A Beginners Guide to Alberta
Alberta is a stunning province out west, bordered by the Rocky Mountains and vast prairies to the east. Known for its natural beauty, towering mountains and bustling cities, it is a destination that has something for everyone. In this beginner's guide to Alberta, we will help you get started with your trip planning and explore some of the must see’s and do’s whilst you're there.
Getting Around Alberta
Alberta is a large province, and getting around efficiently is essential. The best way to travel between cities is by car or bus. Car rentals are available at airports and major cities, but make sure you have a valid driver's licence and insurance. If you prefer to use public transportation, then buses and trains are widely available. Cycling is another great way to explore Alberta's natural beauty, with many dedicated bike paths and trails. In larger cities like Calgary and Edmonton, taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also accessible.
Top Places to Visit in Alberta
Top Places to Visit in Alberta Alberta has many amazing places to visit, and it's tough to narrow it down to just a few. Here are some top places that you shouldn't miss:
Calgary
Calgary is a vibrant city located in the province of Alberta, Canada. It is the largest city in the province and is situated at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. You can explore the city's many attractions, such as the iconic Calgary Tower, Prince’s Island Park, and the famous Calgary Stampede, an annual event that celebrates the city's western heritage. The Calgary Tower offers astounding 360-degree views of the city and is the perfect activity for a thrill seeker. It boasts a glass floor on the observation deck that allows you to experience the rush of standing on a transparent surface high above the ground. There is also a revolving restaurant known as Sky 360, which offers a unique dining experience as it completes a full rotation every 45 minutes, providing guests with an ever-changing view of the city.
If you’re after a peaceful retreat from the bustling city, this place is for you. Prince's Island Park is a beautiful urban park situated on an island in the Bow River, with its lush green spaces, walking paths, and a variety of trees and flowers you will be zen in no time. The park is also home to festivals and events such as the Calgary Folk Music Festival and the Canada Day celebrations.
If you’re wanting to soak up some local culture, attend the Calgary Stampede which is one of the most popular festivals in Canada. It showcases the city's western heritage with a range of activities, such as rodeo events, chuckwagon races, a parade featuring floats and marching bands. This is a must-visit event for anyone looking to experience the excitement and spirit of the Canadian west.Overall, Calgary is a great destination for anyone looking for a blend of city and outdoor experiences.
If you are planning on visiting Calgary and want a must see and do itinerary for 48 hours here, then this city blog is for you!
Banff
Banff is a picturesque town located in the heart of Banff National Park. It is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape as well as opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. If you’re looking to have some chill time, go for a soak in the natural hot springs at the Banff Upper Hot Springs or take a scenic gondola ride up to the top of Sulphur Mountain for panoramic views. Bucket list places to visit in Banff include, Banff National Park and The Columbia Icefield.
Banff National Park is a protected area in the Canadian Rockies and was one of the first national parks in Canada. It features spectacular mountain landscapes, glacial lakes, and diverse wildlife. One of the park's most popular attractions is Lake Louise, known for its out of this world turquoise waters. You can experience a once in a lifetime trip across the glacial waters by renting a canoe from The Fairmont Lake Louise. Perfect for you if the outdoors and being on the water is your thing!
Also the The Columbia Icefield is a great place to visit if you love to explore. It is home to one of the largest ice fields in North America and you have a unique opportunity to take a guided tour onto the glacier in a specially designed all-terrain vehicle to witness the power and beauty of the glacier up close whilst taking in the incredible views of the surrounding mountains.
Jasper
Jasper is a charming mountain town located in Jasper National Park. The town is home to a vast range of outdoor activities and attractions that you can explore, from quaint shops and restaurants, hikes on one of the many trails in the area, or scenic drives along the Icefields Parkway. Other Popular attractions in Jasper include Maligne Canyon, Pyramid Lake, and the Jasper SkyTram.
Jasper national park is a must-visit destination if you’re looking to experience the magic and wonder of the night sky. It is the world's second-largest dark sky preserve and has become a popular destination for stargazing, observing the constellations and for tours with Jasper Planetarium to see the Northern Lights. Jasper is a part of the UNESCO Canadian Rocky Mountain Park world heritage sites due to the diversity of wildlife found there with local residents including grizzly bears, moose, and elk.
Another popular attraction in Jasper national park is Pyramid Lake, a kidney bean shaped lake that overlooks the town of Jasper. It’s a great location known for its calm and crystal-clear waters, which makes it a popular destination for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. Boat rentals can be found at Pyramid Lake Resort, but if you’re looking to take it easy, you can also take a leisurely stroll around the lake's scenic shoreline or relax on the beach.
If you’re looking to see a stunning natural wonder, then put Maligne Canyon on your list. The canyon features a series of narrow gorges, waterfalls, and limestone walls that have been carved out over thousands of years by the Maligne River. You can take a leisurely walk along the canyon floor or hike along the rim to enjoy the stunning views of the canyon and surrounding mountain ranges whilst having excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Lastly if you fancy taking things up in the air, the Jasper SkyTram is an experience you must do. It’s the longest and highest guided aerial tramway in Canada, taking you up to 2,277 metres above sea level to the top of Whistlers Mountain. The ride up offers exquisite panoramic views of mountain ranges, lakes, and forests, and is a great way to get a bird's eye view of the park.
Edmonton
Edmonton is the capital city of the province of Alberta, with a population of over one million people, making it the second-largest city in the province. The city is vibrant and diverse with its blend of urban attractions, natural beauty, and lively cultural scene, it offers something for everyone.
The city is known for its beautiful River Valley, which is the largest urban parkland in North America. The River Valley offers opportunities for action packed days, you can take a hike and follow the trail routes, take a bicycle tour with a guide for fun and insightful information about the area or if you want to unwind, why not reserve a picnic spot and eat your lunch alfresco!
It is also home to one of the world's largest malls in the world, so if you fancy a spot of shopping, West Edmonton Mall is your go to place.
If you are planning on visiting Edmonton and want a must see and do itinerary for 48 hours here, then this city blog is for you!
Alberta offers a wealth of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories, and this beginner's guide is just the tip of the iceberg. Whether you're travelling solo or with family, there's something for everyone in Alberta. Just make sure to plan your trip well in advance to make the most of your time in the province.
