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Comprehensive 20-Day Alberta Journey: City Sights to Mountain Peaks

Viewed by 118 travelers

Day 1: Calgary Introduction

Calgary, Canada on April 26, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at OEB Breakfast Co.

Enjoy a fresh, locally-sourced breakfast with innovative dishes to start your Alberta trip off right.
CAD20, 1h0m

9:30am

Calgary Tower

Ascend the iconic tower for sweeping views of Calgary and the nearby Rockies.
CAD18, 1h0m

11:00am

Glenbow Museum

Discover Alberta’s art, culture, and history through dynamic exhibitions.
CAD15, 1h30m

12:45pm

Lunch at River Café

Dine on seasonal Canadian dishes in a peaceful riverside setting located in Prince's Island Park.
CAD35, 1h15m

2:00pm

Walk in Prince's Island Park

Relax with a scenic walk in this urban oasis along the Bow River.
Free, 1h0m

3:30pm

Studio Bell - National Music Centre

Engage with Canada’s music heritage through interactive exhibits.
CAD20, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Alloy

Experience gourmet global fusion dishes made from local Alberta ingredients in a trendy setting.
CAD50, 1h30m
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Day 2: Calgary to Banff

Banff, Canada on April 27, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Blue Star Diner

Get a filling breakfast with Canadian classics before your mountain adventure.
CAD20, 1h0m

9:00am

Drive to Banff National Park

A scenic 1.5-hour drive west to the heart of the Rockies.
CAD10 (park fee), 1h30m

11:00am

Banff Upper Hot Springs

Soak in the natural hot springs with impressive mountain views, open 8:00am–10:00pm.
CAD9.50, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at The Bison Restaurant

Savor regional bison and other local dishes in a cozy Banff setting.
CAD40, 1h0m

2:00pm

Banff Gondola

Ride to Sulphur Mountain summit for panoramic vistas, open 9:00am–5:00pm.
CAD65, 2h0m

5:00pm

Banff Avenue Exploration

Stroll the lively town center with shops and galleries.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Eden Restaurant

Fine dining that emphasizes local, sustainable ingredients and mountain-inspired cuisine.
CAD70, 1h30m
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Day 3: Banff Lake Louise Day

Banff, Canada on April 28, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Wild Flour Bakery

Start the day with fresh organic pastries and coffee.
CAD15, 0h45m

8:30am

Lake Louise

Experience the iconic turquoise lake with options for short hikes or lakeside walks.
Free, 3h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Lake Louise Village Grill & Bar

Casual lunch with great mountain views in the village.
CAD30, 1h0m

1:30pm

Moraine Lake Visit

Visit the famous blue lake with a short hike for vista points if accessible; shuttle services may apply in spring.
Free, 2h0m

4:00pm

Return to Banff

Enjoy scenic driving back and relax in town.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at The Maple Leaf

Upscale Canadian cuisine featuring regional game and fresh seafood.
CAD60, 1h30m
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Day 4: Icefields Parkway to Jasper

Jasper, Canada on April 29, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Bow Valley Ranche Restaurant

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before the stunning Icefields Parkway drive.
CAD25, 1h0m

8:00am

Drive Icefields Parkway

Take the scenic highway north to Jasper, stopping at Bow Lake, Peyto Lake, and Athabasca Glacier.
CAD10 (park fees), 5h0m (including stops)

1:00pm

Columbia Icefield Glacier Adventure

Tour the Athabasca Glacier on the Ice Explorer; tours run from 9:00am to 4:30pm.
CAD105, 2h30m

3:30pm

Check-in at Jasper

Rest after an adventurous day or explore Jasper’s town center.
Free, 0h30m

5:00pm

Jasper Town Stroll

Visit local shops and cafes to get a feel for the mountain town vibe.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Jasper Brewing Company

Casual dining with local craft beer and comfort foods.
CAD40, 1h30m
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Day 5: Explore Jasper

Jasper, Canada on April 30, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bear's Paw Bakery

Fresh baked goods and excellent coffee to start your day.
CAD15, 0h45m

9:00am

Maligne Lake & Spirit Island

Cruise to Spirit Island or hike nearby trails to enjoy stunning scenery; visitor center opens 9:00am.
CAD80, 4h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Maligne Lake Chalet

Relax lakeside with casual food options after the boat tour.
CAD25, 1h0m

3:00pm

Jasper SkyTram

Ride to the summit of Whistlers Mountain for panoramic views; open 9:00am-4:30pm in spring.
CAD54, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Syra Coffee Bar & Bistro

Enjoy eclectic dishes with excellent local coffee in a cozy setting.
CAD45, 1h30m
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Day 6: Jasper to Edmonton

Edmonton, Canada on May 1, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Fiddle River Restaurant

Enjoy traditional breakfast local style before heading to Edmonton.
CAD20, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Edmonton

Approximate 4-hour drive east to Alberta’s capital city.
Free, 4h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Tres Carnales Taqueria

Casual authentic Mexican dining in downtown Edmonton.
CAD25, 1h0m

2:00pm

Royal Alberta Museum

Explore Alberta’s cultural and natural heritage; open 10:00am–5:00pm except Mondays.
CAD16, 2h0m

4:30pm

Muttart Conservatory

Discover distinctive pyramid-shaped conservatories with diverse plant species, open until 6:00pm.
CAD10, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Corso Kitchen & Bar

Upscale Italian cuisine with housemade pasta and a rich wine list.
CAD60, 1h30m
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Day 7: Edmonton Local Highlights

Edmonton, Canada on May 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Remedy Café

Organic coffee and fresh breakfast offerings in a warm atmosphere.
CAD15, 0h45m

9:00am

Elk Island National Park

Located 35 minutes east of Edmonton, this park offers wildlife viewing and serene hiking trails, open from 8:00am to dusk.
CAD20, 4h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at The Moth Café

Enjoy healthy, organic meals in a relaxed setting back in Edmonton.
CAD25, 1h0m

3:00pm

Old Strathcona Neighborhood

Explore this lively historic district with boutiques, art galleries, and cafés.
Free, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Uccellino

A premium dining experience with superb Italian dishes and wines.
CAD70, 1h30m
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Day 8: Edmonton to Waterton Lakes NP

Waterton, Canada on May 3, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Transcend Coffee

Start with quality coffee and light bites before the drive to Waterton.
CAD15, 0h45m

7:45am

Drive to Waterton Lakes National Park

A scenic 5-hour drive south through Alberta’s rolling landscapes.
CAD10 (park fee), 5h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Lakeside Chophouse & Winebar

Dine with spectacular lakeside views in Waterton village.
CAD50, 1h0m

2:30pm

Hiking Bear’s Hump Trail

A moderate trail offering panoramic vistas of the park and lake, great for an afternoon hike.
Free, 3h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at The Cedar House Restaurant & Lounge

An intimate dining experience focusing on local ingredients and flavors.
CAD55, 1h30m
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Day 9: Waterton Relaxation Day

Waterton, Canada on May 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at a local café

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast in Waterton village to start your day relaxed.
CAD15, 0h45m

9:00am

Boat Tour on Waterton Lake

Explore the picturesque lake with a guided tour highlighting geological and natural history. Tours typically run from 9:00am to 4:00pm.
CAD40, 2h0m

11:30am

Prince of Wales Hotel Visit

Tour this historic hotel and enjoy its scenic views over the lake and mountains.
Free, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Waterton Springs Coffee Garden

Casual lunch offering soups, sandwiches, and coffee in a cozy environment.
CAD25, 1h0m

2:30pm

Exploring Cameron Lake

Visit Cameron Lake for optional hikes or photography of the beautiful scenery.
Free, 3h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at the Hummingbird Restaurant

Enjoy fresh, locally inspired dishes with a laid-back ambiance.
CAD50, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Waterton

Day 10: Waterton to Calgary

Calgary, Canada on May 5, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at a local spot

Fuel up with breakfast in Waterton before your return drive.
CAD15, 0h45m

9:00am

Drive to Calgary

Approximately 3-hour drive northeast back to Calgary.
Free, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Pigeonhole

Creative small plates and excellent cocktails in downtown Calgary.
CAD45, 1h0m

2:00pm

Heritage Park Historical Village

Explore Alberta’s largest living history museum depicting life from the 1860s to 1950s, open 10:00am–5:00pm.
CAD20, 3h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Model Milk

Enjoy modern Canadian cuisine in a chic, refurbished dairy building.
CAD55, 1h30m
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Day 11: Calgary to Kananaskis

Kananaskis Country, Canada on May 6, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Phil & Sebastian Coffee Roasters

Start your day with excellent coffee and light breakfast options.
CAD15, 0h45m

8:30am

Drive to Kananaskis Country

Approximately 1-hour drive southwest to pristine mountain wilderness.
CAD10 (park fee), 1h0m

10:00am

Hiking in Kananaskis

Choose trails such as the Troll Falls or Barrier Lake for stunning alpine and forest scenery.
Free, 4h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at Kananaskis Nordic Spa Café

Light and refreshing fare with scenic views, perfect after hiking.
CAD25, 1h0m

3:30pm

Relax at Kananaskis Nordic Spa

Enjoy hot pools, saunas, and cold plunges amidst tranquil forest surroundings, open until 9:00pm.
CAD75, 3h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at The Siding Café

Cozy mountain dining with a diverse menu including local game and vegetarian options.
CAD50, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Kananaskis Country

Day 12: Kananaskis Exploration

Kananaskis Country, Canada on May 7, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Mount Engadine Lodge

Enjoy a rustic breakfast in a serene mountain lodge setting.
CAD25, 1h0m

9:30am

Hike Rawson Lake Trail

A moderate 7.4 km round-trip trail leading to a beautiful mountain lake and panoramic vistas.
Free, 4h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at Cedar House Bistro

Savor locally inspired dishes back in the Kananaskis village area.
CAD40, 1h0m

3:30pm

Horseback Riding or Kayaking

Choose a guided horseback ride or kayak on local lakes to relax and explore nature.
CAD80, 2h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at The Keg Steakhouse + Bar

Classic steakhouse dining with excellent cuts and attentive service to close your day.
CAD60, 1h30m
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Day 13: Kananaskis to Drumheller

Drumheller, Canada on May 8, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at a local café

Grab a light breakfast before driving to the Alberta badlands.
CAD15, 0h45m

8:30am

Drive to Drumheller

Approximately 3.5-hour drive northeast to the famous Dinosaur Capital of the World.
Free, 3h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at The Brickhouse

Comfort food in a relaxed environment in Drumheller downtown.
CAD30, 1h0m

2:00pm

Royal Tyrrell Museum

Canada’s premier dinosaur museum featuring extensive fossil displays; open 9:00am–5:00pm.
CAD20, 3h0m

5:30pm

Horseshoe Canyon

Short hike to breathtaking views of unique badlands formations.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at CJ’s Bistro

Enjoy fresh and diverse menu selections made from local ingredients.
CAD40, 1h30m
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Day 14: Drumheller to Calgary

Calgary, Canada on May 9, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at a local bakery

Start with fresh baked goods before returning to Calgary.
CAD15, 0h45m

9:00am

Drive to Calgary

3-hour drive back to Calgary to conclude the main circuit of your trip.
Free, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Ten Foot Henry

Modern vegetable-forward dishes combined with comfort food classics downtown.
CAD45, 1h0m

2:00pm

Calgary Zoo

Visit diverse exhibits including Canadian wildlife and exotic species; open 9:00am–5:00pm.
CAD29, 3h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at River Café

Dine on local dishes along the serene Bow River, perfect for the trip’s final dinner in Calgary.
CAD55, 1h30m
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Day 15: Day trip to Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump

Near Calgary, Canada on May 10, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Phil & Sebastian Coffee Roasters

Fuel up with great coffee and breakfast before your cultural excursion.
CAD15, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump

Approx 1.5-hour drive southwest to this UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing indigenous buffalo hunting history.
CAD14, 1h30m

10:00am

Explore Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump Historical Centre

Learn about Indigenous cultures and their sophisticated hunting techniques. Open 9:00am–5:00pm.
Included, 3h0m

1:00pm

Picnic Lunch on Site

Enjoy a packed or purchased picnic while taking in the prairie scenery.
CAD15, 1h0m

2:00pm

Return to Calgary

Drive back to Calgary for some leisure time or additional sightseeing.
Free, 1h30m

4:00pm

Visit Inglewood Bird Sanctuary

Explore this peaceful urban oasis famous for birdwatching. Open 7:00am–5:00pm.
Free, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Cioppino’s Mediterranean Grill

End your day with Mediterranean flavors in a lively setting.
CAD50, 1h30m
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Day 16: Calgary Leisure and Departure Prep

Calgary, Canada on May 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Monki Bistro

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast with European flair to start your final day.
CAD20, 1h0m

9:30am

Shopping and Exploring Stephen Avenue

Browse boutiques and grab a coffee along this popular pedestrian street downtown.
Free, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Big Fish Seafood Bistro

Savor fresh seafood with a casual, comfortable atmosphere.
CAD40, 1h0m

1:30pm

Calgary Zoo Botanical Gardens and Prehistoric Park

If you want additional wildlife experiences or missed the zoo earlier, enjoy scenic gardens and dinosaur exhibits open till 5:00pm.
Included if zoo ticket purchased, 2h0m

4:00pm

Return to Hotel to Pack and Relax

Prepare for departure the next day with some downtime.
Free, Rest of evening

7:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Model Milk

Celebrate your Alberta adventure with a refined final dinner experience.
CAD60, 1h30m
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Day 17: Departure Day

Calgary, Canada on May 12, 2025

7:00am

Light Breakfast at Hotel

Have a quick bite before heading to the airport.
Included with stay, 0h30m

8:00am

Travel to Calgary International Airport

Arrive in time for your flight with plenty of buffer for security.
Transport cost varies, 1h0m
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