Southern Alberta Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Southern Alberta with our comprehensive travel guide. Learn about the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Southern Alberta

Southern Alberta is a region located in the Prairie region of Canada. It is the southern part of the province of Alberta and offers beautiful natural landscapes, cultural attractions, and exciting outdoor activities. With its mix of urban and rural areas, Southern Alberta is a perfect destination for visitors looking for a diverse range of experiences.

List of Places to Visit in Southern Alberta

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Southern Alberta is home to many museums and historical places that provide insights into the region’s rich cultural heritage. The following are some of the top attractions:

  • Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump: a UNESCO World Heritage Site that tells the story of the Plains people who hunted buffalo on the jump for thousands of years.
  • Fort Macleod: a National Historic Site showcasing the history of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, from 1874 to the present day.
  • Galt Museum & Archives: a museum featuring interactive exhibits and artifacts related to the settlement and development of Southern Alberta.

Natural Attractions of Southern Alberta: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Southern Alberta is known for its iconic natural landmarks and breathtaking scenery. Here are some of the top natural attractions:

  • Waterton Lakes National Park: a UNESCO World Heritage Site and biosphere reserve where visitors can explore the Rocky Mountains, glaciers, lakes, and waterfalls.
  • Dinosaur Provincial Park: a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its dinosaur fossils and unique badlands formations.
  • Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park: an area of unique and sacred rock formations created by ancient First Nations people, who used it for spiritual, ceremonial, and cultural purposes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Southern Alberta

Southern Alberta is a paradise for hikers and bikers. Here are some of the best trails:

  • Banff National Park: with over 1,600 km of trails, this park offers some of the most iconic and challenging hikes in the country.
  • Kananaskis Country: this network of trails offers a variety of landscapes and difficulty levels, from easy family hikes to challenging backcountry expeditions.
  • Fish Creek Provincial Park: located in Calgary, the park has over 80 km of paved and unpaved trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.

Best Things to Do in Southern Alberta: Activities and Tours

There are endless things to do in Southern Alberta, whether you prefer sightseeing, cultural experiences, or outdoor adventures. Here are some of the top activities and tours:

  • Calgary Stampede: the world-famous annual rodeo and exhibition held in July that showcases Western heritage and culture.
  • Glacier Skywalk: a glass-floored observation platform that offers stunning views of the Rockies in Jasper National Park.
  • Alberta Badlands Tour: a guided tour that showcases the unique geological formations and dinosaur fossils of the badlands.

Week-Long Itinerary for Southern Alberta

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week in Southern Alberta:

Day Activity
1 Visit Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump and Fort Macleod
2 Explore Waterton Lakes National Park
3 Hike in Kananaskis Country
4 Tour the Alberta Badlands
5 Attend the Calgary Stampede
6 Visit Banff National Park
7 Take the Glacier Skywalk in Jasper National Park

Food and Drink Scene of Southern Alberta

Southern Alberta offers a diverse food and drink scene, with a focus on locally-sourced ingredients and Western cuisine.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Alberta Beef: known for its high quality and flavor, Alberta beef is a must-try for meat lovers.
  • Saskatoon Berries: a native fruit of the Prairies, these sweet and tart berries are used in desserts, jams, and syrups.
  • Poutine: a Canadian classic, this dish consists of French fries topped with cheese curds and gravy.

Local Beverages

  • Alberta Craft Beer: Southern Alberta has a thriving craft beer scene, with many local breweries offering unique and delicious brews.
  • BC and Alberta Wines: the nearby Okanagan Valley in British Columbia and the emerging wine regions of Alberta produce award-winning wines.

Where to Stay in Southern Alberta: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Southern Alberta has a range of accommodation options suitable for all budgets and tastes. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • Chateau Lake Louise: a luxurious hotel located in Banff National Park, with stunning views of Lake Louise and the Rockies.
  • HI Calgary City Centre: a comfortable and affordable hostel located in downtown Calgary.
  • Prince of Wales Hotel: a historic hotel in Waterton Lakes National Park, known for its grandeur and elegance.

What to Buy in Southern Alberta: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Southern Alberta offers a range of unique and authentic souvenirs and local products. Here are some of the best buys:

  • Cowboy Boots: a classic Western fashion item that can be found in many stores in Southern Alberta.
  • Canadian Maple Syrup: a sweet and versatile product that is a staple in Canadian kitchens.
  • Native American Crafts: beautiful and traditional crafts made by local First Nations people, such as beaded jewelry, moccasins, and pottery.

Local Culture and Customs of Southern Alberta

Southern Alberta has a rich cultural diversity, with Indigenous, Western, and international influences. Visitors should respect the customs and traditions of the local communities and learn about their history and contributions to the region.

Best Time to Visit Southern Alberta

The best time to visit Southern Alberta depends on your interests and preferences. Here are some tips:

  • Summer: ideal for outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and water sports. The Calgary Stampede, Banff Summer Arts Festival, and various music and cultural events are also held during this time.
  • Fall: beautiful scenery and fall colors, as well as less crowded attractions and lower accommodation prices.
  • Winter: perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports, as well as holiday events and festivals, such as the Banff SnowDays and the Canmore Winter Carnival.
  • Spring: great for fishing, birdwatching, and exploring the blooming wildflowers and trees.

Do’s and Don’ts of Southern Alberta

Do:

  • Respect the environment and wildlife.
  • Be courteous and polite to locals and other visitors.
  • Dress appropriately for the weather and activities.
  • Try new foods and experiences.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage natural attractions and cultural sites.
  • Forget to tip your servers and service providers.
  • Ignore safety guidelines and warnings.
  • Drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Safety and Health

Safety in Southern Alberta

Southern Alberta is a safe and welcoming destination, with low crime rates and friendly locals. However, visitors should still take precautions and follow common safety practices, such as:

  • Locking doors and windows in accommodations.
  • Staying in well-lit and populated areas.
  • Keeping valuables out of sight.
  • Being aware of weather conditions and natural hazards.

Health in Southern Alberta

Southern Alberta has a modern and efficient healthcare system, with hospitals and clinics located in urban and rural areas. Visitors should have travel insurance and carry a list of emergency contacts and medical conditions.

Getting to Southern Alberta: Transportation Options and Logistics

Southern Alberta is easily accessible by various modes of transportation. Here are some options:

Airports Near Southern Alberta

  • Calgary International Airport
  • Lethbridge County Airport
  • Medicine Hat Regional Airport

Bus Stations Near Southern Alberta

  • Greyhound Canada
  • Red Arrow
  • Brewster Express

Other Options

  • Driving: Southern Alberta is well-connected by highways and roads, and driving offers flexibility and convenience.
  • Rail: the Rocky Mountaineer offers scenic train journeys from Vancouver to Banff and Jasper.

How to Get Around in Southern Alberta

Southern Alberta can be explored by various means of transportation:

  • Car: renting a car offers flexibility and the ability to explore remote areas.
  • Bus: public transit and coach bus services are available in urban areas.
  • Bike: many trails and bike lanes are available for cyclists.
  • Walking: exploring on foot is a great way to experience the local culture and attractions.

Where to Go Next from Southern Alberta: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Southern Alberta is a great starting point for exploring the surrounding regions and attractions. Here are some nearby destinations:

  • British Columbia: the Rocky Mountains, Vancouver, and the Okanagan Valley are just a short drive or train ride away from Southern Alberta.
  • Montana, USA: known for its wild west history and natural attractions, such as Glacier National Park and Yellowstone National Park.
  • Saskatchewan: a neighboring province that offers unique cultural experiences, such as the RCMP Heritage Centre and the Badlands of Saskatchewan.

Conclusion

Southern Alberta is a fascinating and beautiful region that offers a mix of natural wonders, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures. By following our comprehensive travel guide, you can plan and enjoy your trip to Southern Alberta to the fullest.

Crowsnest Pass Crowsnest Pass Prince of Wales Hotel, Waterton Lakes National Park Prince of Wales Hotel, Waterton Lakes National Park World's Largest Dinosaur, Drumheller World's Largest Dinosaur, Drumheller Hoodoos Hoodoos Dinosaur Provincial Park Dinosaur Provincial Park


    Claresholm
    Dinosaur Provincial Park
    East Coulee
    Hanna
    Medicine Hat
    Milk River
    Nanton
    Waterton Lakes National Park
    Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park