This city is so much more than just the host to the Stampede and a stop before the amazing rocky mountains. It is full of fabulous food, drink and entertainment. Come a day or two early and experience the quaint shops in Inglewood, or the nightlife on 17th Avenue. In the lead up to Stampede, the city comes alive with events across the city. Some say it’s a large city that still maintains its small town feel. Did you know Ginger Beef was created by a chef in Calgary?
Check out Tourism Calgary for great information on this vibrant city.
Local Area
There are so many interesting places within a short drive of the campground! Let’s talk about a few of these.
Siksika Nation
As a country and people, Canada is still working towards a true partnership with Indigenous communities. We are proud of the local communities that have created opportunities for people to learn and appreciate Indigenous culture. One of these is the Siksika Nation that is nearby.
From their website:
“Since time immemorial, the Children of the Plains, the Siksikai’tsitapi – Blackfoot People, have lived in and protected a territory that stretches from the North Saskatchewan River in present day Alberta and Saskatchewan to the Yellowstone River in the state of Montana, from the Continental Divide in the west to Regina in the province now known as Saskatchewan.
Today, Siksika Nation population is approximately 7800+ and is part of the Siksikaitsitapi – Blackfoot Confederacy. The Siksikaitsitapi refers to four Indigenous Nations which make up the Blackfoot people: the Siksika (Blackfoot), the Kainai (Many Chiefs), the Apatohsipiikani (Northern Peigan) and Amsskapipiikani (Southern Peigan). Siksikai’powahsini (Blackfoot Language) is the language of the Siksikaitsitapi.”
Take a look at exploring their culture through their interpretative centre, Blackfoot Crossing.
Drumheller
Want to walk with dinosaurs? Here’s your chance!
The Royal Tyrrell* Museum is a day trip worth taking! You will learn that central Alberta has been a hotbed of dinosaur activity. A visit to the museum and its surrounding areas is definitely worth a day trip! Prior to visiting the museum, check out their various programs.
You can explore and hike in the local area. Wanting a more in depth hike? Take the Badlands hike. Throughout this adult only hike, the guide introduces you to different fossils in the area as well as the history of the area as well as dinosaur poo! The whole town of Drumheller is mad about dinosaurs so get ready to climb inside a t-rex or spot another dinosaur “sauntering” downtown! Spend the day in Drumheller to enjoy marvellous local restaurants, fantastic pubs and a bit of shopping on the historical mainstreet.
(*said like squirrel)
