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The ULTIMATE Guide of Best Things to Do in Drumheller (for 2024)

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Compiled by the Road Trip Alberta team

Updated on January 30, 2024

Many people who visit Alberta immediately look west. And we can’t blame them – the Rocky Mountains possess an interminable draw. But it would be a mistake to do so repeatedly and not turn attention to the east. It’s where the Canadian Badlands stretch out across the prairies, where dinosaurs used to roam, and where there are so many things to do in Drumheller, the town that sits at its epicentre.

It is nearly all dinosaurs, all the time, as Drumheller is home to the world-famous Royal Tyrell Museum. It is Canada’s one and only museum dedicated to paleontology. There are so many creative and fun experiences apart from the museum. Try spotting all the dinosaur statues around town, including the world’s largest (you can’t miss it!) It’s a fun way to spend a few hours or even a few days.

The geology of the Badlands themselves is a marvel. Have you ever hopped on a hoodoo? Probably not, if you haven’t been to or around Drumheller, but trust us and add it to your bucket list. 

Our complete guide to what to do in Drumheller gives you all you need to know, including how to get here and enjoy this goodness in the Badlands.

About the Town

Acknowledgments.

The land on which Drumheller is located is Treaty 7 territory and the traditional territory of the Niitsitapi (Blackfoot), Nakoda (Stoney), and Tsuut’ina.

History of Drumheller

The area around Drumheller was once a tropical paradise full of flora and fauna, and dinosaurs flourished here.

Drumheller was first a railway station and was first incorporated as a village in 1913. It was then recognized as a city in 1930. It started as a coal-mining town and boomed until after WWII. In 1998 it amalgamated with the Municipal District of Badlands and reverted back to town status.

Today Drumheller is a hot spot for dinosaur tourism and the agriculture industry. The community is known for its hospitality and sunny days.

Fun fact: The first part of the Albertosaurus was found in the Drumheller area all the way back in the 1880’s!

Where is Drumheller?

Driving east through southern Alberta’s rolling prairies, the fields will suddenly give way to steep and colourful coulees! The Drumheller Valley is the heart of the Canadian Badlands.

Getting to Drumheller

Calgary to drumheller.

The fastest driving route from Calgary to Drumheller is 135km and takes approximately 1.5 hours. From Calgary, take Highway 2 north to Balzac, then head east on Highway 566. At Keoma, take Highway 9 north, and this will bring you directly into Drumheller.

Edmonton to Drumheller

The fastest route from Edmonton to Drumheller is 281km and takes approximately 3 hours of driving. From Edmonton head south down Highway 21 to Bashaw then head east before turning south on Highway 56. Follow Highway 56 through Stettler and then south directly into Drumheller.

Lethbridge to Drumheller

The fastest route from Lethbridge to Drumheller is 262km and takes approximately 3 hours. From Lethbridge, head north on Highway 23 to Mossleigh. Next, head east towards Highway 1 before turning north on Highway 56, which will take you into Drumheller.

Medicine Hat to Drumheller

The fastest route from Medicine Hat to Drumheller is 246km and takes approximately 2.5 hours. From Medicine Hat, take the Trans-Canada (Highway 1) east to Highway 56. Then, turn north and continue directly into Drumheller.

For more detailed instructions, check out our guide on how to get to Drumheller .

If you don’t have your own car, there are generally many rental options from wherever you may want to originate in Alberta! We recommend booking via  RentalCars.com , to select the cheapest rate or to book with whichever company you prefer.

Looking for some fun things to do along the way? We’ve got a whole article themed on Alberta Badlands road trips that will be sure to fill you with ideas.

The closest airport to Drumheller is Calgary International Airport (YYC). For directions on how to get from YYC to Drumheller, check out our guide on how to get to Drumheller .

Note that Wild West Badlands Tours acts as a Taxi service from the Calgary International Airport. They can help you get to and from town.

There are currently no direct bus routes from Calgary and Edmonton to the Drumheller area. Some taxis will take you from Calgary, but finding willing drivers elsewhere can be challenging. See our travel to Drumheller guide for more information.

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Practical Essentials

When to visit drumheller.

Drumheller is a destination you can visit year-round, but you’ll want to visit when there’s plenty of daylight to get as much exploring time as possible. That means the best time for visiting Drumheller is between June and September! Make sure to book accommodations and tours ahead of time to avoid disappointment as the little town can get very busy.

Weather in Drumheller

Summer is the most popular time for visitors, with Drumheller weather being very pleasant, having an average temperature of 26°C. But don’t be fooled. In the summer, nights can get cold, so having layers is necessary.

Winter in Drumheller is typically snowy and cold, with an average temperature of -18°C.

Getting Around Drumheller

Drumheller is a small town – so small, in fact, that it does not have a public transit system! People get around via car, bicycle or walking. The town has a tourist map to help you find your way on foot.

For taxis in Drumheller, you are also low on options. Classic Cabz is the only choice.

Where to Stay in Drumheller

Luxury (ish) – Keep in the dinosaur theme of your vacation going and stay at the Canalta Jurassic ! In addition to a great location, this top-rated Drumheller hotel also includes a complimentary breakfast with your stay. And if you are travelling with kids, Ramada by Wyndham is also in a great location and offers an indoor pool and waterslides.

Mid-range – Benefit from the remarkable Badlands scenery in a budget-friendly hotel. Travelodge by Wyndham is nestled right in the river valley and is an excellent option if you are only looking for a place to spend the night and have endless adventures happening all day during your stay.

Budget – Take your dinosaur experiences with a side of local history and stay in the Dinosaur Hotel , which was originally built in 1924 and has rooms for cheap.

Home away from home – Airbnb is always one of our favourite ways to stay in new places, and there are a few options for a Drumheller Airbnb to choose from!

Camping – Planning on pulling your own RV or pitching a tent? Then we’ve got you covered with this guide to the best Drumheller camping spots .

Sights to See in Drumheller

A hoodoo is a tall and thin rock spire made of sandstone. Formed over millions of years, the Drumheller hoodoos mark the landscape surrounding the town and provide a remarkable backdrop for selfies! Standing 5 to 7 feet tall, smaller versions of hoodoos can be found throughout the Badlands, but the biggest ones can be found in a protected site right within Drumheller (just outside of town, east on Highway 10). Keep in mind that hoodoos are incredibly fragile so climbing in most places is prohibited.

Horseshoe Canyon & Horsethief Canyon

There are two canyons near Drumheller which allow for magnificent views (and plenty of hiking). Of the two, Horseshoe Canyon is busier due to being right on Highway 9, so it sees plenty of Calgary traffic but is only 17 km southwest of Drumheller. To get to Horsethief Canyon, follow the Dinosaur Trail north past the Royal Tyrrell Museum for 16 km. (See more in our guide to hikes in Drumheller .)

Both canyons are where the yellow canola fields meet the quintessential Badlands landscape. Be sure to follow the interpretive signs as it’s deceptively easy to get turned around in the canyons. Also, be sure to know the weather forecast as conditions can change rapidly.

Orkney Viewpoint

Located 17 km northwest of Drumheller, this simple lookout provides some of the most stunning views of the Red Deer Valley. Perched high on red rock cliffs watch the Red Deer river snake through the river valley for a great distance.

The Little Church

It’s a wee little thing that only fits six people at a time, and stands in stark contrast to the enormity of the landscape around it. It makes for a cool photo opportunity (although recognize that it is a place of worship – so be respectful!) and is very near the Royal Tyrell Museum, so easy to make a stop.

World’s Largest Dinosaur

Climb 106 stairs into the mouth of the largest dinosaur in the world! You’ll take in the views of downtown Drumheller through the T-Rex’s mouth. The dinosaur structure stands 86 ft (25 metres) tall and 151 ft long and she (yes she!) has been looking over the town since 2001. The Drumheller dinosaur is an iconic part of this Dinosaur Capital of the World , and certainly one of the most popular of all the Alberta roadside attractions .

Drumheller DinoWalk

Take a self-guided tour around downtown Drumheller and get to know over 20 dinosaurs that were discovered in the area. Each way-finding sign location features one of the dinosaurs, so you can learn about the prehistoric heritage while visiting different areas around the town. All of the locations are mapped out here .

Rossdale Suspension Bridge

Located 9 km from Drumheller, the historic Rosedale Suspension Bridge was once used by miners to get to and from the mines. Now the bridge is a favourite fishing spot with the locals as well as a cool backdrop for a selfie. Note that it is currently closed for repairs but we hope it is open again soon!

Best Things to Do in Drumheller

Drumheller royal tyrrell museum.

Being the Dinosaur Capital of the World , Drumheller offers visitors the world-class Royal Tyrrell Museum which takes visitors into the not-so-distant past when dinosaurs roamed the earth. It houses the world’s largest displays of dinosaurs and Canada’s only museum dedicated exclusively to paleontology.

It’s a must-see and makes a great day trip destination from Calgary. Visitors will marvel at the hundreds of thousands of fossils in the museum and take in the sheer magnitude of the reconstructed displays. They also allow a glimpse into the work uncovering each fossil takes with observation windows into paleontologist labs.

Tip: Test your hand at archaeology and sign-up for one of their interactive digs experiences!

East Coulee School Museum

Twenty minutes east of Drumheller, the East Coulee School Museum gives a glimpse into the life of a coal town, focusing on the home life and schools of the coal mining era of the Drumheller Valley. The 11-room building operated as a school from 1930-1971 and now pays tribute to the men and women who built their homes, raised their families, and contributed to the coal mining community of East Coulee.

Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site

Step back in time to a more dusty and dirty period in Alberta’s history. The history of coal mining and the time when “Coal was King” in the Drumheller Valley is displayed at Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site. Their signature experiences take curious visitors on specialty tours that explore parts of the site not normally seen by the public. 

Fossil World Dinosaur Discovery Centre

Get a dinosaur experience that is fun for the whole family at the Fossil World Discovery Centre , complete with an animatronic T Rex! Enjoy a variety of hands-on experiences including digging up a dinosaur skeleton and learning how to identify different minerals while taking in over 200 real fossil specimens. And don’t forget to check out Drumheller’s largest fossil and souvenir gift shop on your way through.

Badlands Amphitheatre & Rosebud Theatre

The outdoor Badlands Amphitheatre is naturally formed by the massive Badlands coulees and seats 2,500 spectators. Throughout the summer season, it holds a variety of musical, theatre, and light shows.

For another performing arts option, the Rosebud Theatre attracts its own share of visitors to this community of fewer than 100 people, just 35 km southwest of Drumheller. With five plays a year and shows happening seven times a week, the musical and theatrical productions at Rosebud Theatre are widely-acclaimed.

The Bleriot Ferry

Short but sweet, a ferry ride across the Red Deer River is a fun (and free!) thing to do while in Drumheller. While it only lasts a few minutes, this ride on the traditional cable ferry allows you to check out views on both sides of the river, linking both sides of the North Dinosaur Trail. Commissioned in 1913 and built by Andre Bleriot, the Bleriot Ferry is a great little detour that connects the roads that access Horsethief Canyon and the Orkney Viewpoint. Add it to your Drumheller road trip for a bit of whimsy!

Note: the ferry is seasonal, so is closed in winter.

Where to Eat in Drumheller

• Definitely plan to go to Whifs FlapJack House if you are looking for the best breakfast joint in Drumheller. (Note that they are closed during winter months, and generally open again in March.) Tip: get there before lunch because they close shortly after!
• Featured on the Food Network’s “You Gotta Eat Here”, Bernie & the Boys Bistro is known for their extremely generous portion sizes and serving the juiciest burgers in Drumheller. Tip: If you’re into spicy food, try the Volcano Burger with magma sauce!
• A unique dining experience is located in a (very) small community of Wayne, Alberta. It’s located just 14km southeast of Drumheller and has a population of roughly 50 people. The Last Chance Saloon is in the historic Rosedeer Hotel and served thirsty Rosedeer coal miners in the 1920s. Now it is a decorated restaurant where every item on the walls has a story behind it.

Want more options? Check out our post on restaurants in Drumheller .

In the Area

Calgary/banff.

In just 1 1/2 hours you can find yourself in CowTown . Whether you’re a foodie, an art lover, or a sports enthusiast, the biggest city in Alberta has something that everyone will love! Take a walk down 17th Avenue SW for some shopping and people-watching (there are many great restaurants there, too). Catch sports action at one of the stadiums around the city or get involved at one of the many beloved parks. Our full Calgary Destination Guide covers everything you’ll need to know! Want to cruise a little further? Take yourself from the Badlands to the Canadian Rockies. You can get from Calgary to Banff in just a little over an hour more. Let our Banff Destination Guide woo you there, too.

Dinosaur Provincial Park

If your dinosaur interests have been peaked but not sated, we highly recommend also visiting Dinosaur Provincial Park , just 170 km east of Drumheller. It’s the landscape from which many of the displays in the Royal Tyrrell Museum are recovered.

Visiting other spots in Alberta? Check out our extensive guide for all the things to do while visiting Jasper or Edmonton !

ALSO, don’t forget that while you’re on the road, you can download our FREE Road Trip Alberta bingo cards , to make it just that much more fun!

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THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Drumheller

Things to do in drumheller, explore popular experiences, tours in and around drumheller.

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Tours & sightseeing.

Top Attractions in Drumheller

Other Top Attractions around Drumheller

Cultural & Theme Tours

What travellers are saying.

• Royal Tyrrell Museum
• Horsethief Canyon
• Rosedale Suspension Bridge
• Horseshoe Canyon
• Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site
• The Hoodoos
• Midland Provincial Park
• Mcmullen Island Day Use Area
• Drumheller (Dinosaur Valley) & Horseshoe Canyon 1-Day Tour
• Bleriot Ferry

10 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Drumheller

Written by Chloë Ernst and Michael Law Updated Dec 27, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

About 75 million years ago, dinosaurs roamed the region around Drumheller, at one time a vast inland lake with a tropical climate and lush vegetation. In 1884, by sheer chance, geologist J. B. Tyrrell stumbled across some dinosaur bones lying among the cacti and stones of the Alberta Badlands while in the region searching for coal.

Quite unwittingly, Tyrell started the "great Canadian dinosaur rush," with paleontologists and collectors from around the world streaming into the Badlands in their horse-drawn wagons to catch a piece of the action.

Today, Drumheller's main attractions focus on these discoveries. Many of the dinosaur remains they dug up can be seen in numerous museums in the area, across Canada, and around the world. Discover the best places to visit to see these amazing dinosaur sites and remains, as well as countless other things to do, with our list of the top tourist attractions in Drumheller.

See also: Where to Stay in Drumheller

1. See the Dinosaurs at the Royal Tyrrell Museum

2. drive the dinosaur trail, 3. hike the badlands & horseshoe canyon, 4. cruise the hoodoo trail scenic drive, 5. explore the geology of horsethief canyon, 6. learn about mining at the atlas coal mine national historic site, 7. climb inside the world's largest dinosaur, 8. explore dinosaur provincial park, 9. visit dry island buffalo jump provincial park, 10. midland provincial park, map of attractions & things to do in drumheller, frequently asked questions, where are alberta's badlands, when is the best time to visit alberta's badlands, where to stay in drumheller for sightseeing.

The Royal Tyrrell Museum displays hundreds of fossils from its vast collection of over 160,000 examples, including numerous dinosaur skeletons. The most modern museum techniques have brought millions of years of the earth's history back to life here, with fascinating displays enhanced by easy-to-use computer terminals that provide visitors with an insight into the evolution of life on Earth.

Located on the north bank of the Red Deer River just six kilometers north of Drumheller, the 132,500-square-foot museum-named after the man who first discovered dinosaurs here-opened in 1985 and has since drawn worldwide acclaim for its paleontology research and exhibit facilities.

A primeval garden shows tropical and subtropical plant species at the start of the Carbonaceous Period with their modern descendants. A variety of fun workshops and lectures are also offered, along with guided tours. The museum has a well-designed app for your mobile device in English plus six different languages including French, Spanish, Chinese (Simplified), German, and Japanese. Be sure to download it before you arrive.

A café and a gift shop are located on-site.

Address: 1500 N Dinosaur Trail, Drumheller, Alberta

Along Highways 838 and 837, the Dinosaur Trail takes in an area of steep and barren rocky slopes from which wind and rain have revealed whole dinosaur skeletons and carved mushroom-shaped pillars known as "hoodoos." The 48-kilometer scenic tour lies to the west of Drumheller and edges Red Deer River.

If the amazing scenery wasn't enough to impress you, the attractions along this circular drive will surely do the trick. Leaving Drumheller, at the bridge where Highway 9 crosses the river, visitors can climb inside a giant Tyrannosaurus Rex sculpture and visit an old coal mine that's been preserved as Midland Provincial Park (also where the Royal Tyrrell Museum is located). Farther northwest, Bleriot Ferry carries passengers across the Red Deer River and has been in operation since 1913.

A tour of the Badlands follows Highway 9 northeast of Calgary and passes through flat hills and partly irrigated arable land until arriving in Drumheller in the Red Deer River Valley. Some 17 kilometers west of Drumheller, the deeply slashed Horseshoe Canyon is a large chasm resembling a mini Grand Canyon. It shows the forces of erosion in the area and the complete lack of vegetation. The little vegetation that does grow in the Badlands includes sagebrush, greasewood bushes, and cacti.

This is a popular location for hikers, drawn here for the chance to explore its unique landscape. An easy 3.9-kilometer hiking trail takes you to the heart of the canyon and is well worth undertaking. A full-service campground is a short distance away if you feel like spending additional time here.

One of the highlights of a visit to the badlands is the Hoodoo Trail Scenic Drive between Rosedale and Lehigh. The route offers great views of the region and more specifically the weirdly shaped hoodoos. These sandstone rock pillars exist in gravity-defying shapes and make for fun photography. An interpretive trail leads down into the heart of the hoodoos.

Start your tour south of Drumheller on Highway 10 to the east. After about eight kilometers, the route passes the Rosedale Swinging Suspension Bridge , originally built by the workers of the Old Star Coal Mine. It leads across to a now unused coal mine. The drive returns along the same route, but consider extending your trip just a bit past Lehigh to stop in at the Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site .

Once the hideout of renegade horse rustlers, the appropriately named Horsethief Canyon today is the domain of curious hikers checking out the fantastic geological story. Footpaths lead down into the canyon to fossilized oyster beds, past layers of colorful sedimentary rock.

The routes in the canyon make for a challenging hike but the effort is rewarded when you get to the bottom. You may be the only person there, and the incredible silence of the canyon is a special experience in today's busy and noisy world.

On Hoodoo Drive, visitors can tour one of the 139 coal mines that were located near Drumheller. One of the biggest, the now inactive Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site , offers underground tours through the mining tunnels and rides on a narrow-gauge train. A number of unique experiences are also now available, including tours that offer a unique insight into the working conditions of the time. The mine closed in 1979, part of a shift to natural gas as a heating fuel.

The East Coulee School Museum is another local attraction in what's now nearly a ghost town, and introduces school life in the year 1936.

Address: 110 Century Drive, East Coulee, Alberta

Given the countless references to dinosaurs in and around Drumheller, it should probably come as no surprise that the town just so happens to be home to the World's Largest Dinosaur . Named Tyra, she stands an impressive 26 meters tall and 46 meters long, this huge beast is a novelty attraction that's well worth a visit, with guests actually being able to climb inside to a fun viewing platform, through the 72-ton dinosaur's huge mouth (it's a bit of a climb, consisting of 106 steps, but is well worth the effort).

Address: 60 1 Ave W, Drumheller, Alberta

If you've enjoyed your time among the dinosaurs in Drumheller and want to see more, head 70 minutes south to Dinosaur Provincial Park . Located in the Red Deer River Valley and northeast of Brooks, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to rich deposits of dinosaur bones.

This Badlands park is one of the best parks in Alberta and has a visitor center with extensive exhibits. Dinosaur hunters are always welcome for guided hikes, bus tours, and hands-on excavations.

The campground in the park has 120 camping spots available for tents and RVs, including one that offers a luxury "comfort camping" experience. The sites are located on or near the Red Deer River and are shaded by large cottonwood trees.

Note that Dinosaur Provincial Park and the Royal Tyrell Museum are easily confused. Although both deal with the history of dinosaurs, one has a museum and one does not.

To hunt large numbers of bison, Cree First Nations people would drive animals along the high-level plateau and over sharp cliffs above the Red River Valley. This Badlands park is about 100 kilometers north of Drumheller and offers camping, bird-watching, fishing, and canoeing. Keep an eye out for fossils, too-the park has an important Albertosaurus bone bed.

Be careful not to confuse Dry Island Buffalo Jump with the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump site 3.5 hours to the south near Fort Macleod.

Address: Hwy 585, Elnora, Alberta

Located just at the edge of town, Midland Provincial Park is worth a visit. The park has a few walking trails that showcase the coal mining history of Alberta. You'll find them in the Midland Coal Mine Day Use Area.

As you walk along the trail, informative signs tell the story of the area and of the coal mine that once operated here. The original coal mining office is also located in the park and is open to visitors.

Midland Provincial Park has recently installed a Disc Golf course. You will need to bring your own equipment to play. Admission to the park is free. The Royal Tyrrell Museum is located in the park.

The general area where the Badlands are found stretches eastward from Drumheller to the Saskatchewan border and southwards from Drumheller to the border with the United States.

The best time to visit Alberta's Badlands is in spring, early summer, and fall. In the spring, you'll have the best chance of seeing wildflowers, and the rivers will be at their fullest. Early summer and the fall find temperatures reasonable, making exploring the Badlands on a hike a pleasant experience.

Summer can be unbearably hot in the afternoon. If you visit at this time, be sure to start your day early.

To help you in your search for the perfect accommodations when visiting the many dinosaur-related attractions in and around Drumheller in Alberta, we've pulled together the following list of some of our favorite places to stay.

Mid-Range Hotels :

• At the higher end of the mid-range hotel category, the pleasant 3.5-star Heartwood Inn & Spa features friendly staff, uniquely decorated guest rooms, spa services, and a great French toast breakfast.
• The Ramada by Wyndham Drumheller Hotel & Suites is another good choice and comes with a pool and waterslide, a free continental breakfast, and a fitness center.
• Take a look, too, at the aptly named Jurassic Inn by Canalta Hotels , which features a variety of upgraded rooms and suites with whirlpool tubs and fireplaces, a free breakfast, and free cookies and popcorn.

Budget Hotels :

• The SureStay Plus by Best Western Drumheller is a good quality two-star hotel featuring a number of family rooms, an indoor pool, a waterslide, and a hot tub. It also offers a free breakfast, ample parking, plus a fitness room.
• Another good choice is the Econo Lodge Inn & Suites Drumheller , a budget hotel in a central location featuring great service and clean rooms.

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The Best of Alberta : One of the top places to visit within the province of Alberta , the capital city of Edmonton features plenty of fun things to do, from its great museums to its nature preserves and wildlife reserves. The city of Calgary is also well worth visiting, especially if your visit coincides with the famous Calgary Stampede held each July. Then, of course, there's beautiful Banff , particularly popular for sights that include Lake Louise and the majestic Banff Springs Hotel.

Canada Vacation Ideas : Canada's world-class cities are well worth exploring. A great starting point is the country's largest city, Toronto . Here, you'll enjoy everything from the breathtaking view from the CN Tower to great museums and art galleries. Over on the West Coast, the cities of Vancouver , famous for its incredible Stanley Park attractions , and Victoria over on Vancouver Island , are well worth including in your Canada travel itinerary .

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The Drumheller Valley is one of Alberta's best kept secrets and #1 staycation destination! When you visit us, you will find yourself marveling at the wealth of history in the region. There are many sites and attractions for everyone. Start planning your visit today! Travel Drumheller 60 1st Ave W, Drumheller AB, T0J 0Y0 Phone: 403-823-1331 Toll Free: 1-866-823-8100

• 1 Understand
• 3 Get around
• 10.1 Dinosaur Trail
• 10.2 Rosebud

Drumheller is a town in the Southern Alberta region of Alberta , famous for the rich deposits of fossils found in the area. It is an important centre for Palaeontology in Canada . Set in a characteristic "badlands" valley carved in the plains by the Red Deer River, Drumheller rose through coal mines — now abandoned — early in the 20th century. Now this town of 8,000 (2016) gets hundreds of thousands of visitors between May and September, making it the hub for tourism in the area.

Understand [ edit ]

Drumheller's tourism is strongly seasonal. Many attractions are closed or open limited hours from October through April.

The town is nestled in the Red Deer River valley. Near the bridge where the highways cross the river stands an 86-foot (26 m) tall sculpture of a Tyrannosaurus Rex and the Visitor's information centre, so this makes a good reference point. Downtown Drumheller is just south and east of this bridge.

Drumheller tourist information is broadcast on FM 94.5.

The weather is usually very hot in the summer (above 30°C, 85°F). Remember to carry mosquito repellent — there are lots of mosquitoes around!

Get in [ edit ]

Drumheller is located at the convergence of provincial highways 9, 10, 56, 575, and 576.

Drumheller is 140 km (87 mi) northeast of Calgary , about 1 hour 45 minutes by car. Drive east along the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) to Highway 9, which travels north and east to Drumheller. An alternate route is to drive north along Highway 2, then east along Highway 72 (exit 295), which connects with Highway 9 in the small town of Beiseker. Travelers can approach from the east by taking Highway 9 (Saskatchewan Highway 7) from Saskatoon or taking the Trans-Canada Highway from Regina and then go north on Highway 56.

Tour companies offer day trips to the Royal Tyrrell Museum and the Drumheller Valley. Call the Royal Tyrrell Museum for more information.

Independent travelers staying in Calgary, but wishing to see sights in the Drumheller area without renting a car, may wish to consider the Canadian Badlands Day Trip from Calgary . Sights include the Royal Tyrrell Museum, Horseshoe Canyon, the Atlas Coal Mine museum and the hoodoo rock formations. Serious dinosaur fans may find the visit to the Royal Tyrrell Museum somewhat hurried due to time constraints.

Get around [ edit ]

Drumheller is a small, rural town. The downtown is compact and easily walkable. Beyond that, you will need an automobile. A bicycle would also do, but during tourist season it is hot, and the roads don't have good bike lanes.

See [ edit ]

The badlands landscape is visible all around the town, as it is set in the valley. Although the Horseshoe and Horsethief canyons are good viewpoints to look over town, the best introduction to the landscape is probably on the trails leading from the Tyrrell Museum. The trails there have good views through the canyon, and information signs to give and introduction to the geology. They are all free to access, and it's probably around 2 hours to wander around outside there on clearly marked and graded trails. There are considerable steps, though - so access still requires some moderate fitness.

• Suspension Bridge .  
• Hoodoos Trail .   — a 500-m easy loop trail takes you out to see a collection of 10 fantastical stone columns with caprocks. It's 16 km SW of Drumheller; take Highway 56 to Highway 10 on the way to East Coulee, and look for the signs.
• Homestead Antique Museum , 901 North Dinosaur Trail , ☏ +1 403 823-2600 . Open daily 10AM-5PM (May-Oct), extended hours in summer, closed after Thanksgiving . Over 10,000 artifacts from the Victorian and Edwardian era, including a two-headed calf and a complete house bought from an Eaton's catalogue. $5/person, $3/senior or youth .  

Do [ edit ]

• Mountain View Helicopters , ☏ +1 403 334-4354 . Sightseeing flights over Horseshoe Canyon. $40/person for 2-3 people .  
• Fossil World , 1381 Dinosaur Trail North ( on the way to the Royal Tyrell Museum ), ☏ +1 403 823-6666 . Dig up and take home fossils.  

Buy [ edit ]

• Greentree Mall ( Highway 10 East ), ☏ +1 403 823-5555 . Open daily. . Mall has a variety of shops, including food, gas, auto service, clothing, haircuts, and more.  

Eat [ edit ]

• Vietnamese Noodle House ( 2 St W at A Ave W ). Tu-F 11AM-9PM; Sa Su noon-8PM . Vietnamese noodles, ice cream, and a variety of other everyday fare in an unpretentious setting.  
• Bernie and the Boys Bistro , 305-4 Street W , ☏ +1 403 823-3318 . Tu-Su 11AM-9PM . Burgers, subs (sandwiches), salads, pasta, pizza.  
• Triumph Cafe , 100 S Railway Ave , ☏ +1 403 823-4543 . 6AM - 10PM .  
• Sizzling House , 160 Centre St , ☏ +1 403 823-8098 . Canadian Chinese. Weekday buffet lunch. Buses welcome. ( updated Nov 2021 )
• Fred & Barney's Family Restaurant , Highway 9 S ( Across from Jurassic Inn ), ☏ +1 403 823-2803 . Chinese & Western buffet. Bus tours welcome.  
• Sublime , 109 Centre Street ( across from the arena ), ☏ +1 403-823-2344 . Tu-Su 5PM-9PM . Fine dining made from a Red Seal Chef Dennis Standage. One of the best little restaurants in Alberta. $15-40 . ( updated Nov 2016 )

Drink [ edit ]

• The Recovery Tap House , 30 Railway Avenue West ( Downtown Drumheller ), ☏ +1 403 823-2340 . 11AM - 2AM . Great steaks, sandwiches and regular pub food $10-20, daily lunch specials . ( updated Nov 2016 )
• The Vintage Tap House . ( updated May 2019 )

Sleep [ edit ]

• Super 8 Motel , 800- 680 2nd St SE , ☏ +1 403 823-8887 , toll-free: +1-888-823-8882 . Waterslide, guest laundry, high speed internet. Family suites and kitchen suites available.  
• The Drumheller Inn , 100 S Railway Ave , ☏ +1 403 823-8400 , fax : +1 403 823-5020 . Air-conditioned rooms, indoor pool, whirlpool. "Drumheller's only full service hotel", they claim.  
• Best Western Jurassic Inn , 1103 9 Hwy S , ☏ +1 403-823-7700 . Pool. Hot tub. Guest laundry. High speed Internet.  
• Rivergrove Camground ( across the river from the World's Largest Dinosaur ), ☏ +1 403 823-6655 , fax : +1 403 823-3132 . On the river, just across from downtown. Cabins. Full service facilities. Washroom & showers. RV waste dump. Laundry.  

Nearby [ edit ]

Dinosaur trail [ edit ], rosebud [ edit ].

Rosebud (Alberta) is 35 km (22 mi) southwest of Drumheller. Drive south on Highway 9. After it turns west, drive 16 km (9.9 mi) more to get to the Rosebud crossing.

• 51.299992 -112.951877 2 Rosebud Theatre , 106 Martin Avenue, Rosebud , ☏ +1-403-677-2001 , toll-free: +1-800-267-7553 .  

Go next [ edit ]

• East Coulee is 20 km (12 mi) southeast on the Hoodoo Trail , a drive along Highway 10 through Rossdale and Cambria. Access to the Willow Creek Hoodoos interpretive trail is in Cambria, 16 km (9.9 mi) southeast of Drumheller. The Atlas Coal Mine in East Coolee, a National Historic Site, features Canada's last wooden tipple (structure for emptying coal out of train cars).

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3 Days in Drumheller: The Perfect Itinerary for the Badlands

Curiocity itinerary, the young & young at heart – day 1, the young & young at heart – day 2, the free spirited explorer – day 1, the free spirited explorer – day 2, the culture crawler – day 1, the culture crawler – day 2, overnight itinerary: easygoing edition, overnight itinerary: explorers edition, drumheller en hiver: itinéraire pour un week-end en famille, drumheller in the winter: a weekend itinerary.

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The Ultimate Guide to the Best Things to Do in Drumheller

May 12, 2020 By Matthew G. Bailey 3 Comments

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Alberta really is a special place. It has the Canadian Rockies to the west, the prairies to the south, the boreal forest to the north, and the spectacular badlands somewhat in the middle. Located just 1.5 hours northeast of Calgary, Drumheller is one of the most scenic places in the province and one of the top places in the world for Dinosaurs enthusiasts

That’s right. About 75 million years ago, Drumheller was a hotspot for Dinosaurs. Despite its dry-looking landscapes today, it was once home to an inland lake with a tropical climate and lush vegetation. In 1884, the future of modern Drumheller began, thanks to a discovery by geologist J. B. Tyrrell, who stumbled upon dinosaur bones while searching for coal.

Along with Calgary, Banff , and the Canadian Rockies, Drumheller is one of the top things to do in Alberta . Whether you’re an adult or a kid, Drumheller is bound to satisfy your Dinosaur crush, with epic badland scenery and one of the best Dinosaur museums in the world.

If you happen to make it to this incredible place, here are some ideas for what to do, where to stay, and how to get around.

Table of Contents

Things to Do in Drumheller

A tour of the Drumheller region is spectacular in many ways. From the spectacular Grand-Canyon-Esque Horseshoe Canyon and the desertic landscape of sagebrush, greasewood bushes, and cacti, to the incredible Royal Tyrrel Museum and beautiful hoodoo’s, Drumheller will wow you in more ways than one.

The Royal Tyrrell Museum

Without a doubt, the star attraction in Drumheller is the world-famous Royal Tyrrel Museum . It’s home to one of the world’s largest collections of Dinosaur bones, most of which were found not too far away. From witnessing massive dinosaur skeletons to fascinating computer terminals explaining the evolution of life on Earth, you can easily spend anywhere from a half-day to a full day, depending on how in-depth you want to go. You’ll also find a primeval garden showing tropical and subtropical plant species from the Carbonaceous Period along with their modern descendants. There are even interactive workshops, lectures, and guided tours. The entrance fee for the Royal Tyrell Museum is $18 CAD per adult and $10 CAD for children between 7-17.

World’s Largest Dinosaur

Another thing you can’t miss, both figuratively and literally, is the world’s largest dinosaur ! This dinosaur is massive and towers over any other building in the area. It’s perfect for kids as it you’re actually able to climb up inside the 25-metre-tall and 46-metre-long T-Rex dinosaur and get wonderful views from inside its mouth. It’s not free, but the cost is only $4 CAD per person.

Horseshoe Canyon

Located just 17 km (10.5 mi) west of Drumheller, Horseshoe Canyon is like a miniature replica of the Grand Canyon, a jaw-dropping sight to behold. The reddish-pink ribboned canyon walls change their colour with the sun, revealing the many layers of rock that have been here since the Dinosaurs called it home more than 70 million years ago. Whether you just admire the view or take a hike down into the canyon, this is not a place you want to miss. This site, as well as the parking, is free to visit.

Horsethief Canyon

Alberta might be famous for its Rocky Mountain vistas, but Horsethief Canyon is also one of the most scenic places in the province. It’s really beautiful. Similar to Horseshoe Canyon, but far from the same, this area is not only scenic but also steeped in history. In fact, the reason why it’s called Horsethief canyon is that it used to be a wild-west type of place where bandits would literally steal horses. Basically, they’d steal them from big ranches in the area and re-brand them as their own. There are lots of stories of horse thievery in Alberta and even in Saskatchewan, such as in the Big Muddy Badlands , where outlaws would smuggle horses from the USA into Canada.

Located just 16 km (10 mi) northwest of Drumheller on the east bank of the Red Deer River, just You can either stop at the car park and just admire the views from the edge or you can go for a variety of hikes in and around the coulees. Footpaths meander their way down into the canyon to fossilized oyster beds, making it a fabulous walk for most people. It is free to visit.

The Little Church

This little church can hold 10,000 people, six at a time. At least that’s what they say. While it may seem like an oversized dollhouse, it is actually a functioning chapel that holds regular services. Built in 1968, and then rebuilt in 1991 by those incarcerated in the nearby Drumheller Institution, this is a popular roadside attraction you don’t want to miss. Visiting the Little Church is free.

Bleriot Ferry

This little cable-run ferry (13 cars max) links the two sections of the North Dinosaur Trail (Highway 838) as it crosses the Red Deer River from Kneehill County on the west, to Starland County on the east. Its name comes from its builder – Andre Bleriot – who constructed the ferry in 1913. It runs seasonally and is closed in the winter months, but this 105-metre, 8-minute ride, certainly makes a fun little attraction when it’s open. It’s actually a perfect detour that connects the roads between Horsethief Canyon and the Orkney Viewpoint mentioned below. The Bleriot Ferry is free. For more information check the Transportation Alberta website .

Orkney Viewpoint

If you’re like us, you’re probably looking for as many awesome views as you can get. Well, one of them is the Orkney Viewpoint , which is a somewhat private natural lookout point high up on the red rock cliffs, just west of Drumheller. From here, you’ll get sweeping views of the Red Deer Valley and the beautiful Red Deer River. It’s totally different from the other viewpoints mentioned above because you get to see the badlands and the river all at once. Orkney Viewpoint is free.

 The Hoodoo Trail

One of the most iconic images of Drumheller is the nearby Hoodoo’s . As if nature was playing a game of voodoo, the Hoodoos are beautiful odd-looking pillars of sand with a stone cap. Think of it like mushrooms made of stone, standing tall in the desert. These are natural formations caused by wind and rain over thousands of years and are protected by the cap on top. However, the hoodoos do break, especially if people walk on them and if the cap falls off, the rain will then quickly erode the sand beneath it. You can certainly stay in the car and admire them from the highway, but it’s much better to take a short hike to see them up close. There is a small fee if you’re visiting the Hoodoos during the busy months.

Wayne Ghost Town and the Last Chance Saloon

If you’re looking for a super interesting detour near the Hoodoo Trail, check out Wayne Ghost Town. Located just 6 kilometres away, you’ll cross over 11 one-lane bridges over the Rosebud River before finding yourself in an almost-deserted old town that was once a thriving coal-mining town. The current population is around 28 (yes, 28) and is home to the infamous Last Chance Saloon , a bar that’s been featured in many articles and books for being haunted.

Star Mine Suspension Bridge

If you feel like meandering over a suspension bridge, you might want to consider this one. The Star Mine Suspension Bridge is a 117-metre long pedestrian bridge that crosses over the Red Deer River in Rosedale, not too far from Drumheller. It’s been around since 1931 when it was used for the coal workers of Star Mine. Enjoy the area for some light hiking or just an opportunity for sight-seeing. Visiting the Star Mine Suspension Bridge is free.

East Coulee School Museum

Yet another town that is quickly disappearing is East Coulee is home to a population of about 160. However, it wasn’t always that way. As you’ve probably guessed by now, this area was once a thriving mining community. In the 1940s, it had a population of almost 4,000 and this was the school where the children of the miners went. When the mines closed down, so did the schools. As of 1985, however, it reopened as a museum, where you can learn about the lives of the mining communities from back in the day. The entrance fee for the East Coulee School Museum is $7 CAD per person.

Atlas Coal Mine

One site you shouldn’t miss is the Atlas Coal Mine , which is a National Historic Site. This mine was built in 1936 and was in use all the way up until the early 80s. For a taste of this very difficult job, take a tour into the mine buildings and the last coal tipple in the country. For those that are not claustrophobic, you can even tour into the mine tunnel itself.

Badlands Amphitheatre

Imagine if nature created its own amphitheatre. The Badlands Amphitheatre is a naturally formed outdoor amphitheatre surrounded by the coulees. Seating around 2,500 spectators, this is Canada’s largest outdoor stage and also home to the Badlands Passion Play, which is especially popular with religious folks. It’s also home to the Canadian Icons Series, Blues & Barbeque, Fireworks in the Badlands, and the new Badlands Arts Centre.

Rosebud Theatre

If you’re looking for performing arts that are indoors, head on over to the Rosebud Theatre in the little town of Rosebud (population: 100). It’s just 35 kilometres southwest of Drumheller and has five plays each year with shows happening every week. Despite its small size, the Rosebud Theatre is widely-acclaimed and should definitely be high on the bucket list of those who love the performing arts.

Getting to Drumheller

If you’re a visitor looking for different ways of getting to Drumheller, here’s some practical advice on how to get there. Most people come from Calgary, so if you’re visiting Calgary for the first time, you should take at least a couple of days to explore this beautiful city. For more, check out our things to do in Calgary article.

Getting to Drumheller by Car

Drumheller is located along Highway 838 and 837, otherwise known as the North and South Dinosaur Trail. The drive from Calgary to Drumheller is only 135 kilometres, which makes it both an easy day trip or a multi-night adventure. From Edmonton to Drumheller, the drive is a little longer, clocking in at around 280 kilometres, or about twice the distance. It’s a very simple, straightforward drive that includes both flat landscapes and the more rugged badland landscapes as you get closer to Drumheller.

Calgary to Drumheller

For those travelling from Calgary, you’ll want to head to Balzac (home to CrossIron Mills Mall), and then head east on Highway 566, followed by Highway 9, which will then twist and turn until you arrive in the Dinosaur capital of the world. If you’re in south Calgary, you could take Highway 201, followed by Highway 564, and then Highway 9.

Edmonton to Drumheller

We always recommend using Google Maps or something similar, but if you’re coming from Edmonton, you’ll basically want to get on Highway 21 and then Highway 56, which will take you all the way to the town. It’s even more straightforward than going from Calgary to Drumheller but is twice the distance, taking approximately 3 hours by car.

If you’re looking to rent a car in Calgary, there are many options, both at the airport and in the city. For the best rates, we recommend using Priceline.com . Another option is Truro, which is basically Airbnb for vehicles. This service would mainly be useful if you’re looking for a unique car

Getting to Drumheller by Plane

There are no major airports in Drumheller, so the closest major airport would be the Calgary International Airport (YYC). From here, it’s only 1.5 hours to Drumheller, making it an excellent road trip and even a quick day trip if need be. Another option is the Edmonton International Airport (YEG), which is approximately 3-hours away. If you’re flying into Calgary and don’t have a car, Bubba T’s is now offering a shuttle and tour service that can pick you up from YYC.

However, if you have your own plane, Drumheller does have a small airport you could fly into.

Getting to Drumheller by Bus

There is no direct bus from Calgary or from Edmonton. Greyhound has stopped operating in Alberta. However, you could jump on a Drumheller tour , take a taxi, or rideshare. Obviously, a taxi would be a very expensive option, ranging from $200 – $250. You could rent a car for much less and enjoy the visit at your own pace.

One ridesharing app that might help is Poparide.com, which allows you to see if any locals are driving to Drumheller, allowing you to book a seat in their car for as low s $20.

How to Get Around Drumheller

Drumheller is a small town and public transportation does not really exist. To get around Drumheller, you’d want to drive your own car, take a tour, or perhaps, rent a taxi. All the sights around Drumheller are spread out by fairly large distances as well, so unless you’re really into biking, we definitely recommend having your own vehicle or taking a tour.

Weather for Drumheller (Best Time to Visit)

Like many parts of Canada, the ideal time to visit Drumheller would be the summer or the fall. Some of the attractions are open year-round, and the landscape can certainly look cool in a layer of snow, but the absolute best time to visit is between June and October. May and early June can bring more rain but the summer months will be very hot with daytime temperatures reaching as high as 30C. (85F.). There are very few trees in this area as well, so if you’re spending time outdoors, we recommend a hat, sunblock, and plenty of water. Winter in Canada is a very cold time to visit, and there are much better places to visit during the snow-covered months.

Tips for Saving Money in Drumheller

Drumheller Visitor Information Centre: This is a great place to stop to find information about the area, as well as pick up a paper map if you need one.

Badlands Community Facility: If you’re looking for free WiFi or a place to just relax, this is where you’ll find the public library. There are also showers in the recreation centre, which cost just $2 (including a towel).

Tim Horton’s: While Tim Horton’s has become some sort of an icon in Canada, we certainly recommend visiting more local restaurants if you can. However, this is a great spot to grab quick, fairly good, and cheap food such as wraps and sandwiches. Of course, they also have coffee.

Extra Foods: If you’re on a road trip or camping, this is the grocery store where you can find all the food you need.

Where to Stay in Drumheller

Whether you’re on a budget or not, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best places to stay in Drumheller.

Budget: Hotel Dinosaur is probably the cheapest hotel in town and still maintains high reviews, but another option is the Travelodge.

Mid-range: There are no luxurious options in Drumheller, but there’s plenty of very nice hotels that fit the mid-range option, including Canalta Jurassic, Best Western Diamond Inn, the Ramada, and the Super 8. Even better though is the Heartwood Inn & Spa, a locally run guesthouse with a delicious french toast breakfast. Not only was our room beautiful but it was the same room that Jackie Chan stayed in back when he was filming Shanghai Noon. How cool is that!

Camping: If you’re looking to go camping, there are also plenty of options around Drumheller. First, if you have an RV, you could stay in the Wal-Mart parking lot. If you’re looking for free, unserviced camping areas, you could download the iOverlander app, which will help you find them. One free option is the Severn Dam Reservoir. Cozier, paid options, include River Grove Campground, Dinosaur RV Park & Dino’s RV Nest, 11 Bridges Campground, Pinters Campground, Horseshoe Canyon Campground, Dinosaur Trail RV Resort & Cabins, and Hoodoos RV Resort & Campground.

Airbnb: If you want to try something new,  check out Airbnb  for unique accommodations around the city.

Other Things to Do

If Drumheller just isn’t enough and you’re not done with dinosaurs and badlands just yet, there are many more things to do around Drumheller as well. We’ll list some of the more popular options below.

Dinosaur Provincial Park

If you have the time, you really shouldn’t miss Dinosaur Provincial Park . Located in the Red Deer River Valley just northeast of Brooks, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to rich deposits of dinosaur bones as well as dramatic scenery. You’ll find awesome exhibits at the visitor centre, although the real thrill is going out for guided hikes and hands-on excavations. They even have glamping opportunities for those wanting the camping experience with a little more luxury.

Dry Island Buffalo Jump Provincial Park

Once home to a large number of bison, Cree First Nations people would drive animals along the plateau and over the cliffs, a popular hunt that required an entire community. Just 100 kilometres north of Drumheller, Dry Island Buffalo Jump Provincial Park offers ancient history, dramatic scenery, camping, bird-watching, fishing, and canoeing. You may even find fossils.

Red Deer and Sylvan Lake

If you’re looking to ditch the badlands for wetter pastures, consider heading to Sylvan Lake , one of Alberta’s most popular lakes. Sylvan Lake is actually a popular vacation community and a big enough lake to get for boating or fishing, as well as relaxing on the beach. There’s also Red Deer, which you’ll actually pass as you head to the lake, making it a great stop if you’re looking to buy some goods, get a wider variety of restaurants, or find a decent hotel.

• Things to Do in Alberta

By now, you have a lot to do. But as always, there are many more things to do in Alberta, including big cities and the stunning Canadian Rockies. For more information on what to do around the province, check out these articles below:

• Things to Do in Calgary
• Things to Do in Jasper
• Things to Do in Banff
• Calgary to Banff
• Edmonton to Jasper
• Aspen Crossing Train Excursion

About Matthew G. Bailey

Matthew G. Bailey is the founder and editor-in-chief of Must Do Canada. Growing up in Alberta to a mother from Quebec and a father from Newfoundland, Matt spent his childhood playing hockey under the Northern Lights and hanging out in the forest before moving to Calgary and travelling to more than 250 cities spanning 42 countries and 6 continents. He loves travel, learning new things, playing sports, writing, making videos, photography, and scuba diving. You can also find him at LiveLimitless.net .

Reader Interactions

May 15, 2021 at 2:39 pm

I love the Hoodoos! It’s one place here in Alberta that I like to come back again and again. To anyone wanting to or thinking of visiting? It’s a must!

September 29, 2022 at 3:52 pm

Thank you for showing all things to do in Drumheller and area. I want to visit the coal mine as my uncle worked there and so nice to see it has tours. I love all your video’s and adventures. Keep up producing them!

September 29, 2022 at 4:05 pm

Thank you so much! Oh, wow that’s cool! There’s one retired miner who still works there too

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Red White Adventures

3 days in drumheller: the perfect itinerary for the badlands.

Drumheller is home to some incredible Hoodoos, the world-famous Tyrrell Museum, and tons of other fun attractions that you may or may not have heard of.

This Drumheller itinerary is packed with all of our favourite activities and food places for you to enjoy your time here in the Badlands!

This itinerary is meant for 3 days because there is so much to do that a day trip simply isn’t enough! But no matter how many days you decide to spend in Drumheller you can use this itinerary for some inspiration.

From outdoor activities to yummy restaurants in Drumheller and fun, hidden gems, this 3-day itinerary has everything you need to enjoy your time in one of our favourite places in Alberta!

Disclosure: This post has been created in collaboration with  Travel Drumheller . Everything in this post is based on our personal opinions and experiences. This post also contains affiliate links which means if you decide to use the links and make a valid purchase, we will receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.

Table of Contents

The Ultimate 3-Day Drumheller Itinerary

Drumheller has so much to offer, it’s incredible!

Growing up in Alberta I always saw Drumheller as a place to see dinosaur fossils. That you definitely can do, but I wrongfully assumed that seeing dinosaur fossils was the only thing you could do in Drumheller – and man, was I wrong!

Now after going back and canoeing down the Red Deer River, exploring the Atlas Coal Mine, trying local beer at the brewery downtown, and hiking in the Badlands, I’ve fallen in love with Drumheller all over again.

Hopefully, after reading this itinerary and exploring Drumheller for yourself, you’ll see why it’s such a great place to visit here in Alberta.

🔖 Bookmark these posts related to Drumheller for later:

• 25 Fun Things to Do in Drumheller
• Discovering The Badlands: 6 Best Hotels in Drumheller
• 11 Best Cafes & Restaurants in Drumheller Worth Visiting
• Exploring the Historic Atlas Coal Mine Near Drumheller
• Hiking the Epic Horseshoe Canyon Loop Trail Near Drumheller

Where to stay in Drumheller

One of the most important things about planning your trip is finding the right place of accommodation .

We stayed at Bridgeviews Drumheller (glamping yurts) a short 10-minute drive from Drumheller. There are some good hotels right in Drumheller too if you want to stay right in town. 

We definitely recommend staying at Bridgeviews because it’s such a unique experience in Rosedale right outside of Drumheller! The yurts are really cool and the area as a whole is beautiful.

Regardless of where you stay, you’ll have a blast in Drum and get to enjoy all the highlights.

We have a full blog post about where to stay in Drumheller right here .

Day 1: Get to Drumheller and check out the downtown area

The first day in this 3-day Drumheller Itinerary is all about exploring the downtown!

On this day, we suggest you get familiar with the area by going on a bike tour and checking out a few viewpoints. Then, you can check in to your place of accommodation and go for a nice dinner.

Ride around Drumheller with Bikes and Bites

Bikes and Bites is an awesome local business run by two ladies that combines delicious food and e-bikes! 

Depending on what you’re looking for, you can either go on one of their Bikes and Bites guided tours or simply rent e-bikes from them and cruise around at your own pace. 

We recommend grabbing a bite to eat for lunch (their food is delicious!) and going on one of their tours!

Some of their tours also have food included so you can look into that. We had sandwiches, salads, and cookies and it was all so good!

The food was honestly so tasty that we’d recommend just going there for food even if you don’t plan to rent a bike or go on a guided tour. 

Going on a bike ride is the perfect way to start your trip in Drumheller though so we do recommend doing that. You get a good feel for the town by biking around it and by talking to the local tour guides.

They have so much fun information about other things to do in Drumheller , places to visit, and the great community they have here!

Check into your hotel in Drumheller 

By the time you’ve enjoyed a delicious meal at Bikes and Bites and gone on a guided tour, your place of accommodation will hopefully be ready for you! 

We personally recommend staying at Bridgeviews Drumheller if you’re up for a unique experience. That’s where we stayed for 3 nights and it was awesome!

The yurts are super spacious. This is a true glamping experience right outside of Drumheller in Rosedale. It feels like you’re camping but with all the amenities. 

There are showers, toilets, wifi, and even a little “greenhouse” where you can relax and have a cup of coffee. Read a book or chill on your phone or laptop and enjoy the peace and quiet of this awesome location. 

We totally get that glamping isn’t for everyone, though. So if you prefer to stay in a hotel, there are some great hotels in Drumheller here you can check!

Have supper at Bernie and the Boys

Bernie and the Boys is a Drumheller classic! You’ll find locals there all the time and some other tourists who did their research to find one of Drumheller’s best restaurants .

It’s a little local burger joint that’s been selling delicious burgers and over 75 milkshake flavours to Drumheller residents for years. The place is family-owned and you may even bump into the owners while you’re there. 

Make sure to try their onion rings and a milkshake if you’re up for it. They have an abundance of different flavours that you can mix and match and create the milkshake of your choice!

You can easily walk to Bernie and The Boys too as it’s conveniently located near the town centre. Otherwise, there’s street parking near the restaurant or on one of the side streets!

They also have a few outdoor tables you can enjoy on a nice sunny evening. Otherwise, inside Bernie and the Boys, it feels like a proper 1980s burger joint! It almost brings you back in time and it’s such a cool experience.

It’s definitely one of the must-visit places in Drumheller during your time here! 

PS: There are more options than just burgers and they have vegetarian options as well! 

Tasty beer at Valley Brewing Brewery Drumheller

Depending on how much energy you have left after today’s adventures, you can stop by Valley Brewing for a little beer or two at the end of the night.

Valley Brewing is located within walking distance from Bernie and the Boys right in the heart of Drumheller.

It’s an awesome location because they have beautiful outdoor seating next to a park that you can enjoy during the summer!

If you can’t decide which beer(s) to try, you can try out a flight for $10. You’ll get four smaller glasses of beer so this is a fun way to try multiple flavours!

We personally really liked their May Day Sours (seasonal) and the Virtue Juicy Pale Ale.

A fun thing that Valley Brewing does is when you get a flight, you get a little card with each beer that describes the beer that is all based on the history of Drumheller. 

So not only are you drinking delicious beer but you’re also educating yourself about Drumheller. A win-win in our books! 😉

Day 2: Historic and fun adventure just outside of Drumheller 

On the second day of, this Drumheller itinerary you will explore some cool spots just outside of Drumheller for a few hours.

There you will learn a little about the mining history in the Badlands and Canada in general, and how this part of Drumheller came to be.

You’ll also get a chance to see the famous Hoodoos and try out one of the tastiest food spots in the area!

Start with a delicious breakfast at WHIFS Flapjack house

WHIFS Flapjack House is an icon in Drumheller and has been around for years. It’s one of those places where if you don’t know about it you may just miss it – and that would be a real shame!

It’s THE breakfast diner to go to in Drumheller and serves up an awesome breakfast from waffles with ice cream to eggs benedict with hashbrowns.

Of course, some of the hotels in Drumheller have breakfast included so it’s up to you if you decide to go here. It’s such a unique spot that it’s worth trying out, even if you do.

From the second you step inside WHIFS, it feels like you’ve entered a time machine…

You’re back in time where servers constantly ask if you want your coffee filled. A miniature train is cruising around on a train track that’s suspended from the roof. There’s also plenty of dinosaur art all over the place. It really is a one-of-a-kind place.

Atlas Coal Mine experience

Atlas Coal Mine is a historic site located just east of Drumheller. It’s a short and beautiful drive that takes you through this incredible landscape in the Badlands.

This part of Alberta was known for its coal mining and brought a lot of people down to Wayne, Drumheller, Rosedale, and all the other surrounding areas. 

Once you get to Atlas Coal Mine you can buy a general site admission ticket and explore the attractions yourself.

You can spend some time (around 30-60 minutes) looking at all the exhibits and learning a bit about the coal mining history in the area. After that, you can go on one of the guided tours. 

There are also three different tours you can do at Atlas Coal Mine. You have to pay for these on top of the general admission ( see Atlas’ tours here ).

We ended up going on the Mine Portal Hike where you actually get to go into the entrance of one of the coal mines. It was pretty cool!

The tour guides are super knowledgeable and love to answer any questions you may have about the mine, people who used to work here, and the process of how coal is made! 

You can read our post about our visit to Atlas Coal mine here !

Explore the hoodoos

Drumheller and the Badlands are known for the iconic hoodoos that surround the landscape. 

The Drumheller Hoodoos near Atlas Coal Mine is one of the more popular areas to explore these fascinating natural structures. There’s also a short hike you can do above the hoodoos.

We’ll be honest and let you know that this area gets extremely busy , especially during summertime.

Right before midday, it can get kind of wild with people going off-trail, taking selfies, and going all over the place.

Even though tons of people go off the trail please stay on the main trail and don’t go onto the unmarked areas.

First of all to preserve the land but also, the ascent to the top is very steep. If it’s rained in the past day or two the trail can be extremely slippery!

Regardless, it’s still worth checking out and admiring the beautiful hoodoos. There are a few other places in and around Drumheller to see them but this spot is one of the most accessible ones.

Hiking Tip: Look up the trail on AllTrails before starting your hike 🗺️. You can find important trail information such as recent wildlife sights and trail closures. Check out the free version here or get a 7-day free trial of AllTrails+ here .

Stop by the Sunny Spot for delicious food and minigolf

After you leave the Hoodoos, the next stop before Drum is The Sunny Spot ! All of these places mentioned are only a few minutes’ drive from each other so it’s super convenient.

The Sunny Spot is located right off Highway 10 and it’s impossible to miss. It was such a surprise to us that it ended up being one of our favourite things to do in Drumheller . 

Once you get there you’ll see there’s a corn maze, mini golf, a pumpkin patch, a sunflower field, and best of all… delicious food!

We had the most delicious taco salad and we’re not even exaggerating. Apparently, they do tasty burgers as well (our friends at Bikes and Bites told us). But we stuck with the taco salad and it was so good. 

Once you’ve had lunch, you can decide if you want to play a round of mini golf , get lost in the corn maze, or just enjoy the area.

Visiting the Sunny Spot is a great activity to do right outside of Drumheller! You can easily spend 2-3 hours eating food and trying out the different attractions.

Also read: 25 Fun Things to Do in Drumheller

Make your way up the World’s largest dinosaur

Just in case you were wondering… No, this is not a real dinosaur! 😉 

Tyra, as they call her, does stand at 26.3 meters (86 ft) tall though. The dino is made from steel and fibreglass and is more or less a kids’ attraction – but it’s still a must-do while you’re here.

But for $5 you can walk up a few flights of stairs, enter into the mouth of the dino, and get one of the best views overlooking Drumheller. 

You get a great shot with the local water tower and downtown Drumheller! It’s one of those activities you just have to do while you’re in Dinosaur Country!

Have Indian at Sam’s Kitchen for dinner

We’re not kidding when we say Drumheller has a lot of delicious restaurants .

Sam’s Kitchen is a little Indian restaurant tucked away just outside of the main streets in Drumheller and they make some of the best Indian food we’ve had in Alberta.

It’s connected to Hotel Dinosaur & Newcastle Bar. It’s kind of hidden in the building but once you walk in you will see it. 

Sam’s is run by a local family from Calgary who decided to move out of the big city and enjoy a quieter life in Drumheller. 

The food is fabulous and you can’t go wrong with whatever you choose from the menu – and the portions are huge! It’s a great dinner spot especially if you’re looking for something tasty and filling.

The mango lassi and naan bread were exceptionally good! The restaurant itself from the inside is nothing fancy but the food is bang on and you will leave stuffed and happy! 

It’s hands down one of our favourite restaurants in Drumheller! Once you try it out you’ll know why.

Evening in Drumheller 

After you enjoy a delicious dinner at one of Drumheller’s gems you can decide between a few fun evening activities!

Drumheller is still a small town so the nightlife in Drumheller isn’t huge – but that doesn’t mean there isn’t stuff going on. 

If you didn’t get a chance to visit Valley Brewing the night before, we’d recommend checking it out at least for a pint or a flight.

Another awesome option is you can check what is playing at the Napier Theater . It’s a small locally owned theater that is open a few times a week with one movie option!

They often have some sort of event or theme going on so it depends on what time of year you visit Drumheller. 

Lastly, there’s also Summer @ The Plaza which, yes, only takes place during the summer.

Every single weekend there’s live music at the plaza downtown (1-minute walk from Valley Brewing). It’s a little outdoor area with chairs and a gazebo. It’s super cute!

There’s a different singer every weekend and it’s all by donations only. So it’s free to listen and enjoy the music and once it’s finished you can leave a tip if you like! 

You can find the exact location of The Plaza here .

Day 3: Adventures and a taste of Drumheller

We’ve saved some of the best for last! On the third and last day of this Drumheller itinerary, you get to explore some of the other gems around Drumheller.

This is a day for good food & coffee and some of our favourite outdoor adventures!

Since this is your last day, you can decide what you have time for and what you can see before leaving Drumheller to go back home or continue your journey!

Enjoy a tasty breakfast in Drumheller

As we mentioned before, there are quite a few hotels in Drumheller that do have breakfast included!

If you don’t have breakfast included and want to go out for breakfast, you might be tempted to go to WHIFS Flapjack House again!

But there is also a Canadian classic in town (and if you’re Canadian this is no surprise): It’s Tim Hortons! 

Tim Hortons basically is a fast food chain that you can find all over the country. Most are quite generic and look similar but the Tim Hortons in Drumheller is quite unique. 

The food is the same but the interior design and decor is quite unique and fun. You get a mix of hockey and dinosaurs and it’s actually quite cool. 

Tim Hortons is great if you’re looking to go for a quick and easy breakfast. They got coffee, bagels, donuts, and a few other solid breakfast meals.

Go kayaking on the Red Deer River

One of the best outdoor activities you can do in Drumheller is to kayak down the Red Deer River!

There’s a company called Red Deer River Adventures that does rentals as well as guided trips down the Red Deer River!

We went with the owner, Andy, and it was an absolute blast! He took us to one of the best viewpoints overlooking the valley before heading down to the river and then we spent 2 hours on the water together.

If you go on a guided tour, you’ll learn all about the area from the animals that lived here to how the landscape came to be. 

There are a few different trips you can do that range between 1-2 hours to 3-4 hours. Depending on what you’re looking for, you can talk to Red Deer River Adventures and plan the perfect trip!

The best way to contact them is just to shoot them an email. Since Andy is often out on the water, he’s not always available to pick up his phone. If you shoot him an email, he’ll get back to you!

Besides maybe the Horseshoe Canyon Trail and the Bikes and Bites Tours this is our favorite outdoor activity to do in Drumheller!

Grab a coffee in town

After a few hours on the river, you might need a little energy reboot!

There are a few nice cafés and coffee shops downtown. The two we recommend are Café Ole and Black Mountain Roasters.

Café Ole is a cute little family-owned cafe and they have great coffee and a ton of different varieties of teas. Café Ole is located right next to the farmers market (which is on every Saturday. More on this below).

There’s also Black Mountain Roasters which is a bit bigger of a coffee shop that makes some great coffee!

Black Mountain Roasters have indoor and outdoor seating and serve delicious coffee. You can also buy their own roasted beans. We love coffee so we always buy local beans and bring them with us or give them to family and friends.

Grab some lunch at Heller Good Sandwiches 

Only about a block away from both of those coffee shops mentioned above, you’ll find Heller Good Sandwiches ! Yup, Drumheller isn’t that big but it’s packed with awesome places to check out!

This sandwich shop in Drum is awesome! They have an awesome variety of sandwiches and salads and they switch up their menu frequently!

You have the option to sit inside or they have a few tables outside where you can sit in the sun on a nice, warm day. 

Make sure to fuel up your belly here because the last activity we recommend is a little hike as you make your way out of Drumheller!

Hike the famous Horseshoe Canyon Loop Trail

If you’re driving back out west to leave Drumheller in the direction of Calgary, Edmonton, and Red Deer then this is the perfect activity to do on your last day!

Horseshoe Canyon Loop Trail is about 15 minutes west of Drumheller and it is one of the coolest places we’ve visited in Alberta! 

As you hike through the coulees, you’ll feel like you’re walking along trails dinosaurs used to walk on.

You can see all the different layers in the earth, how the ground below you is so dry it has cracks in it , and you might see cacti too!

It’s quite special because as you’re driving to this area, all you see is the prairie landscape. Then, out of nowhere, this coulee (canyon) appears! And it’s so cool how you can hike down there!

If you’re running out of time and don’t have a few hours to hike the loop trail you can also just park your car and enjoy the view from the viewpoints.

There are a few viewpoints up above the coulee where you get a good idea of what it looks like.

We definitely recommend doing the whole hike if you have the time though. It’s one of the best hikes in Drumheller! 

Also read: Hiking the Epic Horseshoe Canyon Loop Trail Near Drumheller

Other activities to do in Drumheller 

We have created a blog post with 25 things to do in Drumheller and one with the best cafés & restaurants in Drumheller so you can check out those for more suggestions.

There’s a good chunk of things we mentioned that are on this itinerary but there are so many other fun things to do in Drumheller that you can’t do them all in 3 days. 

Some of the things to do are also seasonal so it also depends on what time of year you come to town! 

If you want a bit of an adrenaline rush you can hit the Cactus Coulee Fun Park ! At the fun park, you can try gokarting, eurobungy, and minigolf! 

Of course, there is also the famous Royal Tyrrell Dinosaur Museum in town which is what most people know Drumheller for. The museum is super cool and a great place to learn about dinosaurs!

If you head to the Royal Tyrrell Museum, you can also stop by The Little Church . The Little Church fits 6 people and it’s very pretty! It’s just a short drive from the museum.

The last activity we want to mention here is the farmers’ market. The Drumheller Farmers Market is open almost every Saturday year-round from 10 am to 3 pm at The Brick’s parking lot .

It’s a great place to pick up a little gift for friends or family if you’re looking for something! We grabbed some jam and some veggies and it was the perfect little gift.

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Recap of 3 days in drumheller .

We hope you found this itinerary helpful for your upcoming trip to Drumheller!

We absolutely love Drum and hope you get a chance to explore the best this beautiful town in the Badlands has to offer!

It’s full of surprises, fun history, and delicious food! It’s a great little getaway if you’re looking to get out of the city and explore somewhere else besides the mountains! 

We know a day trip to Drumheller is pretty common but we suggest you plan a weekend or spend at least a few nights to experience all the fun things to do here.

If you have any questions about Drumheller, the Badlands, or Alberta in general, feel free to leave a comment below or send us a DM on Instagram and we’ll get right back to you.

Drumheller is an awesome town in the Badlands and we hope you have the best time here!

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Badlands, dinosaurs, and amazing food- I’m hooked! Seriously though this itinerary is amazing, I have to check Drumheller out. I’d never even heard of it until your posts.

So fun, hey!! There are some really cool campsites and glamping (as you can see) too so you guys should definitely check it out next time you’re in Alberta 🙂 – Jo

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23 Things to Do in Drumheller in 2024 (that most locals don’t even know about)

By: Author Aly Smalls

Posted on Published: May 8, 2021  - Last updated: November 12, 2023

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As the land of dinosaurs, Drumheller and the Canadian Badlands are quite possibly one of the most fascinating geographic jewels of Canada. Not only is visiting this region a bucket-list experience, it’s like truly stepping into another world.

Upon your arrival, you descend from the flat prairie highways into the deep canyon beds created during the last glacial ice age.

While the town of Drumheller itself is small, there are plenty of things to see, do and experience around the area for several days to a week (if you have the time). 

Whether you’re the type of traveler who wants to see as many things as possible in a short amount of time, or someone seeking fully immersive experiences, you’ve got options.

While my list is long, here are the best things to do in Drumheller, whether you’ve got a weekend or week to explore.

This post contains affiliate links, meaning if you click through and make a purchase I may make a small commission. I only share information about things I know, love and trust!

1. World’s Largest Dinosaur

The world’s largest dinosaur is one of Drumheller’s most famous attractions- and it’s a giant tyrannosaurus rex in the middle of town.

Not only is it fun to look at and take pictures of, you can go inside and climb all the way up to its mouth. You’ll find it at the Visitor Information Centre and admission is cheap – very worth it in my opinion.

If you do go inside, take your time climbing the stairs and enjoy the murals and history lesson along the way. The view from inside the mouth (teeth and all) is pretty epic.

This attraction is great for kids, but honestly even the big kids (adults) will love it!

Inside tip – did you know the giant T-Rex has a name? The world’s largest dinosaur is named Tyra the T-Rex!

2. Downtown Dino Walk 

The giant t-rex isn’t the only dinosaur you should visit, there’s lots more sprinkled all over town.

Stroll around and look for over 20 dinosaurs located on street corners and benches for fun photo opportunities.

Plus, all the dinos featured around town were actually discovered in the Drumheller area. 

3. Royal Tyrrell Museum

The Royal Tyrrell Museum is internationally renowned as one of the best paleontology museums in the world.

The exhibits are first class and the entire facility is packed with artifacts, history and complete dinosaur skeletons. The admission price is well worth it as the facility does a fantastic job at appealing to all types of audiences.

Plus, most other attractions in Drumheller are free to visit and explore, so the dinosaur museum is going to be the only big expense as far as things to do.

Since the Royal Tyrell is one of the most popular places to visit in Drumheller, it can get very busy during the popular summer months and on weekends throughout the year.

4. Midland Provincial Park

The Royal Tyrrell Museum is located within Midland Provincial Park, so be sure to add time to your schedule to explore the trails here.

There are observation viewpoints, paved paths and gravel trails that weave throughout the scenic rock formations and landscape, including hoodoos.

From early spring to autumn, you’ll find all kinds of wild flora in bloom. Search for bright purple crocuses in early April and wild sage and cacti through the summer months.

Deeper into the provincial park is also a disc golf course and interpretive trails that tell the history of the former Midland Coal Mine site.

Midland Provincial Park is free to visit. It’s a must-do when visiting the Drumheller area. 

5. The Little Church

Just behind the Royal Tyrrell Museum is the tiny church that seats 10,000 people, 6 at a time.

One of the cutest attractions in Drumheller is this adorable little church that is still used today for worship and meditation.

When you stop in, you’ll discover stained glass windows and even miniature pews and a pulpit. This attraction is free to visit and is accessible just off of the North Dinosaur Trail (highway 838). 

6. Bike the Dinosaur Trail

Bring you bikes to Drumheller for a great way to explore the valley. You can start from the parking lot at the world’s largest dinosaur and cruise along the North Dinosaur Trail.

Choose to simply ride and enjoy the scenery all the way up the winding roads to the Bleriot Ferry, or stop along the way at all the antique shops, fossil shops, picnic areas and Horsethief Canyon. 

7. Horsethief Canyon

As one of the most scenic viewpoints in all of Drumheller (and Alberta for that matter), Horsethief Canyon is a top attraction (that’s free).

Even pulling up to the parking lot is exciting as you catch a glimpse of the vast landscape. But when you get out and walk toward the edge, your breath truly leaves your body!

This mini-Grand Canyon stuns you with its beauty. And the literal history behind the name is just as intriguing (you can find the story on the sign when you arrive).

You can also hike down into the canyon or just admire the view from above.

If you have your dogs with you, make sure they’re on leash because the gophers are plentiful here! Also plan ahead as there are no washrooms at this site. 

8. Bleriot Ferry

A ferry in the middle of the prairies! The Bleriot Ferry uses cables and crosses the picturesque Red Deer River.

It’s a short ride and free to use, which is open in the summer months from May to October.

The river crossing is fun but the approach down into the valley is just as beautiful too. I recommend crossing from the Horsethief Canyon side for the best scenery. Cyclists and motorcycles can cross on the ferry as well!

9. Orkney Viewpoint

The Orkney Viewpoint is one of the best hidden gems in Alberta.

Especially since Kneehill County has recently done a great job in sprucing up the parking lot, adding washrooms and some beautiful benches.

This spot is perfect to visit at the end of a long day of adventures. Enjoy a peaceful moment watching the sunset as you’re perched above the Red Deer River.

Spectacular views, few people and great photo opportunities.

>> Read more: 40 Hidden Gems and Unique Things to Do in Alberta

10. Horseshoe Canyon

If you’re visiting Drumheller from Calgary, you’ll pass by Horseshoe Canyon which is a great lookout spot, picnic area and one of the best places to go hiking.

The large observation decks reveal striking views of the painted canyon walls below. Stand here and take a moment to think about the fact that this entire area was once a lush tropical forest 70 million years ago.

Then, head down for some of the most unique hiking trails you will find in not only Drumheller, but all of Canada.

The various trails range from beginner to more challenging for any ability and sense of adventure. You can spend as little as 45 minutes or several hours exploring the mysterious landscape.

There are also washrooms on site and a great tourist information board with a list of all the other attractions in the Badlands. 

11. Valley Brewing

Stop by Valley Brewing under the water tower in Drumheller for a perfect pint on their pet friendly patio.

The beers are unique (pictured is a strawberry-rhubarb ale) and plentiful and the staff are always welcoming.

They also have options on tap for non-drinkers and kids. Plus, you can order takeout from local restaurants to be delivered to you on the patio (or just bring your own).

12. Eat at Bernie and the Boys Bistro

A classic burger joint known for their mammoth burger – a 24 ounce patty! This local gem was featured on You Gotta Eat Here; visit for the hefty portion sizes and fun atmosphere.

13. Newcastle Beach

Newcastle Beach is the perfect place to cool down and hang out on a hot summer day in Drumheller.

Bring the kids and the dogs to splash around in the Red Deer River, where there’s a small sandy beach and boat launch. 

14. Ghost Walking Tour Through Downtown 

Download this audio guide to your phone for a guided walking tour through downtown Drumheller.

It will take you passed 12 points of interest telling you about the town’s haunted past and ghostly residents, plus fun trivia along the way.  

15. Hoodoos Trail

One of the most famous places to visit in Drumheller is the Hoodoos Trail. This is the most accessible spot in the Alberta Badlands to see the famous mushroom-capped rocks known as a hoodoo .

This spot is located a few minutes south of Drumheller and has a large parking lot right off the highway (there’s usually a food truck here in the summer).

The main area has stairs to explore to get closer to the bigger and more delicate hoodoos. But you can also explore further into the area and for light hiking.

Remember that this landscape is very delicate, so please be careful with your footing and don’t touch the hoodoos to help preserve them. 

16. Star Mine Suspension Bridge at Rosedale

This old school pedestrian bridge provides a new perspective of the badlands landscape as you cross over the Red Deer River on foot.

While it’s fun to cross and feel the sway beneath your feet, the history of the bridge is equally interesting.

Construction on this bridge originally started in 1931, twenty years after coal miners had to use row boats to cross the river.

When you cross the bridge and hike up the rocks, take a moment to think about the mine remains that are buried beneath your feet.

The Rosedale suspension bridge is also a great spot for a picnic, as there are big beautiful trees that provide lots of shade, several picnic tables and washrooms. 

Please note that in 2021, the suspension bridge is currently closed for structural repairs. 

17. East Coulee School Museum

Another hidden gem just outside of Drumheller is the East Coulee School Museum, a restored schoolhouse that shows visitors exactly what school (and life in general) was like in the boomtown mining days.

It’s only a few minutes from the Hoodoos Trail, and also has a great café and vintage playground equipment. 

18. Last Chance Saloon & Wayne Ghost Town

One of the best places to visit around Drumheller is the Last Chance Saloon in the hamlet of Wayne.

Travel 15 minutes down Highway 10X, where you’ll pass over 11 unique bridges. This scenic drive makes it one of the best road trips for motorcycles and cyclists, too.

The saloon is attached to the Rosedeer, which is still a functioning boutique hotel with several vintage rooms.

You’ll find every inch of the Last Chance Saloon covered with history and memorabilia, including bullet holes on the wall. Legend has it that the barkeep used to fire warning shots at customers who didn’t want to pay their tab.

The saloon has also recently expanded their patio (pet friendly), and hosts live music in the summer. 

19. Have Breakfast at WHIFS

My favorite breakfast spot in Drumheller is WHIFS Flapjack House, which is located onsite at the Badlands Motel .

It’s your classic breakfast diner food, but better. And the prices are the best in town – you can still get bacon and eggs for under 10 dollars.

As a bonus, the massive windows provide endless views of the striking badlands scenery.

20. Dorothy Ghost Town

Scenic drives from Drumheller are second to none, especially when they take you to unconventionally beautiful places, like the hamlet of Dorothy.

Travel about 30 kilometers south to find some beautiful old buildings, churches and grain elevators. 

21. Rowley Ghost Town

30 minutes north of Drumheller is the hamlet of Rowley: “the ghost town with undying spirit.”

While it’s not a true ghost town (there are about half a dozen residents), it sure feels like it.

On the single gravel main street, you’ll find several buildings from the past, many of them abandoned (including the spooky old blue house that looks like something out of a horror movie).

Despite some eerie vibes, it’s actually quite fun to stroll around, as the community has done an excellent job providing historical information about each building.

During the summer season, on the last Saturday of each month, the community holds a town pizza party! 

>> Read next: 6 Iconic and Unique Road Trips You Can Take Through Alberta

22. Atlas Coal Mine

During the boom of the coal mining years in Drumheller, there were well over 130 coal mines in the area, including the Atlas Coal Mine which is now a national historic site.

It originally opened in 1936 and was operational for over 40 years. As you roll up from the highway it actually looks somewhat abandoned, but visitors are able to get an in depth tour of the tipple and old mine structures and equipment.

I recommend booking tours in advance and plan to spend a few hours here. 

23. Michichi Boardwalk

If you’re spending a few days in the Drumheller area or looking for a unique spot to camp nearby, the Michichi Creek Boardwalk area is a true sanctuary.

Michichi is located 25 minutes northwest of Drumheller and is the place you want to be if you’re in search of pure tranquility and peace and quiet.

A one kilometre boardwalk surrounds a protected wetlands area with interpretive signage to help you identify the different flora and fauna that you’ll come across. 

Where to Stay in Drumheller

we love staying here because it’s pet friendly and overlooks the river!

Make sure you get a room on the backside of the hotel for a view of the World’s Largest Dinosaur from your balcony.

Heartwood Inn

The perfect bed and breakfast style accommodation for a romantic getaway.

(It’s even featured in this list of the 19 most romantic getaways in Alberta ).

Close enough to walk downtown, but just far enough away for peace and quiet. 

The Purple Door

A cute bungalow with a full kitchen and nice yard and garden area, perfect for families. You can book it on VRBO or Booking.com .

Search for hotels and VRBO stays to compare real-time prices and availability by using this map:

Want more Alberta? Visit my Alberta Page or check out these posts:

>> 27 Alberta Experiences that are Bucket List Worthy

>> 8 Themed Day Trips from Edmonton (within 2 hours)

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25 Awesome Things to Do in Drumheller, Alberta (a 2024 guide!)

Dear reader: This article contains links to products and services that I may be compensated for, at no extra cost to you.

While visitors to Alberta tend to gravitate to Banff and Jasper, Drumheller is without a doubt one of the most memorable things to do in Alberta .

Drumheller is practically synonymous with dinosaurs; in fact, it’s the self-proclaimed “Dinosaur Capital of the World.” It’s seriously a paradise for any dino-loving kid. Yes, it’s touristy and outright tacky at times, complete with the World’s Largest T-Rex (for more kid-focused trip, see my guide to visiting Drumheller with kids ).

But the world-class Royal Tyrrell Museum alone is worth a visit for anyone, not the mention the incredible badlands scenery surrounding town.

Below I’m going to cover 25 of the best things to do in Drumheller, based on my multiple visits over the years, recently with my own kids, and going all the way back to my own childhood, when I had a sleepover on the floor of the Dino Room at the Royal Tyrrell in Boy Scouts. (Bragging rights!)  

To complete an epic Alberta dinosaur road trip, you include combine a visit to Dinosaur Provincial Park on your Drumheller itinerary. The provincial park is a 1.5-hour drive southeast of Drumheller toward Medicine Hat . Dinosaur Provincial Park is a more natural and less touristy dinosaur experience, including seeing real dinosaur fossils in the ground, and the badlands there are just as (if not more) impressive than those of Drumheller.

You’ll want to budget a few days to properly explore each destination, so I’d highly recommend staying in Drumheller for a night or two, then camping in Dinosaur Provincial Park to get the best of both places. But if you’re short on time, Drumheller is doable as a day trip from Edmonton or Calgary.

Table of Contents

Where to Stay and Eat in Drumheller

Every time we visit Drumheller with our kids, we stay at the Ramada by Wyndham ( see on Booking / Agoda / TripAdvisor ). Why? The answer is simple: swimming pool & waterslide! The Irish pub across the parking lot from the hotel doesn’t hurt, either.

We’ve also always been tempted by Heartwood Inn & Spa ( see on Booking / Agoda / read reviews ), a super highly rated guesthouse, a nice alternative to all the other chain hotels and motels in town. A variety of homey bungalows and rooms come with hot tubs, fireplaces, BBQs, and more. Book early!

Dino & breakfast lovers can try WHIFS Flapjack House for all-day breakfast and dinosaurs on the walls. Head to Vintage Tap House or O’shea’s for beer + food in town or drive out to Last Chance Saloon , a classic old-time spot (well cover that below!)

Attractions North of Town

Several of the most famous places to visit in Drumheller are located north of the townsite. You can easily see all of them by doing a driving loop up highway 838, crossing over Red Deer River on Bleriot Ferry, and back down to town on highway 837.

Also see my guide to 99 things to do in Edmonton , where I’m from!

Drive the Dinosaur Trail

The Dinosaur Trail is a roughly 60-kilometer loop drive that takes in some of the best scenery and attractions that the Drumheller region has to offer. The below eight entries are all located on the Dinosaur Trail.

Beginning in Drumheller town, take Highway 838 (also called N Dinosaur Trail) out of town as it follows the eastern bank of the Red Deer River going north. You’ll soon pass the turnoff for Royal Tyrell Museum, Midlands Provincial Park, and The Little Church on the right. Further along, Cactus Coulee Fun Park and Horsethief Canyon will be on the left.

Finally, you’ll reach Bleriot Ferry, cross the Red Deer River on it, then follow Highways 837 then 575 (S Dinosaur Trail) back into town, stopping at Orkney Viewpoint along the way. The drive itself takes less than an hour, but depending on your stops, it could be a half or even full-day trip. 

Some people consider Hoodoo Trail south of town as a southern extension of the Dinosaur Trail, and you could even continuing driving another 1.5 hours past the hoodoos to reach Dinosaur Provincial Park to complete the ultimate Dinosaur Trail road trip! 

Logistical tip : If you’re first arriving in Drumheller from the north on Highway 837 (for example if you took the backroads route from Edmonton to Drumheller instead of Highway 2) and want to do the Dinosaur Trail before arriving in Drumheller town, it would make sense to see the below seven sights in reverse order. In other words, see Orkney Viewpoint on the western side of the river first, then cross Bleriot ferry and see the remaining sights on the way in to Drumheller.

McMullen Island Day Use Area

This isn’t a must-see Drumheller attraction, but if you’re looking for a nice spot to have a picnic when just arriving in or leaving Drumheller, it’s good to know it’s there. The day use area is on the bank of the Red Deer river and has picnic tables, outhouses, and water.

The day use area has a paved walkway through the riverside greenery. It is also a stop on a network of walking trails that connect Drumheller town to Royal Tyrrell Museum and the Badlands Interpretive Trail.

Royal Tyrrell Museum of Paleontology

The Royal Tyrell Museum is arguably the best dinosaur museum in the entire world. Located in visually stunning Midland Provincial Park, the enormous (12,500 meter square) building is a testament to all things palaeontology (the study of ancient plant and animal fossils), especially dinos.

Visitor’s to the museum walk through Alberta’s pre-historic past, from the Palaeozoic (when animals first left the sea), through the three dino periods (Triassic, Jurassic, Cretaceous), and finishing with the Cenozoic (age of mammals). There are loads of fossils, dino skeletons, and life-sized mock dinos, as well as a Cretaceous Garden along the way.

The museum also serves as a laboratory and research facility, and visitors can even observe paleontologists working on real fossils. In 2019, a large Learning Lounge was added, and the museum hosts numerous activities, school group visits, and more.

You’ll want to budget at least 2-3 hours for visiting the museum. There’s also a cafeteria, excellent gift shop, outdoor picnic area, large playground, and a 1.4-km interpretive trail in the surrounding badlands.

The museum is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and closed on Sundays.

More southern Alberta fun: see my guide to the incredible Waterton Lakes National Park .

Midland Provincial Park

Midland is a small provincial park created in 1979 to preserve a slice of the Drumheller region’s coal mining past. The two best ways to access the park are at the Midland Coal Day-Use Area/Interpretive Trail and the Badlands Interpretive Trail.

The Midland Coal Day-Use Area is along Highway 838 just as it is leaving Drumheller town, before reaching the turnoff for Royal Tyrell Museum. Watch for the blue sign for “Midland Coal Mine” on the right (this site is not marked on GoogleMaps). When you first turn right off the highway, you’ll find the Day Use area on the right. There you can learn about the history of the Midland Coal Company and see some old machinery. Follow the road to the left to reach the former mining site and Midland Coal Interpretive Trail , which takes you past various foundations and remains from the old mine.

At Royal Tyrrell Museum, the 1.4-kilometer Badlands Interpretive Trail (also called the Royal Tyrrell Museum Loop) is another easy walk that features stunning scenery of Midland Provincial Park. The easy walk takes about 30 minutes to complete. Keep your eyes peeled for cougars, which frequent the park (you probably won’t see them…)

The Little Church

750 meters after the Royal Tyrrell Museum’s exit onto Highway 838, you can’t miss (despite it’s miniature size) the Little Church on the right. The 6-person church was first built in 1968 as an actual place of worship, then reconstructed by inmates from the Drumheller Institution in 1991.

The door to the church is open, so visitors are free to enter and take a quick look. The church is an odd but beautiful sight with the stunning badlands backing it. 

Also see my guides to these other Alberta destinations: Red Deer , Lethbridge , Fort McMurray , Kananaskis and Canmore !

Cactus Coulee Fun Park & RV Resort

Continuing along past gorgeous badlands scenery, you’ll soon reach the turnoff for Cactus Coulee Fun Park , a small amusement park with go-karting, mini golf, eurobungy, ice cream, and more.

The park is open from May to September (weekends only in May and September). There’s also a RV campground on site.

Horsethief Canyon

The next stop on the Dinosaur Trail, Horsethief Canyon, offers some of the most stunning scenery in the greater Drumheller area. It is one of the many reasons I consider Alberta to be the most beautiful province in Canada .

Horsethief Canyon is often compared to (or confused with) Horseshoe Canyon, which is located southwest of town. The canyon is named after outlaws who hid stolen farm animals here more than 100 years ago.

As soon as you pull into the small turnoff, you’ll be afforded an incredible, sweeping view of the Red Deer river valley. You can walk from various points down into the valley, or follow this simple trail map . Watch out for rattlesnakes!

Bleriot Ferry

The northernmost point of Dinosaur Trail is Bleriot Ferry, which is an attraction in itself. The cable ferry was first built in 1913 by Andre Bleriot, and today it remains one of the few ways that cars can cross the Red Deer River in the Drumheller area. The ferry ride is free, and you may have to wait a few minutes to make the short crossing.

The steep drive down to the ferry is rather exciting. Upon crossing to the west side of the river, Highway 838 meets with Highway 837 for the return drive to Drumheller. There’s also the small Bleriot Ferry Campground on the western bank of the river.

The ferry operates from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. from May 9 to the September long weekend, and 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. from the September long weekend to October 30.

You can see one of the original Bleriot ferries at Homestead Antique Museum.

Orkney Viewpoint

A final stop you’ll definitely want to make on the return drive to Drumheller is at Orkney Viewpoint, which looks back at Horsethief Canyon from the western side of the river.

Besides the awesome views, there’s a sign explaining the area, and how the road was originally built to connect the Scottish farming community of Orkney with nearby Kirkpatrick.

Attractions In Drumheller Town

Although touristy and tacky, there are several dinosaur related things to do with the kids right in the Drumheller townsite.

Welcome to Drumheller Signs

There are three photogenic “Welcome to Drumheller” signs on the way into town. The first is on Highway 56, which arrives into Drumheller’s town center directly from the north. A second, identical one is on the more commonly used Highway 9 coming into town from the west, while the third one is on highway 575 (S Dinosaur Trail), at the tail end of the Dinosaur Trail loop.

There’s nothing to see at each stop besides the sign, which features an Albertosaurus (my non-educated guess), but if you want a picture with the sign, there’s plenty of room to park. They’re each only a minute or two out of town, and you can find them on GoogleMaps if you type in “Welcome to Drumheller Sign” or see them on my Drumheller map at the top of the article.

Fossil World Discovery Center (closed)

At the northwester end of town, a few minutes along Dinosaur Trail (Highway 838), the kid-focused Fossil Dinosaur Discovery Center used to be worth a stop for dino-obsessed young kids. Although much smaller, less educational, and surely not a replacement for the Royal Tyrrell Museum on your Drumheller itinerary, it was nevertheless a fun place to visit with young kids.

The small dino museum inside featured some impressive fossils, skeletons, and what some have called the most realistic animatronic (moving and roaring) T-Rex in the world. My son is a huge dino fan and we’ve been to several dinosaur museums around the world, but he was actually terrified of this one!

Kids could also pay extra to do a fossil or mineral dig, and they get to take home what they find. The center is a quick (maximum 1 hour), fun stop, but it’s pricey for what you get. I’m leaving this entry up for now in case by some miracle they decide to reopen again in the future!

Dinosaur Trail Playground

Right next to Fossil World Discovery Center, there’s a small playground with a life-sized brachiosaurus. For visitors coming in off the N Dinosaur Trail, this can be a much needed stop for some park fun, and is the first big dino you’ll spt when driving into town from that direction.

Note: you can approach the brachiosaurs from the parking lot of Fossil Discovery World, but to actually play in the playground, you’ll have to access it from 17 St. NW, a minute west along Highway 838 due to the fence you can see in the photo above.

Homestead Antique Museum

Very close to the start of N Dinosaur N in town, Homestead Antique Museum is a small museum that will appeal to antique-loving visitors. There are around 10,000 items on display, including one of the original Bleriot ferries and a house purchased entirely from a 1919 Eaton’s catalogue. 

There’s also a tearoom (summer only), shop with ice cream & treats, and children’s activities such as a scavenger hunt. The museum is open from May to mid-October.

The Fossil Shop, Inc.

For a souvenir shop with some serious personality, head to The Fossil Shop on Highway 56 just before it crosses Red Deer River and reaches the giant T-Rex.

The shop sells a wide variety of real fossils, minerals, and more, ranging from cheap & junky toys like you’ll find at all the other shops to super rare (and expensive) treasures. Customers seem to either love the quirky owner or find her extremely rude. Also, make sure to obey the signs inside. You’ve been warned!   

Drumheller Giant T-Rex

Guess what? Drumheller has the world’s largest T-Rex ! The 25-meter tall, 46-meter long dino is approximately 4.5 times larger than a real T-rex was. Completely in 2000, she (yes, she’s a girl) cost just over a million dollars to build. This is one of Alberta’s numerous oversized roadside attractions .

Visitors can pay to enter and climb up into the mouth of the T-Rex. At $5 or $15 per family, it’s not to expensive to check this off your Drumheller bucket list.

The T-Rex is open year-round, from around 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m (only weekends in winter). It’s called “World’s Largest Dinosaur” on GoogleMaps.

If your kids haven’t got the tacky dino souvenir you promised them yet by this point, you can pop in to the Jurassic Store Fossil World across the street. It’s got a few dino statues out front, plus an ice cream store.

The store is run by Fossil World Discovery Center.

Rotary Spray Park

In the park right in front of the Giant T-Rex, there’s a small spray park for kids. It’s understandably a very popular spot in summer, and stays open as long as whether permits.

Next to the spray park, there’s also the Drumheller Aquaplex (swimming pool) and Drumheller Skate Park.

Go on the Drumheller Dino Walk

Besides the oversized T-Rex, there are around 20 other dinosaur statues around town. All of them are local dinos found in the Drumheller area. You could walk to several of them from the Giant T-Rex, or go on a dino-spotting tour by car.

Here’s a map of all the dinosaurs statues in Drumheller .

Drumheller Riverside Park

There is a decent trail system along the Red Deer River in Drumheller. The large bend in the river around the Giant T-Rex has some walking trails, while there’s another lovely section at the southeast end of the town center.

The riverside parks include some playgrounds for the kids, and they’re a great place to get outside and enjoy some fresh air. The Riverside Park also sometimes hosts activities in summer, and the foliage is beautiful in fall (see photo above, shot in late September).

Attractions South of Town

There are enough things to do south of town to make a half or even full day trip of it, including the area’s most famous collection of hoodoos.

Horseshoe Canyon

Just like Horsethief Canyon, Horseshoe Canyon features a stunningly gorgeous badlands landscape, but with the river that formed it long since dried up.

After enjoying the incredible views from near the parking lot, you can walk down into the immense U-shaped valley, which extends five kilometers in either direction. In summer, make sure to protect yourself from the sun, bring lots of water, and watch out for rattlesnakes.

The canyon is located 17 kilometers (15 minutes drive) out of town on Highway 9. If you’re arriving in Drumheller on the Highway 9, it makes sense to stop here on the way into or out of town. The Horseshoe Canyon Campground is also nearby.

11 Bridges to Wayne

The remaining six sights can all be accessed by taking Highway 56 southeast out of Drumheller town center, then merging onto the Highway 10.

First off, 11 Bridges to Wayne is a detour on Highway 10X (watch for the turnoff just before 11 Bridges Campground and Cabins) to the tiny hamlet of Wayne that, as the name suggests, requires crossing 11 bridges in a short distance.

Wayne is a former coal mining boomtown. The town was built up for the Rose Deer Coal Mine, and at is prime had 2000 residents. Today there are only 28 permanent residents remaining.

So what is there to do when you actually arrive in Wayne? Well, see the next entry!

Last Chance Saloon

No, you didn’t just drive across 11 bridges for nothing. The pot of gold at the end of the rainbow is the Last Chance Saloon . Once a bar for miners in the early 1900s in a land that was considered very wild, the bar has reopened as a mini-museum, restaurant, and tourist attraction.

Sip some cold beers and enjoy some hearty Canadian food, including a menu for kids. You can even spend the night at the adjacent Rosedeer Hotel ( see reviews here ). The whole place has a real Wild West feel to it.

Rosedale (Star Mine) Suspension Bridge (closed)

Returning to Highway 56, you’ll continue for just a few hundred meters before reaching the turnoff on the opposite (left) side of the highway to the Star Mine Suspension Bridge (or Rosedale Suspension Bridge) in tiny Rosedale.

The 117-meter pedestrian-only suspension bridge across the Red Deer river used to be another top attractions in the greater Drumheller area. It was originally built in 1931 to provide access to Star Mine for the workers.

Unfortunately, the bridge has been closed for a few years now due to structural concerns. It remains closed as of early 2024. It may be quite a while before it is fixed up and reopened, but I’ll update this space when it does! Until then, locals ask that you don’t visit the bridge, and the entrance to it is blocked.

Hoodoos Trail

Hoodoos Trail is a small collection of especially beautiful hoodoos (columns of rock with a large, often flat stone on top created by wind erosion). The “trail” in Hoodoos trail refers to a small walking path loop viewing platforms around the hoodoos, but sometimes also refers to the 15-kilometer (15-minute) drive from Drumheller town south to the hoodoos. 

The parking lot with foods stalls (in summer), and railings & staircases around from the hoodoos take away from the natural atmosphere, but the latter also serve to prevent people from walking on the hoodoos and destroying them. Nevertheless, the hoodoos are the best that you can easily visit in town and one of the major highlights of visiting Drumheller.

To see hoodoos in a totally natural landscape, consider going hiking in Dinosaur Provincial Park or Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park in Southern Alberta. I personally enjoyed the hoodoos in these two lesser-known provincial parks more than the ones in Drumheller.

East Coulee School Museum

Driving another five minutes south past the Hoodoos Trail will bring you to East Coulee School Museum in the tiny community of East Coulee (population 160).

The East Coulee school first opened in 1930, when the nearby Atlas and Empire coal mines were thriving. The school is now converted into a small museum that gives visitors a peek into the area’s pioneering past.

Atlas Coal Mine

At the southern end of what is officially considered Drumheller town, Atlas Coal Mine is the most impressive coal mining attraction in the entire area and is a national historic site. It also makes it onto my list of essential Alberta experiences .

Atlas Coal Mine was in operation from 1911 to 1979, when declining use of coal caused this and other coal mines in Drumheller to shut down. Visitors can tour the large mine, including machines exhibited outside, train cars, a huge tipple (the structure that provided access to the mine and is used to transport coal to train cars), and underground portions of the mine.

Note that the tipple and underground portions are only accessible by guided tour, when available.

Places to Visit Beyond Drumheller

To extend your Drumheller trip, that are several worthwhile attractions within 1-2 hours that you can easily add on. If you enjoyed Drumheller, then you will probably also love Dinosaur Provincial Park (1 hr 45 min SE of Drumheller).

Heading north from Drumheller, the Rowley Ghost Town is really cool, while Dry Island Buffalo Jump Provincial Park could be visited as a stop en route to Drumheller from Edmonton or Red Deer .

Find even more ideas is my guide to the best places to visit in Alberta .

Well, that sums up my list of awesome things to do in Drumheller, Alberta! If you’ve got any questions or feel I’ve missed something important, please let me know in the comments below!

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Hi Something new to add to your list for Drumheller is the Redu Wellness Centre. We opened our spiritual wellness centre in the spring of 2023, just 10 minutes west of Drumheller on hwy 575. Individuals can book an appointment for a one-on-one healing session, sign up for a spiritual retreat, sign up to join our crystal bowl meditations, or one of our spiritual workshops. You can find our info on http://www.sonyaroy.com

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BanffandBeyond

The Canadian Rockies Through A Local Perspective

Drumheller And The Badlands, The Land Of Dinosaurs and Lunar Landscapes

The Canadian Badlands are an area steeped in history. Visiting them is like stepping back into the pioneering days and the coal mining era. They are also a vast and unique area of prairies, grasslands, rustic ranches, ghost towns, hoodoo rock formations, coulees and ravines. Parts of the landscape look like the face of the moon or another planet, yet you can experience them by driving just 90 minutes northeast of Calgary. The badlands were created over 10,000 years ago when the glacier floodwaters carved the Red Deer Valley. They stretch from southeastern Alberta into a small portion of Saskatchewan. This land is 2000 feet above sea level, but was once covered in jungle and under a shallow sea. It’s an area with rich deposits of fossils and dinosaur bones that have been unearthed from 75 million years ago. They are on display in museums around the world.

The Must Do’s Of The Drumheller Badland Area

• See Horseshoe Canyon
• Drive the Dinosaur Trail
• Visit the Royal Tyrrell Museum
• Check out the world’s tallest dinosaur at the Drumheller Visitor Center
• View the Hoodoo’s along Hwy 10 (the Hoodoo Trail) southeast of Drumheller
• Watch for prairie dogs, the comical little critters that can be seen scurrying about and popping up from their ground burrows.

The Town Of Drumheller

Drumheller is the town most associated with the badlands. It’s home to the Royal Tyrrell Museum that houses exhibits of dinosaur bones and fossils from the area. It’s a friendly little community with a population of 8000. During the coal mining days it was fast developing but now the economy is based mostly on agriculture and tourism. The downtown area is compact and easy to get around on foot. Outside of that you need to have a vehicle to see the sights.  Travel Drumheller

Drumheller Visitor Center And The World’s Largest Dinosaur

Centennial Park is a popular attraction and picnic area in Drumheller. In the center of the park is a children’s water spray area. It’s a great spot to take the kids on a hot summer day. The waterslide at the nearby Aquaplex is another popular attraction.

The park is the location for the Visitor Center, it also houses a gift shop with fossil and dinosaur souvenirs. Free maps, travel guides and tourist information are available and hotels and tours can be booked free of charge. During July and August the center is open from 9am to 9pm and from September to April 10am to 5:30pm. In May and June the hours are extended as the tourist season picks up. Address: 60-1 Avenue West, Drumheller.

The star of the park is the world’s largest dinosaur. The Tyrannosaurus Rex towers over the parking lot at 26 meters (86ft.) The visitor center sits right underneath it. For a small fee you can climb up the 106 steps inside the belly and then lookout at a view of the town and Red Deer Valley through the mouth and teeth. The adjacent Centennial Park grounds have grass lawns, picnic tables and sitting benches.

Drumheller’s Pathways

There’s 18 km’s of pathways that run alongside the Red Deer River, through downtown and from the Royal Tyrrell Museum. They are perfect for walking or biking. Park your vehicle at the Visitor Center at Centennial Park and pick up a walking tour brochure. The park is within walking distance of the shops and boutiques in downtown Drumheller. Play a game with your kids to see how many concrete dinosaurs they can spot around town.

The Red Deer River Nature Trail connects to Centennial Park offering views of the community along the banks of the Red Deer River. It’s a popular spot for walking, hiking and roller blading.

Horseshoe Canyon

Horseshoe Canyon got it’s name from the two 5km arms that were formed into a horseshoe shape when it was carved by a glacier long ago. It’s located 17 km’s southwest of Drumheller on Highway 9. When driving from Calgary it comes as quite a surprise. Suddenly the flat prairie grassland abruptly opens into a steep canyon full of unique formations that have been eroded for centuries by wind and water. A pullout leads to a parking lot that offers spectacular views of the coloured layers of the canyon. It’s a great spot to get a beautiful sunrise photo.

Well worn paths lead to the bottom, but be prepared for 40C. temperatures in the summer. It is not recommended to hike into the canyon if it is raining or has recently rained. The particular type of clay and mud on the canyon floor is as slick as oil when it’s wet.

Royal Tyrrell Museum

The Royal Tyrrell Museum is a world class paleontology facility that holds over 130,00 specimens, including 35 full scale dinosaur skeletons. It is dedicated to Joseph Tyrrell who discovered the Albertosaurus in 1884, one of the first of hundreds of skeletons that was excavated from the area.

The museum’s incredible range of exhibits and galleries show the rich fossils of the Alberta Badlands and take you through earth’s history. Large windows allow for viewing into the preparation labs where scientists prepare remains for display and research.

The museum is enjoyed by adults and children of all ages. Allow 2 to 3 hours to go through the various exhibits and interactive stations. Those who have a keen interest in paleontology could easily spend the better part of a day.

Several programs are offered including moderate hikes leading to areas with fossil artifacts, fossil casting, digging experiences and assembling replica dinosaurs. It gets very busy in the summer, register in advance to secure a spot.

• Museum Hours:  From mid-May through August 9am to 9pm. It can be very busy in July and August, the evenings can be a great way to avoid the crowds. Hours are reduced in September through mid-May and after September the museum is closed on Mondays. Check their website for their current schedule.
• Address : 1500 N Dinosaur Trail, Drumheller, AB
• Directions : 6 km (about 4 miles) northwest of Drumheller, in Midland Provincial Park
• Website : Tyrrell Museum  Phone: 1-888-440-4240

Midland Provincial Park

The Royal Tyrrell Museum stands on the southwest corner of the 280-hectare Midland Provincial Park. A trailhead a few hundred meters east of the museum marks a 1.4 km interpretative walk. Signs show how the glacial forces sculpted the badlands from 70 million year old layers of sedimentary rock. Further east of this path is another self guided tour that goes past the remains of old coal mining sites. This was once the town of Midlandvale, it was home to several hundred residents and four major coal mines. Six hundred acres of the coal mine land was donated to the province to form the Midland Provincial Park.

McMullen Island Park shares the same park grounds as the museum making up part of the Midland Provincial Park. It is a day use picnic area situated on the banks of the Red Deer River with lush green areas and trees. It’s quite a contrast to the mostly dry and barren badlands.

The Dinosaur Trail

This is a 48 km route that runs west from the town of Drumheller. The North Dinosaur Trail on Hwy 838 follows the north side of the Red Deer River into Midland Provincial Park and through the Valley of the Dinosaurs. After crossing the river on a cable ferry it loops around to return to town on the South Dinosaur Trail, utilizing portions of Hwy 575 and 827.

The drive can be done as a self guided tour. Start the loop at the Visitor Center where you can pick up a map marking the points of interest in the Drumheller Valley and viewpoints overlooking the Badland coulees. Depending on what you want to see along the route allow between one and three hours, longer if you plan on visiting the Tyrrell Museum at the same time.

Heading west on North Dinosaur Trail the points of interest are in the following order:

• Homestead Antique Museum – local history items from settlement camps from aboriginals and pioneer farmers in the area
• Fossil World shop – dinosaur exhibit of sculpted creatures
• Midland Provincial Park – picnic areas by the river and a hike around an old mine site
• Royal Tyrrell Museum – allow several hours just for this attraction
• Midland Provincial Park – wander through the old mine site
• The Little Church – cute little church that seats only 6 people
• Horsethief Canyon – landscape of coulees and fossil oyster beds
• Bleriot Ferry – crosses the Red Deer River to South Dinosaur Trail
• Orkney Viewpoint – a great place to take photos of the valley before heading back to Drumheller

The Little White Church

Located on the north side of Dinosaur Trail near the Royal Tyrrell Museum this little white church was built in 1958 as a place of worship. It’s 7 by 11 feet in size, complete with a steeple and brass bell. The church can hold 6 people and the minister. People actually have weddings here!

Horsethief Canyon

Horsethief Canyon is approximately 10 km’s past the Tyrrell Museum on Highway 838. It’s very similar and just as beautiful in appearance as the Horshoe Canyon, but less visited. Both were created by different tributaries of the Red Deer River. The true reason of the name is not clear, but it’s rumored that stolen horses were hid in the coulees for rebranding before being shipped off the state of Montana for sale. Footpaths lead down into the canyon to fossizlized oyster beds, but be cautious as it’s very easy to get lost.

The Bleriot Ferry

The Bleriot ferry crosses the Red Deer River connecting the north Dinosaur trail ( Hwy 837) with the south Dinosaur Trail (Hwy 838). With a 5 minute crossing time it’s probably the shortest ferry you will ever take. The unique cable operated system is the last of its kind being operated in Alberta, it’s been running since 1913. Be prepared for a bit of a wait in the summer months, it can only take about a dozen cars at a time. The ferry runs from the spring ice break up to the late fall freeze up, check with the visitor center to confirm operating times beforehand.

Orkney Viewpoint

As you head back towards Drumheller on the South Dinosaur Trail stop at the Orkney Viewpoint that overlooks the Red Deer River Valley.

Hoodoo Trail Drive

Highway 10 heading southeast from Drumheller is known as the Hoodoo Trail. It’s a route offering a look into the historic past of coal mining in the area. It takes you to ghost towns and the unique rock formations called Hoodoos. The points of interest along the Hoodoo Trail are marked out on the same map as the Dinosaur Trail available from the visitor center. Allow approximately 2 hours for the return drive, longer if you are stopping at any sights.

Points of Interest On the Hoodoo Trail Drive

• Rosedale Suspension Bridge
• Side trip to Wayne

Hoodoo Recreation Area

• East Coulee School Museum

Atlas Coal Mine

• Hamlet of Dorothy

Rosedale Swinging Suspension Bridge

One of the first points of interest along the route is the Rosedale swinging suspension foot bridge crossing the Red Deer River. You’ll reach it approximately 8 km’s from Drumheller. Follow the signs through Rosedale town to the reconstructed 117 meter suspension bridge. On the north side of the river are a variety of hiking trails through the abandoned remains of the Star Mine.

Historic Hamlet Of Wayne

At Rosedale you can take a side trip onto the Highway 10x turnoff to the near ghost town of Wayne. It was once a prosperous coal mining community. It had 6 coal mines in the 1920’s and 30’s and a population of 2500. The last population count was 27. On the way to the small hamlet the road zigzags across the Rosebud River on eleven narrow bridges in a span of just 7 km’s.  Wayne is home to the historic Last Chance Saloon at the Rosedeer Hotel. It remains as a relic from the bustling coal mining era. Several short hikes around Wayne lead to old mining ruins. Take note that the paved road ends at Wayne. There is an option to get through to East Coulee, but it requires going over a steep gravel road. It’s best to head back the way you came back to Highway 10 and then continue east.  Last Chance Saloon

Back on Highway 10 and continuing southeast will bring you to the highlight of the drive, the Hoodoo Provincial Recreation Day Use Area. It offers some of the best examples of hoodoos. Straight from Drumheller it’s approximately a 15 minute drive.

Hoodoos are pillars of sand and clay that have been created through millions of years of erosion. A harder capstone shelters the softer base beneath while the surrounding earth around it is eroded by wind, water and thawing and freezing cycles. This leaves behind a free standing pillar that looks like a mushroom shape. Some of them are over 20 feet tall. The Hoodoos are very delicate, help preserve them by staying on the designated pathways.

East Coulee And The School Museum

Shortly after the hoodoos is the town of East Coulee, once a booming coal mining town. At the School Museum you can get a feel for what life was like in a coal mining town including a 1936 classroom and have tea or lunch in the Willow Tea Room.  East Coulee School Museum

The Atlas Mine has been preserved as a provincial historic site. It was the most modern mine in the area. When it ceased operating in 1979 it was the end of coal mining reign in the Drumheller Valley. Guided tours are available to go to the top of the eight story high wooden coal tipple. This is one of the last mines in North America with a wooden surface-standing tipple. The tour also goes through the historic buildings and allows you to see exhibits of the mining equipment.  Atlas Coal Mine

Hamlet Of Dorothy

Another 10 km’s past the Atlas Coal Mine on Highway 570 is the tiny hamlet of Dorothy with less than a dozen residents. It will give you a taste of what a pioneering community was like. There are many abandoned buildings including several houses, two historic churches and a grain elevator. Visitors can browse through a small museum.

Exploring Other Areas Of The Canadian Badlands

You could easily spend weeks or even months visiting all the other places in the Canadian Badlands. Below are some of the other most popular places and attractions.  Canadian Badlands Information

Tip: When driving around the badland areas make sure you keep your tank filled up. In many areas the gas stations are few and far between.

Hamlet Of Rosebud

A popular stop when driving between Calgary and Drumheller is the town of Rosebud. It’s located 35 km’s southwest of Drumheller on Hwy 840.

The charming hamlet has fewer than one hundred residents, but it is a tourist and fine arts attraction. The old community hall, originally a grain storage facility was renovated into a 220 seat Opera House that attracts thousands annually to its productions. It has a 9 hole golf course, a Centennial Museum, an art gallery, recording studio and several bed and breakfast accommodations. A self-guided walking tour of the town will take you through the pioneer history.  Rosebud Tourism

Trekkie Town of Vulcan

The Town of Vulcan is located about an hour southeast of Calgary on Highway 23. The town has capitalized on the coincidental name of Vulcan to help make it a tourist attraction. It has built a replica of the Star Ship Enterprise next to a spaceship shaped visitor center, called the Tourism and Trek Station. It provides tourist information, displays Star Trek memorabilia and offers photo opportunities in Star Trek outfits. The town hosts an annual Star Trek convention known as Spock Days, attracting Star Trek fans from around the world.  Vulcan Tourism

Writing On Stone Provincial Park

This is a sacred landscape with special spiritual significance to the Blackfoot people. The area has one of the largest concentrations of rock art in the North American Plains. The First Nations petroglyph carvings and pictograph paintings cover the sandstone cliffs. The park has camping, a day use area, fishing and wildlife viewing opportunities.  Writing On Stone Provincial Park

Dinosaur Provincial Park

Dinosaur Provincial park is often mistakenly thought to be near Drumheller, but it is 177 km’s southeast. The drive between the two places takes a little over 2 hours. It is home to the Tyrrell Museum Field Station and the source of many of its fossils. The visitor center provides information and houses a gift shop. This is also where you can book guided hikes, bus tours and hands-on excavations. In the summer months it’s best to book ahead, the programs fill up quickly. The vast landscape of hoodoos and canyons is its own attraction. There’s walking trails and a day use picnic area with tables and fire pits. There’s a nearby campground within the Provincial Park. Dinosaur Provincial Park

When Is The Best Time To Visit Drumheller And The Canadian Badlands?

The tourism aspect of the Drumheller area is very seasonal. Some of the large attractions are open year round, others are closed or have limited hours from October To April. The most ideal time to visit for sunny weather and to ensure access to all the attractions is from late June to early September. Keep in mind early June can be rainy and the summer months are usually very hot. The heat can get overwhelming in the dry, rocky badlands of the Drumheller Valley. Daytime temperatures can be above 30C. (85F.). Be sure to pack plenty of water and sun protection. If possible try to plan your outdoor excursions for the cooler hours of morning and early evening.

How Much Time Is Needed For The Drumheller Area?

Ideally you will want two days to take in everything Drumheller and the surrounding areas have to offer. This will allow you to time to drive the Dinosaur Trail, see the Hoodoos, visit the Tyrrell Museum and take additional side trips to Wayne, Dorothy or Rosebud.

Drumheller Accommodation

Drumheller has a couple of larger hotel chains, some smaller motels and a few B&B options. The amount of places to stay is limited in comparison to a bigger city. Advance reservations are highly recommended for the busy summer months.

Travel Alberta/Canadian Badlands Accommodations

Canadian Badlands B&B Association

There’s camping and RV parking options in Drumheller and along the Dinosaur and Hoodoo Trail. They are often full by the afternoon. Book ahead for the campgrounds that allow reservations or show up early in the day for the first come, first served ones.

Other camping options are in Rosedale, Wayne, Cambria and in surrounding areas such as Rosebud, Dorothy, Delia, Michichi and Morrin. Drumheller Accommodations/Campgrounds

Drumheller Dining Options

Drumheller offers a variety of places to eat from pizza, burgers, Greek food to a Vietnamese noodle house. There’s a couple of family style restaurants, a flapjack house and even some of the typical chain establishments like McDonald’s, Tim Hortons, Dairy Queen and A&W. Drumheller Restaurants And Cafes

Directions To Drumheller From Calgary

Drumheller is 135km northeast of Calgary, about 1 hour 45 minutes by car. Drive north along Highway 2, then east along highway 72 and then highway 9. An alternative route is east along the Trans Canada Highway, then north along Highway 21, and east along highway 575, approaching the town from the west.

Distances and Times by Car From Other Alberta Cities To Drumheller

• Edmonton: 280 km (174 mi) 3 hrs
• Red Deer: 169 km (105 mi) 2 hrs
• Banff: 264 km (163 mi) 3 hrs
• Brooks: 138 km (85 mi) 1 hr 30 min
• Lethbridge: 302 km (188 mi) 3 hrs 15 min
• Medicine Hat: 251 km (156 mi) 2 hrs 30 min

Have your camera handy along Highway 9 as you head towards Drumheller. There’s lots of interesting photo opportunities that pop up from the flat prairie landscape.

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19 Best Things to Do in Drumheller, Alberta In 2024

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: February 11, 2024

Drumheller just may be the coolest place to visit in Alberta . Most people make a beeline to the Canadian Rockies in Banff or Jasper , but the Canadian badlands are not to be missed. The town of Drumheller makes for a great base to explore some of Alberta’s quirkiest and most amazing attractions. So let’s explore the dinosaur capital of the world and check out all the cool things to do in Drumheller.

Table of Contents

The Remarkable Landscape of Drumheller

Drumheller is a small town 90 minutes east of Calgary . It can easily be done on a day trip from Calgary , but to really experience all of the amazing things to see and do near Drumheller, you need at least 3 days. We have created this travel guide to inspire you to spend some time in Drumheller and explore more of Alberta outside the Canadian Rockies.

If you plan to visit Drumheller, you will want a car . We have this stretch of road as one of the best drive in Canada. You can pick up cars directly at the Calgary Airport. Check rates for car rentals in Alberta here.

Things to do in Drumheller

An old coal-mining town that is home to the richest dinosaur fossil collection in the world, Drumheller offers plenty of activities for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and photography lovers. The surrounding Drumheller area is just as fascinating as the stunning Canadian Rockies, so let’s get started and check out what to do in Drumheller and beyond!

South Dinosaur Trail

The Dinosaur Trail in Drumheller, Alberta, offers a captivating journey through the heart of Canada’s dinosaur country, unveiling the unique landscapes and prehistoric heritage of the region. Winding through the dramatic badlands and rolling hills, this scenic route features an array of notable attractions, including the renowned Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology, which houses one of the world’s largest displays of dinosaur fossils.

The Trail is divided into the North Dinosaur Trail and the South Dinosaur Trail and we will break this travel guide into different parts to focus on each. But when visiting Drumheller you should make sure to see it all.

1. Hoodoos of Drumheller

The Hoodoos are the star attraction of Drumheller. They are a cluster of thin rock spires with a dense rock cap sitting on top. The cap protects the spires from completely eroding away. They are smaller than you’d expect as a little cluster on the side of a hill, but they are awesome. The hoodoos are located just off the side of the road a short walk from the parking lot, but they are fascinating.

If you are up for a little light hiking, you can climb to the top of the hill to overlook the hoodoos.

Made of sandstone, they formed over hundreds of years of erosion. These fairytale chimneys are very delicate and two to four feet every 100 years. Many people only stay at the hoodoos for a few minutes taking in the tiny cluster of pillars sitting on the side of the road. But take your time to see them from all angles and make sure to hike up to the high lookout. Read about our experience here.

2. Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site

The Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site is what this area was built around at the turn of the 20th century. Operating from 1936 to 1970 the Atlas Coal Mine produced coal to power steam engines for CN and CP rail heading to the prairies. It is considered Canada’s best-preserved complete coal mine and visitors can tour the mine and can climb the last wooden tipple in Canada.

You can do a self-guided tour of the grounds, but to access the underground and tipple you will need to take a guided tour. You will see And that’s where all the cool stuff is! The Tipple was used to transport coal to the train cars and you’ll be taking a trip through the underground tunnels.

• Admission is Adults: $14.00 Youth/Senior: $11.00  (Self-guided) 
• Where to Stay in Drumheller: If you are looking for accommodation in Drumheller, we recommend Heartwood Inn and Spa . There is a review at the bottom of this post.

3. East Coulee School Museum

If you want to pop into a museum to learn a bit more about life in the coal mining days. The East Coulee School Museum is a ghost town set in an old schoolhouse that focuses on life at home for the families of the miners from 1930 – 1971.

It serves as both a commemorative establishment and an educational center, aiming to preserve and depict the history and heritage of the East Coulee area and its people, particularly focusing on the life of coal miners and their families. If you stop in for a visit you will see the historic school building and experience what it was like in the classroom and there is a coal mining exhibit, artifacts, and photos.

4. Last Chance Saloon

It may be the first stop on your drive south from Drumheller, but we suggest stopping here on your way back, it’s a great place for lunch or dinner. The Last Chance Saloon is one of the coolest places to eat in Alberta! To get there, you need to detour off Highway 10 to Highway 10x and drive west.

After crossing 11 bridges zigzagging over the Red Deer River, you arrive at the Last Chance Saloon. This was a wild west type of saloon where coal miners spent their paycheck on the weekends and many a brawl broke out. They have made sure to leave bullet holes on the walls to show the rowdy heritage. You’ll definitely want to walk through and peruse the photos and memorabilia. It’s a living museum!

The Last Chance Saloon, is located in the ghost town of Wayne located 14km southeast of Drumheller. This was the heart of the mining industry where once 3000 people lived in the town, and 10,000 lived in the surrounding communities.

The 11 one-lane bridges are worth the drive alone, they are in the Guinness Book of World Records as the most bridges located in the shortest distance. (Guinness will measure anything!) The only structure left standing today is the Rosedeer Hotel which is connected to the Last Chance Saloon. Read about our full road trip at The Cowboy Trail – A Southern Alberta Road Trip

6. Star Mine Suspension Bridge

Note: The Rosedale Suspension bridge is permanently closed but we thought we’d leave in a little bit about the history.

Constructed in 1931 the Star Mine Suspension Bridge, (aka Rossdale Suspension Bridge) is a bridge spanning the Red Deer River that you can walk across. This 117-meter-long suspension bridge was created to give coal miners from the Rosedale community access to the Atlas Coal Mine. Before that, they rowed across the river.

7. North Dinosaur Trail Drumheller

The North Trail takes you on a loop north of Drumheller along Hwy 837 and 838. There is a lot to see on this 48 km loop. Heading out of Drumheller the trail will lead you along the north side of the Red Deer River. This route offers beautiful views of the badlands, the Little Church, and the Bleriot Ferry crossing.

Make sure to take your time to go for hikes and enjoy the viewpoints. The whole charm of this part of Alberta is experiencing the awe-inspiring scenery.

Another great Alberta Road trip is the Icefields Parkway. Check it out here.

8. World’s Largest Dinosaur

Canadians love roadside attractions, and it is fitting that the dinosaur capital of the world displays the world’s largest Dinosaur. The structure is a model Tyrannosaurus rex that stands approximately 86 feet (26 meters) tall and 151 feet (46 meters) long, making it nearly four times larger than a real T. rex would have been.

Across the Street is Rotary Spray Park which is a popular destination for families, especially during the warmer months. The park offers a variety of activities and facilities to keep visitors of all ages entertained. The park features a large spray pad with various water features, fountains, and spray nozzles that children can run through and play in. It’s a great way to cool off on a hot day.

10. Hoodoo Trail

The hoodoos of Drumheller are the entire reason we wanted to visit Drumheller in Alberta . So starting on the Hoodoo Trail is our number one thing to do. From Drumheller, start driving south along Highway 56 to highway 10 following the Red Deer River. Most of the route is located in Midland Provincial Park which offers plenty of pull-offs and picnic stops. The Hoodoo Trail is an out-and-back route totaling only 50km. (23.5 km each way) Read more: The Hoodoos of Drumheller

We suggest going directly to the Hoodoos in the morning before they get too busy and then take your time exploring the rest of the trail. Read more of our southern Alberta Road Trip here.

11. Royal Tyrrell Museum

We aren’t ones to gush over museums, but the Royal Tyrrell Museum is amazing! 75 million years ago, dinosaurs roamed this land and they left their mark all around Drumheller. The Royal Tyrell Museum is the best dinosaur museum in the world displaying the finds that have been discovered throughout Drumheller and the Badlands. Unlike most museums around the world where dinosaur skeletons are fake, the Royal Tyrell sows real dinosaur bones.

Plus, The Royal Tyrell Museum has the best-preserved authentic T-Rex skulls in the world and there are actual Paleontologists working on bones. You can approach them to talk to them, and there are others working behind glass showing you what is involved in excavations.

12. Badlands Interpretive Trail

While you are at the Royal Tyrrell Museum, take a walk along the Badlands Interpretive Trail located in Midland Provincial Park.

Once you arrive at the park, you can follow the signs to locate the starting point of the Badlands Interpretive Trail. The trail offers an opportunity to learn about the geology, paleontology, and ecology of the Canadian Badlands.

13. Horsethief Canyon

The first viewpoint you will see along this drive is Horsethief Canyon. It is the classic Alberta Badlands site and what a sight to behold! Horsethief Canyon got its name from cowboy outlaws hiding stolen horses in the 1800s. When looking at the canyon below, you can see how it made for a great hiding place!

You can actually see the layers of time etched in the canyon walls. There are platforms to take in the scenic views and you can go hiking. I highly recommend hiking through the badlands. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Just be sure to bring plenty of water, it gets hot!

14. Little Church

As we said above, Canadians love a road side attraction and the Little Church of Drumheller is definitely that! Built in 1968 as a place for meditation and worship. It is also a tourist attraction in Drumheller attracting 10,000 people six at a time. It seats six people and still operates as a wedding chapel and holding services. How cool would it be to get married here?

15. Bleriot Ferry

Cross the Red Deer River by using the Bleriot Ferry. It’s free and it’s always cool to take a ferry. Operating daily from 8 am to 11 pm from May through September, this little ferry crossing has been in operation since 1913. It’s the oldest cable ferry in North America! And the ferry is free!

16. Orkney Viewpoint

Once you cross the river, you are now on the way back along the Dinosaur Trail and the Orkney Viewpoint offers beautiful views of the Red Deer River Valley. Located on high red rock cliffs, it’s the quintessential Alberta view.

17. Horseshoe Canyon

When driving from Calgary this will be the first stop you see on your way to Drumheller. Or if you are us, the last stop you see on your way out. But it can totally be done on the Dinosaur Trail. Horseshoe Canyon has a 3.9 kilometer loop trail for better views of its coulees and hoodoos and the abundance of wildflowers that grow in the canyons. Keep in mind, it can get very hot in the Alberta Badlands, so always carry water.

18. Dinosaur Provincial Park

After spending a couple of days in Drumheller exploring the Dinosaur Trail and the Hoodoo Trail, make your way to Dinosaur Provincial Park to really dig into the dinosaur culture.

19. Centrosaurus Quarry Hike

Located in the heart of the Alberta Badlands, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to the richest collection of dinosaur fossils on earth. You can take a tour out to The Centrosaurus Quarry to see actual dinosaur fossils. Once you know what you are looking for (which you learn about on this guided hike) they are everywhere. Much of the park is off-limits as it is still a working excavation site, but there are a few tour opportunities.

We really enjoyed our hike, but we also took a sunset tour by bus taking us out to all the amazing lookouts in search of its rich deposits of dinosaur bones. Dinosaur Provincial Park deserves a couple of days to explore. Read all about it here.

When to Visit Drumheller

When visiting the Drumheller area there are a few things to take into consideration. We have broken down the best time to visit.

• The weather begins to warm up, and the landscape comes alive with blooming wildflowers.
• Outdoor attractions and trails are open for exploration.
• There might be fewer crowds compared to the peak summer months.
• This is the peak tourist season in Drumheller, with warm temperatures and long days.
• Most events, festivals, and outdoor activities are scheduled during these months.
• Popular attractions like the Royal Tyrrell Museum and the World’s Largest Dinosaur can be busy, so plan accordingly.
• The weather remains pleasant, but the crowds start to diminish.
• The landscape features beautiful fall colors, and outdoor activities are still enjoyable.

Things to Consider:

• Weather: The weather in Drumheller can be quite variable, so it’s wise to check the forecast and come prepared with layers, sun protection, and appropriate footwear.
• Crowds: If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (late spring or early fall) to avoid peak crowds.
• Attractions Availability: While summer offers the most accessibility to attractions, some sites and activities remain open in the off-season, offering a different experience.
• Events: Check the local event calendar for festivals, exhibitions, or other happenings during your visit.

Regardless of when you visit, Drumheller offers a unique and enriching experience with its fascinating dinosaur heritage, striking badlands landscape, and a variety of indoor and outdoor activities.

Drumheller Itinerary in Two Days

To help you plan a trip to Drumheller, we put together an easy downtown Drumheller Itinerary in two days. Enjoy!

Day 1: Exploring Prehistoric Wonders

Morning: royal tyrrell museum.

• Time: 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM
• Activity: Begin your Drumheller adventure at the Royal Tyrrell Museum. Explore the fascinating exhibits showcasing Canada’s prehistoric past, featuring one of the world’s largest displays of dinosaurs.
• Tips: Arrive early to avoid crowds. Don’t forget to check out the museum’s rotating special exhibits!

Lunch: Bernie and the Boys Bistro

• Time: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
• Activity: Enjoy a hearty meal at this local favorite, known for its mammoth-sized burgers and milkshakes.
• Location: 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 inside the World’s Largest Dinosaur and enjoy the panoramic views of Drumheller. Afterward, head to Fossil World Dinosaur Discovery Center for interactive exhibits and fossil digging activities.
• Tips: The climb inside the Giant Dinosaur involves stairs, so wear comfortable shoes!

Dinner: Sublime Food and Wine

• Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
• Activity: Indulge in a fine dining experience at Sublime Food and Wine, enjoying locally-sourced dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
• Location: 109 Centre St, Drumheller, AB T0J 0Y0, Canada

Evening: Drumheller Valley Lookout

• Time: 8:30 PM – 9:30 PM
• Activity: End your day by watching the sunset over the stunning landscapes of the Drumheller Valley from one of the scenic lookouts.
• Tips: Bring a light jacket, as it can get chilly in the evening.

Day 2: Adventure & Scenic Beauty

Morning: horsethief canyon & bleriot ferry.

• Time: 9:00 AM – 11:30 AM
• Activity: Start with the picturesque Horsethief Canyon, followed by a ride on the historic Bleriot Ferry across the Red Deer River.
• Tips: Wear sturdy shoes for hiking and bring your camera for some beautiful landscape photos!

Lunch: WHIFS Flapjack House

• Time: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
• Activity: Savor some delicious pancakes and other hearty breakfast fare at this local gem.
• Location: 680 2 St E, Drumheller, AB T0J 0Y0, Canada

Afternoon: Horseshoe Canyon & ATV Adventure

• Time: 1:30 PM – 5:00 PM
• Activity: Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Horseshoe Canyon. Consider booking an ATV tour for an exhilarating ride through the canyons.
• Tips: Dress appropriately for outdoor activities and bring water to stay hydrated.

Dinner: Yavis Family Restaurant

• Activity: Conclude your adventure-filled day with a relaxing meal at Yavis Family Restaurant, a local establishment offering a diverse menu.
• Location: 1102 AB-9, Drumheller, AB T0J 0Y3, Canada

Evening: Ghost Walk Tour

• Time: 8:30 PM – 10:00 PM
• Activity: If available, join a local ghost walk tour to explore the eerie and mysterious side of Drumheller, learning about local legends and folklore.
• Tips: Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a flashlight.

This two-day itinerary offers a mix of adventure, history, and natural beauty, showcasing the unique charm of Drumheller, Alberta. Make sure to check the availability of activities and opening hours of venues in advance, as they can vary depending on the time of year. Safe travels!

Where to Stay in Drumheller

Heartwood Inn and Spa is a popular choice in Drumheller. We stayed here and loved it! Jackie Chan and Owen Wilson stayed here during the filming of Shanghai Noon. If it’s good enough for them it’s good enough for Dave and Deb! It’s a great inn with elegant rooms and friendly owners. It’s the type of place that takes an interest in what you see and do and gives excellent advice.

We especially enjoyed their famous French Toast in the morning. It’s the only thing they serve for breakfast. As the owner said to us “I do one thing and one thing very well.” Yum!

• For more hotels in Drumheller, check TripAdvisor for Reviews and rates .
• There are no camping facilities in Midland Provincial Park . But there are plenty of campgrounds and RV Resorts.
• For car rentals in Alberta visit CarRentals.com

Other Places to Stay in Drumheller

Cactus Coulee Fun Park & RV Resort is a great place to stay in Drumheller with kids. Even if you are not staying at Cactus Coulee Fun Park & RV Resort, you can visit for the day and enjoy the attractions like go-karting, mini golf and EuroBungy

Horseshoe Canyon Campground is another great place to stay with tenting, cabins, and RV hook-up.

Dinosaur Provincial Park has camping as well. Read: Dinosaur Provincial Park – Glamping Tour in the Alberta Badlands

And these are the top attractions near Drumheller. Have you been to the Alberta Badlands? Where is your favorite place to visit in Alberta?

Read more about Alberta Travels

• Amazing Things to do in Jasper, Alberta
• Where to Stay in Banff
• Things to do in Alberta Canada – The Ultimate Guide
• The Cowboy Trail – A Southern Alberta Road Trip
• A High Mountain Trail Ride, Black Diamond Alberta
• Discover Banff Canada – 24 Photos Inspire Wanderlust
• Things to do in Banff
• Driving the Icefields Parkway from Banff to Jasper Alberta
• 21 Best Things to do in Calgary, Alberta
• The Best Things to do in Edmonton, Alberta

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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2 thoughts on “19 Best Things to Do in Drumheller, Alberta In 2024”

One place you did not mention is Barney’s Adventure Park. Newly opened last summer and is an amazing place to spend the day

Thanks for the new addition. Sounds like a fun place.

Things to Do in Drumheller Valley and the Alberta Badlands

Just a head’s up: this post was sponsored by  Travel Drumheller , and we are incredibly grateful they hosted us for our stay. It allowed me to write a deeper and more quality review.

Drumheller, nicknamed the dinosaur capital of the world, is a unique town in the heart of the Canadian Badlands in Alberta. It’s usually seen as a “Calgary day-trip” kind of place, but there are so many fun things to do in Drumheller and the Alberta Badlands.

The area has  so much to offer  to traveling families. And anyone who’s had the privilege of exploring the region knows just how many hidden gems there really are.

The Drumheller Valley and the Badlands are characterized by their unusual rock formations, valleys,  hoodoos,  and dinosaur fossils. It’s thus  the perfect multi-day destination for families.

That’s why, today, we’re sharing with you  the perfect 3-day weekend itinerary for a family adventure . You’ll soon realize that 3 days may not even be enough for all the things to do in Drumheller. It may be a small town, but you’ll find so many awesome attractions. I’m sure you’ll come back 😉 like we did many times.

Disclaimer: Just a heads up, this free article contains affiliate links . If you purchase after clicking one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost . Also, as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Your support helps me continue to provide helpful and free content for you .

Things to Do in Drumheller, the Valley and the Alberta Badlands: A 3-Day Itinerary

Below is a 3-day itinerary where you’ll explore the town of Drumheller, the Valley, and the Canadian Badlands. It’s a family-friendly itinerary, for sure.

But let’s be clear: it’s a busy itinerary loaded with activities your entire family will love.

There are so many things to do in Drumheller and the surrounding areas that  it really is a multi-day destination . If time allows, I highly recommend adding at least an extra day (especially if you are traveling with young children).

Day 1: Horseshoe Canyon, Downtown Drumheller & Royal Tyrell Museum

Arrive in Drumheller in the early afternoon. 

If you arrive from AB-9,  stop at Horseshoe Canyon on your way into town . The canyon entrance is well-marked on the highway. It’s about 17 kilometers before Drumheller.

Take your time while at the canyon. 

You can plan for at least an hour or two to admire the canyon and walk through it. The entire hike is a 4.3 km long loop trail. But you can also admire the scenery from the viewpoints at the top of the canyon or just do a small portion of the hike before turning back.

Note:  For this trip, we were staying at the campground just in front of the canyon, the  Horseshoe Canyon Campground , so we decided to explore the area in the evening instead.

After visiting the Horseshoe Canyon, it’s time to head into the town. Make a  first stop at the  Welcome to Drumheller  sign . There is a small parking lot just down the hill (you’ll easily see it with the sign). It’s a great place to take some fun family pictures. 

Take the time to  hike up the hill  behind the  Welcome to Drumheller  sign, where you’ll have a beautiful view. 

When everyone is ready, get back to the car and head to the tourist information center. Directions to the information center (and the World’s Largest T-Rex) are well-marked, and there’s a public parking lot for easy access.

Next, get your ticket to climb the 106 stairs to the top of the World’s Largest Dinosaur , one of the must-do tourist attractions. You can also stop at the gift shops for some dino souvenirs.

Tyra, the famous T-Rex of Drumheller, is the world’s largest dinosaur . It is 25 meters (86 ft) tall and weighs 145 000 lbs (65 tonnes). 12 people can fit in its mouth at the same time, and it’s 4.5 times bigger than a real Tyrannosaurus Rex.

The lookout from the top of the T-Rex is beautiful. You’ll have a  spectacular view of the Red Deer River Valley .

When you are done with the World’s Largest Dinosaur, it’s time to  start walking downtown following the Dino Walk . There are more than 30 dinosaur statues throughout the valley, and many of them are in downtown Drumheller. 

The Dino Walk is a good way to engage kids in visiting downtown. I know my kids are not big fans of wandering in cities, but when we added the dinosaur scavenger hunts, there was no complaining. 

From the visitor center, simply  follow the dinosaur footprints painted on the sidewalks  and search for all the statues. 

You can find the  map of the dinosaurs’ location here on DinoArts website.  

Drumheller is a small town, but it’s really charming. Make sure to stop at:

• Lois + Ani Tea Shop for bubble tea
• Downtown plaza to listen to some live music
• Miners Memorial Park (236 Centre St) to learn about all miners of the Drumheller Valley

Then, if the weather permits,  grab a snack/picnic dinner and relax at the Rotary Spray Park . This is  THE  Drumheller spray park, and it’s amazing! Kids will play for hours in the downtown Drumheller spray park and fountain. There are also a few other dinosaur statues across the park and on the other side of the street (next the to ice cream shop!)

Once the kids have burned off the extra energy and are well-fed, it’s time for an  evening visit to the Royal Tyrrell Museum of Paleontology . Plan for at least 2 hours to visit the museum. Add one hour if you want to take the 1.4 km loop through Midland Provincial Park.

The Royal Tyrell Museum is the only museum in Canada dedicated entirely to the story of ancient life.

If you are interested in participating in one of the hands-on activities, such as the Dino site or the Dig Experience, to find some dinosaur bones, you’ll need to plan a day visit to the museum. You can find the schedule for the activities here. Plan for an extra 90 minutes for each activity.

It’s now time to get the kiddos to sleep so they’ll be full of energy for your second day in the Badlands of Alberta.

Unfortunately, this itinerary doesn’t have any secrets for getting your kids to sleep after a day of excitement. 😉

Day 2: Dinosaur Trail & Barney’s Adventure Park

On your second day in Drumheller, you’ll discover a section of the Dinosaur Valley by following the Dinosaur trail. You’ll be driving into the heart of the Canadian Badlands. Alberta is not only mountains and Prairies, there is this unique landscape that is the badlands.

The  Dinosaur Trail is a 48-kilometer loop starting in Drumheller, Alberta . There are many stops to do on the loop (most of them being located on the North Dinosaur Trail), such as:

• Homestead Antique Museum and the Wanderlust Boutique
• Fossil World Dinosaur Museum and the Lion’s Kids’ playground
• Midland Coal Mine in Midland Provincial Park
• McMullen Island
• Drumheller’s Little Church
• Barney’s Adventure Park
• Horse Thief Canyon
• Bleriot Ferry (it separates the South and the North shore of the Red Deer river)
• Orkney Viewpoint (on the South Dinosaur Trail)
• Andrew Farm Old Grain Elevator (on the South Dinosaur Trail)

You can  find the map of the Dinosaur Trail loop  on the Travel Drumheller website.

Our Recommendation for a Family Day on the Dinosaur Trail:

For a day exploring the Drumheller Valley and the Dinosaur Trail with younger kids (aged 3 – 7, probably),  I recommend driving from downtown to Horsethief Canyon and then back into town , with a special stop at the Dinosaur Trail Playground.

While the badlands’ landscape is breathtaking for the entire loop, kids (especially younger ones) are rarely “wow-ed” when it comes to looking at the landscapes from the back car windows. That said, if you time this right, you might be able to grab a coffee and get the kids to take an afternoon nap along the way.

Note: If you want to discover more of the Alberta Badlands, make sure to visit the Dinosaurs Provincial Park near Brooks. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The perfect day itinerary through the Alberta badlands would be:

Start your day at the Midland Coal Mine day-use area . You can walk along the Midland Interpretive Trail, where you’ll discover the local mining history.

Then,  drive less than 3 km to the Drumheller’s Little Church,  where 6 people fit inside at the same time.

After a quick visit to the Little Church (and a few pictures),  head to Horse Thief Canyon . It’s a 10 km drive.

Horse Thief Canyon is one of the most beautiful places in the Canadian Badlands, Alberta. Take as much time as you want to explore and admire the badlands’ landscape. 

When you arrive at the Horse Thief Canyon, take your time in the grass area near the parking lot. It’s home to a lot of not-so-shy Prairie dogs. Kids will have fun looking at the animals. It’s also a large viewing area that offers amazing views.

Keep in mind that it gets pretty hot in the summer, and there’s no shaded area, so it’s better to visit in the morning.

After your visit to the canyon, it’s time to drive back into town with a final (but long and fun)  stop at Barney’s Adventure Park . It’s about 4 km from the canyon on the way back to Drumheller.

Barney’s Adventure Park is definitely the place your kids will want to spend an afternoon. It’s a huge outdoor playground for the little ones (and the not-so-little ones). You’ll want to plan for at least half a day (if not more). 

The entire family will love Barney’s Adventure Park. There are so many fun things to do that it will be hard to leave, so give yourself plenty of time.

The entry pass gives you access to all the fun activities. Plus, all the dinosaur lovers will want to go on the Dinosaur walk. During this walk in the forest, you’ll encounter more than 15 giant mechanical dinosaurs. 

Because dinosaurs make noise and move, it may be scary for small children. You know your kids best, so use your best discretion. I went with my 3.5 years old, and he loved it, but not all toddlers will.

Another option could be to go to the Cactus Coulee Fun Park, located near Barney’s Adventure Park.

When the kids are tired, drive back into town for dinner and an early bedtime to be ready for Day 3 of our road trip into the badlands of Alberta.

Day 3: eBikes, Hoodoos and Ghost Towns

Start your third and last day at Bikes & Bites for a fun family bike ride . Bikes & Bites offers eBike rentals and picnics for a different way to explore the Badlands and Drumheller Valley.

To rent e-Bikes, riders must be 12 years old and up. 

But they also have regular youth bikes, ride-along extensions and child carriers to suit all the family. If you decide also to get the “picnic” option, they’ll prepare a delicious lunch for you and pack it in the bike cooler bag to take on your adventure. I recommend the beets hummus and the charcuterie box.

Below is the map of the bike trails in the area: 

After your 2-hour bike ride, it’s time to drive east in the valley to discover the old mining towns and the hoodoos . You’ll be driving on the Hoodoos Trail, east of Drumheller, toward East Coulee.

Drive to Wayne, a historic mining town .

It’s now pretty much a ghost town, but you can see the  Last Chance Saloon  and maybe even grab a coffee and some snacks. Ok… definitely  some coffee and maybe some snacks. Don’t miss the Welcome the Wayne sign, where you’ll see that the town now has only 25 residents.

On the way to Wayne,  you’ll pass 11 bridges . You can also pass the Last Chance Saloon and  drive to the gravel road to the Jewel Mine interpretive sign . There is a nice small trail and beautiful views.

Then, drive back to the Hoodoo Trail (AB-10 E) and  follow the sign to the Star Mine Suspension Bridge . As of June 2022, the Rosedale suspension bridge was closed to walk on, but there is still a nice view from the parking lot.

Back on the main road (the Hoodoos trail outside Drumheller),  drive to see the hoodoos . There is a small parking fee ($2), but no entrance fee. Walk on the trail and admire the hoodoos.

Hoodoos, also called fairy chimneys, are amazing rock formations created by erosion, naturally shaped by wind and water. They take millions of years to form and they are very fragile. 

It’s important to stay on the pathways and never climb on them. You can walk up the hill to the top for an amazing view of the valley. You can even see some cacti. 

Be careful when climbing up and down, though, especially after it rains. This area can get really muddy and absolutely covers shoes/boots. 

We saw a young couple taking wedding pictures in nice, white clothes on a muddy day which, needless to say, did NOT look like fun for the bride and groom.

After a few hours at the Hoodoos,  drive a few kilometers east to Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site . It’s a site where a now-inactive coal mine was operating from 1936 to 1979. It’s the last of the 139 mines that were operating in the Drumheller Valley. 

On your way to the Atlas Coal Mine, you may want to stop at the East Coulee School Museum.

The Atlas mine offers a self-guided experience on the surface areas of the mine, where you’ll learn about the coal mining history in the Drumheller Valley. They also offer a guided train ride and a few other guided tours – some of which may not be suitable for little ones (a tour of the processing plant and a tour of the mine portal).

And that should bring you pretty much to the end of your third day.

If you’re staying for an extra night, make sure to book tickets to see the Canadian Badlands Passion Play at the Badlands Amphitheater. This amphitheater is the largest outdoor stage in all of Canada.

A Few Things to Know When Visiting Drumheller Valley and the Badlands in Alberta

Before wrapping up this post, there are a few things that are worth remembering before you visit the badlands in Alberta: 

• Drumheller and the Alberta badlands can be very HOT in the summer . There is limited shade in the Dinosaur Valley, so make sure you have sun protection and stay hydrated. Bring a hat with you and try to hike in the morning or late afternoon.
• There are bull snakes and garter snakes at Atlas Coal Mine. Rattlesnakes are not in Drumheller but can be found further out near Dinosaur Provincial Park. You can also find deer, moose, coyotes, porcupines (they are not as common to see but are there), and foxes. There are also a lot of birds (falcons, hawks, etc) in the Drumheller area.
• No matter where you travel in the Drumheller Valley, please follow the “leave no trace” principle. Take your trash back with you if there are no garbage bins. Also, if you travel with a dog, bring some plastic bags to pick up after them.
• Always check the weather before heading out. Many trails are bentonite which is extremely slick when wet. Stick to hiking trail paths, and keep an eye open for wildlife in the area.
• Leave the landscape the way you found it so that others can enjoy it. Don’t build Inukshuks as they can damage the landscape, destroy wildlife habits that you might not know, or mislead hikers. It’s also disrespectful. 

But the most important thing? Bring your camera and enjoy yourself! The views in the Valley and the badlands are as incredible as they are unique. 

Places to Stay in Drumheller

There are different places to stay in Drumheller, ranging from campgrounds to hotels. 

During our stay in Drumheller, we stayed at the Horseshoe Canyon Campground. It offers tents as well as RV camping . 

This campground is located right in front of the Horseshoe Canyon, 17 kilometers away from downtown (from Calgary, it’s a little before the city center). This RV camping location is beautiful and peaceful. Plus, you’ll get to explore the canyon away from the crowds at Golden hours, which is something most people miss when they make this a single-day trip.

This campground near Drumheller offers full hookups, public restrooms and showers as well as a central kids’ playground where kids can have fun while parents prepare meals. 

Finally, the hosts, Dick and Lucy, are really nice and helpful.

Final Thoughts: A Weekend Itinerary to Drumheller and the Badlands of Alberta

Drumheller, the Valley and the Badlands are much more than a day trip destination. There are so many things to do in Drumheller and the surrounding areas that you’ll want to stay at least for a weekend (2 nights-3 days), if not a little longer. From searching for dinosaur fossils to learning about coal mining, the area will amaze you and your family.

Will you be visiting Drumheller Valley this summer for a few days?

Emilie is the founder of Love Life Abroad. She helps moms plan epic road trips and outdoor adventures with their families. Because who said adventuring had to stop once we have kids? She’s based in the Canadian Rockies and shares her love for the region as well as other unique places in Canada & USA. She works with tourism boards and outdoor brands to inspire families to experience new unique destinations and outdoor activities.

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5 Reasons You Need To Visit The Incredible Badlands Of Canada

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We drove toward Dry Island Buffalo Jump Provincial Park on Township Road 344. One minute the Albertan plains stretched before us. The next minute, the road jerked to the left, and the ground ahead fell away. The Red Deer River had carved a monstrous gash in the land, and we were looking down into it. We knew we were approaching the Alberta Badlands, but we weren’t prepared for the lack of transition from flatlands to badlands. We felt as if we were about to emulate Thelma and Louise’s flight into oblivion.

One and a half hours from Calgary , oblivion does beckon souls into a time portal. The Cretaceous Period, prehistory, and the Industrial Revolution all await visitors at the Alberta Badlands. The time portal centers around Drumheller, one of our best day trips from Calgary .

Here are five reasons you need to visit Canada’s incredible badlands.

1. You Can Explore Dry Island, Where The Albertosaurus Roared And The Buffalo Jumped

At Dry Island Buffalo Jump Provincial Park, the cliffs plummet 147 feet. In contrast, a mesa rises above the badlands. Wind and water carved away the sedimentary rock around the mesa until it rose alone, a dry island. Its inaccessibility preserved the prairie grasses, untouched by any plow. The folded, hoodoo-filled landscape is spectacular in the fall when yellow leaves set the park ablaze with color.

The Plains Cree tribe stampeded bison over the cliffs, then processed them for food, tools, and other goods. 

Beneath the bison bones lurked fossils of immense proportions. Dry Island has the premier Albertosaurus bonebed, but other remains like clams, turtles, fish, and mammals are also remnants of life 63–68 million years ago. 

Animals have not deserted the park. Birders have found 150 bird species. Pack a picnic and bring your trekking and fishing poles. You’ll want to hike and fish. Enjoy the quiet in a canoe on the Red Deer River. 

Pro Tip: In wet weather, beware of the road’s steep grade to the river. 

2. And Look Out Of The World’s Largest Dinosaur In Drumheller

If you had been alive when Tyra the Towering Tyrannosaur existed, you would have cowered below her terrifying teeth and claws. But have no fear. While the 86-foot-tall Tyra is 4.5 times larger than her tyrannical predecessor, the World’s Largest Dinosaur won’t bite. Instead, climb up the stairs inside the 151-foot-long monster to look over Drumheller and the badlands beyond. Ironically, her ferocious teeth form the fence that protects you from falling. Buy a souvenir of your encounter at the gift shop below.

Pro Tip: Look for more dinosaur statues and murals in the Town of Drumheller. Eat a Flathead Burger — made with bison meat — at the Last Chance Saloon . Stay at the Heartwood Inn & Spa .

3. Or Marvel At Alberta’s Fossil Monsters At The Royal Tyrrell Museum

The fossils unearthed at Dry Island take shape at the Royal Tyrrell Museum, Drumheller. It’s one of our 6 Best Places To Experience Dinosaurs In Canada . The Cretaceous Alberta exhibit displays a group of Albertosaurus clothed in skin. One of them has a horrendous overbite. I thought of the Big Bad Wolf: “Oh, Grandmother, what big teeth you have!” 

See descendants of Cretaceous plants in the Cretaceous Garden exhibit. In the Dinosaur Hall, Triceratops and Camarasaurus must beware of the Tyrannosaurus rex. Gigantic mammals take center stage in the Cenozoic Gallery. Imagine the pain of a mammoth’s toothache.

4. You Can Descend 70 Million Years Back In Time At Horseshoe Canyon

Imagine the Albertan plains covered in giant plants, where massive dinosaurs strolled. That era lies at the bottom of Horseshoe Canyon , 10.5 miles west of Drumheller. The current landscape is opposite of what it was during the tropical Cretaceous Period. Now the land is scarred. Between the canyon’s three-mile-long arms, striped, wrinkled mesas rise above gashed watercourses. 

Near the parking lot, the park provides a picnic area and two overlooks. The official trail to the bottom is half a mile long, but numerous side trails branch off the main one. And speaking of Canadian trails, be sure to check out our article on the Trans Canada Trail — Canada’s Great Trail . 

5. And Walk With The Dinosaurs In Dinosaur Provincial Park

Forty-four species of Cretaceous dinosaurs came from the ground at Dinosaur Provincial Park , 2 hours southeast of Drumheller. These discoveries earned UNESCO World Heritage Site status. At the park, you can find fossils. Just don’t take one home. That’s illegal. 

As soon as you exit the car, head for the entrance sign area and the park’s best view. Start exploring on the Trail of the Fossil Hunters, an easy half-mile walk. Two fossil houses contain real fossils. It leads to a bonebed, found at the beginning of Alberta fossil hunting. Signs introduce paleontologists. 

Alice in Wonderland ’s Cheshire Cat would love the Badlands Interpretive Trail — under a mile in length. Its mushroom-shaped hoodoos would provide plenty of places for him to advise Alice. The trail is slightly more challenging than the Fossil Hunters Trail. The badlands trail is the only self-guided way to visit the park’s nature preserve. Otherwise, reserve a spot on a guided tour .

Check out more strange badlands topography on the half-mile, medium-difficulty Coulee Viewpoint Trail. The trail heads upwards to a ridge that overlooks Little Sandhill Coulee. If you’re camping at the park’s campground , use that trailhead.

To visit the park, follow these directions . Visitor center parking is limited to accessible parking. Instead, park at the Cretaceous Café a short distance away.

When hiking in the badlands, bring plenty of water, especially in the summer. The heat and wind can be brutal. The parks are the most beautiful in the spring and fall. Avoid hiking during wet weather because the soil will be slippery. The trails are not accessible, and neither is cell phone service. Beware of prairie rattlesnakes.

For some of our more recent Canada-related content, be sure to check out these stories: 

• Crossing The Canadian Rockies Via Train Or Car: 7 Key Differences To Know
• 8 Adorable Small Towns To Visit Along Canada’s Rideau Canal
• 19 Of The Friendliest Small Towns To Visit In Canada 2021

Roxie Yonkey is an author and travel writer who specializes in road tripping. She wrote the Kansas ultimate bucket list book, 100 Things to Do in Kansas Before You Die , and is a contributing author to the book Midwest Road Trip Adventures .

Before becoming a travel writer, Yonkey was an award-winning newspaper reporter and editor, and a public relations manager for destination marketing organizations. She has won numerous awards, including Midwest Travel Network's Rising Star Award in 2020.

Yonkey loves to follow the open road wherever it takes her. Follow more of her adventures at RoxieontheRoad .

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"Drumheller, the Best part of the Alberta Badlands"

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How to Fly Your Kid Solo, Free of Stress

By Alexander Nazaryan

For many parents and guardians, putting a child on a flight alone may seem terrifying. Belligerent passengers, delays, turbulence: All loom large in a caregiver’s imagination.

Life sometimes leaves no other option. Hudson Crites , 17, of Marshall, Va., was 10 when he started flying unaccompanied to visit his father in Kansas and later Georgia, said his mother, Chelsea Tippett. But the extra attention from airline staff made Hudson “feel special,” Ms. Tippett recalls. Other than a single tarmac delay, he has had no problems.

On rare occasions, children have had troubling experiences. In December, Spirit Airlines accidentally flew a 6-year-old to Orlando, Fla., instead of the intended destination of Fort Myers. Spirit apologized, fired the gate agent responsible and offered reimbursement to the boy’s grandmother for her travel to Orlando. But while the boy was unharmed, his grandmother expressed worry that he had been kidnapped .

If you decide to fly your child unaccompanied, you’ll discover that each airline has its own procedures, fees and routes open to children. While some may find the process complicated, flying alone may be exciting for your child, instilling some independence. Here’s what you need to know.

Before you book, know the process

Regardless of the airline or route, flying an unaccompanied minor differs from an adult or a family catching a flight. Airlines require a trusted pre-authorized adult to be at the departure and arrival gates, and will ask you at booking to provide contact information for those adults. They will also need to present identification at the terminals.

The journey begins at the originating airport’s airline ticket counter. There, airline staff will check your identification and check in the child, perhaps handing them a lanyard or wristband to wear. The agents will provide you with a pass to get through security with your child. You will accompany them to the gate, where you will hand them off to a gate agent. You must stay at the gate until the plane takes off.

In the air, the flight crew will keep watch — but will not babysit, or sit with, your child. If the flight has a connection, a crew member will walk your child off the plane and a gate agent will take him or her to the next gate.

At the arrival airport, the child will be handed off by staff to the authorized guardian or parent who should have already checked in at the ticket counter with proper identification, gone through security with their gate pass and be waiting at the gate.

To learn more about this process, read the Department of Transportation’s online guide, “When Kids Fly Alone,” followed by the website of your selected carrier.

Choosing an airline and paying an extra fee

Before purchasing a ticket, experts advise you to consider an airline’s on-time performance. “Solid on-time performance is hard-earned, and signals a carrier that has tight control of its operation,” said the Ask the Pilot author, Patrick Smith. The Bureau of Transportation Statistics has those numbers.

Booking procedures vary. Delta Air Lines and American Airlines require you to call. United Airlines allows bookings online. JetBlue Airways does online bookings, too, but asks for three printed copies of its forms upon arrival at the airport.

International flights may call for a notarized consent letter describing where the child is traveling, with whom they’ll stay and how long they’ll be there.

On top of the ticket fare, flying an unaccompanied minor can be pricey.

Southwest Airlines charges $100 one way for each child, regardless of distance. Alaska Airlines charges $50 per child if the flight is nonstop; a connection adds $25. On Delta, one $150 fee will cover up to four children, and American’s $150 covers all siblings, with no cap on number. United charges $150 for one child, or two children flying together.

Restrictions: There are plenty

U.S. carriers allow children to fly as unaccompanied minors once they turn 5 and before they turn 18. But regardless of your child’s age, make sure he or she is ready by discussing the trip details and your expectations of their behavior. No policy can replace your judgment.

The low-cost carriers Frontier Airlines and Allegiant Air don’t allow unaccompanied minors, Other airlines have restrictions that, in the broadest terms, differentiate between young children and teenagers. American and Delta restrict children under 8 from routes requiring connections. Both airlines allow children between 8 and 14 to take some connecting flights.

On American, no unaccompanied minor is allowed to take an overnight flight requiring a connection, or a flight that includes a connection on its final leg that also happens to be the last such flight that day (“unless it’s the only flight,” the company adds). Minors are not allowed on code-share flights.

United and Delta have similar rules. Southwest, JetBlue and Spirit don’t allow unaccompanied minors on connecting flights.

JetBlue prohibits minors from flying to Europe, and limits the number of unaccompanied minors in one party to three. Spirit does not allow children on flights to Central or South America. Southwest doesn’t allow children on any international flights. American, United and Delta let minors fly abroad, but restrictions on connections, code-shares and overnights limit options.

American and Delta allow children to opt out of flying as unaccompanied minors once they turn 15 — that is, the child can fly without the assistance of airline personnel. JetBlue ends unaccompanied minor service at 14, while Alaska has an opt-out option at 13. Southwest boasts the lowest opt-out age: 12.

However, you should be able to accompany your child to the gate even if they’re not flying unaccompanied. American requires that you do so for teens between the ages of 15 and 17, even if they’ve opted out.

What to pack

Have a plan to head off your child’s hunger, boredom and thirst. If they are older, make sure they have emergency money and a charged phone.

When her two daughters, then 9 and 11, flew to Denver, Joey Conover of Charlottesville, Va., had a long list for their carry-ons.

“Pack a backpack with iPad, headphones, lightweight book to read, a pad of paper and colored pencils (markers might smear), a small travel game, water bottle (bring empty and fill in airport), snacks, some kind of surprise fidget or animals to play with, hoodie, and a lovey,” she wrote in an email.

“Write your name and phone number on the inside of their arm in Sharpie and put a parent’s business card in a luggage tag on both suitcase and backpack,” Ms. Conover said. (A sheet of paper with all their identification, and their guardian’s contact information, also works. Simply stick in an easy-to-access pocket.)

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

Carnival cruise ship rescues nearly 30 people from adrift vessel

A Carnival Cruise Line ship rescued nearly 30 people who were stuck at sea on Sunday.

The crew on Carnival Paradise saved 28 Cuban nationals who were signaling for help on a vessel that was adrift around 2:30 p.m. The cruise ship was headed from Tampa, Florida, to Roatan in Honduras at the time.

“The bridge team onboard spotted the vessel and turned the ship around to rescue them,” Carnival said in a news release . “All were taken aboard, given food and were seen by the medical team.” The cruise line also notified the U.S. Coast Guard Sector Key West and officials in Roatan.

The Coast Guard did not immediately respond to USA TODAY’s request for comment.

The ship was set to visit Roatan on Monday. Carnival Paradise is on a five-day Caribbean cruise that departed from Tampa on Saturday, according to CruiseMapper .

The news comes after Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Apex ship rescued seven people in a small vessel adrift between Cuba and Mexico earlier this month. Another Carnival ship, Carnival Jubilee, also rescued two people stuck in a kayak off the coast of Mexico’s Isla Mujeres in January.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

Pilot Travel Centers names Gary Hoogeveen as president of its energy business

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Stocks gear up for Big Tech earnings; yen sits near danger zone

Global shares rose on Tuesday, driven by a recovery on Wall Street, where investors focus on earnings reports from the U.S. megacaps, while the yen hit a new 34-year low against the dollar, prompting a warning from Japanese officials.