Discover Alberta: Nature, Culture and Cuisine

Alberta brings together very different landscapes and cultural themes. The Rocky Mountains stretch along the province’s western edge, while Alberta is also home to badlands, forests and prairie landscapes. A trip can therefore focus on nature experiences, Indigenous culture, ranching history or local ingredients. If you’re looking for a hotel, it helps to first consider which of these sides of Alberta you want to shape your stay.

Landscapes and Nature Experiences

The Rocky Mountains on Alberta’s western edge offer a wide range of opportunities for adventure. These include hiking and skiing, visiting lakes and waterfalls, road trips and wildlife watching. The options range from active pursuits to nature watching and exploring by road. For first-time visitors who want to spend time in nature, Alberta’s national and provincial parks are an important starting point. In Alberta, you can get around by car, bus, bicycle or on foot. Check transportation arrangements before your trip.

History and Indigenous Culture

Southern Alberta highlights two distinct aspects of history: communal hunting techniques and ranching. Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump is considered the best-preserved example of communal hunting techniques and the way of life of the Plains People, which depended on North America’s great bison herds. Bar U Ranch National Historic Site represents ranching in Alberta from 1880 to 1950.

At Bar U Ranch, the Pekisko Creek Trail is 3 km long and accessible on foot. The Wagon Shuttle offers a scenic and authentic ride between the Visitor Centre and the Historic Ranch Core. The trail and shuttle are different ways to combine your visit with a walk or a ride.

At the Royal Alberta Museum, the Human History Hall weaves Indigenous stories throughout all six galleries. One gallery is devoted specifically to contemporary stories of First Nations and Métis people. Indigenous stories are therefore present throughout the hall, as well as being the focus of a gallery with a clearly contemporary emphasis. Alberta also offers visitor experiences led by Indigenous communities, giving travellers direct access to Indigenous cultures.

In summer, powwows take place somewhere in Alberta almost every weekend. Drums sound, dancers wear elaborate regalia, and everyone is welcome. Dates vary by event, so check the specific dates before your trip.

Ingredients and Drinks from Alberta

Ten of Alberta’s iconic ingredients include bison, beef, canola, honey and Saskatoon berries. These examples offer a concrete starting point if you’re interested in ingredients from the province. Alberta has more than 170 distilleries and breweries across the province; this number may change over time. Visitors can take tours at Eau Claire Distillery in Diamond Valley. Check current availability before you travel.

Consider which topics matter to you, and when planning, also take into account the varying powwow dates and tour availability.

Discover more destinations: Division No. 2, Division No. 17, Division No. 10, Division No. 5, Division No. 13, Division No. 1, Division No. 7, Division No. 11, Division No. 6, Division No. 3, Division No. 9, Division No. 8, Division No. 15, Division No. 14, Division No. 19, Division No. 12, Division No. 16, Division No. 18, Division No. 4

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