically, a cocktail lounge and dessert bar who also serve a select ...
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Do your next date night the Edmonton way: outside and bundled up! Having a date night (or morning or afternoon) may be just what you and your partner need to heat things up during the coldest of Edmonton months. 1. Nighttime Stargazing – Elk Island National Park/Beaver Hills Dark Sky Preserve The trip to and from and your time at Elk Island is an unforgettable experience. Take a short drive out (even shorter from Fort Saskatchewan and Sherwood Park) after dark, but watch for the bison; upon entry, you are greeted by tons of them catching z’s beside the road. After ...
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Winter adventures are easy to come by in Alberta’s parks. And no matter what the word adventure means to you, there are activities for all sorts of interests across the province’s Provincial Parks and Recreation Areas. There are a few winter activities available across dozens of parks in the province, like cross-country skiing, winter hiking, fat biking, or wildlife viewing. On top of this, there are many Alberta parks with several different winter adventures to enjoy. A few activities, however, are exclusive to either a handful of Alberta parks or only one. Some of these available adventures may even surprise ...
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Giving handmade gifts can make the holidays a little more special. Shop Alberta’s numerous Indigenous-owned shops and businesses to find handmade or locally made gifts for everyone on your list ...
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Alberta's culinary scene shines with 19 restaurants making OpenTable's Top 100 in Canada for 2023. Chosen from over 1.1 million diner reviews, these establishments offer diverse dining experiences, perfect for holiday celebrations. From Banff's elegant 1888 Chop House to Calgary's contemporary MAJOR TOM, and the unique mountain-top dining at Banff's Sky Bistro, there's something for every taste. These acclaimed spots, celebrated for their quality and ambiance, are ideal for holiday parties, Christmas brunches, or New Year’s Eve dinners. So get your reservations in as soon as possible. Banff & Lake Louise 1888 Chop House, 405 Spray Avenue, Banff Eden – ...
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Handmade, homemade, and creative local gifts are available all across Alberta. You simply need to know where to look! When starting your search for your favourite new creator in the province, some good places to look include Etsy, farmers’ markets and craft fairs, and the downtowns of Alberta’s small towns. If holiday gifts are part of your plans, these places all give a great opportunity to support local. Below are a wide variety of gift ideas from some of Alberta’s makers, creators, and crafters. There are handmade gifts for all ages with products like apparel, décor, beauty products, toys, jewellery, ...
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Enjoy the best time of the year in all its glory with your Family. A list of places to enjoy Christmas and holiday light displays in Calgary ...
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Home to some of the best ski hills and resorts in the world, the Canadian Rocky Mountains host many opportunities to get out on your skis or snowboard this winter. From complex, multi-lift hills to smaller facilities, there is something for every skill level and ability. Stretching through the mountainous regions of the provinces of Alberta and some of British Columbia, the Rockies offer up spectacular scenery and clean, fresh mountain air to provide the perfect backdrop as you swoop down the varied runs. Nearby towns and mountain resorts provide accommodation options and plenty of places to eat, drink and ...
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Take the next holiday party to new heights with these new restaurants in Calgary. These new restaurants from the past year offer large group bookings, or private event space rentals. Gather coworkers, friends, or family to try the latest of Calgary’s dining scene. Each location offers something different for party-goers, including a variety of cuisines types from nine new restaurants and different types of spaces. And while these all make a great place for a holiday or Christmas party booking, consider these spots for any other big group events. These new Calgary restaurants offer these bookings all year! For holiday ...
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As one holiday ends, it becomes time to plan for the next one. The end of Halloween means many companies and organizations begin planning the Christmas and winter holiday parties. This is also a great time to plan any large family get-togethers or group outings for the holidays, as most restaurants and bars in Edmonton book up quickly. Luckily, the restaurant scene in Edmonton grew over 2023. And there are now additional places for a great holiday party or group event in Edmonton. While considering these new Edmonton restaurants for holiday parties, one might also consider each for a family ...
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A list of FREE fun things to do in Edmonton Area during November. The list includes free Christmas and holiday activities, live music, exhibitions and more! ...
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Tis the season for sweets, tricks, and treats. Celebrate Halloween in Edmonton with these local bakeries and candy stores who have all the sweets and treats prepared. Below is a great variety of desserts, too! These Edmonton shops and their Halloween menus include donuts, cookies, cakes, cupcakes, chocolates, sodas, and other scary signature items. On top of all the themed sweets, many of the bakeries also have their own seasonal fall menus with flavours like pumpkin, apple, and Saskatoon berries. Sugared & Spiced Sugared& Spiced on Whyte Ave. have an exclusive Halloween treat box prepared for your celebrations. And, the ...
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As fast fashion becomes an increasingly bigger issue, we might want to consider slowing down. How do we slow down our fashion consumption? By shopping second hand! Calgary is home to second-hand stores, vintage shops, and consignment stores, all of which can help put new life into preowned items. These stores include a lot more than fashion, too. Calgary’s thrift shops offer anything you could need for the home, men’s, women’s, unisex, and children’s fashion, and thousands of cool small pieces of art. Plus, Calgary consignment stores offer a way to get the top designer brands at much lower prices ...
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There are hundreds of treasures hiding around Edmonton. All you need is to know where to look. Edmonton is filled with a wonderful number of secondhand stores. Plus, Edmonton is home to just as many consignment stores. Between the two types of stores, it is easy to find top clothing and furniture brands at lower prices. But what is the difference between secondhand and consignment? Consignment stores are helpful for those in search of top fashion or furniture brands. Plus, they help people unload their own pieces and products. If you’d like to consign your own items, contact the store ...
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Trick or Treat... Spooky and Creepy… but mostly delicious treats for Halloween. Whether you are hosting a Halloween party or just want to enjoy some treats from some local shops to celebrate the holiday. Here are 12 places where you’ll find some spooky treats from some of the fantastic local shops in Calgary. Indulge in the season and your sweet tooth ...
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Things to do during Halloween in Calgary, Banff, and Airdrie in 2023: Events include Fright Nights, Ghost Tours, Paranormal Investigations and more! ...
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2023 Halloween Activities, Events & Parties in Edmonton: Events include Haunted Houses, Halloween Masquerade Parties, Horror Film Festivals and more! ...
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You can scare yourselves silly this Halloween with a number of creative, creepy, and chilling haunted house experiences in Alberta. And no two experiences are the same. Each of these haunted houses (or haunted fields, corn mazes, trains, and more) offers unique way of delivering on the thrills and chills, and they do so by playing off our biggest fears. You may encounter zombies, ghost children, deranged killers, or maybe even some things you can’t see. Some haunted experiences are meant to scare adults but are open to older children and teens. However, some cater to the younger crowd by ...
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It is an eerie sight: standing over 6200 feet above sea level and the mountain valleys, among the graves of a cemetery that date back over 100 years. Mountain Park Cemetery and Historic Mining Townsite create a creepy fall road trip out into the desolate forest which has overtaken the old Mountain Park, and which you can view from above. The Yellowhead Highway (Highway 16/Trans-Canada Highway) runs alongside Highway 40/47 between Hinton and Edson. It is a calm and serene drive taking you through Alberta’s historic Coal Branch, with mines still in operation nearby. The sites and sounds around the ...
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The Red Rock Parkway in Waterton traverses 15 km through the scenic Blakiston Valley, ending at the vibrant Red Rock Canyon. This journey showcases the stunning intersection of prairie and mountain landscapes, offering travelers majestic views, notably of Mt. Blakiston, the park's highest peak ...
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Alberta’s creepiest ghost stories are lurking behind several local neighbourhoods, the province’s oldest buildings, and some unexpected places. Are you brave enough to listen to these tales? If so, you have a few options between different haunted locations! ...
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As spooky season falls upon us, we may be looking for ways to help prepare for Halloween. Within the realm of dark tourism are several ways to do this like haunted houses and ghost tours or creating your own ghost tour. In certain parts of Alberta, you are likely to stumble upon a few highways perfect for an Alberta Ghost Town Road Trip. When touring ghost towns and abandoned structures it is important to remain respectful: towards the nature, the buildings, and everything that remains in the location. Do not take anything, and don’t leave anything behind! Mountain Park near ...
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Alberta seems to appear more and more attractive to Hollywood for filming locations. As the Halloween season is fast approaching, you can get some movie and TV show ideas from the creepy flicks filmed in your backyard. And it doesn’t matter what you find scary, there are a wide array of types of horror movies or shows filmed in Alberta: you’ll experience zombies, serial killers, the supernatural or ghosts, and some satirical takes on the genre. South and southwestern Alberta especially sees many film crews pass through each year, with recent hits like Ghostbusters: Afterlife and The Last of Us ...
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One of the busiest parks near Edmonton is also one of the quietest. How, you ask? Miquelon Lake Provincial Park is busy, but not with humans. Miquelon Lake is part of the Beaver Hills Biosphere. Thanks to this, the park is bustling year-round with birds, or mammals both large and small. The park is a true slice of nature heaven, especially when you consider how close it is to Edmonton, Sherwood Park, Camrose, and Tofield. This park is for the animals. However, we still get to enjoy the wildlife, the scenery, and the peacefulness of the area. Miquelon Lake offers ...
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Southwestern Alberta is filled with hundreds of natural hidden gems. Some of the natural areas are best enjoyed according to the season, though, like skiing in the Castle area, wildflower or larch hunting in Waterton in spring and fall, or river swimming in the summers. Any time of year is a good time to see the waterfalls of southwestern Alberta. Even in the winter, many of these waterfalls (aside from the Crypt Lake Trail) are easy enough to access with the proper footwear. A few of southwestern Alberta’s most beautiful waterfalls may all be viewed in a day. Take, for ...
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It is always exciting to hear about the latest restaurant openings in Calgary. First, many of these openings occur in bulk - 5 to 10 new cafes, bakeries, pubs, bars, or restaurants in any given month. Usually, Calgary receives a decent variety from the new eateries. There are options for new ways to dine, new foods to try, and other cultures to explore. The new restaurants which opened in September in Calgary give you all the above; we saw the opening of places with everything from casual to gourmet options. These new Calgary restaurants are right on time for the ...
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Visit Banff this Thanksgiving weekend to see golden larches. There are a few ways to get a glimpse of Banff’s golden larches during fall. You can take on challenging hikes, simple walks, or a gondola ride, to get your best photo opportunities. So, even if you’re not into hiking, there is a chance to see these beauties in a more relaxed setting. So, what is the hype around Banff’s larches? Banff is where you will find an abundance of Alberta’s Tamarack/Alpine Larch Trees. For spring and summer, these larches blend in with the rest of the evergreen scenery. During the ...
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Ever notice the Rowley wood sign on your way into Drumheller? A little way north of Drumheller, you’ll notice this sign on the west side of Highway 56. Follow the strange sign, as it takes you to one of Alberta’s most impressive ‘ghost towns,’ where you can camp for the night! Rowley has been considered a ghost town thanks to the many preserved buildings still on the main street but aren’t open to the public. You can walk the main street in Rowley, join for summer interior tours or peek through the windows on other days to see antiques on ...
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The fall season in Alberta is arguably one of the most scenic seasons. The lush forests are transformed, and there is extra motivation to enjoy the sunny days. A trip to southwestern Alberta is a perfect way to take advantage of the sun’s fall warmth and this overall beautiful time of year. Southwestern Alberta is also where the Rockies meet the foothills. And, in parts of the region, it is also where the prairies meet the foothills. Overall, southwestern Alberta offers varied landscapes that will change as you travel. The scenery is on full display, and there are many things ...
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Whether you have time for a day trip or a weekend-er, these fun fall activities in and around Smoky Lake will add memorable experiences to any getaway. We are in the midst of Alberta’s best days for fall weather. The sun still has warmth, and the warm foliage creates beautiful scenery around the riverbanks, forests, and lakes. Alberta is home to some notable and exciting fall festivals. Take your fall travels to Smoky Lake and the surrounding areas this fall, and you’ll be able to get all of those best parts of fall in your trip. Whether you have time ...
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The town of Hinton is located right in the centre of beautiful fall foothill scenery. That, and many other reasons, make the area a perfect fall destination for road trips and day trips ...
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'Tis the season for pumpkins, watching the leaves change, and getting cozy. The colder weather is coming to Red Deer but is not quite upon us yet. As we wait, there are numerous ways to celebrate the fall season around the city from now until November. You can get your fall fixes at the markets, craft and arts shows, or wait for the festivals. Ushering in the cold weather for fall can also mean taking advantage of tolerable weather while it's still around. There are a few different forested hikes to try with friends or family this fall which can ...
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It is a beautiful fall season in Calgary, and there are multiple ways to celebrate with a special someone. No matter your budget for your next night out together, you have several options of things to do, food to eat, and things to see around the city. But beyond Calgary are the gorgeous views of the Rockies in fall, so you can take advantage of the parks, picnic sites, and trails, west of the city for a guaranteed scenic date ...
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Summer might be ending, but fall in Medicine Hat gives us plenty to look forward to as the leaves change and the weather cools. On a day or weekend trip to Medicine Hat, you can choose from various activities to make the best of a crisp fall day: these experiences take you to festivals, markets, local vendors and businesses, and the best of Palliser Region's natural surroundings. For outdoor recreation, you can stay in the city to enjoy the South Saskatchewan River, large city parks, or river valley trails. And nearby are several other trails, the famous Red Rock Coulee, ...
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Follow the Cowboy Trail south this fall! Toward the southernmost end of the Trail, you’ll find the new town of Diamond Valley, formed by the amalgamation of Turner Valley and Black Diamond. The two towns are relatively close together and combine to create an epic fall road trip. You can even walk or bike between the two towns in under 45 minutes. Take a weekend to explore the dining, craft drink scene, and local shopping around each of the two towns, or plan around an annual fall event. In September and October, any town excursion will have a backdrop of ...
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The entire Grande Prairie County is an excellent place for a fall drive: you are between foothills and boreal forest, displaying a rich array of colours this time of year. As you drive around, you’ll find plenty to do, including fall-themed activities, outdoor recreation between the Provincial Parks, and a few events you can’t experience anywhere else. Fall is an especially cool time in Grande Prairie, as these months offer excellent birdwatching and plenty of opportunities to see rare species. West of the city is the Saskatoon Island Provincial Park and Bird Sanctuary, and east of the city is even ...
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The leaves are changing colours, the weather is turning crisp, and the harvest is in. Alberta is beautiful in the fall, whether you’re indoors or out. Enjoy this transitional season with some great places, events, and celebrations that run before the snow settles in. Here is our list of 50 things to do in Alberta this fall. The Great White North Pumpkin Fair Get to Smoky Lake during Thanksgiving weekend. The growers of Alberta and surrounding provinces bring their pumpkins, squash and gourds to participate in the Smoky Lake Great White North Pumpkin Fair and Weigh-off. Golden Larches From mid-September ...
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Alberta’s fall colours are beautiful no matter where you go, and we can enjoy them in a number of ways like the obvious hiking, but also by boat rides, paddling trips, or by horseback. And even if you’re after a simple hike, you can plan for epic end-views with the golden mountain larches, wildlife and birds, badlands, forests, and more. There are many other reasons to look forward to falling in Alberta, including a number of festivals centred around the harvest, Halloween, and Oktoberfest. These festivals can usually make for a memorable family trip, while some also offer adult-only nights ...
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The autumn months in the province's southern region can provide beautiful days, with cooler weather, to enjoy outdoor activities and sites. The gorgeous fall colours come to life as the trees turn gold and red, allowing fantastic photo opportunities. Pumpkins and fall vegetables abound, and corn mazes are filled with visitors. Trails become less crowded as tourists return home. Halloween events and spooky tours are available for those looking for otherworldly adventures. It’s time to get out and enjoy autumn! 1. Take a Horseback Ride Boundary Ranch offers up one hour and longer horseback riding opportunities to enjoy time out ...
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Hop on the Lake Louise Gondola for an experience like no other. Have an autumn adventure complete with a ride on the ski lift and hikes amid the famous golden larches. Take in stunning views of the alpines with their mighty peaks, glistening glaciers, pretty wildflowers and springs ...
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The wilderness of Jasper National Park awaits you this fall, with plenty of things to do and see, you won’t have any problems filling up your vacation days with exciting activities and sites. This national park doesn’t receive as many visitors as its southern counterpart – Banff National Park – so you will find that places are not as crowded and it is easier to find the remote areas to have some alone time in nature. The fall season provides comfortable temperatures to spend time hiking or biking on the endless trails in the park. Jasper townsite offers a nice ...
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Many of Alberta’s historic forts, remnants of the 1800s fur trade, are open to the public today as museums. Calgary and Edmonton have their historic river forts open, while many others are open to visitors around the province’s rivers. But no other former Alberta fort has retained its 19th and early 20th century charm quite like the town of Fort Macleod. This southwestern Alberta town is set amongst some of the province’s prettiest scenery (any time of the year) near badlands, foothills, plains, and the Rockies. The scenery in town matches the natural views in terms of beauty. Founded in ...
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In 1988, the city of Calgary commissioned the construction of a 65m-tall tepee for the Winter Olympics. The tepee, made of steel, still stands tall today. But if you want to a get look at this massive marvel, or even walk inside, you’ll need to travel further south than Calgary. The Saamis Tepee is now located permanently in Medicine Hat, 3-hours southeast of Calgary. The tepee was purchased and gifted to the city by a local and has received a few enhancements over the years. It is now a popular roadside stop for anyone travelling the Trans Canada Highway. Plus, ...
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Alberta’s wilder wilderness areas are marked by Alberta Parks as Wildland Provincial Parks. Every part of the province has an area like this, with hundreds of square kilometres of wilderness. These rugged areas are tougher to explore and don’t offer the amenities that a front country campground in Alberta would offer. But there are still several reasons to make the trip to these parts of the province any time of year. Alberta’s Wildland Provincial Parks are usually best suited to experienced backcountry campers, cross-country skiers, equestrian riders, or off-highway vehicle owners. The Bob Creek Wildland Provincial Park, west of Claresholm, ...
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Lundbreck Falls is a drop on the Crowsnest River as it flows to the Oldman River and Dam. The relatively short Crowsnest River begins at Crowsnest Lake beside the British Columbia/Alberta border and flows through the foothills until reaching the dam ...
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Visit one of Alberta’s newest Provincial Park this autumn season. Fall might be the best time to come to this riverside park, as it is in the heart of the foothills, where the fall colours are sure to impress. And even if you live close enough to see the park every day, the Ranch can still make an excellent destination for daily walks, or workouts. The Glenbow Ranch provides us with excellent opportunities for education, outdoor fun and recreation with the help of Alberta Parks, as well as the Glenbow Ranch Foundation. Between the Ranch’s visitor centre, the interpretive signage, ...
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All along Edmonton’s massive urban parklands, you’ll find some amazing views. Stop and enjoy these views, take a break, or come simply to sit! These views are usually coupled with sitting areas, some with more than one. And as much as these Edmonton benches can be great rest stops, they can also make great a peaceful destination for meeting up with a friend over coffee, for reading, writing, drawing, or simply relaxing on your own. To find a lot of Edmonton’s scenic viewpoints with sitting areas, you can travel the river valley trails; however, many are also on the large ...
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From mid-September to early October every year, you can find the green of these particular larches turning a beautiful golden yellow, giving them their name. These deciduous conifers can be found in the alpine areas of the province and are well worth the effort to get to see them ...
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It is fall in Alberta, which means some of our natural and gorgeous scenery is about to transition into warm and cozy hues of gold, red, purple, or orange. This season can be one of the best to view our Alberta waterfalls as the blue or glacial waters create a stunning contrast to the changing leaves ...
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Fall is a perfect time to take your road trip or a day trip to East Central Alberta. Leave the city behind for a day of fall fun, exploring nature, or exploring the towns east of Edmonton and Red Deer. Many exciting festivals are happening between now and Halloween, including harvest and pumpkin festivals, Oktoberfest events, and ways to celebrate Thanksgiving. You may also plan an Eastern Alberta trip around the cool attractions located off the main highway: you and your family can take part in fall train rides, u-pick opportunities, and other farm fun like meeting with the animals ...
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Hike to the top of Turtle Mountain, which crushed an Alberta coal town 120 years ago. There are many places along the Crowsnest Highway from where you can get views of Canada's deadliest rockslide, the Frank Slide. The rockslide is Canada’s deadliest rockslide ever and covers an enormous area beside the Crowsnest Highway. The road is the first place from where you’ll notice the rubble. From there, you can head to the Frank Slide Interpretive Centre for a more elevated view of the immense piles of mountainside. You can even get a birds-eye-view of the Frank Slide site; but it ...
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Mix up your road trip plans with some unique (and massive) roadside sights in southern Alberta. There are many within a day’s trip from Calgary, too! These attractions are often visible from the highway and are easy to spot. But surrounding each roadside attraction are more things to see and do, local cultures to explore, and all the local food to taste. And if you plan your day trip carefully, you can make time for more than one giant roadside attraction. Some of these locations are designated as the largest of their kind in the world! Vulcan: Star Trek Starship ...
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Take a road trip through Alberta's most underrated scenic drive! Just one of many incredible scenic drives in the province of Alberta, this route gives travellers an opportunity to experience some of the amazingly diverse landscapes that the area has to offer. A road trip taking you from the dusty prairies of southern Alberta to the beautiful Rocky Mountains; there is much to see and do along the way, so plan to spend anywhere from a half day to several days enjoying every aspect of this journey. The Crowsnest Highway, stretching 1,161 km from Hope, British Columbia to Medicine Hat, Alberta, ...
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Make your next day trip big! A great way to see Alberta within a day trip from Edmonton is to hit up all the amazing roadside attractions. Central Alberta has many stops to see, and places to visit, all with their own World’s Largest Item. Some of these are even Guinness World Record Verified. Throughout your travels, take a moment to appreciate each attraction as a thoughtful and creative work of art. There are many artists to thank for these biggest big things in Alberta. Each monument or structure is a symbol of history or culture in the area. These ...
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In and around Calgary, you can find all sorts of fun farm experiences to escape the city and enjoy the quaintness of farm life. These fun farms offer entertainment in many forms, including mazes, farm and field games, pumpkin patches, u-pick, and plenty more. Many of these farms also allow for animal interactions and feedings (or as their main attraction). You’ll get to meet all sorts of creatures, including some exotic rescues like kangaroos and wallabies! These farms are all family-friendly and provide an inexpensive way to entertain and educate kids of all ages. You may like: Corn Mazes in ...
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September and October can provide ample opportunities for good weather and clear skies. That means that you can still enjoy activities outdoors, especially to see the spectacular fall colors that seep into the forests and parks in the region. The city itself has many excellent things to do and see, but the surrounding areas provide even more for those willing to take a day trip. Head out on the highways and byways to find some of the best things to do this fall. 1. Hike the Wild Sculpture Trail You do not have to head to Southern Alberta to see ...
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Experience life on the rails this fall! Alberta’s railway companies all have something special planned for September and October, all of which focus on the best parts of the season. You can celebrate Halloween, taste Alberta’s local brewers, sit down to a harvest dinner, or you might even experience an authentic train robbery. These exciting, spooky, or picturesque train rides come from five different operators across the province. Prices range for each railway’s events, and some will either be family-friendly, or adult-only. Alberta Prairie Railway Alberta Prairie Railway in Stettler is fall-ready with three different types of excursions, great for ...
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September in Alberta is a magical time: the sky opens up, the harvest season kicks off, and the world bursts into the golden yellows and reds of the season. If you’re in Alberta and looking to get out, get active, and appreciate the bounty of this province, this list will have you adventuring to your heart’s desire — all across the province. Alberta Culture Days - Across Alberta Alberta Culture Days takes place from September 1 to 30, 2023, and will feature hundreds of free, hands-on, interactive activities that invite the public to discover their inner artist, experience their heritage, ...
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Ah, yes. The age old question of “where should we eat tonight?” That question’s answer becomes simple this fall in Calgary. Over the past summer, several new places opened in the city for dinner, but also breakfast, brunch, lunch, and drinks. Calgary’s newest restaurants, which opened summer 2023, give you and your group a vast variety of places to choose. Many of Calgary’s new restaurants opened downtown, but the city’s outer neighbourhoods and corners also saw a handful of grand openings. The Lodge With Calgary’s new bar and restaurant, The Lodge, there is really no need to travel to the ...
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It is about time for lederhosen, bier, and bratwurst! Oktoberfest events in Alberta are coming up quickly, with some starting the celebrations as early as September 8. Get your tickets to one, some, or all, and sample a wide variety of local brews while you’re at it. Oktoberfest events look a little bit different depending on where you party in Alberta, with some as 18+ only, some as family-friendly, as a rodeo/Oktoberfest combo, and some as totally free to attend. No matter which Oktoberfest(s) you decide to visit, you’re guaranteed exciting cultural celebrations through drink, music, dance, and food. 1 ...
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Edmonton’s restaurant scene became a lot bigger this summer. July and August were months filled with grand openings of all kinds in Edmonton. If you need a new place to eat, enjoy cocktails, or a new place to meet for coffee, you have several options. This past summer, there were openings for sushi bars, breweries and cocktail bars, family restaurants, takeout spots, and so much more. And it doesn’t stop with the end of summer. There are a few notable openings taking place this September, too. Dolly’s Cocktail Bar We’ve had a pink summer. Not just any pink, bright, hot, ...
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Banff National Park is a wonderfully beautiful place to spend time in the fall. With fewer visitors than in the summer months, it may be easier to find accommodations and you will easily enjoy the activities and sites without being rushed or crowded. Fall in the mountains brings crisp weather, so come prepared for a variety of temperatures, including the possible below zero at nighttime! ...
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Lace up your hiking boots and experience Alberta’s autumn season in full force throughout the province! ...
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