Grande Prairie Travel Guide

Explore the cultural attractions, natural wonders, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, accommodations, and more in Grande Prairie.


Introduction to Grande Prairie

Grande Prairie is a vibrant city located in the Peace River region of Northern Alberta, Canada. Known for its beautiful natural scenery, rich cultural heritage, and outdoor recreational opportunities, Grande Prairie is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Alberta. With a population of just over 63,000 people, the city is a hub of activity and entertainment, offering visitors a wide range of attractions and activities to choose from.

List of Places to Visit in Grande Prairie

Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor adventurer, or a foodie, there’s something for everyone in Grande Prairie. Here’s a list of top places to visit in Grande Prairie:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Muskoseepi Park: This park is located in the heart of Grande Prairie and is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. It has over 20 kilometers of trails, an amphitheater, a pavilion and a lake. Muskoseepi, translated as ‘beaver pond’, is home to beavers, ducks, magpies and great blue herons.
  • Grande Prairie Museum: Learn about the history of Grande Prairie and the surrounding Peace River region at the Grande Prairie Museum. The museum features exhibits on the local Indigenous people, fur trade, and settlers, as well as a replica of a 1910 homestead and the railways that shaped the region.
  • Philip J. Currie Dinosaur Museum: Located just outside Grande Prairie is Canada’s second-largest dinosaur museum. The museum houses one of the world’s largest displays of dinosaur skeletons, including a 12-meter-long T-Rex as well as a horned dinosaur, and an armoured dinosaur.
  • South Peace Centennial Museum: Located in the nearby town of Beaverlodge, this museum showcases the history of agriculture and settlement in the area, with artifacts and exhibits spanning from the fur trade era to modern times.

Natural Attractions of Grande Prairie: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Bear Creek Falls: Take a short hike to this beautiful waterfall in the Bear Creek Valley. The easy one-kilometer trail takes visitors through a lush forest with stunning views of the waterfall.
  • Wheelchair-accessible bird watching tower: The bird watching tower, located in Muskoseepi Park, offers a panoramic view of the park’s wetlands and is a great spot for bird watchers.
  • Wapiti Nordic Ski Club: Go cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, mountain biking, or hiking. With over 35 kilometers of trails, Wapiti Nordic Ski Club has something for everyone.
  • Trumpeter Swan Provincial Park: This park, located 40 minutes southwest of Grande Prairie, offers bird-watching, hiking trails, and boat rentals in the summer.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Grande Prairie

Hiking enthusiasts will find no shortage of trails in Grande Prairie. Whether you’re looking for an easy walk or a challenging hike, Grande Prairie has you covered.

  • Dunes Trail: This 2.4-kilometer trail takes hikers through the beautiful sand dunes of Bear Creek Valley.
  • Nitehawk Bike and Ski Trail: This 5-kilometer trail offers a challenging mountain biking experience with multiple switchbacks and steep terrain.
  • Sour Gas Trail: This 16-kilometer trail is great for hikers and mountain bikers alike. It features scenic views of Grande Prairie’s rolling hills and agricultural lands.

Best Things to Do in Grande Prairie: Activities and Tours

  • Jet boat tours on the Peace River: Explore the Peace River by jet boat and experience some of the most spectacular views in Grande Prairie.
  • North Peace Bracket Races: Car racing events take place at the airport during summer months.
  • The Eastlink Centre: This centre has everything you need to stay active, including a pool, gym, indoor running track, and more.
  • The Aurora Show: Witness the northern lights show at night in southern Grande Prairie.

Week-Long Itinerary for Grande Prairie

  • Day 1: Visit Grande Prairie Museum, learn about the past and the present of the city.
  • Day 2: Enjoy outdoor activities in Muskoseepi Park with mini-golf, playground, pond and more.
  • Day 3: Take a trip to Beaverlodge to visit the South Peace Centennial Museum and learn about agriculture and horticulture in the area.
  • Day 4: An interesting way to learn about Grande Prairie’s heritage is to visit The Heritage Discovery Centre on 102 Street.
  • Day 5: Explore local food and drink scene by visiting microbreweries and restaurants in the city.
  • Day 6: End the week with a visit to the Philip J. Currie Dinosaur Museum, one of the biggest dinosaur museums in Alberta with its huge displays of dinosaur skeletons.
  • Day 7: Take a day trip to nearby town of Spirit River for a scenic drive through the countryside and enjoy historical landmarks on the way.

Food and Drink Scene of Grande Prairie

Grande Prairie’s vibrant food and drink scene offers something for every taste and budget. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages to sample during your visit:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Beef & Barley Stew: A hearty dish made with locally-sourced beef and barley.
  • Alberta Beef: Grande Prairie is famous for its beef, so make sure to try a steak or burger while you’re in town.
  • Perogies: Ukrainian-style stuffed dumplings are a staple in Grande Prairie’s culinary scene.
  • Wild game: Since Grande Prairie is located in a region famous for hunting and fishing, you should not miss out on the opportunity to sample some wild game such as elk, bison, or moose.

Local Beverages

  • Grande Prairie Brewery: This local brewery makes a variety of craft beers, and the taproom is open daily for tastings and tours.
  • Bear Creek Wine: This winery, located in Grande Prairie, produces award-winning fruit wines.
  • TeaZa: Enjoy fine tea blends along with tasty pastries, cakes, and sandwiches. Also has live music.

Where to Stay in Grande Prairie: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly hostel or a luxurious hotel, you’ll find plenty of options in Grande Prairie. Some popular choices include:

  • Days Inn by Wyndham Grande Prairie
  • Podollan Inn & Spa
  • The Canadian Motor Inn

What to Buy in Grande Prairie: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Looking for some souvenirs to take home from Grande Prairie? Here are some local products to consider:

  • Wild game meat: Take home some locally-sourced elk, bison, or moose meat.
  • Birch syrup: Made from the sap of birch trees, this sweet syrup is a popular souvenir in Grande Prairie.
  • Handcrafted pottery: Check out handmade pottery is a beautiful mix of traditional style and modern design that is available at local arts and crafts markets.
  • Art and craft supplies: Buy supplies to create your own art and craft pieces from Spatz Unmentionables downtown.

Local Culture and Customs of Grande Prairie

Grande Prairie has a rich cultural heritage influenced by its Indigenous and settler populations. The Indigenous communities have been welcoming visitors for thousands of years, and one of the best ways to learn about their culture and customs is by attending Pow Wows and other community events. Settler history has shaped the landscape of Grande Prairie, and you can explore this history in museums.

Best Time to Visit Grande Prairie

The best time to visit Grande Prairie depends on your interests. Summers are mild and pleasant, making them an ideal time for hiking, outdoor activities, and sightseeing. However, if you’re interested in winter sports like skiing or snowmobiling, winter is the perfect time to visit. June to August is also the perfect time to witness the Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis.

Do’s and Don’ts of Grande Prairie

Do:

  • Respect the local Indigenous culture and traditions
  • Dress according to the weather
  • Tip at least 15% at restaurants

Don’t:

  • Litter in public spaces
  • Smoke in public areas including parks and playgrounds
  • Hunt or fish without a proper permit

Safety and Health

Safety in Grande Prairie

Grande Prairie is a safe city, but it’s always a good idea to take standard safety precautions. Don’t leave valuables in your car, and keep an eye on your belongings in public spaces. Try not to wander alone at night, and use well-lit paths and streets.

Health in Grande Prairie

Emergency medical services are always available in Grande Prairie, and the local hospitals are fully equipped to provide excellent medical care. If you are hiking or engaging in outdoor activities, be sure to carry a first aid kit and plenty of water.

Getting to Grande Prairie: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Grande Prairie

  • Grande Prairie Airport (YQU)

Bus Stations Near Grande Prairie

  • Greyhound Station

Other Options

  • Uber and Lyft services are available in Grande Prairie, but car rental is the most popular and convenient option.

How to Get Around in Grande Prairie

The best way to get around Grande Prairie is by car rental. However, taxis, Uber, and Lyft are also available for hire. There are also bike-share programs and city buses available for transportation within the city. Most attractions are concentrated in the downtown area and within walking distance of each other.

Where to Go Next from Grande Prairie: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Dawson Creek: This town, located just over an hour’s drive from Grande Prairie, has a historic agriculture and forestry museum, as well as a popular hiking trail - the Discovery Trail.
  • Waterton Lakes National Park: This beautiful national park, located about 6 hours from Grande Prairie by car, is known for its stunning scenery and diverse wildlife.
  • Edmonton: The capital city of Alberta, and a short 4-hour drive from Grande Prairie, Edmonton offers a range of attractions, including West Edmonton Mall – one of North America’s biggest shopping centers.

Conclusion

Grande Prairie is a fascinating city with a rich cultural heritage, beautiful natural scenery, and plenty of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast or a foodie, you’ll find plenty to explore in Grande Prairie. So plan your trip, pack your bags and get ready to fall in love with the beauty of Northern Alberta.

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