Drumheller simply might be the coolest location to go to in Alberta Many people make a beeline to the Canadian Rockies in Banff or Jasper, however the Canadian badlands are not to be missed out on. The town of Drumheller produces a fantastic base to check out a few of Alberta’s quirkiest and most incredible tourist attractions. So let’s check out the dinosaur capital of the world and have a look at all the cool things to do in Drumheller.
The Amazing Landscape of Drumheller
Drumheller is a village 90 minutes east of Calgary It can quickly be done on a outing from Calgary, however to truly experience all of the incredible things to see and do near Drumheller, you require a minimum of 3 days. We have actually produced this travel guide to motivate you to invest a long time in Drumheller and check out more of Alberta outside the Canadian Rockies.
If you prepare to go to Drumheller, you will desire an automobile We have this stretch of roadway as one of the very best drive in Canada. You can get automobiles straight at the Calgary Airport. Inspect rates for vehicle leasings in Alberta here.
Things to do in Drumheller
An old coal-mining town that is house to the wealthiest dinosaur fossil collection on the planet, Drumheller provides a lot of activities for outside lovers, history enthusiasts, and photography fans. The surrounding Drumheller location is simply as interesting as the spectacular Canadian Rockies, so let’s begin and have a look at what to do in Drumheller and beyond!
Dinosaur Path
The Dinosaur Path in Drumheller, Alberta, provides a fascinating journey through the heart of Canada’s dinosaur nation, revealing the special landscapes and ancient heritage of the area. Winding through the significant badlands and rolling hills, this beautiful path includes a range of noteworthy tourist attractions, consisting of the prominent Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology, which houses among the world’s biggest screens of dinosaur fossils.
The Path is divided into the North Dinosaur Path and the South Dinosaur Path and we will break this travel guide into various parts to concentrate on each. However when going to Drumheller you need to make certain to see it all.
South Dinosaur Path
1. Hoodoos of Drumheller
The Hoodoos are the star destination of Drumheller. They are a cluster of thin rock spires with a thick rock cap resting on top. The cap secures the spires from entirely deteriorating away. They are smaller sized than you ‘d anticipate as a little cluster on the side of a hill, however they are incredible. The hoodoos lie simply off the side of the roadway a brief walk from the car park, however they are interesting.
If you are up for a little light hiking, you can reach the top of the hill to ignore the hoodoos.
Made from sandstone, they formed over centuries of disintegration. These fairy tale chimneys are extremely fragile and 2 to 4 feet every 100 years. Many individuals just remain at the hoodoos for a couple of minutes taking in the small cluster of pillars resting on the side of the roadway. However take your time to see them from all angles and make certain to raise to the high lookout. Check out our experience here.
2. Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Website
The Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Website is what this location was constructed around at the turn of the 20th century. Running from 1936 to 1970 the Atlas Coal Mine produced coal to power steam engines for CN and CP rail heading to the meadows. It is thought about Canada’s best-preserved total coal mine and visitors can explore the mine and can climb up the last wood tipple in Canada.
You can do a self-guided trip of the premises, however to access the underground and tipple you will require to take a directed trip. You will see Which’s where all the cool things is! The Tipple was utilized to transfer coal to the train automobiles and you’ll be travelling through the underground tunnels.
- Admission is Grownups: $14.00 Youth/Senior: $11.00 ( Self-guided)
- Where to Remain In Drumheller: If you are searching for lodging in Drumheller, we advise Heartwood Inn and Day Spa There is an evaluation at the bottom of this post.
3. East Coulee School Museum
If you wish to pop into a museum to discover a bit more about life in the coal mining days. The East Coulee School Museum is a ghost town embeded in an old schoolhouse that concentrates on life in your home for the households of the miners from 1930– 1971.
It acts as both a celebratory facility and an instructional center, intending to protect and portray the history and heritage of the East Coulee location and its individuals, especially concentrating on the life of coal miners and their households. If you drop in for a go to you will see the historical school structure and experience what it resembled in the class and there is a coal mining exhibition, artifacts, and images.
4. Last Opportunity Saloon
It might be the very first stop on your drive south from Drumheller, however we recommend stopping here on your method back, it’s a fantastic location for lunch or supper. The Last Opportunity Saloon is among the coolest locations to consume in Alberta! To arrive, you require to detour off Highway 10 to Highway 10x and drive west.
After crossing 11 bridges zigzagging over the Red Deer River, you get to the Last Opportunity Saloon. This was a wild west kind of saloon where coal miners invested their income on the weekends and numerous a brawl broke out. They have actually ensured to leave bullet holes on the walls to reveal the rowdy heritage. You’ll absolutely wish to stroll through and browse the images and souvenirs. It’s a living museum!
5. Wayne
The Last Opportunity Saloon, lies in the ghost town of Wayne situated 14km southeast of Drumheller. This was the heart of the mining market where as soon as 3000 individuals resided in the town, and 10,000 resided in the surrounding neighborhoods.
The 11 one-lane bridges deserve the drive alone, they remain in the Guinness Book of World Records as the most bridges situated in the fastest range. (Guinness will determine anything!) The only structure left standing today is the Rosedeer Hotel which is linked to the Last Opportunity Saloon. Check out our complete trip at The Cowboy Path– A Southern Alberta Journey
6. Star Mine Suspension Bridge
Note: The Rosedale Suspension bridge is completely closed however we believed we ‘d leave in a bit about the history.
Built in 1931 the Star Mine Suspension Bridge, (aka Rossdale Suspension Bridge) is a bridge covering the Red Deer River that you can stroll throughout. This 117-meter-long suspension bridge was produced to offer coal miners from the Rosedale neighborhood access to the Atlas Coal Mine. Prior to that, they rowed throughout the river.
7. North Dinosaur Path Drumheller
The North Path takes you on a loop north of Drumheller along Hwy 837 and 838. There is a lot to see on this 48 km loop. Going out of Drumheller the path will lead you along the north side of the Red Deer River. This path provides lovely views of the badlands, the Little Church, and the Bleriot Ferryboat crossing.
Make certain to take your time to opt for walkings and take pleasure in the perspectives. The entire appeal of this part of Alberta is experiencing the amazing surroundings.
Another excellent Alberta Journey is the Icefields Parkway. Inspect it out here.
8. World’s Largest Dinosaur
Canadians like roadside tourist attractions, and it is fitting that the dinosaur capital of the world shows the world’s biggest Dinosaur. The structure is a design Tyrannosaurus rex that stands around 86 feet (26 meters) high and 151 feet (46 meters) long, making it almost 4 times bigger than a genuine T. rex would have been.
Throughout the Street is Rotary Spray Park which is a popular location for households, particularly throughout the warmer months. The park provides a range of activities and centers to keep visitors of any ages captivated. The park includes a big spray pad with numerous water functions, water fountains, and spray nozzles that kids can go through and play in. It’s a fantastic method to cool down on a hot day.
10. Hoodoo Path
The hoodoos of Drumheller are the whole factor we wished to go to Drumheller in Alberta So beginning on the Hoodoo Path is our primary thing to do. From Drumheller, begin driving south along Highway 56 to highway 10 following the Red Deer River. The majority of the path lies in Midland Provincial Park which provides a lot of pull-offs and picnic stops. The Hoodoo Path is an out-and-back path amounting to just 50km. (23.5 km each method) Learn More: The Hoodoos of Drumheller
We recommend going straight to the Hoodoos in the early morning prior to they get too hectic and after that take your time checking out the remainder of the path. Learn More of our southern Alberta Journey here.
11. Royal Tyrrell Museum
We aren’t ones to gush over museums, however the Royal Tyrrell Museum is incredible! 75 million years back, dinosaurs wandered this land and they left their mark all around Drumheller. The Royal Tyrell Museum is the very best dinosaur museum on the planet showing the discovers that have actually been found throughout Drumheller and the Badlands. Unlike many museums worldwide where dinosaur skeletons are phony, the Royal Tyrell plants genuine dinosaur bones.
Plus, The Royal Tyrell Museum has the best-preserved genuine T-Rex skulls on the planet and there are real Paleontologists dealing with bones. You can approach them to talk with them, and there are others working behind glass revealing you what is associated with excavations.
12. Badlands Interpretive Path
While you are at the Royal Tyrrell Museum, walk along the Badlands Interpretive Path situated in Midland Provincial Park.
When you get to the park, you can follow the indications to find the beginning point of the Badlands Interpretive Path. The path provides a chance to learn more about the geology, paleontology, and ecology of the Canadian Badlands.
13. Horsethief Canyon
The very first perspective you will see along this drive is Horsethief Canyon. It is the timeless Alberta Badlands website and what a sight to see! Horsethief Canyon got its name from cowboy hooligans concealing taken horses in the 1800s. When taking a look at the canyon listed below, you can see how it produced a fantastic hiding location!
You can in fact see the layers of time engraved in the canyon walls. There are platforms to take in the panoramas and you can go treking. I extremely advise treking through the badlands. It’s an unique chance. Simply make sure to bring a lot of water, it fumes!
14. Little Church
As we stated above, Canadians like a roadway side destination and the Little Church of Drumheller is absolutely that! Integrated in 1968 as a location for meditation and praise. It is likewise a traveler destination in Drumheller drawing in 10,000 individuals 6 at a time. It seats 6 individuals and still runs as a wedding event chapel and holding services. How cool would it be to get wed here?
15. Bleriot Ferryboat
Cross the Red Deer River by utilizing the Bleriot Ferryboat. It’s complimentary and it’s constantly cool to take a ferryboat. Running daily from 8 am to 11 pm from May through September, this little ferryboat crossing has actually functioned considering that 1913. It’s the earliest cable television ferryboat in The United States and Canada! And the ferryboat is complimentary!
16. Orkney Perspective
When you cross the river, you are now en route back along the Dinosaur Path and the Orkney Perspective provides lovely views of the Red Deer River Valley. Found on high red rock cliffs, it’s the essential Alberta view.
17. Horseshoe Canyon
When driving from Calgary this will be the very first stop you see on your method to Drumheller. Or if you are us, the last stop you see on your escape. However it can absolutely be done on the Dinosaur Path. Horseshoe Canyon has a 3.9 kilometer loop path for much better views of its coulees and hoodoos and the abundance of wildflowers that grow in the canyons. Bear in mind, it can get extremely hot in the Alberta Badlands, so constantly bring water.
18. Dinosaur Provincial Park
After investing a number of days in Drumheller checking out the Dinosaur Path and the Hoodoo Path, make your method to Dinosaur Provincial Park to truly go into the dinosaur culture.
19. Centrosaurus Quarry Walking
Found in the heart of the Alberta Badlands, this UNESCO World Heritage Website is house to the wealthiest collection of dinosaur fossils in the world. You can take a trip out to The Centrosaurus Quarry to see real dinosaur fossils. When you understand what you are searching for (which you learn more about on this directed walking) they are all over. Much of the park is off-limits as it is still a working excavation website, however there are a couple of trip chances.
We truly enjoyed our walking, however we likewise took a sundown trip by bus taking us out to all the incredible lookouts looking for its abundant deposits of dinosaur bones. Dinosaur Provincial Park should have a number of days to check out. Check Out everything about it here.
When to Check Out Drumheller
When going to the Drumheller location there are a couple of things to consider. We have actually broken down the very best time to go to.
- Late Spring (May to June):
- The weather condition starts to heat up, and the landscape comes alive with flowering wildflowers.
- Outside tourist attractions and routes are open for expedition.
- There may be less crowds compared to the peak summer season.
- Summertime (July to August):
- This is the peak traveler season in Drumheller, with warm temperature levels and long days.
- The majority of occasions, celebrations, and outside activities are arranged throughout these months.
- Popular tourist attractions like the Royal Tyrrell Museum and the World’s Largest Dinosaur can be hectic, so strategy appropriately.
- Early Fall (September):
- The weather condition stays enjoyable, however the crowds begin to lessen.
- The landscape includes lovely fall colors, and outside activities are still satisfying.
Things to Think About:
- Weather Condition: The weather condition in Drumheller can be rather variable, so it’s smart to examine the projection and come prepared with layers, sun security, and proper shoes.
- Crowds: If you choose a quieter experience, think about going to throughout the shoulder seasons (late spring or early fall) to prevent peak crowds.
- Destinations Accessibility: While summer season provides the most availability to tourist attractions, some websites and activities stay open in the off-season, using a various experience.
- Occasions: Inspect the regional occasion calendar for celebrations, exhibits, or other happenings throughout your go to.
No Matter when you go to, Drumheller provides a special and enhancing experience with its interesting dinosaur heritage, striking badlands landscape, and a range of indoor and outside activities.
Drumheller Travel Plan in 2 Days
To assist you prepare a journey to Drumheller, we assembled a simple downtown Drumheller Schedule in 2 days. Delight in!
Day 1: Checking Out Ancient Marvels
Early Morning: Royal Tyrrell Museum
- Time: 9:00 AM– 12:30 PM
- Activity: Start your Drumheller experience at the Royal Tyrrell Museum. Check out the interesting displays showcasing Canada’s ancient past, including among the world’s biggest screens of dinosaurs.
- Tips: Show up early to prevent crowds. Do not forget to have a look at the museum’s turning unique displays!
Lunch: Bernie and the Boys Restaurant
- Time: 1:00 PM– 2:00 PM
- Activity: Delight in a hearty meal at this regional favorite, understood for its mammoth-sized hamburgers and milkshakes.
- Area: 305 4 St W, Drumheller, AB T0J 0X0, Canada
Afternoon: Drumheller’s Giant Dinosaur & & Fossil World
- Time: 2:30 PM– 4:30 PM
- Activity: Climb Up inside the World’s Largest Dinosaur and take pleasure in the scenic views of Drumheller. Later, head to Fossil World Dinosaur Discovery Center for interactive displays and fossil digging activities.
- Tips: The climb inside the Giant Dinosaur includes stairs, so use comfy shoes!
Supper: Sublime Food and Red Wine
- Time: 6:00 PM– 8:00 PM
- Activity: Delight in a great dining experience at Sublime Food and White wine, taking pleasure in locally-sourced meals in a relaxing environment.
- Area: 109 Centre St, Drumheller, AB T0J 0Y0, Canada
Night: Drumheller Valley Lookout
- Time: 8:30 PM– 9:30 PM
- Activity: End your day by seeing the sundown over the spectacular landscapes of the Drumheller Valley from among the beautiful lookouts.
- Tips: Bring a light coat, as it can get cold at night.
Day 2: Experience & & Picturesque Appeal
Early Morning: Horsethief Canyon & & Bleriot Ferryboat
- Time: 9:00 AM– 11:30 AM
- Activity: Start with the attractive Horsethief Canyon, followed by a flight on the historical Bleriot Ferryboat throughout the Red Deer River.
- Tips: Use durable shoes for treking and bring your cam for some lovely landscape images!
Lunch: WHIFS Flapjack Home
- Time: 12:00 PM– 1:00 PM
- Activity: Enjoy some tasty pancakes and other hearty breakfast fare at this regional gem.
- Area: 680 2 St E, Drumheller, AB T0J 0Y0, Canada
Afternoon: Horseshoe Canyon & & ATV Experience
- Time: 1:30 PM– 5:00 PM
- Activity: Check out the awesome landscapes of Horseshoe Canyon. Think about reserving an ATV trip for a thrilling flight through the canyons.
- Tips: Gown properly for outside activities and bring water to remain hydrated.
Supper: Yavis Household Dining Establishment
- Time: 6:00 PM– 8:00 PM
- Activity: Conclude your adventure-filled day with a relaxing meal at Yavis Household Dining establishment, a regional facility using a varied menu.
- Area: 1102 AB-9, Drumheller, AB T0J 0Y3, Canada
Night: Ghost Stroll Trip
- Time: 8:30 PM– 10:00 PM
- Activity: If offered, sign up with a regional ghost walk trip to check out the spooky and strange side of Drumheller, learning more about regional legends and folklore.
- Tips: Use comfy walking shoes and bring a flashlight.
This two-day travel plan provides a mix of experience, history, and natural charm, showcasing the special appeal of Drumheller, Alberta. Make certain to examine the schedule of activities and opening hours of locations ahead of time, as they can differ depending upon the time of year. Safe takes a trip!
Where to Remain In Drumheller
Heartwood Inn and Day Spa is a popular option in Drumheller. We remained here and liked it! Jackie Chan and Owen Wilson remained here throughout the shooting of Shanghai Midday. If it’s excellent enough for them it’s excellent enough for Dave and Deborah! It’s a fantastic inn with sophisticated spaces and friendly owners. It’s the kind of location that takes an interest in what you see and do and provides exceptional guidance.
We particularly enjoyed their popular French Toast in the early morning. It’s the only thing they serve for breakfast. As the owner stated to us “I do something and something effectively.” Yum!
Other Places to Remain In Drumheller
Cactus Coulee Enjoyable Park & & Recreational Vehicle Resort is a fantastic location to remain in Drumheller with kids. Even if you are not remaining at Cactus Coulee Enjoyable Park & & Recreational Vehicle Resort, you can go to for the day and take pleasure in the tourist attractions like go-karting, miniature golf and EuroBungy
Horseshoe Canyon Camping Area is another excellent location to stick with tenting, cabins, and recreational vehicle hook-up.
Dinosaur Provincial Park has actually camping also. Read: Dinosaur Provincial Park– Glamping Trip in the Alberta Badlands
And these are the leading tourist attractions near Drumheller. Have you been to the Alberta Badlands? Where is your preferred location to go to in Alberta?