Alberta, Canada is a vast and beautiful province, home to some of the world’s most iconic tourist attractions. From the majestic Rocky Mountains to the wildflower-dotted boreal forests, there is something to please every kind of traveler. In this article, we will explore the top 22 ‘must see’ tourist attractions near Alberta, including historic sites, outdoor adventures, and cultural attractions.

1. Columbia Icefields

The Columbia Icefields are a vast, awe-inspiring expanse of ancient glacial ice that sprawls across the Alberta-British Columbia border. This incredible natural wonder is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Alberta, offering breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains and a chance to explore the ecosystems of the Columbia Icefields.

2. Lake Louise

Lake Louise is a popular tourist destination located in Banff National Park, just outside of Alberta. This majestic lake is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush woods, and offers a variety of activities for visitors, including hiking, kayaking, and fishing. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful place to relax and take in the scenery or an adrenaline-filled adventure, Lake Louise is the perfect place.

3. Royal Tyrrell Museum

The Royal Tyrrell Museum is one of Alberta’s most popular attractions, and is a must-see for any science-loving traveler. Located in Drumheller, just outside of Calgary, this stunning museum is home to over 40,000 fossils, including dinosaurs and other prehistoric creatures. The museum also offers a variety of interactive activities and educational programs, making it the perfect place to learn about Alberta’s incredible natural history.

4. Calgary Stampede

The Calgary Stampede is one of Alberta’s most iconic events, and is a must-see for any visitor. This ten-day event takes place every summer and features a variety of activities, including rodeo shows, concerts, parades, and more. Be sure to make time for the Stampede while you’re in Alberta!

5. Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump

Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump is a World Heritage Site and one of Alberta’s most unique attractions. This archaeological site is home to over 6,000 years of history, and offers visitors a glimpse into the lives of the Blackfoot people who used it to hunt buffalo. Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump is a must-see destination for any traveler.

6. Dinosaur Provincial Park

Dinosaur Provincial Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located just outside of Calgary. This stunning park is home to over 500 dinosaur fossils from the Cretaceous period, making it one of the best places in the world to view these ancient creatures. The park also has a variety of activities, including guided tours and interpretive programs, making it a must-see destination.

7. West Edmonton Mall

The West Edmonton Mall is the largest shopping mall in North America, and is a must-see destination for any traveler. This massive mall is home to over 800 stores, offering a wide variety of shopping and dining options. The mall is also home to a variety of attractions, including an amusement park, a professional hockey team, a waterpark, and much more.

8. Banff National Park

Banff National Park is one of Canada’s most beautiful destinations, and is a must-see for any traveler. This stunning park offers a variety of activities, from hiking and camping to skiing and snowshoeing. Banff National Park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, caribou, bears, and more.

9. Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park

Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park is home to one of Alberta’s most unique attractions. This park is home to over 500 pictographs, or rock paintings, created by the Blackfoot people hundreds of years ago. Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park is a must-see destination for anyone interested in the history and culture of the region.

10. Universal Studios

Universal Studios is a unique theme park located in Edmonton, Alberta. This popular destination is home to a variety of attractions, including rides, shows, and interactive experiences. Universal Studios is a must-see for any traveler looking for an immersive experience.

11. Calgary Tower

The Calgary Tower is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, and is a must-see for any traveler. This 190-meter-tall tower offers spectacular views of the city, along with a variety of interactive activities. Be sure to take some time to explore the Calgary Tower while you’re in town.

12. Alberta Legislature Building

The Alberta Legislature Building is a stunning landmark located in Edmonton, Alberta. This historic building is home to the Legislative Assembly of Alberta, and offers a variety of tours and interactive activities to explore the history and culture of the province. The Alberta Legislature Building is a must-see destination for any traveler.

13. Elk Island National Park

Elk Island National Park is a stunning park located just outside of Edmonton, Alberta. This park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, bison, deer, and more. Elk Island National Park also offers a variety of activities, from camping and hiking to canoeing and fishing, making it the perfect place to explore the outdoors.

14. Drumheller Valley

The Drumheller Valley is one of Alberta’s most unique destinations, and is a must-see for any traveler. This stunning valley is home to a variety of attractions, including the famous Hoodoos and the Royal Tyrrell Museum. The Drumheller Valley is also home to a variety of outdoor activities, making it the perfect place to explore.

15. Badlands

The Badlands are a stunning region of Alberta, home to an array of unique landscapes. This region is home to a variety of attractions, including the Hoodoos and the Drumheller Valley. The Badlands are a must-see for any traveler looking for an adventure.

16. Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is one of Canada’s most stunning destinations, and is a must-see for any traveler. This park is home to a variety of landscapes, from alpine meadows and snow-capped mountains to wild rivers and gorgeous lakes. Jasper National Park also offers a variety of activities, including camping, hiking, and wildlife viewing, making it the perfect place to explore.

17. Waterton Lakes National Park

Waterton Lakes National Park is a stunning park located in southwestern Alberta. This park is home to a variety of breathtaking landscapes, from towering mountains to crystal-clear lakes. The park also offers a variety of activities, from camping and hiking to boat tours and fishing.

18. Drumheller Hoodoos

The Drumheller Hoodoos are a unique geological formation located in Drumheller, Alberta. These spectacular rock formations are the result of millions of years of erosion, and are a must-see for any traveler. The Hoodoos offer a variety of activities, from hiking and biking to photography and bird watching.

19. Canadian Badlands Passion Play

The Canadian Badlands Passion Play is an annual event held in Drumheller, Alberta. This unique performance is a retelling of the story of Jesus, and is a must-see for any traveler. The Passion Play offers a variety of activities, including a light show, a marketplace, and a variety of live performances.

20. West Edmonton Mall Waterpark

The West Edmonton Mall Waterpark is one of the largest indoor waterparks in the world, and is a must-see destination for any traveler. This massive park is home to a variety of fun activities, from thrilling water slides to relaxing hot springs. Be sure to make time for the West Edmonton Mall Waterpark while you’re in Alberta!

21. Calgary Zoo

The Calgary Zoo is one of Alberta’s most popular attractions, and is a must-see for any traveler. This zoo is home to a variety of animals, from exotic birds to African lions. The Calgary Zoo also offers a variety of interactive activities, making it the perfect place to learn about the animals of the world.

22. Banff Upper Hot Springs

The Banff Upper Hot Springs are a popular sightseeing destination located in Banff National Park. These natural hot springs offer a relaxing and rejuvenating experience, making them a must-see for any traveler. Be sure to make time for the Banff Upper Hot Springs while you’re in