8 unique Alberta holidays to do this summer instead of a U.S. vacation
There are so many amazing things to see and do in every corner of Alberta that travelling elsewhere seems almost unnecessary.
And with rising tensions with our southern neighbours prompting many Canadians to reconsider their travel plans, we thought we’d look at destinations closer to home for those exploring summer travel plans.
Best of all, you can make many of these as luxurious or budget-friendly as you desire.
Here are eight staycations you can take in Alberta instead of that trip south:
Head north
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Alberta’s size and variation of landscapes make it easy to travel to what feels like entirely different worlds without ever having to leave. Vast and often overlooked, the northern half of Alberta boasts incredible forested landscapes and untouched wilderness. Head to Wood Buffalo National Park, Canada’s largest National Park, also home to the world’s largest beaver dam. If you go in the summer, you can experience nearly 24 hours of daylight.
Explore the Giants of the Prairies
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Take a road trip through small-town Alberta and explore the Giants of the Prairies, a collection of the world’s largest roadside attractions. From the giant dragonfly in Wabamun to the massive sausage in Mundare, the world’s largest Easter egg, or even a UFO landing pad in St. Paul, there’s plenty to see.
Indigenous experiences
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Alberta’s history spans tens of thousands of years, deeply rooted in the land and its Indigenous people. There are many ways to explore this history through Indigenous-led tourism experiences. From Métis Crossing to Pine Creek Retreat, each offers an opportunity to learn about the land and the communities that have cared for it for generations, and the accommodations are top-notch, too.
Explore a charming small town or city
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There are dozens of adorable Alberta towns that make for great and affordable getaways for those seeking a quick getaway, and each has its own unique history and set of things to experience. Check out our list of Alberta towns and cities that are absolutely charming in the summer months.
Go off-grid
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Alberta’s vast wilderness still has spots with no cell service, making it easy to disconnect and immerse yourself in nature. Camp on Crown land or stay at a remote resort along the Forestry Trunk Road. Explore off the beaten path! There’s plenty to discover beyond the grid.
Explore the wild west
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Alberta’s foothills have a well-documented history of ranching, and this is reflected in places like the historic Bar U Ranch historical site and the stunning Cowboy Trail in southern Alberta. While you’re out exploring, hit up an old saloon for the full cowboy experience.
Rent a unique place to stay
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Alberta is full of unique and unconventional places to stay, from an old grain silo in Mountain View County to a medieval village and hobbit house in the south. Want to spend the night in a fairytale castle? Whatever experience you’re after, chances are you’ll find it here.
A cabin stay in the mountains
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Whether you’re looking for something luxurious or a little more rustic, there are so many amazing options in Alberta’s majestic Rocky Mountains. Nothing beats those cozy mountain mornings, coffee in hand!