The first thing you’ll notice about central Alberta’s Drumheller Valley is the spectacular scenery: rolling fields that suddenly give way to the Canadian Badlands—steep, dry coulees ridged with hundreds of years of erosion from wind, water, and time. The Red Deer River winds its way through the Valley, attracting many with its myriad recreational opportunities.

Home to the Royal Tyrell Museum and world-famous dinosaur digs, Drumheller has a rich and surprising history. After the site’s discovery in 1884, the two founding entrepreneurs decided the town’s name by a coin toss. Early settlers discovered the skull of an Albertasaurus while they were exploring for coal, starting the collection of fossils that Drumheller is known for today. The Royal Tyrell Museum attracts over 430,000 visitors a year, and Drumheller embraces its claim to fame with playful dinosaur sculptures all over town and the 26.2 metre tall “World’s Largest Dinosaur” towering over the visitor’s centre and adjacent water park.

Aside from ancient artefacts, Drumheller has much to offer. Residents enjoy an excellent variety of activities in local community facilities. There are 27 kilometres of pathways to walk, bike, or rollerblade. Visit the Aquaplex for a swim, or to enjoy the hot tub or steam room; take the kids skating at the Memorial Arena or cheer on the local hockey team. You can keep fit at the Badlands Community Facility’s fitness and recreation centre or take in local arts and cultural programs, such as the Canadian Badlands Passion Play.

The area surrounding Drumheller offers a wealth of unique sites to explore. Hike through Horseshoe or Horse Thief Canyon. Don’t miss the hoodoos, which are standing stone pillars left behind by sandstone eroding, leaving behind harder rock. Paddle a nearby lake, or down sections of Red Deer River. Newcastle Beach offers kayaks for rent, a playground, and fenced dog park to soak up the best of summer. Ride across the river on Bleriot Ferry – one of only a handful of ferries still operating in Alberta. You can check out some of the area’s notable historic sites, like Atlas Coal Mine, Homestead Museum, or the Rosedeer Hotel in nearby Wayne. The Little Church is truly tiny – just six people can fit inside. Come to Drumheller – there is nowhere quite like it in Alberta!

Visit the Town of Drumheller website or Facebook page for more information.