Drumheller Valley, only 75 minutes from Calgary, is one of Canada’s great destinations. Each year, a half a million people storm into the Valley between May and August - one hundred days of heat, as the locals say. Yet, those in the know visit Drumheller in the off-season - for an uncrowded visit to the Canadian Badlands.

No trip to Drumheller is complete without visiting the story-soaked, award-winning Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site - recently described as the best guided historic tour in Canada. Off season highlights include the ribald Prohibition Era event An Evening At Fanny’s.

Just a five minute drive from the Atlas is the East Coulee School Museum - which features fascinating exhibits on the often bittersweet struggles of immigrant coal mining families of the Drumheller Valley. If visiting in May, come to the East Coulee Springfest - one of the best indie music festivals in Alberta.

 

Just two blocks away is the internationally renowned Caracol Clay Studio. Each piece of pottery is unique and hand-formed. Here is the ideal opportunity to meet the artists and pick your favourite pieces. Open by appointment. 

Last Chance Saloon

The Last Chance Saloon in the ghost town of Wayne is a perfect stop for a tasty meal and beverage. As the oldest continuously operating saloon in the Valley, the atmospheric Last Chance is like stepping back in time. Look for bullet holes in the walls. Locals favour the bison burgers and the Grill Your Own Steaks.

Downtown

Historic downtown Drumheller is a well-kept secret. Everything from antique shops, cafes, and art galleries are waiting for you. Be sure to visit 3rd Avenue Arts, Badlands Art Gallery, Faux Den, Dry Canyon Collectibles, Goblins ‘n Such, Jurassic Laser Tag, and Shredz Snow & Skate, just to name a few.

A highlight for many visitors is the Drumheller Guided Ghost Walk. Join Lothar for a guided lantern tour and hear spine tingling true tales of Drumheller’s storied history.

Horsethief Canyon’s breathtaking view is the ideal location for the photo opportunities. Sunsets are spectacular from the eastern ridge of the canyon. Hikers are rewarded with rugged sandstone walls, mysterious rock formations, and oyster fossils.

 

Royal Tyrrell Museum

The Royal Tyrrell Museum is among the best museums on the entire planet! Insider’s Tip: Look for the Gorgosaurus display. This dinosaur was discovered in the now classic death pose. It is one of the finest and utterly fascinating fossil exhibits anywhere. The Prehistoric Garden presents a beautiful array of ancient greenery - a welcome sight on a winter’s day.

Rosebud Theatre

Twenty minutes west of Drumheller is Rosebud Theatre - home to top-notch professional theatre. Insider’s Tip: get tickets to Frank Dickens’ Christmas Carol. Performing from November 26th to December 17th, this Canadian take on the literary classic is going to be a hit. After the show, grab a latte or dessert at Thorny Rose Cafe.

Check with Travel Drumheller and Canadian Badlands for the most up to date travel information on Drumheller.