Welcome to your ultimate ’15 days in Alberta’ travel guide! Alberta, known for its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage, offers an unforgettable adventure. From the rugged Rockies to the sprawling prairies, here’s a detailed day-by-day itinerary to help you make the most of your trip. Whether you’re seeking luxury or a cozy cabin experience, we’ve got accommodation suggestions, must-see attractions, dining spots, and practical travel tips.
Day 1-2: Calgary
Accommodations:
- Fairmont Palliser: This historic luxury hotel offers elegant rooms,a full-service spa, and an indoor pool. Its central location makes it a perfect base for exploring downtown Calgary.
- Hotel Arts: A stylish boutique hotel featuring contemporary design,an outdoor pool, and a vibrant atmosphere. The on-site restaurant, Yellow Door Bistro, is also highly recommended.
Key Attractions:
- Calgary Tower: Take in 360-degree views of the city from the observation deck and enjoy a meal at the revolving Sky 360 restaurant. – Heritage Park Historical Village: Experience Canada’s largest living history museum with over 200 exhibits, including an antique midway, historic buildings, and a working steam train.
- Fish Creek Provincial Park: Explore one of the largest urban parks in Canada, spanning over 19 kilometers. It offers hiking, biking, bird-watching, fishing and the Sikome Aquatic Facility, a man-made lake for swimming.
Dining Options:
- River Café: Situated on Prince’s Island Park, this restaurant offers farm-to-table with a focus on sustainable, locally sourced ingredients. The tranquil riverside setting is perfect for a relaxing meal.
- Charbar: Located in the historic Simmons Building in the East Village, Charbar features a diverse menu with Argentine-inspired dishes, fresh seafood, and wood-fired meats.
Transportation:
- Within Calgary: Utilize the C-Train for easy and affordable city travel, especially in the downtown core where rides are free. Buses and ride-sharing services are also convenient.
- To Drumheller: Drive or take a shuttle service (approx. 1.5 hours.)
**Extra:**
Calgary Stampede (early July) is a must-visit event if you’re in town, featuring rodeos, concerts, and a carnival.
Day 3-4: Drumheller and the Badlands
Accommodations:
- Heartwood Inn and Spa:This charming bed and breakfast offers uniquely decorated rooms and a relaxing spa. The cozy atmosphere makes it a perfect retreat after a day of exploring.
- Newcastle Country Inn: A charming,family-run bed and breakfast in Drumheller, offering cozy accommodations and a hearty homemade breakfast. Located close to major attractions like the Royal Tyrrell Museum and the Hoodoos, it provides a perfect base for exploring the Badlands.
Key Attractions:
- Royal Tyrrell Museum: Home to one of the world’s largest displays of dinosaurs, this museum offers interactive exhibits and educational programs that are perfect for all ages.
- Hoodoos: These striking rock formations, shaped by millions of years of erosion, are a must-see. A short hike offers excellent views and photo opportunities.
- Dinosaur Provincial Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its badlands scenery and abundant dinosaur fossils. Guided tours and self-guided trails are available.
Dining Options:
- Last Chance Saloon: Surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Badlands, and located within a historic ghost town, this unique and nostalgic establishment offers hearty meals, live music, and a glimpse into Alberta’s wild west past.
- Bernie & The Boys Bistro: A local favorite known for its gourmet burgers, made of 100% natural Alberta beef and selection of over 75 different milkshakes.
Transportation:
- Within Drumheller: Rent a car or use local taxis to get around.
- To Edmonton: Drive to Edmonton (approx. 3 hours.) Or, take a bus or shuttle service.
Day 5-6: Edmonton
Accommodations:
- Fairmont Hotel Macdonald: A luxurious hotel set in historic building. With stunning views of the North Saskatchewan River Valley. Enjoy fine dining, a spa, and beautifully landscaped gardens.
- Matrix Hotel:Located in the heart of the city, this hotel provides convenient access to the Edmonton river valley, and many shops, restaurants, cafes, and theaters. With modern amenities and chic decor, Matrix offers a soothing atmosphere.
Key Attractions:
- West Edmonton Mall: North America’s largest shopping mall featuring over 800 stores, an indoor amusement park, water park, ice rink, and mini golf.
- Royal Alberta Museum: Explore exhibits on Alberta’s natural and cultural history, including Indigenous artifacts, dinosaur skeletons, and wildlife dioramas.
- Elk Island National Park: A haven for wildlife enthusiasts, this park is home to ree-roaming bison, elk, and over 250 species of birds. Enjoy hiking, canoeing, and stargazing.
Dining Options:
- RGE RD: Celebrates local produce with a farm-to-table dining experience. With afocus on wood fire cooking and whole animal butchery, their menu features juicy meats including steak, elk, and bison.
- The Marc: A French bistro offering a refined menu with classic dishes like steak frites, duck confit, and escargot, all prepared with high-quality ingredients.
Transportation:
- Within Edmonton: Use the Edmonton Transit Service (ETS) for convenient city travel and consider purchasing a day pass for unlimited rides.
- To Jasper: Drive to Jasper (approx. 4 hours.) Or, take a VIA Rail train or a shuttle service.
Day 7-9: Jasper National Park
Accommodations:
- Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge:A luxurious resort situated on the shores of Lac Beauvert, offering stunning views, a golf course, and a full-service spa. The rustic-chic cabins provide a perfect blend of comfort and nature.
- Pine Bungalows: Cozy, eco-friendly cabins located along the Athabasca River, offering a peaceful retreat with easy access to hiking trails and wildlife viewing.
Key Attractions:
- Maligne Lake: Known for its vibrant blue waters and iconic Spirit Island. Enjoy a boat cruise, canoeing, or hiking the surrounding trails.
- Athabasca Falls: A powerful waterfall set amidst picturesque scenery. Well-maintained trails and viewpoints make it easy to explore.
- SkyTram: Ride to the top of Whistlers Mountain for panoramic views of the Rockies. Hike the summit trail for even more breathtaking vistas.
Dining Options:
- The Raven Bistro: This bistro offers a fusion of Mediterranean and Canadian cuisine, with dishes like bison short ribs and Moroccan lamb stew in a stylish setting.
- Syrahs of Jasper: Known for its intimate atmosphere and innovative dishes, this restaurant uses local ingredients to create memorable meals like wild game and fresh seafood.
Transportation:
- Within Jasper: Use the local shuttle service, rent a bike, or walk to explore the town and nearby attractions.
- To Banff: Drive along the scenic Icefields Parkway to Banff, (approx. 3.5 hours.) Shuttle services are also available.
Day 10-12: Banff National Park
Accommodations:
- Fairmont Banff Springs: Often called the “Castle int he Rockies,” thisl uxury resort offers elegant rooms, a world-class spa, and numerous dining options. The historic architecture and scenic views are unparalleled.
- Baker Creek Mountain Resort : Offers charming cabins and lodge suites with cozy fireplaces and beautiful mountain views. The resort’s location provides easy access to Lake Louise and other attractions.
Key Attractions:
- Lake Louise: A must-see for its stunning turquoise waters, surrounded by towering peaks and the Victoria Glacier. Canoe rentals and hiking trails are available.
- Banff Gondola: Take a scenic ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain for breathtaking views of the Bow Valley. Enjoy the interpretive center and boardwalk trails at the summit.
- Johnston Canyon: Hike through the canyon to see beautiful waterfalls and deep pools. The trail is well-maintained and offers easy access to the Lower and Upper Falls.
Dining Options:
- The Bison Restaurant: Features regional cuisine with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Enjoy dishes like bison ribeye and wild boar ragu in a rustic-chic setting.
- Park Distillery: A unique dining experience with campfire-inspired dishes andhouse-made spirits. Try the smoked meats and craft cocktails.
Transportation:
- Within Banff: Use the Roam Public Transit service or rent a bike to get around the town and nearby attractions.
- To Kananaskis Country: Drive to Kananaskis Country (approx. 1.5 hours.
Day 13-15: Kananaskis Country
Accommodations:
- Kananaskis Mountain Lodge: A luxury resort with stunning views, a spa, and multiple dining options. Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and skiing, or relax in the Kananaskis Nordic Spa.
- Mount Engadine Lodge: Offers cozy, remote cabins perfect for nature lovers. The all-inclusive lodge provides meals and activities, making it an ideal retreat for relaxation and adventure.
Key Attractions:
- Kananaskis Nordic Spa: Relax and rejuvenate in the outdoor pools, saunas, and steam cabins. The stunning mountain backdrop enhances the experience.
- Barrier Lake: Ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, and picnicking. The clear blue waters and surrounding mountains create a picturesque setting.
- Peter Lougheed Provincial Park: Perfect for hiking, wildlife viewing, and photography. The park offers numerous trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes.
Dining Options:
- Forte: Located in the Kananaskis Mountain Lodge, this restaurant offers a variety of delicious Italian dishes such as wood-fired pizzas and housemade pastas.
- Sauvage: An upscale restaurant with a focus on innovative, seasonal cuisine inspired by the surrounding wilderness. Dine while enjoying stunning views of the surrounding Rocky Mountains.
Transportation:
- Within Kananaskis: Use a car or bike to explore the area.
- To Calgary: Drive back to Calgary (approx. 1.5 hours.)
As you reflect on your 15-day journey through Alberta, you’ll cherish the memories of breathtaking mountain vistas, serene lakes, and the warm hospitality you encountered along the way. Alberta’s natural wonders and vibrant cities provide a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, ensuring an unforgettable experience. Until your next visit, the majestic Rockies, sprawling prairies, and charming towns will be waiting to welcome you back. Safe travels and see you soon in beautiful Alberta!
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