Alberta Vacation Ideas, Getaways & Itineraries

Chief Mountain, in Montana, is a unique peak. It stands out as a tall, rectangular structure among the other jagged peaks. Chief Mountain makes for incredible scenery, and you don’t need to cross the United States border to appreciate these views. All you need to do is visit Alberta’s southernmost ...

The Sheep River Valley is part of the Rocky Mountain foothills' more rugged landscapes. The Sheep River flows into southwestern Alberta from the Bow River watershed. The river is narrow and shallow, but the waters can move with mighty force during spring runoff. One of the easiest ways to explore ...

Outdoor activities abound ay Bow Valley Provincial Park, hike short interpretive loops, trek through Grotto Canyon, cycle along paved trails, or tackle Barrier Lake’s scenic routes. Fishing is also popular, with serene spots like Gap Lake, Lac Des Arcs, and Mt. Lorette Ponds. Plus, the park features riverside campgrounds, backcountry ...

Discover the hidden gem of Alberta's badlands at Dry Island Buffalo Jump Provincial Park, where rich Indigenous history meets stunning natural beauty ...

Alberta is the site of many natural wonders, and Okotoks Erratic is one such wonder that "ran" from the present-day site of Jasper National Park to 55 km south of Calgary. A glacial erratic is any rock that was once transported by a moving and now-melted glacier. In Okotoks, you ...

The Rocky to Nordegg Rail Trail, a 25-year vision now half complete, offers 50km of scenic, historic pathways through Alberta’s David Thompson Country. Following the old Brazeau Branch rail line, it features river views, creek crossings, and the restored Taunton Trestle Bridge—perfect for picnics and photos. Open year-round for hiking, ...

Explore Stony Plain and Parkland County for a getaway full of arts, culture, and outdoor adventure. Discover over 40 murals, live music at Summer Sessions, and the vibrant Blueberry Bluegrass Festival. Dive into local history at the Pioneer Museum or Red Brick Common, then head outdoors to paddle Jackfish Lake, ...

When you wonder how you can explore Alberta’s heritage this summer, during the August/Heritage Day long weekend, or on Alberta Day, there are many parts of history to consider! Alberta has a diverse number of cultures, industries, and natural landscapes, as well as a rich yet young history. Begin your ...

Spruce Grove, nestled between Highways 16 and 16A, is the perfect launch point for an adventure in Parkland County. With its mix of urban comforts and access to scenic outdoor spaces, it invites travelers to slow down and explore. Paddle Wabamun Lake, hike peaceful nature trails, enjoy horseback riding at ...

Exciting things are happening in Alberta’s backcountry! These areas, also known as Public Land Use Zones, are separate from the Provincial and National Park backcountry areas, and are usually maintained (trails, camping areas, outhouses) by volunteers. Over the past year or two, Alberta’s dedicated backcountry volunteers have helped improve several ...

There are many reasons for the scenic bridges you’ll find across Alberta. Some were built for industry, to connect people on foot, or to connect people to nature. With Alberta’s rivers and mountain landscapes come several scenic bridges to visit on a road trip or day trip. Many of these ...

Make the most of your trip to Fort Saskatchewan by diving into its rich 200+ year history at the Fort Heritage Precinct and strolling through the city’s many art displays, murals, and galleries. Explore scenic trails along the North Saskatchewan River, paddle from West River’s Edge or Turner Park, and ...

Central to Kananaskis Country is one of the region’s parks with the most services, accommodations, and gorgeous day use or picnic areas. This central part of K-Country, also known as the Kananaskis Village, is part of the Evan-Thomas Provincial Recreation Area. The PRA offers some of Alberta’s most unique attractions, ...

Take advantage of these local rafting companies in Edmonton, and nearby lakes and rivers for a lazy float this summer! You can rent a raft from companies like River Lifestyle Co., Pembina River Tubing, or The Paddle Station, or bring your floaties to Edmonton’s closest swimming lakes. Know before you go: ...

What is better than spending a lazy summer day floating your way down a river? Not much! Grab your equipment (or rent some), some sunscreen, your bathing suit, a snack and your friends or family members to ride your way down one of the waterways in or near Calgary including ...

If you’d like to get out and explore these waters this summer, try one of these water adventures in Banff ...

Enjoy a lazy float across the river! ...

There are many exciting options for exploring Central Alberta on the Red Deer River. On the west side of the river, the waters are much faster and offer thrill seekers some great whitewater rapids. Canoeing or kayaking through the Badlands offers a much more relaxing but just as scenic way ...

If you’re planning a trip to the Rocky Mountains this summer, particularly the Banff National Park, and you’re looking for a waterborne adventure like no other, then you need to make Rocky Mountain Raft Tours one of your stops along your trip. If the rafting you’re used to causes you ...

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 ...

If you are planning to see more of Alberta this summer, be prepared for how much there is to explore! Planning a road trip in Alberta this summer will depend on your interests and what sights are new to you. You may want to skip places you’ve travelled to before ...

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 ...

It is turning out to be a great summer for swimming, beaches, and lakes! The warm weather is begging you to take a trip to one of Alberta’s nicest lakes for a dip, a camping trip, or a luxurious cabin getaway. Beautiful lakes can be found all over Alberta, you ...

Alberta’s must-visit lakes get their title for many reasons. Many of the province’s Rocky Mountain lakes are some of the most beautiful (and possibly most-photographed) lakes in the world, with some even boasting cruise excursions or boat rentals. A second reason you need to check out some of these Alberta ...

Within Alberta are seven farms and gardens dedicated to growing rows upon rows of fresh florals ready for u-pick. The u-pick flower farm experience in Alberta offers colourful florals, often those native to Alberta. You’ll encounter u-pick sunflowers, lilies, tulips, wildflowers, and more. These farms have staff onsite to help ...

Alberta’s north contains unrivalled natural beauty, giving you many reasons to make a summer trip here. But, with all that is happening this summer within the towns in northern Alberta, you have a whole other list of reasons to visit. You can travel northeast or northwest to find outdoor events ...

Take your time on a summer stroll through these gorgeous Calgary gardens. Many of the gardens around the city are built with the help of several communities and partners and help to transform the urban Calgary landscape into quiet and peaceful areas. Botanical Gardens of Silver Springs The Silver Springs ...

Did you know you can find one of Alberta’s prettiest gardens in the centre of Lethbridge? The Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden sits on the west shore of the city’s Henderson Lake and creates a wonderfully peaceful space in the heart of Lethbridge. The Garden opened in Lethbridge in 1967 as ...

Even if you can’t plan for a trip to Drumheller this summer, you can plan road trips or drives around some of the area’s best badlands lookout spots. Fortunately, there are a few excellent options for viewpoints along Alberta’s Badlands which are easily accessible from the main highways. Once you ...

There are many reasons to make a trip this summer to Pigeon Lake in Alberta. If you’re from Alberta, one of the biggest reasons may be the lake and park’s central location and ease of access from major highways. For many in Edmonton, Red Deer, and central Alberta, Pigeon Lake ...

The Alberta Legislature Grounds in downtown Edmonton are bustling on any given summer day. Much of this is thanks to the splash and swim area that is free for all to access on the north grounds. Alberta Legislature Grounds underwent renovations and reopened in 2025. The area is worth a ...

Alberta is one of the perfect provinces for travelling, especially if you are looking for a pretty drive to keep you entertained. Of course, driving through the province invites you to discover and enjoy some spectacular scenery, such as the magnificent Rocky Mountains, the beautiful rolling foothills, and the wide-open ...

The Smith Dorrien Trail, also known as the scenic route through Kananaskis, runs 70km from Canmore in the north to Lower Kananaskis Lake in the south. In all, this route runs through four different Provincial Parks or Wildland areas. For much of the Smith Dorrien Trail, the highway runs through ...

Driving along Highway 9, the views are quite flat. It is hard to imagine that only 30 seconds away from these prairies are sweeping views of the Alberta badlands with their rounded mountains, colourful layers, and bright green strips of grass and shrub. Horseshoe Canyon, only 15 minutes west of ...

It doesn’t matter what kind of water adventure you’d prefer, the Grande Rapids Wilderness Adventures in Athabasca has something for all thrill-seekers. The adventure outfitters specialize in exploring the Athabasca River and the boreal forest in a number of ways: by water, of course, but also by foot, or even ...

For an unforgettable trip to northern Alberta, explore Slave Lake and Lesser Slave Lake Provincial Park. Spend sunny days at Devonshire Beach, hike scenic trails, go birding at the Boreal Centre, or paddle across calm waters. Enjoy local art, festivals, museums, and shopping in town. Stay overnight to catch sunsets, ...

Okotoks offers a peaceful summer getaway with riverfront trails, local festivals, and scenic views of the Rockies. Visitors can explore the 7.7 km Sheep River Valley Trail, paddle the calmer sections of the Sheep River, or attend events like Taste of Okotoks and the Summer Roundup. The city’s museums and ...

The province of Alberta is full of opportunities to hop into a body of water or river, so it's no surprise there are an amazing number of places to enjoy white-water rafting. The river systems that run throughout the province offer rafters of all abilities a chance to get out and ...

Long before cities, Alberta’s rivers were lined with forts and fur trade posts. The Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site was an important stop for traders and the Indigenous peoples who travelled the river, and some of the original structures are still in place today! You can visit the National ...

Crescent Falls offers unforgettable views as the Bighorn River plunges into a dramatic canyon over two stunning waterfalls. Enjoy accessible viewpoints, hike scenic trails along Bighorn Canyon, or take in the falls from a peaceful picnic area. The moderate 6 km trail rewards hikers with panoramic views of both waterfalls ...

Devon is a vibrant riverside town perfect for outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Paddle the North Saskatchewan River, hike scenic trails like Legs of Fire Staircase, or relax at Prospector’s Point. Explore local shops, markets, and museums, including the Canadian Energy Museum ...

The rivers of southern Alberta are perfect for whatever type of watercraft you choose to rent: stand-up paddleboard, kayak, tandem kayak, canoe, or fishing boat. Alberta’s southernmost river, Milk River, is an epic journey that begins in the western mountains and foothills, runs down to the plains, and enters the ...

‘Tis the season for long drives, lakes, and day trips! If you’re looking for day trip plans from Calgary for your summer, we have you covered. These day trip ideas cover a variety of interests and can take you in many different directions. We’ve kept these day trip destinations from ...

Set along Alberta’s scenic David Thompson Highway, Thompson Creek Provincial Recreation Area offers a quiet escape with mountain views, riverside trails, and a well-equipped campground. Just minutes from Banff National Park, it’s an ideal base for both rugged adventures and relaxed wilderness experiences—perfect for those seeking nature’s beauty without venturing ...

One of the most spectacular parts of visiting Fish Lake is the abundance of scenery in every direction, and how that scenery changes. Depending on where you explore and travel around Fish Lake Provincial Recreation Area, there may be views of rolling green hills, towering mountains, shallow creeks, rushing rivers ...

There are many stops one could make along Highway 2 where it connects Calgary and Edmonton. And each stop is filled with its own hidden gems of local attractions, unique places to shop, dine, and stay, or natural beauty. And while many will opt for a stop in south Red ...

Paddling, via canoe, kayak, or SUP (standup paddleboard), can be a relaxing way to unwind, get some light exercise, or find the perfect fishing spot. Alberta has countless options for places to paddle, so we’ve narrowed it down to 25 of the best canoe/kayak locations in Alberta. The locations include ...

Are you looking for a day-long escape from the city? Check out these 25 Day Trips to the Canadian Rockies, all approximately 2 hours or less from Calgary. There is so much to do, and so much to see, and it’s all so close! There are spots in Alberta and ...

The difference between the flow of the upper Red Deer River and the lower river is distinct. The upper Red Deer River flows east from the Rockies, and contains class II-IV rapids. Lucky for us, there are adventure companies in Sundre ready to guide you on these raging Red Deer ...

You can now have a beach day at Calgary's man-made lake. Sikome Lake, located within the Fish Creek Provincial Park, opened on June 30 for the 2026 season, with major renovation work now complete. Upgrades include the construction of two new admissions booths and a new water safety centre, the ...

Do you need to get away but are short on time? Consider these 10 day trip ideas from Edmonton to nearby beaches, all aimed at keeping you cool in summer. Long Lake Provincial Park Day Use Area The quiet escape of Long Lake can include plenty of fun on the ...

Summer in southern Alberta: when we get the heat we’ve been waiting for all year. You can find several beaches close to Calgary if you need to beat that heat. Even if you just want to relax and read in the sand, picnic with your family, or explore the waters ...

Searching for free events, festivals or free places to visit and things to do this summer in Edmonton? Here is a list of FREE family activities for every day this summer in the Alberta Capital region. Have the best Edmonton staycation, and have a blast credit card free! FREE Family ...

You can find a few different watersport rental companies on the shores of central Alberta’s lakes - no matter your definition of watersports. You can rent crafts with more speed, or boats meant for paddling for a slower day on the lake. Places Offering Boats & Watersport Rentals at Northern ...

Take your pick from several ways to enjoy a lazy float in and around Calgary, from raft and tube rentals, shuttle service, or lake floating, there are several ways to help you enjoy the waters this summer. Know before you go: Always check river flow levels and advisories before you ...

100 ways to be part of the Energy during sunny days in Calgary: Summer activities, events, festivals and adventures in and around Calgary! ...

Take on some extra adventure this summer with these watersport rental outfitters in Northern Alberta. You’ll find pontoon boats, jet boats, and smaller boats like canoes or kayaks. 25 of the Best Places to Fish in Alberta Wicked Watersport Rentals Cold Lake Take your pick of adventures on Cold Lake ...

Some of the most magical scenery of Waterton Lakes National Park is right near the entrance. Whether coming from the north, south, or east, the highways and roads into Waterton provide a one-of-a-kind Canadian landscape. The eastern edge of Waterton Lakes National Park is a great place to explore during ...

Lake Louise Summer Sightseeing Gondola offers breathtaking alpine views, grizzly bear sightings, and an escape from the bustling tourist crowds in Banff National Park. The ski season is over, and that means the start of summer gondola rides. The Lake Louise Gondola operates as a ski hill gondola in the ...

There are many ways to go about finding Alberta’s best viewpoints, lookouts, and scenery, but sometimes, all you need to do to find them is pull over from the road! There is no doubt that some hikes, boat trips, or paddles can bring you on amazing adventures with equally as ...

From the Rockies to the foothills, the river valleys, badlands, and prairies are several southern Alberta towns with their own unique charm, attractions, and summer events. For live events and festivals in these towns and villages, you will find a mix of rodeo and western events, cultural celebrations, fairs and ...

It is a beautiful time of year in Alberta. Along with the lush greens of the river valleys and forests, the bright blue glacial waters, and the return of more wildlife, Alberta also displays an array of flower blooms in June and July. The wildflowers of Alberta include all the ...

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 ...

Take a journey through Alberta's indigenous history by exploring the Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park. Alberta comprises three main treaty territories: 6, 7, and 8. Calgary, for example, sits on Treaty 7 lands, while Edmonton sits on Treaty 6 lands. Treaty 7 was signed at the site of Blackfoot Crossing Historical ...

Carson-Pegasus Provincial Park is a small provincial park made up of two lakes: McLeod, and Little McLeod. Alberta’s forests stretch as far west as the BC border, and you’ll find Carson-Pegasus Provincial Park on the east side of these forests. The Park is directly north of the town of Whitecourt, ...

There are several staycations around Alberta that you can create within our large provincial borders. Beyond Alberta’s Provincial Parks, National Parks, campgrounds, and big cities, you can plan your local vacation or getaway around our several small towns, villages, and hamlets which offer unique dining or cultural opportunities, outdoor recreation, ...

Are you a fan of peonies? Of course, you are! Who isn't? Peonies are the stars of the show at Beyond Roots Flower Farm, located in the Blind-Man Valley between Sylvan Lake and Bentley. These perennial plants bloom each year briefly but remain a popular choice. The farm grows 30 ...

There are over 40 murals decorating the building exteriors of Stony Plain, and you can get an exclusive tour of all the public art this summer. The Stony Plain Horse & Wagon Tours are back for summer 2026, offering a unique way to experience the town’s public art and murals ...

Some of Alberta’s most iconic views are also the most relaxing! You might have already noticed a few pairs of Adirondack Chairs around National Parks in Alberta, as they’re usually near popular and beautiful scenic locations. But some of the famous Red Chairs aren’t as obvious and can only be ...

Have you heard of an enticing area called the Crown of the Continent? Southwest Alberta falls within this incredible zone, offering up some of the best outdoor experiences, scenic vistas and historic sites. The term Crown of the Continent refers to the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, along with the surrounding ...

The Alberta foothills are filled with beautiful places to camp, explore, and adventure. And if a thrilling or adventurous getaway isn’t what you’re after, the foothills are also filled with many quiet and secluded parks. The Chain Lakes Provincial Park is one such quiet area. The park is on the ...

The southern Alberta town of Cardston sits in the rolling foothills just on the edge of the Rocky Mountains. This scenic town is situated between the St. Mary Reservoir Provincial Recreation Area and Waterton Lakes National Park, where there is a seemingly endless number of chances for outdoor fun and ...

As you drive east of Red Deer, you notice a large divide: that of the prairies and Alberta’s badlands. Right on this line is the town of Stettler, best known for being the heart and centre of Alberta, but less known for their abundance of natural outdoor spaces, tasty local ...

Want to enjoy some tranquillity? You’ll want to take your time on a walk through these different gardens around Edmonton. There are Edmonton’s two notable garden attractions, but also several community-planted gardens which can help to add a little colour to your day. 1. Lois Hole Memorial Garden & Legislature ...

Pembina River Tubing will reopen for the 2026 summer season on June 6. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Pembina River Valley by taking a leisurely float down the Pembina River. During your float, you can admire the 62-meter gorge and different kinds of wildlife while bathing in the sun. The ...

Experience a range of train excursions across Alberta, offering everything from historic and educational journeys to fun and memorable rides. These rail adventures showcase the province’s diverse landscapes and heritage, providing unique ways to explore and learn while on board. Railways played a significant role in Alberta’s economic development, making ...

Whether you already have plans for Father’s Day or are looking to make them, these meal specials in Edmonton offer the perfect way to show some appreciation for Dad. There are several Edmonton restaurants that are here to help with meal plans for the afternoon, whether it be for brunch ...

Lake Louise, located in Banff National Park, is stunning no matter the season, but the autumn months may be the best time to complete the hike up to the famous Tea House at Lake Agnes. The stunning turquoise Lake Louise is always a draw for those who are looking for ...

There are many ways to celebrate the dads and father figures in our lives on June 21st. No matter how you spend time with him on Father’s Day, there is always time for a delicious meal. Have him pick from a long list of Calgary restaurants that are offering Father’s ...

Consider the Oldman Dam Provincial Recreation Area as a camping, road trip, or day trip destination this summer! The park’s southwestern location offers up incredibly unique landscapes, including the dam itself. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dani MacLeod (@netarie73) To get the best dam views, try ...

Did you know that there is a delightful garden west of Edmonton in Lac Ste. Anne County? The rich plant diversity in Alberta can easily be witnessed first-hand at the George Pegg Botanic Garden. This central Alberta summer destination is part botanical garden and part heritage centre. The scenic site ...

Explore the north, south, west, and east of Calgary to discover some amazing hikes and breathtaking views. You can easily find a wide array of hikes west of Calgary within Kananaskis, Banff, and Canmore. Drive in any other direction and you will find even more hiking trails in the river valleys, badlands, ...

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 ...

You don’t need to drive far from Edmonton to find cool hikes and splendid trails. If you are in search of day trip inspiration, consider these 10 awesome hikes, all under a 3-hour drive from Edmonton. Pigeon Lake Provincial Park The larger hiking trail at Pigeon Lake starts at Poplar ...

Cross a river on a cable ferry this summer! There are unique ways to travel all over Alberta, especially in Spring and Summer. You can book helicopter rides, zipline flights, boat and fishing tours, bus tours, and more. You can also travel by ferry in several parts of Alberta. Thanks ...

Discover some of Alberta’s hidden gems along the province’s longest trail network: The Iron Horse Trail! The historic trail allows ATV, horseback, and hiking, and the trails wind from East to West, and North to South through Alberta’s plains, forests, prairies, and grasslands. The Iron Horse Trail branches off in ...

There are multiple ways to create a memorable summer getaway in Alberta no matter your age, group size, or interests. These are ideas and inspirations for a huge array of vacation types, suitable for couples, families, young kids, or adults-only. These could provide specific ideas for your next summer getaway, ...

What better way to experience the aquamarine waters of Alberta than on a boat cruise that takes one on a trip along the majestic views of the Canadian Rockies? ...

Adventure is easy to find in a city like Calgary. It is even easier to find when you venture out of the city for the day. A day trip with thrills and adventures can mean many different things. These ideas and inspirations for an adventurous day trip form Calgary cover ...

Dunvegan Provincial Park offers a perfect mix of history, nature, and riverfront adventure in Alberta’s Peace River Valley. Visitors can camp beside the river, explore restored fur trade and mission-era buildings at Historic Dunvegan, paddle or boat along the mighty Peace River, and hike scenic trails with sweeping views ...

Travelling Highway 1 guarantees some magnificent views through the Rocky Mountains. But it gets even better after the town of Banff when you can take Highway 1A or Bow Valley Parkway. The Bow Valley Parkway is the scenic route between the town of Banff and the village of Lake Louise ...

Even though much of the area around Calgary is rolling hills and grassy farmland, there are still many awe-inspiring waterfalls you can explore because of Calgary's proximity to the Rockies. These waterfall hikes are all less than two hours from Calgary, so you can visit them and get back home ...

Water adventures around Calgary are easy to find. Thanks to the Bow and Elbow Rivers, city lakes and parks, and numerous tour companies, boating, and fishing trips are numerous in and around the city. This includes slower, more relaxing outings as well as more thrilling and adrenaline-pumping water adventures. Rafting ...

The RCMP Police Dog Service Training Centre near Innisfail offers visitors a chance to see police dogs in training. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police serve, of course, a hugely important role in Alberta. Some of their work helping us would be impossible without some of their highly trained helpers. The ...

A waterfront campsite can offer many different advantages to different people. In Alberta, during the summer, waterfront camping offers instant access to many activities. For some, it could mean instant access to swimming or lying on the sand. For others, it could mean a quick and easy way to get ...

Diamond Valley is unique in that it is one of Alberta’s newest municipalities. Turner Valley and Black Diamond amalgamated to create one larger town in 2023. Both areas are set in a scenic foothill valley, around the narrow Sheep River and surrounded by lush foothill scenery. During a day trip ...

Sir Winston Churchill Provincial Park in Alberta protects eight islands in Lac La Biche. The majority of the provincial park is on Lac La Biche’s largest central island. The main island, where you’ll find camping and the day use areas (all seven of them!), is protected for good reason, too, ...

Alberta’s capital and home to Canada’s largest shopping mall and entertainment complex and the largest urban park system, Edmonton is a city that knows how to have fun. Join in the celebrations of more than 60 festivals that take place throughout the year from arts and culture, food and wine, ...

Want to get away this weekend? Want to feel like you’ve travelled to exotic locations without breaking the bank? Alberta has so many wonderful destinations to view, but waterfalls are on the top of any list. You won’t believe your eyes – or your ears – when you visit these ...