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Explore Alberta: 7-Day Itinerary

Friday, September 29: Arrival in Calgary

Start your Alberta adventure by flying into Calgary International Airport. Once you arrive, head to downtown Calgary to explore the vibrant city. In the morning, visit the Calgary Tower for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the surrounding Rocky Mountains. For the afternoon, take a stroll through the historic Stephen Avenue Walk and indulge in delicious local cuisine. In the evening, catch a hockey game at the Scotiabank Saddledome, home of the Calgary Flames.

  • Calgary Tower: $18 (Observation Deck admission), 1-2 hours
  • Stephen Avenue Walk: Cost of food and shopping, 2-3 hours
  • Hockey game at Scotiabank Saddledome: Varies depending on game ticket, 3-4 hours
Saturday, September 30: Banff National Park

Embark on a day trip to Banff National Park, located just an hour and a half drive from Calgary. Start your morning by visiting Lake Louise, known for its turquoise waters and stunning mountain backdrop. Spend the afternoon exploring the charming town of Banff and discover local shops, galleries, and restaurants. In the evening, relax in the soothing Banff Upper Hot Springs and enjoy the tranquility of the Rocky Mountains.

  • Lake Louise: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Exploring Banff: Cost of food and shopping, 2-3 hours
  • Banff Upper Hot Springs: $8.30 (Adult admission), 1-2 hours
Sunday, October 1: Jasper National Park

Head to Jasper National Park, known for its breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife. Start your day by exploring the stunning Maligne Canyon and marvel at its deep limestone walls and waterfalls. In the afternoon, take a scenic drive along the Icefields Parkway and make stops at Athabasca Falls and the Columbia Icefield. End your day with a peaceful evening walk around the picturesque town of Jasper.

  • Maligne Canyon: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Icefields Parkway: Free, full day
  • Jasper Town: Cost of food and shopping, 2-3 hours
Monday, October 2: Edmonton

Take a day trip to Edmonton, the capital city of Alberta. Start your morning by visiting the West Edmonton Mall, one of the largest shopping malls in North America. Explore the variety of shops, entertainment options, and even take a dip in the indoor water park. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in art and culture at the Art Gallery of Alberta or visit the historic Alberta Legislature Building. End your day at Whyte Avenue, known for its trendy shops, cafes, and nightlife.

  • West Edmonton Mall: Cost of shopping and attractions, 4-5 hours
  • Art Gallery of Alberta: $12 (Adult admission), 2-3 hours
  • Alberta Legislature Building: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Whyte Avenue: Cost of food and shopping, 2-3 hours
Tuesday, October 3: Dinosaur Provincial Park

Embark on a journey to Dinosaur Provincial Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spend your morning exploring the badlands and discovering the fossil-rich terrain. Take a guided tour or join a fossil dig to learn more about the park's prehistoric past. In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic hike and keep an eye out for indigenous wildlife. End your day with a peaceful picnic surrounded by the unique landscapes of the park.

  • Guided tour or fossil dig: $15 (Adult admission), 2-3 hours
  • Hiking: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Picnic: Cost of food, 1-2 hours
Wednesday, October 4: Calgary Zoo

Spend your day exploring the Calgary Zoo, home to a diverse range of animals from around the world. Begin your morning by visiting the African Savannah exhibit and observing giraffes, zebras, and lions. In the afternoon, explore the Canadian Wilds section and encounter native wildlife such as bears, wolves, and cougars. Wrap up your zoo visit by marveling at the fascinating marine life in the Penguin Plunge exhibit.

  • Calgary Zoo: $29.95 (Adult admission), 4-5 hours
Thursday, October 5: Kananaskis Country

Spend your last day in Alberta exploring the natural beauty of Kananaskis Country. Start your day with a scenic drive through Spray Lakes and enjoy panoramic views of the Canadian Rockies. In the afternoon, hike along the picturesque trails of Barrier Lake or enjoy a leisurely bike ride. End your trip with a relaxing picnic in the heart of nature, surrounded by stunning mountain vistas.

  • Scenic drive through Spray Lakes: Free, half day
  • Hiking or biking in Barrier Lake: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Picnic: Cost of food, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

In addition to the popular attractions, make sure to explore some off the beaten path gems. Visit the Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to learn about the history of indigenous buffalo hunting. Discover the beauty of Moraine Lake, often overshadowed by Lake Louise but equally breathtaking. For a unique experience, consider taking a helicopter tour over the stunning Canadian Rockies for a bird's eye view.

Check out KAYAK for the best deals on flights and hotels for your Alberta adventure!

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