5 of the biggest tourist traps in Alberta, according to locals
Know where to go. 👇
Calgary Tower. Right: Town of Banff.
Alberta has a lot going for it in terms of things to do, but like most places out there, it has its fair share of tourist traps. You know, places that draw you in with the promise of fun, typically cost a lot, and often leave you feeling a bit duped?
Every destination has a few, and there's no one better to call them out than locals. The Narcity Canada Facebook page asked people what they think the biggest tourist traps in the province are, and people had a lot to say, with over 100 responses.
They were quick to give advice on places to skip, so if you're planning a trip out West, then take notes. Here's what locals think are the biggest tourist traps in Alberta.
West Edmonton Mall
The person who called out West Edmonton Mall got 25 likes on their comment, which says it all. The mall is legendary, holding the Guinness Book of World Records title of the largest shopping centre in the world for 24 years. However, it still stands as the largest in North America, with much more to it than shopping. There are 800 stores, two hotels, and 16 attractions here.
The Edmonton Tourism website calls it "the Mt. Everest of shopping and indoor entertainment" and it takes up 48 city blocks of space.
There's a tropical waterpark with the world's largest indoor wave pool and 17 waterslides, a two-storey go-kart track, and a hotel with room themes ranging from space to prehistoric times.
Apparently, even with all these offerings, some consider it a tourist trap. It's a pretty hyped-up attraction, so it makes sense that it's hard to live up to the reputation it's gotten.
Banff
This one is disappointing to hear, but multiple people deemed Banff a tourist trap. Many gave the small town credit for its beauty, but the drawback is the crowds and price tag that come along with a visit.
Banff is propped up as one of the top destinations in the world, renowned for it's charming vibes, stunning mountain views, and the adventure of the area. It's just an hour and a half from Calgary, making it pretty easy for tourists to visit, and it delivers the classic Rocky Mountain experience many are looking for from a visit to Western Canada.
Since it's so great, though, it's become a hot spot for visitors, driving up costs and crowding the little town during the height of the season.
For some, the pros outweigh the cons, but others might want to head to more low-key towns nearby, like Canmore or Jasper.
Calgary Stampede
@jonas_molino T'was Fun 🥲 #stampede #calgarystampede #yyc
This 10-day long event draws in people from around the world, usually donning cowboy boots and ready to party, but like most big events – it comes with a price tag.
The city transforms during the stampede into a giant party with live events, tents, rides, and loads of tourists. As you might imagine, this can mean some chaos and serious long lines. Then, you have the prices for everything from ride tokens and food at the events to hotels and accommodation costs.
It's famous for a reason and has a lot going for it, but beware of the cost and the crowds.
Lake Louise
Right outside the town of Banff is Lake Louise, which apparently is another tourist trap.There's no questioning that this spot is beautiful, with the jagged peaks of the mountains wrapped around the bright turquoise lake.
In the winter months, you can go skating on the lake or, if you visit during the Ice Magic Event, walk around the incredible frozen sculptures. In the summer, it's just as beautiful, and visiting here means exploring the rest of Banff National Park, too. Then, you also have the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise perched along the shore with incredible views of the lakeside scenery.
The crowds may give you pause, though, since the lake becomes pretty packed with people early on in the day. It makes parking tricky and taking in the iconic scene a bit less magical.
Luckily, the park is full of beautiful lakes and mountain views, and you can definitely find some areas that will let you soak up nature in peace without so many people.
Calgary Tower
Alberta is all about views, and the Calgary Tower is one of the best ways to get them. It's an iconic part of the city, as seen in most of the skyline photos. At 191 metres high, it towers above the city, and there's an observation deck where you can get a 360° view of the city, Rocky Mountains, foothills, and prairies beyond.
There's a glass floor you can walk out on if you're not too scared of heights and a revolving restaurant for a unique dinner experience.
It's really made for visitors looking to see the city, but not everyone thinks it's worth the visit. General admission is $23, and the restaurant is on the pricier side, with dinner mains ranging from $28 to $46. Like most big city attractions, it can get busy when there are lots of tourists in town.
It depends on what you want from a trip if these spots are worth facing the crowds for, but there's a lot to see in Alberta, so choose wisely!