Innisfail Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Innisfail, Alberta. Get insider tips on the town's culture, food scene, and safety.


Introduction to Innisfail

Nestled in the Central Corridor of Central Alberta, Innisfail is a charming town with a rich history and scenic landscapes. From its vibrant downtown core to the natural wonders of the area, Innisfail offers visitors a wide range of experiences.

List of Places to Visit in Innisfail

Whether you are interested in history, nature, or outdoor adventures, Innisfail has something to offer. Here is a list of must-visit attractions in Innisfail:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Dickson Store Museum: A living history museum that showcases the life of early settlers in the area.
  • Historical Village: A collection of restored historical buildings that provide a glimpse into the town’s past.
  • Discovery Wildlife Park: An interactive animal park featuring a variety of wildlife, including bears, wolves, and big cats.

Natural Attractions of Innisfail: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Innisfail Water Tower: A designated historical site in the heart of the town offering panoramic views of Central Alberta.
  • Medicine River Wildlife Centre: A wildlife rehabilitation center with walking trails and nature exhibits.
  • Canyon Ski Resort: A winter sports destination that offers skiing, snowboarding, and tubing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Innisfail

Innisfail is surrounded by beautiful nature, and hiking and biking trails abound. Here are some of the best routes for exploring Innisfail’s natural beauty:

  • Centennial Park Trail
  • Dodds Lake Trail
  • Rotary Trail

Best Things to Do in Innisfail: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and biking, Innisfail offers visitors a wide range of fun activities and tours. Here are some of the best things to do in Innisfail:

  • Innisfail Golf Club: A beautifully designed golf course that is perfect for golf enthusiasts.
  • Bluegrass Campground: Nestled in the woods, Bluegrass Campground offers a peaceful retreat for campers.
  • Innisfail Historical Walking Tour: A guided walking tour that explores the town’s history.

Week-Long Itinerary for Innisfail

A week in Innisfail is the perfect amount of time to experience everything the town has to offer. Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week in Innisfail:

Day 1: Explore the town’s history at Dickson Store Museum and Innisfail Historical Village. Have lunch at one of the town’s many cafes.

Day 2: Spend the day hiking or biking on one of the town’s many trails, such as the Rotary Trail.

Day 3: Visit the Medicine River Wildlife Centre and Discovery Wildlife Park.

Day 4: Spend the day golfing at the Innisfail Golf Club or relaxing at Bluegrass Campground.

Day 5: Visit Canyon Ski Resort for skiing or snowboarding.

Day 6: Take a guided walking tour of the town’s history.

Day 7: Spend the day exploring the local food and drink scene, trying out local restaurants and cafes.

Food and Drink Scene of Innisfail

Innisfail offers visitors a taste of Albertan cuisine. From local breweries to cozy cafes, here are some of the best places to eat and drink in Innisfail:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ukrainian sausage
  • Wild game, such as elk or bison
  • Alberta beef

Local Beverages

  • Troubled Monk Brewery: A local craft brewery offering a variety of beers.
  • Cocktails at the Bluebird Café: A cozy downtown café that serves up delicious drinks.

Where to Stay in Innisfail: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Innisfail has a range of accommodations, from luxurious hotels to cozy guesthouses. Here are some of the best places to stay in Innisfail:

  • Super 8 by Wyndham Innisfail: A comfortable hotel with an indoor pool and hot tub.
  • Bluebird Motel Innisfail: A budget-friendly motel with clean and comfortable rooms.
  • The Birches Bed and Breakfast: A charming guesthouse with a beautiful garden.

What to Buy in Innisfail: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Want to bring a piece of Innisfail home with you? Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to buy in Innisfail:

  • Ukrainian Easter eggs
  • Local preserves, such as Saskatoon berry jam.
  • Handmade wood crafts.

Local Culture and Customs of Innisfail

Innisfail embraces its western roots and hosts a number of rodeos and festivals throughout the year. The town also has a rich Ukrainian community, which is celebrated through events and cuisine.

Best Time to Visit Innisfail

The best time to visit Innisfail is in the summer months, from June to August. During this time, visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities and festivals. However, Innisfail is also a great destination for winter sports enthusiasts, with skiing and snowboarding available from December to March.

Do’s and Don’ts of Innisfail

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Innisfail:

Do:

  • Respect the town’s history and cultural heritage.
  • Enjoy the town’s outdoor activities, such as hiking and biking.

Don’t:

  • Ignore safety guidelines when participating in outdoor activities.
  • Disrespect the environment and wildlife.

Safety and Health

Innisfail is a safe and healthy town to visit. However, visitors should take precautions when participating in outdoor activities.

Safety in Innisfail

  • Be aware of wildlife when hiking or biking.
  • Follow safety guidelines when skiing or snowboarding at Canyon Ski Resort.

Health in Innisfail

  • Innisfail has a health center that provides medical services to residents and visitors.

Getting to Innisfail: Transportation Options and Logistics

Innisfail is easily accessible by air, bus, or car. Here are some transportation options to get to Innisfail:

Airports Near Innisfail

  • Calgary International Airport (YYC): Located approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes from Innisfail.

Bus Stations Near Innisfail

  • Red Arrow: Offers bus services from Calgary to Innisfail.

Other Options

  • Innisfail is also accessible by car.

How to Get Around in Innisfail

Innisfail is a walkable town, and most attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, visitors who want to explore the surrounding areas can also rent a car or bike.

Where to Go Next from Innisfail: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Innisfail is close to a number of other Alberta destinations that are worth exploring. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Calgary: Located approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes from Innisfail, Calgary is a vibrant city with a range of attractions and activities.
  • Banff National Park: A mountain paradise that is home to some of the most beautiful natural scenery in Canada.

Conclusion

Innisfail is a hidden gem in Central Alberta, offering visitors a range of experiences, from exploring history and culture to hiking and skiing. With its warm hospitality and stunning natural beauty, Innisfail is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore Alberta.

Downtown Innisfail Downtown Innisfail