As the charm of Chestermere Lake keeps our hearts close to home, sometimes a little adventure within our province can be just as refreshing and invigorating. With Alberta’s breathtaking landscapes, history-rich towns, and eclectic range of activities, planning a ‘staycation’ within our home province can be an opportunity to discover and explore local treasures. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a history buff, or someone looking for relaxation, Alberta offers countless staycation destinations that cater to all tastes. So, pack your bags and let’s embark on a journey right here, within the borders of our beautiful Alberta!
Alberta’s Outdoor Paradise
For those seeking an immersion in nature, Alberta is nothing short of a paradise. A trip to the renowned Banff National Park, Canada’s oldest national park, is a must. Famous for its turquoise glacial lakes and majestic peaks, you can indulge in a range of activities like hiking, canoeing, or even wildlife spotting.
Jasper National Park, the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies, is another natural haven. Its stunning scenery, serene glaciers, and picturesque lakes offer a peaceful retreat away from everyday life. If you’re an astronomy enthusiast, you’re in for a treat, as Jasper is also a designated Dark Sky Preserve.
Should water activities be your preference, Sylvan Lake, with its sandy beaches and warm, clear waters, offers various fun-filled options like boating, fishing, and even water skiing.
The Culture and Heritage Trail
For history enthusiasts, Alberta is rich with stories. The Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology in Drumheller is one of the world’s largest dinosaur museums, offering an opportunity to step back into prehistoric times.
Headlands, the small town of Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, provides a fascinating insight into indigenous history and culture. Here, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you can learn about the hunting practices of the Plains People over thousands of years.
Urban Experiences and Unique Towns
Calgary and Edmonton, Alberta’s largest cities, offer a multitude of urban experiences. In Calgary, the Calgary Tower, with its impressive panoramic views, or the Calgary Zoo, are wonderful family-friendly attractions. The city’s thriving culinary scene is also not to be missed.
Edmonton, home to the largest shopping mall in North America – the West Edmonton Mall, is a shopper’s paradise. This metropolis also hosts a multitude of festivals year-round, ensuring you’ll never run out of things to do.
Unique towns like Canmore, known for its artisan boutiques, and the quaint Bavarian-styled town of Kimberley, provide for unique experiences with their distinctive charm.
Recharge and Relax
For those seeking relaxation, the hot springs in Banff and Jasper or the numerous wellness resorts scattered throughout the province offer the perfect opportunity to unwind.
As Chestermere residents, we are incredibly fortunate to live in close proximity to such diverse experiences and natural beauty. Staycations within Alberta can be a chance to explore our province’s many wonders and to create unforgettable memories. By choosing to vacation within our province, we not only enjoy ourselves but also contribute to our local economy and foster a deeper appreciation for our home, Alberta.
