Embrace the spirit of one of Canada’s most beloved pastimes with this itinerary for hockey lovers and sports fans.
This itinerary is great for travellers who enjoy sports, trying new things and stopping in at unique places.
At a glance
- 3 day itinerary
- 857 km (533 mi) total distance
- 9 hrs 26 mins drive time
- Your starting point is in West Edmonton Mall
Ice Palace – West Edmonton Mall
Start by lacing up those skates, whether you rent or bring your own! From recreational skating to figure skating to hockey and special non-ice events, the action is always exciting under the glittering glass dome of the National Hockey League-sized Ice Palace.
ICE District
Head to Edmonton’s ICE District, Canada’s largest mixed-use sports and entertainment district. Get a taste of the city’s eclectic energy and diverse offerings. And with speakeasys, sports bars and steakhouses, this is the spot to indulge in pre- or post-game refreshments alongside friendly locals.
Rogers Place
Catch an Edmonton Oilers game at Rogers Place, the most advanced sports and entertainment venue in North America. It’s home to countless big-name concerts and the Oil Kings of the Western Hockey League.
TIP FROM A LOCAL
Grab a bite at Bar Trove, a Euro-inspired bar started by Lauren Kyle McDavid, Connor McDavid’s wife.
Alberta Sports Hall of Fame – Red Deer
On your way to Calgary, stop into the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame for a family-friendly, interactive experience that celebrates our sporting history. You’ll be surprised by what you discover inside! Laugh, play and have fun with the family while discovering Alberta sports heroes.
WinSport
This recreational destination on the western edge of Calgary offers year-round fun. In summer, you can mountain bike, play mini golf or go downhill karting. If you’re visiting in winter, warm up your ski and snowboard legs here before hitting the mountain slopes.
Olympic Oval
Continue your sports tour at the Olympic Oval. Located on the University of Calgary Campus, this high-performance sports facility hosts a variety of activities, including speed skating training, sports events and car shows.
Major Tom
Major Tom is the perfect introduction to Calgary’s culinary scene. In this sophisticated 40-story-high lounge and restaurant, you can watch the sunset as you sip cocktails and savour unique flavours. Their elevated cuisine and energetic vibe will surely lift your spirits.
Fairmont Palliser
Sleep like an NHL star in the Fairmont Palliser. A historic landmark offering distinctive accommodations in elegant surroundings, this central hotel is conveniently within walking distance of various retail stores, dining arts and entertainment.
TIP FROM A LOCAL
Enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the city skyline and Scotiabank Saddledome from the Calgary Tower.
Canadian Hockey Player Experience
Live out your pro hockey player dreams on this two-hour experience. Coaching and equipment are provided, including skates, helmets, pucks and sticks. Step onto the ice rink, feel the thrill of playing Canada’s beloved winter sport and score your first goal.
Canmore Nordic Centre
If you’re looking to get your heart rate up outdoors, this is the place for you. In winter, rent cross-country skis, snowshoes or fat bikes and set out on over 65 km (37 mi) of groomed and track-set trails. Or, visit in summer for mountain biking and hiking, and maybe around of disc golf or two.
Canmore Eagles Hockey Club
Catch a game and see fast-paced, high-energy play in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. The Canmore Eagles are part of the Alberta Junior Hockey League and have games in Canmore and Banff from September to March each year.
The Grizzly Paw Pub
After building up an appetite from all your adventures, pull up a chair at The Grizzly Paw Pub. This microbrewery serves up delicious traditional fare and handcrafted beer on tap. They’re family-friendly and offer pint-sized portions for kids, along with handcrafted sodas.
TIP FROM A LOCAL
Visiting in winter? Try wild ice skating on Lake Louise, Abraham Lake or Pyramid Lake.
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