Alberta

A place where the Wild West meets contemporary Canadian Culture, Calgary is your gateway to the Canadian Rockies and home of the famous Calgary Stampede. Often referred to as the "Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth," this is the place to be if you’re looking for a taste of Alberta's vibrant Western culture. Held every July, this iconic event features rodeo competitions, chuckwagon races, live music, and carnival rides, attracting visitors from around the world. Experience the thrill of the rodeo, cheer on the cowboys and cowgirls, and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of this annual celebration of Western heritage.

No visit to Alberta is complete without exploring the breathtaking beauty of its national parks, particularly Banff and Jasper. Home to turquoise lakes, rugged mountains, and iconic landmarks such as Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Maligne Canyon and the Columbia Icefield, these parks offer endless opportunities for hiking, wildlife spotting, and outdoor adventure. See bears in their natural habitat, keep your eyes peeled for moose in the mountains, and witness soaring eagles riding thermal currents. Why not take a scenic drive along the Icefields Parkway, one of the most scenic routes in the world? 

Winters bring the excitement of dog sledding through Jasper National Park; playing pond hockey in Lake Louise; feeling the rush as you glide down snow-capped mountains and uncrowded slopes at Banff National Park’s world-class ski resorts; throttling up for fun on a snowmobile through thick forests and across frozen streams; and watching in wonder as the skies above Alberta come alive with the mesmerising spectacle of the Northern Lights! Looking for a winter break? Why not try something new in the stunning wintery lands of Alberta? 

From Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park and Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump to Bar U Ranch National Historic Site and Rocky Mountain House Historic Site, there are plenty of places to become a time traveller in Alberta. Learn about Alberta’s inhabitants and natural environment at Edmonton’s Royal Alberta Museum or if you’re a music lover, discover 2,000+ musical items including one of Elton John’s pianos at Calgary’s Studio Bell: Home of the National Music Centre. But the history doesn’t stop there. Step back in time and discover Alberta's prehistoric past at Dinosaur Provincial Park in the Badlands of southern Alberta. Explore the otherworldly landscape on a fossil safari, and marvel at the impressive collection of dinosaur skeletons on display.

Alberta’s restaurants have something for every palate. Discover local bison, beef, and game meats like elk and deer on many a food-to-table menu; while indigenous chefs showcase their roots with innovative cuisine based on ancient traditions in towns and cities throughout the province. Iconic regional specialities not to be missed include Alberta Steak, Ginger Beef, Green Onion Cakes, Edmonton Donairs, Poutine, 100% Rye Whiskey, and a Caesar cocktail.