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Discover a place where archeological and natural wonders shout secrets of yesterday. Where wide-open spaces and blue skies seem to stretch beyond the horizon. Where Canada’s Wild Side awaits.

Useful links:

  • Key City: Lethbridge
  • Don't miss: An incredible concentration of rock carvings and paintings
  • Claim to fame: One of North America’s oldest buffalo jumps

Wild prairies

Some of Canada’s sunniest and wildest places are in Southern Alberta. Gaze across enormous stretches of fields teeming with flora and fauna, from cattails to grizzly bears.

School group walking the pathways at Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump with an Indigenous guide.

Indigenous experiences

Learn about Indigenous history at two UNESCO World Heritage Sites within Alberta’s Historic Plains: Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump and Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park / Áísínai'pi.

Rural communities

Charming small towns and rural areas like Elkwater and Fort Macleod boast enchanting artisanal stores, handmade souvenirs and restaurants featuring Albertan-grown goods.

Running rivers

Camp, fish or take leisurely walks alongside the tepid waters of the Oldman and Milk Rivers. A lack of crowds in river ravines enhances the sounds of fish jumping and grass rustling in the breeze.

Trek the trails of Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park and see ancient Indigenous stories etched on geological wonders.

View more Indigenous experiences

Couple kayaking on Elkwater Lake at Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park

Paddle under big skies and admire the rolling hills and vast plains.

Stroll the Nikka Yuko Japanese Gardens in Lethbridge.
A young couple mountain biking in Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park.
Mountain bike through Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park.
A person walking through the Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park with the sun peaking through in the distance.

Feel centuries of nature’s work beneath your feet.

Featured attractions

Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump Interpretive Centre

Learn about Indigenous hunting techniques at one of Alberta’s six UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Its hiking trails offer a heightened perspective of the Plains Peoples’ culture and past.

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A warp formation of stars in the nights sky above a single tree.

Cypress Hills Provincial Park

Stargaze and take in stunning sights at Alberta’s first Dark Sky Preserve. This area protects the night sky from light pollution and supports ecosystems. Lengthen your stay by tent camping or booking a cabin.

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Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden

Surround yourself with flowers and greenery in a lush oasis created as a symbol of friendship. The grounds are open year-round for enjoyment. In the colder months, winter lights and events harness warmth.

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Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park / Áísínai'pi

Revel in North America’s largest collection of Indigenous rock art in this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Daily guided tours through the archeological preserve offer a deeper understanding of the area’s significance.

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Sample fresh local ingredients in Canada’s Premier Food Corridor. From craft breweries to vibrant eateries, pursue a dining experience to remember.

Discover places to eat

Tour through the towns and cities that shape this southern region.

Key cities and towns

Search for modern eats, intimate accommodations and more in the Historic Plains’ cities and towns.

A woman sits on a bench in front of the Medicine Hat mural in winter.

Medicine Hat

These city streets are alive with small-town energy. Lose yourself in the natural and cultural diversity of this sun-soaked community to the south.

Lethbridge

Discover three personalities in one city—remote parks and paths in the west, century-year-old homes in the north and a medley of culture in the south.

Fort Macleod

Wander through one of Alberta’s Designated Historical Areas. Friendly people and a rich past make for unforgettable and authentic experiences.

Featured Stories

A family enjoy the lights at Nikka Yuko Japanese Gardens in Lethbridge.

4 min read

The Winter Lights Festival at Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden is a Must-See

The Winter Lights Festival at Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden is a special tradition for locals and visitors alike.

Woman sitting on bench in front of Medicine Hat sign

5 min read

Best Ways to Spend Winter in Medicine Hat

Visitors have the best of both worlds when exploring Medicine Hat in winter. This Southern Alberta city offers year-round patio weather and easy access to the mountains.

3 min read

You Need to Visit Alberta's Six UNESCO World Heritage Sites

No matter where you travel in Alberta, you won’t be far from one or more of the province’s famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites – these amazing sites are well worth a visit.

5 min read

Ten Reasons to Visit the Lethbridge Area This Summer

Aside from having a famous bridge and loads of sunshine, Lethbridge is the biggest city in Alberta’s Badlands. More reasons to visit? There are four UNESCO World Heritage sites nearby.

A man stands on top of a rock looking out at some hoodoos beside a river in the Canadian badlands.

5 min read

4 Indigenous Road Trips to Take This Summer

Follow in the footsteps of Alberta’s Indigenous people on this road trip adventure. Take in stunning scenery on a guided hike, camp in a real tipi, learn about medicinal plants on a medicine walk, or shop for authentic arts and crafts.

3 min read

Ten Reasons to Visit the Medicine Hat Area This Summer

Medicine Hat has it all: a lively craft beer and coffee trail, a vibrant arts scene and beautiful parks perfect for exploring.

Start building your experience

A family enjoys a campfire at sunset at a cabin along the river in Cypress Hills.

Accommodation

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A couple walks through the historic brick-making factory in Medalta in the Historic Clay District.

Things to Do

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Food & Beverage

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Know before you go

Where to Stay
Getting Here
Climate & Weather
Maps & Transportation
Health & Safety
Frequently Asked Questions