Things to do in Alberta: Based on NeemTime research from most popular to just popular.
West Edmonton Mall, Alberta
Overview: West Edmonton Mall is one of the largest shopping and entertainment complexes in North America, featuring a variety of shops, attractions, and restaurants.
History: Opened in 1981, it revolutionized the concept of shopping malls by combining retail with entertainment options such as an indoor amusement park and water park.
Since When: The mall has been open since 1981 and has undergone numerous expansions and updates over the years.
Review: A must-visit for families and tourists, offering everything from shopping to thrilling attractions like a water park and ice rink.
When to Go: Best to visit year-round, especially during the winter months when indoor attractions like the water park are most enjoyable.
How to Go: Located in Edmonton, the mall is easily accessible by car, with plenty of parking, and can also be reached by public transit.
What to Do: Shop, dine, visit attractions like Galaxyland, the World Waterpark, or take in an event or movie at the cinema.
Free or Paid: Free entry to the mall, but many attractions require paid admission.
Banff National Park, Alberta
Overview: Banff National Park is Canada’s first national park, offering breathtaking landscapes, including mountains, lakes, and wildlife, making it a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
History: Established in 1885, Banff National Park has been a protected natural area and an iconic destination for visitors from around the world.
Since When: The park has been a national park since 1885, playing a significant role in the development of Canada’s national parks system.
Review: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Banff National Park is a stunning natural wonder, perfect for hiking, skiing, and wildlife viewing.
When to Go: Best visited in summer for hiking and outdoor activities, though winter also offers great opportunities for skiing and snowboarding.
How to Go: Accessible by car, with shuttle services from nearby towns like Calgary and Banff itself, or by using the Canadian Rockies Train service.
What to Do: Hike, ski, visit Lake Louise, explore the town of Banff, or relax in the hot springs.
Free or Paid: Entrance fees apply to the park.
Fairmont Château Lake Louise, Alberta
Overview: Fairmont Château Lake Louise is a luxurious hotel located beside the stunning Lake Louise, offering spectacular views and year-round outdoor activities.
History: Built in 1911, the Fairmont Château Lake Louise has long been an iconic symbol of luxury and hospitality in the Canadian Rockies.
Since When: The hotel has been open since 1911, providing a luxurious base for visitors to explore the surrounding Banff National Park.
Review: Known for its magnificent setting, exceptional service, and historic charm, it’s a top choice for those seeking a luxurious getaway.
When to Go: Best visited year-round, with skiing in the winter and hiking or lake activities in the summer.
How to Go: Accessible by car from the town of Banff, or via shuttle services from Calgary and Banff.
What to Do: Ski or snowboard in winter, canoe on Lake Louise in summer, or explore nearby hiking trails.
Free or Paid: Paid for accommodation, but free to visit the lake and explore the surrounding area.
Fairmont Banff Springs, Alberta
Overview: Fairmont Banff Springs is a grand and historic castle-like hotel set in the Canadian Rockies, offering luxurious accommodations and stunning mountain views.
History: Opened in 1888, this iconic hotel was designed to resemble a Scottish castle and has been a premier destination for travelers for over a century.
Since When: The hotel has been in operation since 1888, becoming a symbol of elegance and natural beauty in the heart of Banff National Park.
Review: Often referred to as the “Castle in the Rockies,” it offers world-class amenities and is a perfect destination for relaxation and adventure.
When to Go: Visit year-round, with skiing in winter and hiking, golfing, and outdoor activities in the warmer months.
How to Go: Accessible by car, the hotel is located in the town of Banff and can also be reached via shuttle from Calgary.
What to Do: Enjoy the spa, go skiing, hike the nearby trails, or explore the town of Banff.
Free or Paid: Paid for accommodation and some activities, but free to explore the grounds and nearby areas.
Royal Tyrrell Museum, Alberta
Overview: The Royal Tyrrell Museum is a world-renowned paleontology museum in Drumheller, Alberta, showcasing impressive dinosaur fossils and exhibits.
History: Established in 1985, the museum is named after Joseph Tyrrell, a geologist who discovered the first dinosaur fossils in the area in the late 19th century.
Since When: The museum has been open since 1985, becoming a leading institution for paleontology and research on prehistoric life.
Review: An educational and fascinating museum, it’s perfect for families and anyone interested in dinosaurs and prehistoric life.
When to Go: Best visited year-round, though summer offers the most pleasant weather for exploring the surrounding area.
How to Go: Located in Drumheller, it’s easily accessible by car from Calgary or Edmonton.
What to Do: Explore dinosaur exhibits, view real fossils, and participate in interactive activities and guided tours.
Free or Paid: Paid entry to the museum.
Banff Gondola, Alberta
Overview: The Banff Gondola offers stunning panoramic views of Banff and the surrounding mountains as it ascends to the top of Sulphur Mountain.
History: Opened in 1959, the Banff Gondola has been providing breathtaking views of the Canadian Rockies to visitors for decades.
Since When: The gondola has been in operation since 1959, continuously providing scenic rides up Sulphur Mountain.
Review: A must-do experience for visitors, offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and the town of Banff.
When to Go: Best visited year-round, with the summer offering clear skies and the winter offering snow-covered landscapes.
How to Go: The gondola is located just outside the town of Banff, easily accessible by car or via shuttle services.
What to Do: Ride the gondola for panoramic views, visit the summit observation deck, and enjoy a meal at the mountaintop restaurant.
Free or Paid: Paid admission for the gondola ride.
Jasper National Park of Canada, Alberta
Overview: Jasper National Park is a vast wilderness area in the Canadian Rockies, known for its majestic mountain scenery, lakes, and wildlife.
History: Established in 1907, Jasper National Park is one of Canada’s largest and most stunning national parks.
Since When: Jasper National Park has been a protected area since 1907, offering visitors an incredible natural experience.
Review: A beautiful and remote park, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of activities from hiking to stargazing.
When to Go: Best visited in the summer for hiking and outdoor activities, or in the winter for skiing and wildlife viewing.
How to Go: Accessible by car, Jasper is located about 3.5 hours from Edmonton, or by using the Jasper SkyTram from the town itself.
What to Do: Hike, camp, visit lakes like Maligne Lake, go stargazing, or ski during the winter.
Free or Paid: Entrance fees to the park apply.
Johnston Canyon, Alberta
Overview: Johnston Canyon is a popular hiking destination in Banff National Park, known for its stunning waterfalls and scenic canyon views.
History: The canyon and its waterfalls have been a significant natural feature in Banff National Park for centuries, attracting visitors since its development as a hiking trail in the 1940s.
Since When: The Johnston Canyon trail has been a popular hiking route since the 1940s.
Review: A beautiful and easily accessible trail, perfect for a short hike to see stunning waterfalls and dramatic canyon views.
When to Go: Best visited in summer or fall for optimal hiking conditions, though winter offers a magical ice-covered landscape.
How to Go: Accessible by car from the town of Banff, with a short drive to the trailhead.
What to Do: Hike the canyon trail, explore the lower and upper waterfalls, and take in the beautiful scenery.
Free or Paid: Free entry to the trail, though some services may charge for parking or guided tours.
Prince’s Island Park, Alberta
Overview: Prince’s Island Park is a tranquil urban park located in downtown Calgary, offering walking paths, gardens, and picnic areas.
History: The park was created in the 1950s and has been a popular green space in Calgary ever since.
Since When: Prince’s Island Park has been a public park since the 1950s.
Review: A lovely urban oasis ideal for walking, picnicking, and enjoying outdoor events during the summer months.
When to Go: Best visited in the summer for its gardens and outdoor activities, though it is open year-round.
How to Go: Accessible by foot, bike, or car, located in downtown Calgary near the Bow River.
What to Do: Walk or bike the paths, have a picnic, and enjoy outdoor events like the Calgary Folk Music Festival.
Free or Paid: Free entry to the park.
Calgary Tower, Alberta
Overview: The Calgary Tower offers an iconic 360-degree view of Calgary, the surrounding city, and the distant Canadian Rockies from its observation deck.
History: The Calgary Tower was completed in 1968 and has been a landmark in Calgary’s skyline since its opening.
Since When: The Calgary Tower has been open since 1968, standing tall as a major tourist attraction.
Review: A fantastic way to view the city from above, with interactive exhibits and a glass-floored observation deck.
When to Go: Best visited on clear days for the best views, though the tower is open year-round.
How to Go: Located in downtown Calgary, the tower is easily accessible by foot, car, or public transport.
What to Do: Take the elevator to the top for incredible views, dine at the restaurant, or walk on the glass-floored observation deck.
Free or Paid: Paid entry to the observation deck and restaurant.
Heritage Park, Alberta
Overview: Heritage Park is a living history museum in Calgary, offering visitors a chance to explore Canada’s past through historic buildings, trains, and reenactments.
History: Established in 1964, Heritage Park was created to preserve and showcase Alberta’s history through exhibits and historical sites.
Since When: Heritage Park has been operational since 1964, with ongoing expansion and new attractions over the years.
Review: A fantastic family destination, with interactive exhibits, historical buildings, and fun activities for all ages.
When to Go: Best visited in the summer when the park’s full range of activities, including train rides, is available.
How to Go: Located in Calgary, the park is easily accessible by car, public transport, or bike.
What to Do: Explore the historical buildings, take a ride on the heritage train, and participate in live reenactments.
Free or Paid: Paid entry for general admission, with additional charges for certain activities.
Lake Louise, Alberta
Overview: Lake Louise is a stunning glacial lake in Banff National Park, renowned for its turquoise waters and picturesque mountain backdrop.
History: The lake has been a popular destination since the late 19th century, originally explored by the Canadian Pacific Railway.
Since When: Lake Louise has been a famous tourist destination since the late 1800s, with the Fairmont Château Lake Louise opening in 1911.
Review: A must-see destination for nature lovers, offering breathtaking views and outdoor activities year-round.
When to Go: Best visited in the summer for hiking and canoeing, or in the winter for skiing and snowshoeing.
How to Go: Located in Banff National Park, accessible by car, bus, or shuttle from the town of Banff or Calgary.
What to Do: Hike, canoe, ski, or simply relax by the lake and take in the spectacular scenery.
Free or Paid: Free to access the lake, but parking fees and entry to nearby facilities may apply.
Jasper National Park Icefield Information Centre and Glacier Gallery, Alberta
Overview: The Jasper National Park Icefield Information Centre provides information on glaciers, icefields, and other natural features of Jasper National Park.
History: Opened in 1985, the centre has been educating visitors about glaciers and the surrounding environment.
Since When: The Icefield Information Centre has been open since 1985, offering educational programs about the glaciers in Jasper National Park.
Review: A great place to learn more about glaciers, with exhibits and panoramic views of the surrounding icefields and mountains.
When to Go: Open year-round, with the summer months offering the best access to the glacier and surrounding hiking trails.
How to Go: Located just off Highway 93, accessible by car, bus, or shuttle services.
What to Do: Explore the exhibits, take a guided tour, and enjoy breathtaking views of the glaciers and icefields.
Free or Paid: Free to enter, but guided tours or special experiences may have additional costs.
TELUS Spark Science Centre, Alberta
Overview: TELUS Spark Science Centre is an interactive science museum in Calgary, offering hands-on exhibits and educational programs for all ages.
History: Founded in 1967 as the Calgary Science Centre, TELUS Spark has been providing interactive science experiences since its inception.
Since When: The current TELUS Spark Science Centre opened in 2011, featuring new facilities and exhibits.
Review: A fun and educational experience for children and adults alike, with engaging exhibits on science, technology, and innovation.
When to Go: Best visited year-round, with special exhibits and events often held in the summer.
How to Go: Located in Calgary, easily accessible by car, public transit, or bike.
What to Do: Explore hands-on exhibits, attend educational workshops, and watch live science demonstrations.
Free or Paid: Paid entry, with discounts for children, students, and seniors.
Edmonton Valley Zoo, Alberta
Overview: The Edmonton Valley Zoo is a family-friendly zoo featuring a variety of animals, educational exhibits, and conservation programs.
History: Opened in 1959, the Edmonton Valley Zoo has been dedicated to wildlife education and conservation for over 60 years.
Since When: The zoo has been open since 1959 and continues to grow and expand with new exhibits.
Review: A great place for families to enjoy animals, educational programs, and special events in a fun and interactive setting.
When to Go: Best visited in the summer, although the zoo is open year-round, with some animals being more active in warmer months.
How to Go: Located in Edmonton, easily accessible by car, bus, or bike.
What to Do: Visit animal exhibits, participate in educational programs, and attend special events.
Free or Paid: Paid entry to the zoo, with discounts for children, students, and seniors.
Maligne Canyon, Alberta
Overview: Maligne Canyon is a stunning natural wonder located in Jasper National Park, featuring dramatic rock formations, waterfalls, and deep gorges.
History: Maligne Canyon was carved by water over thousands of years and is one of the most visited natural sites in Jasper National Park.
Since When: The canyon has been a popular destination for visitors since the early 20th century, with increasing tourism following the development of Jasper National Park.
Review: A beautiful and scenic hike, with various viewpoints along the trail offering spectacular views of the canyon and waterfalls.
When to Go: Best visited in the summer for hiking, or in the winter for ice walks and photography.
How to Go: Located just 10 minutes from Jasper town, accessible by car, with parking available at the trailhead.
What to Do: Hike the trails, take in the stunning views, and participate in guided ice walks during winter.
Free or Paid: Free to access, though guided tours may have additional fees.
Calaway Park, Alberta
Overview: Calaway Park is an amusement park located near Calgary, offering a variety of rides, games, and entertainment for families.
History: Founded in 1982, Calaway Park has become a major family destination in the Calgary area, with a focus on fun and entertainment.
Since When: Calaway Park has been operational since 1982, continuously expanding and adding new attractions.
Review: A fun-filled day for families, with a range of rides suitable for all ages, along with games, shows, and food.
When to Go: Best visited in the summer months when all rides and attractions are fully operational.
How to Go: Located just outside Calgary, accessible by car, and there are shuttle services available during the summer.
What to Do: Enjoy the various rides, games, and shows, and take part in seasonal events.
Free or Paid: Paid entry, with additional costs for certain rides and activities.
Athabasca Falls, Alberta
Overview: Athabasca Falls is one of the most powerful waterfalls in Jasper National Park, known for its dramatic flow and picturesque surroundings.
History: Athabasca Falls has been a significant natural feature of Jasper National Park for centuries, though it has become a popular tourist destination only in recent decades.
Since When: The falls have been a natural landmark for thousands of years, but they have been a major tourist attraction since the creation of Jasper National Park in 1907.
Review: A stunning natural wonder that is easy to access and provides breathtaking views, especially when the water is flowing strongly in spring and early summer.
When to Go: Best visited in spring or early summer when the water flow is at its peak.
How to Go: Located on the Icefields Parkway, about 30 minutes from Jasper town, accessible by car with a parking lot nearby.
What to Do: Walk the short trails around the falls, take photos, and enjoy the spectacular views.
Free or Paid: Free to access, though parking fees may apply.
Moraine Lake, Alberta
Overview: Moraine Lake is a stunning glacial lake nestled in the Banff National Park, famous for its vibrant turquoise waters and surrounding mountain peaks.
History: The lake has been a well-known sight in Canada since it was discovered by early explorers and became more widely known with the development of Banff National Park.
Since When: Moraine Lake has been a popular tourist destination since the early 20th century, after Banff National Park was established in 1885.
Review: A must-see destination in the Canadian Rockies, offering incredible views, excellent hiking, and photography opportunities.
When to Go: Best visited in summer for hiking and canoeing, though it is also beautiful during the early fall when the autumn colors are in full display.
How to Go: Located off the Trans-Canada Highway in Banff National Park, accessible by car, shuttle service, or bike.
What to Do: Canoe, hike the surrounding trails, or simply enjoy the breathtaking views.
Free or Paid: Free to visit, but parking fees and shuttle services may apply during peak times.
Peace Bridge, Alberta
Overview: The Peace Bridge is a striking pedestrian bridge in Calgary, famous for its unique design and vibrant red color.
History: Completed in 2012, the Peace Bridge was designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava and serves as a symbol of Calgary’s commitment to sustainability and design innovation.
Since When: The Peace Bridge has been open to the public since 2012 and has since become an iconic landmark in Calgary.
Review: A beautiful architectural marvel, perfect for a walk or bike ride, offering views of the Bow River and downtown Calgary.
When to Go: Best visited year-round, though particularly beautiful in the fall and spring when the weather is mild.
How to Go: Located in downtown Calgary, easily accessible by walking, biking, or public transportation.
What to Do: Walk across the bridge, enjoy the views of the Bow River and city skyline, or take photos of the iconic structure.
Free or Paid: Free to access.
Elk Island National Park, Alberta
Overview: Elk Island National Park is a protected area known for its diverse wildlife, including bison, elk, and over 250 species of birds.
History: Established in 1906, Elk Island was originally created to preserve the bison population, which had been severely threatened by hunting.
Since When: The park has been a sanctuary for wildlife since its establishment in 1906.
Review: A tranquil escape with beautiful hiking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and the chance to see bison up close.
When to Go: Best visited in the summer for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities, though winter offers excellent snowshoeing opportunities.
How to Go: Located just 35 minutes east of Edmonton, the park is accessible by car along Highway 16.
What to Do: Hike, cycle, and participate in wildlife watching or cross-country skiing in the winter.
Free or Paid: Paid entry, with seasonal passes and fees for special activities.
Waterton Lakes National Park of Canada, Alberta
Overview: Waterton Lakes National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its stunning mountainous landscapes, lakes, and diverse wildlife.
History: Established in 1895, Waterton was one of Canada’s first national parks and is part of the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, a symbol of Canadian-American cooperation.
Since When: Waterton Lakes has been a national park since 1895.
Review: A beautiful park offering picturesque landscapes, scenic drives, hiking trails, and opportunities to view wildlife.
When to Go: Best visited in the summer for hiking and boating or in the fall for fewer crowds and beautiful autumn scenery.
How to Go: Located in the southwestern corner of Alberta, accessible by car via the scenic Highway 5, with the nearest town being Waterton.
What to Do: Hike the trails, boat on the lakes, explore the park’s wildlife, or visit the Prince of Wales Hotel.
Free or Paid: Paid entry, with annual and family passes available.
Galaxyland Powered by Hasbro, Alberta
Overview: Galaxyland is an indoor amusement park located within West Edmonton Mall, offering rides and attractions suitable for all ages.
History: Opened in 1985 as part of West Edmonton Mall, Galaxyland is one of the largest indoor amusement parks in North America.
Since When: Galaxyland has been entertaining visitors since 1985.
Review: A fun indoor theme park with a wide variety of rides, from roller coasters to family-friendly attractions, perfect for a rainy day.
When to Go: Best visited year-round, though it can get crowded during holidays and weekends.
How to Go: Located inside West Edmonton Mall, accessible by car, public transit, or through the mall’s main entrances.
What to Do: Enjoy the roller coasters, interactive games, and family-friendly rides.
Free or Paid: Paid entry, with a variety of ticket options depending on the number of rides.
Banff Sunshine Village Ski & Snowboard Resort, Alberta
Overview: Banff Sunshine Village is a world-renowned ski and snowboard resort, located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, offering breathtaking views and excellent winter sports.
History: Established in 1928, it has been one of Canada’s most popular ski resorts, known for its vast terrain and natural beauty.
Since When: The resort has been operating since 1928.
Review: A top-tier destination for skiing and snowboarding, with long runs, spectacular mountain views, and great amenities.
When to Go: Best visited in the winter for skiing, snowboarding, and other snow-related activities, although summer offers hiking and sightseeing.
How to Go: Located 15 minutes from Banff, accessible by car, shuttle services, or the Sunshine Village gondola.
What to Do: Ski, snowboard, take the gondola for stunning mountain views, and explore the alpine village.
Free or Paid: Paid entry for access to the slopes, with options for ski passes, rentals, and lessons.
Lake Louise Ski Resort & Summer Gondola, Alberta
Overview: Lake Louise Ski Resort is a world-famous ski destination, also offering a summer gondola ride with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and lakes.
History: Established in 1954, the resort has grown to become one of the largest ski resorts in North America.
Since When: The ski resort has been operational since 1954.
Review: A must-visit destination for winter sports enthusiasts and those seeking breathtaking summer views.
When to Go: Best visited in winter for skiing and snowboarding, though the summer gondola provides incredible views year-round.
How to Go: Located in the Banff National Park, accessible by car from the town of Lake Louise.
What to Do: Ski, snowboard, take the summer gondola ride, or hike in the surrounding area.
Free or Paid: Paid entry for skiing and gondola rides, with seasonal passes available.
Columbia Ice Field, Alberta
Overview: The Columbia Icefield is one of the largest ice fields in North America, offering visitors stunning views and access to glaciers.
History: The icefield has been a prominent feature of the Canadian Rockies for thousands of years and has been a popular tourist destination for decades.
Since When: It has been a key attraction for tourists since the mid-20th century.
Review: A breathtaking natural wonder, ideal for exploring glaciers, taking ice walks, or experiencing the Glacier Skywalk.
When to Go: Best visited during the summer and early fall for glacier tours, though it is accessible year-round.
How to Go: Located along the Icefields Parkway, it can be accessed by car or guided tours.
What to Do: Take a glacier tour, go ice walking, or experience the Glacier Skywalk for panoramic views.
Free or Paid: Paid entry for tours and activities, with various ticket options available.
Nose Hill Park, Alberta
Overview: Nose Hill Park is one of the largest urban parks in Canada, offering scenic views, diverse wildlife, and miles of walking and biking trails.
History: The park was established as a public space in 1980, though its history as a significant land feature dates back to the First Nations.
Since When: Nose Hill Park has been part of Calgary’s green space since 1980.
Review: A peaceful escape from the city with great hiking trails, ideal for nature lovers and those seeking a bit of tranquility.
When to Go: Best visited year-round, especially in spring and fall for pleasant weather and views.
How to Go: Located within Calgary, accessible by car, bike, or public transit.
What to Do: Hike, bike, or birdwatch in this expansive park with panoramic views of Calgary and the surrounding area.
Free or Paid: Free entry and access to the park.
Columbia Icefield Skywalk, Alberta
Overview: The Columbia Icefield Skywalk is a glass-floored observation bridge that offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers.
History: Opened in 2014, it provides an immersive and thrilling experience for visitors exploring the Columbia Icefield.
Since When: The Skywalk has been open since 2014.
Review: A thrilling experience with incredible views, perfect for those who want to get up close to the glaciers while feeling like they are walking above the landscape.
When to Go: Best visited during the warmer months, from May to October, to fully experience the views.
How to Go: Located near the Columbia Icefield, accessible by car along the Icefields Parkway.
What to Do: Walk on the glass-floored Skywalk, take in panoramic views, and learn about the region’s geology.
Free or Paid: Paid entry for the Skywalk experience, usually included in guided tours.
ICE District, Alberta
Overview: The ICE District is a downtown development in Edmonton, home to entertainment venues, shops, and the Rogers Place arena.
History: Opened in 2016, it’s become Edmonton’s premier area for sports, entertainment, and dining.
Since When: The ICE District began development in 2016 and continues to grow.
Review: A bustling area with attractions for all ages, including concerts, sports, shopping, and dining options.
When to Go: Best visited year-round, especially during events or hockey games at Rogers Place.
How to Go: Located in the heart of downtown Edmonton, accessible by car, public transit, or walking from nearby hotels.
What to Do: Attend events, shop, dine, or take in the local attractions within the district.
Free or Paid: Free to explore, but paid entry for events and shows.
The Calgary Zoo, Alberta
Overview: The Calgary Zoo is a major zoological park, home to over 1,000 animals and dedicated to conservation and education.
History: Founded in 1929, the zoo has grown into one of Canada’s largest and most respected wildlife institutions.
Since When: The Calgary Zoo has been open to the public since 1929.
Review: A fantastic family-friendly destination with a diverse range of animals, educational exhibits, and conservation efforts.
When to Go: Best visited during the warmer months, from May to October, though it is open year-round.
How to Go: Located just east of downtown Calgary, accessible by car, bus, or bike.
What to Do: Visit animal exhibits, enjoy interactive displays, or attend seasonal events.
Free or Paid: Paid entry with options for family passes and annual memberships.