Countdown To The 2025 CALGARY STAMPEDE
July 4 – 13, 2025
Calgary Stampede
DAY TRIPS
Mountains to Lakes to Badlands to Prairies – One of the Great Day Trip Cities in the World
Calgary Stampede
DAY TRIPS
Mountains to Lakes to Badlands to Prairies – One of the Great Day Trip Cities in the World
See y'all July 4-13,2025
Oh the Places you’ll go
If you’re looking to take a break from the Calgary Stampede grounds and explore more of what Alberta has to offer, there are plenty of incredible day trips just a short drive from the city.
From the breathtaking Rocky Mountains to buried dinosaurs, Calgary’s surrounding areas provide the perfect opportunity for adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or thrill seeker, there’s something for everyone.
North
215 km – 2.25 hours drive
First off, Rocky Mountain House is neither a home, nor in the Rocky Mountains. It is, in fact, a town which hosts a National Historic Site. It is known as the place “Where Adventure Began” due to it fur trading and expedition origins.
- Rocky Mountain House is a National Historic Site that brings Alberta’s fur trade history to life.
- Explore the Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site, where the Hudson’s Bay Company and North West Company once competed in the fur trade.
- Walk the interpretive trails along the North Saskatchewan River, featuring historic ruins, replica trading posts, and Indigenous storytelling.
- Experience hands-on activities like blacksmithing, hide tanning, and traditional Métis crafts.
- Spot wildlife like bison, deer, and eagles in the surrounding area.
Perfect for: History buffs, families, and anyone interested in Alberta’s Indigenous and fur trading past.
Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site
Step back in time and experience the rich history of the fur trade era at the Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site — a favorite among visitors near Calgary. Explore authentic archaeological remains, walk scenic riverside trails, and meet costumed interpreters who bring history to life. Whether you’re enjoying a peaceful picnic or staying overnight in a heritage-style tipi or trapper’s tent, this site offers a truly immersive and unforgettable experience.
147 km – 1.75 hours drive
Why do we recommend Red Deer as a Day Trip? We don’t. People are going to ask and it is a day trip you can theoretically take.
- It’s the 3rd most populated city in Alberta.
- Stroll through the Kerry Wood Nature Centre and Gaetz Lakes Sanctuary, one of Alberta’s oldest protected natural areas, perfect for birdwatching and scenic walks.
- Explore the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame, showcasing the province’s rich sports history and interactive exhibits.
- Visit Bower Ponds, where you can rent kayaks, canoes, or paddle boats in summer or simply enjoy a picnic by the water.
- Walk or bike the Waskasoo Park Trails, a beautiful network of paths winding through the city’s green spaces.
Perfect for: People Who Live in Edmonton
Step back in time and experience the golden age of the automobile at Gasoline Alley Museum, located in Calgary’s Heritage Park. This unique museum celebrates the rich history of transportation, featuring one of the largest public collections of restored vintage vehicles, gas pumps, and nostalgic memorabilia from the 1900s to the 1950s.
As you walk through the exhibits, you’ll be immersed in the sights, sounds, and stories of a bygone era. From beautifully restored classic cars to colorful oil and gas signage, every corner tells a tale of innovation and style that helped shape modern travel.
300 km – 3.25 hours drive
You need to understand 2 things; First, Edmonton is not a day trip. It’s a 3 hour drive straight north. Second, no self-respecting Calgary tourist site would ever recommend Edmonton. It is possibly the worst city in the entire Galaxy – maybe the Universe.
- We don’t know but if you find yourself there, you could;
- Visit West Edmonton Mall, North America’s largest shopping and entertainment complex, featuring a waterpark, amusement park, mini golf, and hundreds of stores.
- Explore Elk Island National Park, a short drive east of the city, home to free-roaming bison, elk, and scenic lakes perfect for canoeing and wildlife spotting.
- Walk through Old Strathcona & Whyte Avenue, Edmonton’s trendiest district, full of local shops, breweries, and historic buildings.
- Learn about Alberta’s past at Fort Edmonton Park, a massive living history museum with recreated streets from different time periods.
- Take in the Royal Alberta Museum, showcasing Indigenous history, natural history, and interactive exhibits.
Perfect for: Criminals, politicians, and people who hate themselves
Staying in Calgary or going anywhere else on the list.
EAST
215 km – 2.5 hours drive
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Dinosaur Provincial Park is one of the richest fossil beds in the world, where more than 50 dinosaur species have been discovered. Nestled in the Badlands, dinosaurs are routinely discovered by the general public walking around.
- We don’t know but if you find yourself there, you could;
- Visit West Edmonton Mall, North America’s largest shopping and entertainment complex, featuring a waterpark, amusement park, mini golf, and hundreds of stores.
- Explore Elk Island National Park, a short drive east of the city, home to free-roaming bison, elk, and scenic lakes perfect for canoeing and wildlife spotting.
- Walk through Old Strathcona & Whyte Avenue, Edmonton’s trendiest district, full of local shops, breweries, and historic buildings.
- Learn about Alberta’s past at Fort Edmonton Park, a massive living history museum with recreated streets from different time periods.
- Take in the Royal Alberta Museum, showcasing Indigenous history, natural history, and interactive exhibits.
Perfect for: Dinosaur lovers, geology enthusiasts, and families looking for an outdoor adventure
Alberta Parks – 1-Day Guided Excavation
Step into the world of dinosaurs with Alberta Parks’ most thrilling hands-on experience!
The 1-Day Guided Excavation at Dinosaur Provincial Park is a fan-favourite activity for visitors of all ages. It offers the rare chance to dig for real dinosaur fossils alongside paleontology experts. You’ll explore restricted areas of the park, learn excavation techniques, and uncover pieces of prehistoric history buried for millions of years.
140 km – 1.5 hours drive
One of the more unique towns in Alberta. A couple kilometres before arriving, you’re in the Prairies. Nothing but flat farm land. Then as you descend into the town, you enter the Badlands and its incredible topography.
- Drumheller is home to the Royal Tyrrell Museum, one of the world’s top dinosaur museums, showcasing incredible fossils and interactive exhibits.
- Explore the unique Hoodoos, strange rock formations shaped by thousands of years of erosion.
- Drive the Dinosaur Trail, stopping at lookouts and historic sites, including the Star Mine Suspension Bridge.
- Visit the World’s Largest Dinosaur, a massive T-Rex statue with a viewing platform inside its mouth.
Perfect for: Dinosaur lovers, geology enthusiasts, and families looking for an outdoor adventure
Located in the heart of Drumheller, Alberta, the Royal Tyrrell Museum is one of the world’s leading paleontological museums. Dedicated to the science of ancient life, it offers a fascinating look into the age of the dinosaurs and the prehistoric past.
115 km – 1.5 hours drive
Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park is a National Historic Site of Canada and the location where Treaty 7 was signed in 1877 between the Blackfoot Confederacy and the Canadian government.
- Learn about the rich culture, traditions, and history of the Siksika Nation through interactive exhibits, artifacts, and storytelling.
- Walk the sacred grounds of the Blackfoot people, where generations have gathered for ceremonies and trade.
- Take a guided tour led by Blackfoot Elders to gain firsthand knowledge of their history, language, and traditions.
- Visit the Tipi Village, where you can experience Indigenous architecture and even stay overnight in a traditional tipi.
Perfect for: History lovers, cultural enthusiasts, and those looking to deepen their understanding of Indigenous heritage in Alberta.
Step into the rich heritage of the Siksika Nation at Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park, located along the Bow River in Alberta. This cultural and historical site offers a powerful glimpse into the traditions, stories, and resilience of the Blackfoot people.
south
255 km – 3 hours drive
Waterton isn’t typically considered a day trip due to its three-hour drive from Calgary, but if you have the time, it’s a hidden gem worth exploring. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it offers breathtaking landscapes with far fewer crowds than Banff, making it a favourite getaway for locals.
- It’s stunning natural beauty.
- Hike Bear’s Hump for one of the best panoramic views in Canada.
- Take a boat cruise on Waterton Lake, crossing into the U.S. at Glacier National Park.
- Stroll through the charming townsite and visit the historic Prince of Wales Hotel.
Perfect for: Travellers who want a peaceful nature escape with fewer crowds.
Located in Waterton Lakes National Park, Crypt Lake Hike is a world-renowned trail that offers breathtaking views, natural wonders, and a true sense of adventure. Voted as one of the “World’s 20 Most Thrilling Hikes” by National Geographic, this full-day experience is perfect for nature lovers and thrill seekers.
180 km – 2 hours drive
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is one of the best-preserved and most significant Indigenous hunting sites in the world, used by the Plains People for over 6,000 years.
- Learn about the traditional buffalo hunting practices of the Blackfoot people through immersive exhibits, artifacts, and storytelling.
- Walk the interpretive trails to see the actual buffalo jump cliffs and imagine how herds were skillfully driven over the edge.
- Watch live demonstrations and Indigenous drumming and dancing performances (seasonal).
- Gain a deeper understanding of Blackfoot culture, survival skills, and the spiritual connection between the people and the land.
Perfect for: Travellers who want a peaceful nature escape with fewer crowds.
Visitor Information Centre
220 km – 2.25 hours drive
Known for its dramatic mountain scenery, ghost towns, and legendary disasters, Crowsnest Pass is a hidden gem offering a mix of stunning landscapes, rich history, and outdoor adventure.
- Explore Frank Slide, the site of Canada’s deadliest rockslide, where a massive landslide buried part of the town of Frank in 1903. The Frank Slide Interpretive Centre tells the gripping story of the disaster.
- Visit the Leitch Collieries, the ruins of a once-thriving coal mining operation, giving a glimpse into Alberta’s industrial past.
- Take a walk through Blairmore and Coleman, former mining towns now known for their charming local cafes, historic buildings, and mountain-town vibe.
- Hike to Lundbreck Falls, a stunning waterfall just outside of town, perfect for photos and a picnic.
- Experience the legend of The Crowsnest Pass Rum Runners, bootleggers who smuggled alcohol through the region during Prohibition – visit the Ranchman's Speakeasy to learn more.
Perfect for: History lovers, outdoor adventurers, and anyone looking for an authentic and less-touristy mountain experience.
Frank Slide Interpretive Centre
The Frank Slide Interpretive Centre offers a compelling journey into one of Canada’s most dramatic natural disasters—the Frank Slide of 1903. Located in the beautiful Crowsnest Pass region of Alberta, the centre provides visitors with an immersive experience to understand the history, geology, and human stories behind the massive rockslide that buried part of the town of Frank.
Whether you’re interested in learning about the region’s past or simply want to connect with the community’s vibrant culture, the Crowsnest Museum offers a welcoming and informative experience for all ages.
100 km – 1.25 hours drive
A visit to Bar U Ranch is like stepping back in time to Alberta’s Wild West days. Whether you’re learning about cattle drives, watching skilled ranch hands in action, or taking in the stunning foothills scenery, it’s a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the real cowboy spirit of Alberta!
- A National Historic Site of Canada, Bar U Ranch offers an authentic glimpse into Alberta’s ranching history and cowboy culture.
- Once one of the largest and most successful cattle ranches in Canada, it played a key role in shaping the province’s ranching industry.
- Explore historic barns, blacksmith shops, and cowboy quarters, preserved from the late 1800s.
- Watch live demonstrations of roping, blacksmithing, and horse-drawn wagon rides.
- Learn about famous ranchers, including John Ware, one of Alberta’s first Black ranchers and a legendary figure in Western history.
Perfect for: History lovers and those wanting to experience real cowboy culture beyond the Stampede.
Bar U Ranch National Historic Site Visitor’s Centre
At the Visitor’s Centre, you’ll find engaging exhibits that showcase the ranch’s history, its role in the development of ranching in Canada, and the daily life on a working ranch from the late 19th century to the mid-20th century. Interactive displays, guided tours, and multimedia presentations bring the stories of cattle drives, cowboy culture, and ranch innovations to life.
West
130 km – 1.5 hours drive
A visit to Banff is an unforgettable experience, offering world-class hiking, incredible wildlife, and some of the most stunning mountain landscapes in Canada. Whether you’re soaking in hot springs, riding a gondola, or exploring pristine lakes, Banff is a must-visit destination for any Alberta traveler!
- Located in Banff National Park, Canada’s first national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Banff is one of the most breathtaking destinations in the world.
- Stroll down Banff Avenue, a charming mountain town filled with boutique shops, restaurants, and art galleries, all set against a stunning Rocky Mountain backdrop.
- Take the Banff Gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain for 360-degree panoramic views of the Bow Valley.
- Relax in the Banff Upper Hot Springs, a natural thermal pool with spectacular mountain views.
- Explore iconic sights like Lake Minnewanka, Two Jack Lake, and Bow Falls, perfect for photography, picnicking, and hiking.
- Spot wildlife such as elk, deer, and even bears in their natural habitat.
Perfect for: Nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone looking for a quintessential Canadian Rockies experience.
185 km – 2 hours drive
A trip to Lake Louise is a must when visiting Alberta, offering some of the most breathtaking views and outdoor experiences in Canada. That picture you’ve seen of the Canadian Rockies… it’s Lake Louise and it’s a real picture.
- Famous for its stunning turquoise waters, Lake Louise is one of the most photographed and breathtaking spots in the Canadian Rockies.
- Nestled in Banff National Park, this glacier-fed lake is surrounded by towering mountain peaks and the iconic Fairmont Château Lake Louise.
- Canoe on the lake in the summer for an unforgettable experience with postcard-perfect views.
- Hike to Lake Agnes Tea House, a scenic 7.6 km round-trip trail leading to a charming alpine tea house overlooking a high-altitude lake.
- Visit in winter for world-class ice skating, snowshoeing, and skiing at Lake Louise Ski Resort.
Perfect for: Photographers, outdoor enthusiasts, and nature lovers.
110 km – 1.25 hours drive
A trip to Canmore is perfect for those who love the Rocky Mountain experience without the crowds, offering incredible hiking, dining, and adventure in one of Alberta’s most charming small towns!
- A quieter alternative to Banff, Canmore offers stunning Rocky Mountain views, outdoor adventure, and a laid-back small-town vibe.
- Stroll through downtown Canmore, filled with local art galleries, craft breweries, and cozy cafés.
- Hike the Grassi Lakes Trail, an easy but rewarding trek leading to crystal-clear turquoise lakes and breathtaking views.
- Try rock climbing, mountain biking, or cave tours for a more adventurous experience.
- Enjoy the view of one of the most beautiful and distinct mountains in the Canadian Rockies - The Three Sisters
Perfect for: Travelers looking for outdoor activities, scenic hikes, and a relaxed mountain-town atmosphere.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, training opportunities, or the beauty of the outdoors, the Canmore Nordic Centre offers an unforgettable experience in every season.
45 km – 0.75 hours drive
Beautiful Bragg Creek is a hamlet nestled in Alberta’s foothills. Famous for hiking, cycling, mountain biking, and horseback riding in the summer, Bragg Creek is the perfect getaway to recharge from those long, busy days at Stampede.
- Explore Bragg Creek Provincial Park, with scenic hiking trails, picnic spots, and access to the Elbow River.
- Visit Elbow Falls, a beautiful waterfall just a short walk from the parking area, perfect for photos and a peaceful nature break.
- Stroll through Bragg Creek’s historic hamlet, filled with local boutiques, western-style shops, and delicious eateries.
- Ride the West Bragg Creek Trails, a top spot for mountain biking and cross-country skiing in Alberta.
- It’s the unofficial beginning of the Cowboy Trail
Perfect for: Nature lovers, families, and those looking for a relaxing day trip away from the city.
90 km – 1 hours drive
Nestled in the foothills of the Canadian Rockies, Kananaskis is a wilderness paradise offering breathtaking scenery, abundant wildlife, and endless outdoor adventure. Often seen as a quieter, less touristy alternative to Banff, it’s the perfect destination for those seeking hiking, wildlife spotting, and year-round adventure without the crowds.
- A rugged and less-crowded alternative to Banff, Kananaskis is where the locals go.
- Hike Rawson Lake, Ptarmigan Cirque, or Ha Ling Peak, each offering stunning alpine views.
- Visit Kananaskis Nordic Spa for a luxurious outdoor hydrotherapy experience with hot and cold plunge pools, saunas, and mountain views.
- Take a guided horseback riding tour through pristine wilderness for an authentic western experience.
- Spot wildlife, including bighorn sheep, elk, bears, and even wolves.
- Try whitewater rafting on the Kananaskis River, perfect for thrill-seekers.
Perfect for: Adventure seekers, hikers, golfers, and those looking for an off-the-beaten-path Rocky Mountain experience.
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