Top Five Popular Attractions Between Calgary and Red Deer
Are you planning a road trip from Calgary, AB to Red Deer, AB and looking for some must-see attractions along the way? Look no further! Here are the top five popular attractions worth visiting on your journey.
Halfway Point: Olds, AB
Located approximately halfway between Calgary and Red Deer, Olds is a charming town brimming with history, culture, and natural beauty. The town is home to a vibrant arts community, numerous parks and trails, and a variety of shops and restaurants. Stop by Olds College Botanic Gardens for a peaceful stroll amidst the flowers and foliage, or step back in time at the Olds Institute for Community and Regional Development's historical village. Don't forget to swing by the Olds Farmers' Market, held every Thursday from June to September, for some fresh local produce and artisanal wares.
Top Five Places to See List
- Drumheller Hoodoos
- Dinosaur Provincial Park
- Sylvan Lake
- Heritage Park Historical Village
- Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site
Drumheller Hoodoos
The Drumheller Hoodoos are a geological wonder that cannot be missed! These towering sandstone formations, shaped by wind and water erosion, resemble miniature landscapes with their unique shapes and colours. Visitors can walk the Hoodoo Trail to get up close and personal with these fascinating formations, and even climb to the top of the lookout for panoramic views of the surrounding Badlands.
Dinosaur Provincial Park
For a truly prehistoric experience, head to Dinosaur Provincial Park! This UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts one of the richest dinosaur fossil fields in the world, with over 500 species of dinosaurs having been discovered here. Visitors can take guided tours, participate in fossil digs, and hike through the park's otherworldly terrain for a glimpse into the past. Don't forget to visit the park's interpretive center for a crash course in paleontology.
Sylvan Lake
Nestled in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Sylvan Lake is a picturesque spot perfect for a lakeside picnic or a refreshing dip in the water. The crystal-clear lake is surrounded by lush greenery and offers plenty of recreational activities, including swimming, fishing, boating, and hiking. Visitors can also explore the quaint town of Sylvan Lake, with its lively waterfront promenade, charming shops and eateries, and family-friendly attractions like mini-golf and go-karts.
Heritage Park Historical Village
Step back in time at Heritage Park Historical Village, a sprawling living history museum that brings the past to life through immersive exhibits, reenactments, and demonstrations. Visitors can explore over 150 exhibits depicting life in Western Canada from the 1860s to the 1950s, including a recreated fur trading post, a Victorian mansion, and a working 1900s steam-powered sawmill. Kids will love riding the vintage midway rides, taking a horse-drawn wagon tour, and enjoying a sweet treat from the old-fashioned candy store.
Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site
Last but not least, the Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site is a must-visit for history buffs and nature lovers alike. This site preserves the remains of two fur trading forts, built in the late 18th and early 19th centuries by the Hudson's Bay Company and the North West Company, respectively. Visitors can explore the reconstructed fort buildings, attend interpretive programs, and hike through the surrounding wilderness to discover the natural wonders that drew the fur traders to this rugged landscape.
Conclusion
Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for some unique stops on your road trip, these top five attractions are guaranteed to impress. To make the most of your journey from Calgary to Red Deer, we recommend taking Highway 2 North and then veering off onto Highway 72 at Crossfield to reach Olds. From there, head east on Highway 27 to Drumheller, then south on Highway 56 to Dinosaur Provincial Park. Continue south to Sylvan Lake, then head back north on Highway 2 to Calgary, with a detour to visit Heritage Park and Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site along the way. Happy travels!