Discover Alberta: A 6-Day Adventure

Saturday, September 2: Calgary

Start your Alberta adventure in the vibrant city of Calgary. In the morning, explore the iconic Calgary Tower, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the Rocky Mountains. In the afternoon, visit the Calgary Zoo, home to over 1,000 animals from around the world. As the evening sets in, head to Stephen Avenue Walk, a pedestrian mall with shops, restaurants, and entertainment.

• Calgary Tower: $18, 2 hours
• Calgary Zoo: $34, 3 hours
• Stephen Avenue Walk: Free, 2 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, try OEB Breakfast Co. This popular spot offers a creative menu with dishes like bacon and eggs poutine and avocado toast. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
• For lunch, head to Charcut Roast House. This upscale restaurant specializes in locally sourced meats and has a delicious selection of sandwiches and salads. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
• For dinner, dine at River Café. Located in a charming heritage building, this restaurant offers a seasonal menu with dishes like Alberta beef and fresh seafood. Average cost for a meal is about $40 per person.

Sunday, September 3: Banff National Park

Embark on a scenic drive to Banff National Park. In the morning, hike Johnston Canyon, known for its stunning waterfalls and picturesque scenery. In the afternoon, take a gondola ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain and enjoy breathtaking views of the Canadian Rockies. In the evening, visit the Banff Upper Hot Springs for a relaxing soak in natural mineral waters.

• Johnston Canyon: Free, 3 hours
• Banff Gondola: $64, 2 hours
• Banff Upper Hot Springs: $8.30, 2 hours

Monday, September 4: Lake Louise

Head to the enchanting Lake Louise, known for its turquoise waters and majestic mountain backdrop. In the morning, hike the Lake Agnes Tea House Trail and enjoy stunning views along the way. In the afternoon, rent a canoe and paddle across the serene Lake Louise. As the evening approaches, take a leisurely stroll around the lake and soak in the beauty of the surroundings.

• Lake Agnes Tea House Trail: Free, 4 hours
• Canoe Rental: $105, 2 hours
• Lake Louise: Free, 2 hours

Tuesday, September 5: Jasper National Park

Travel to Jasper National Park, famous for its rugged peaks and stunning glaciers. In the morning, explore the breathtaking Athabasca Falls, known for its powerful cascades. In the afternoon, take a scenic drive along the Icefields Parkway and visit the Columbia Icefield to experience the Glacier Skywalk. As the evening sets in, enjoy stargazing at the Jasper Dark Sky Preserve.

• Athabasca Falls: Free, 2 hours
• Icefields Parkway: Free, 4 hours
• Glacier Skywalk: $32, 2 hours

Wednesday, September 6: Edmonton

Head to the lively city of Edmonton. In the morning, explore the unique exhibits at the Royal Alberta Museum, showcasing the natural and cultural history of the province. In the afternoon, visit the West Edmonton Mall, one of the largest shopping malls in the world, offering a vast array of shops, entertainment, and attractions. As the evening approaches, enjoy a relaxing walk through the beautiful river valley.

• Royal Alberta Museum: $19, 3 hours
• West Edmonton Mall: Free, 4 hours
• Edmonton River Valley: Free, 2 hours

Restaurants

• The Blue Plate Diner is a cozy cafe that serves delicious breakfast options such as eggs benedict and fluffy pancakes. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
• For a quick and tasty lunch, head to Tres Carnales Taqueria, where you can indulge in authentic Mexican street tacos and refreshing margaritas. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
• Pampa Brazilian Steakhouse is a great choice for dinner, offering a unique dining experience with a variety of succulent grilled meats served tableside. Average cost for a meal is about $40 per person.

Thursday, September 7: Drumheller

Discover the prehistoric wonders of Drumheller, known as the Dinosaur Capital of the World. In the morning, explore the Royal Tyrrell Museum, housing one of the world's largest displays of dinosaur fossils. In the afternoon, hike through the unique landscape of the Badlands, characterized by its rugged canyons and hoodoos. As the evening sets in, visit the Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site and learn about Alberta's mining heritage.

• Royal Tyrrell Museum: $19, 3 hours
• Badlands Hiking: Free, 2 hours
• Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site: $15, 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Alberta, don't miss out on these hidden gems and local favorites. Visit the scenic Moraine Lake in Banff National Park for its stunning turquoise waters and mountain vistas. Take a hike to the stunning Maligne Canyon in Jasper National Park, known for its deep limestone gorge. For a taste of local cuisine, stop by the Calgary Farmers' Market or the Edmonton Food Hall to savor fresh and delicious treats.

For hotel and flight bookings, check out Kayak.com.