9 must-see spots in Alberta that you need to check out when you're visiting
If you're planing a trip, listen up.
Alberta small town. Right: Swimming hole Alberta
If you're planning a trip to Alberta and want to know all of the best spots to check out, you're in luck. From small towns in Alberta to breathtaking natural wonders and hidden swimming holes — this list has you covered.
We turned to the local Narcity audience to see where to visit in the province while on a trip, and they came through. Get ready to see some of the most stunning spots Alberta has to offer.
Jasper (check out Horseshoe Lake)
Horseshoe Lake is a go-to swimming spot with emerald waters, that's set right off the Icefields Parkway in Jasper — which was shouted out as a must-see spot.
The Icefields Parkway takes you from Banff to Jasper and is brimming with stunning spots like this. Take the iconic road trip and stop for a dip at this hidden gem (the trail is about 1.6 kilometres long).
Then stay in Jasper and enjoy the beautiful little town.
Peyto Lake
@thesikhabroad peyto lake is one of those places that doesn’t even look real—it’s like stepping into a postcard. the water is this crazy, bright glacier blue that you have to see to believe. to get there, drive to the bow summit parking lot in banff national park. from there, it’s a quick and easy hike up to the main viewpoint. the trail is well-marked, and it only takes about 15 minutes to reach the top. once you’re there, the view will literally take your breath away. seriously, it’s so worth it, and you’ll feel like you’re standing in the middle of a painting. #solotravel #travel2025 #traveltok #traveltips #travelvlog #trending #banff #canada🇨🇦 #banffnationalpark #travelvlogger
The thing about Alberta? You don't have to work too hard to get incredible views. The journey to see Peyto Lake proves it, because it's just 1.3-kilometres.
The stunning bright turquoise lake is set in Banff National Park, so there's lots of beauty here to check out if you make the trip.
Drumheller
This little town is known as the "Dinosaur Capital of the World," and has a massive statue of a T-Rex to prove it!
It's tucked away in the Canadian Badlands, with incredible scenery surrounding town and trails that take you past vast canyons and awe-inspiring hoodoos.
Visit the Royal Tyrrell Museum to learn about the dinosaurs and make sure to go and see the Willow Creek hoodoos.
Waterton Provincial Park
This park is about two and a half hours away from Calgary and overflowing with beauty and adventure. There's a small townsite nestled in it all, making for the perfect base with everything you need. It's a bit of a hidden gem with less crowds than other hot-spots, but just as much charm.
You can enjoy the stunning lake, check out the many hiking trails, go for a horseback ride, or even enjoy some afternoon tea at the Prince of Wales Hotel.
Banff
It's an obvious one, but also a must-visit nonetheless.
Just an hour and a half away from Calgary, there's a reason this small town is a go-to. It's bustling with activities and adventure, and has tons of restaurants, cafes, and shop to check out.
Then you have the jaw-dropping beauty of the park, hot springs to soak in, and charming streets to wander.
Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump
This spot is a UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site, with an incredible landscape and cultural significance, preserving over "6,000 years of Plains Buffalo and Blackfoot culture," according to Travel Alberta.
You can visit the interpretive centre here and learn more about the buffalo jump and Blackfoot history.
World's Largest Perogy
If you love a roadside attractions, Alberta is actually full of them. Among the popular ones is The World’s Largest Perogy — which reaches 27 feet tall and weighs 6,000 pounds, according to Travel Alberta.
It's located in a little village called Glendon, which is small — but where else can you see a perogy this big? Nowhere.
Canmore
This is another one nice and close to Calgary, just over an hour away from the city. It feels like it's a world away though, with a quaint vibe and mountain peaks all around it. Main Street is perfect to wander down, popping in and out of local spots like Cafe Books, which has been named as one of Canada's "dreamiest" bookstores.
Then you also have the incredible nature around town, ready to be explored.
Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary
This wolfdog sanctuary near Cochrane got a shout out, and it makes for a fun and unique activity. You can visit and get tours with the wolfdogs, surrounded by beautiful scenery.
Cochrane is also a cute spot to visit, with a western vibe and a slow-pace.
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.