Drumheller In A Day: The Easygoing Edition
Planning the perfect day that’s equally relaxing and fun can be a challenge. That’s why we took care of the work for you, and went searching across the Badlands for the top easy-going adventures for you to fall in love with. Here’s the perfect day guide for the easy-going traveller, made with you in mind.
History Galore
You probably know Drumheller as the dinosaur capital of the world. But did you know that the history you’ll find here goes far beyond the Jurassic variety? While it’s definitely worth gathering all the dinosaur knowledge you can while you’re here – Drumheller also offers a historical look into dolls, cowboys, homesteading and more. Pick and choose which ones interest you or make it a full day of museum hopping – here’s a complete list of Drumheller museums.
Atlas Coal Mine’s Tipple Tour or Tunnel Tour
Continue your day by (figuratively) digging into the rich coal mining history that’s buried deep inside Drumheller. Feel a real piece of history at your fingertips, and climb 125 feet up the last wooden tipple in Canada with the Tipple Tour. Learn first-hand about the sorting, storing and shipping process of coal. See for yourself the dangers coal miners endured as they prepared to take on the “belly of the beast.” If you’re looking for a tour that’s a little more on the adventurous side, then the Tunnel Tour is right for you. Lace up your sturdiest pair of shoes, because this gradual climb has a steep descent through a terrain that leans on the rougher side. You’ll be walking straight through the history books, as you follow the steps of coal miners past up the conveyor tunnel and into the mine entry site. Please be aware, this tour is not recommended for people who have a fear of the dark, enclosed spaces and moderate heights, and is not allowed for children under the age of six. Atlas Coal Mine also has a number of other tours you can explore.
Get Your Gallery On
With an array of gallery offerings around town, there’s plenty to feast your eyes on. Whether you’re looking to purchase pieces from a shop or browse a public gallery – the choice is yours in Drumheller. Discover local artists’ work spanning a variety of mediums as you enjoy a leisurely tour of Drumheller’s art scene.
Pick Up a Souvenir (or Three)
What’s a trip without a souvenir? Have fun shopping around the different gift shops, boutiques and studios that Drumheller has to offer. Pick something up for yourself as a reminder of your Jurassic adventure, find something to your family far away, and maybe even find the perfect gift for your friends’ upcoming birthday. You really can’t go wrong with an afternoon of shopping – especially in the Badlands.
Eat, Drink & Be Merry
Take a break from your daily activities for a chance to recharge, and grab a bite to eat at one of Drumheller’s many unique dining experiences. Breakfast and brunch options include Yavis’ Family Restaurant, Whifs Flap Jack House and Ivy’s Awesome Kitchen and Bistro. If you’re looking for lunch or dinner try Asteroid Cater, Bernie and the Boys Bistro (featured on Food Network Canada’s, “You Gotta Eat Here”) or Sublime Food and Wine. If coffee is on the mind check out Café Ole or Old Grouch’s Cozy Café. Quench your thirst at one of the many area pubs and saloons including The Recovery Tap House, Last Chance Saloon, Neighbours Corner Pub and Newcastle Bar. Tummy growling yet? Just wait until you see our complete list of dining options.
Take a Drive
Belly full of food and mind full of contentment, head on a relaxing drive into the Badlands scenery. While there’s really no bad route around Drumheller – we may suggest a couple in particular:
Dinosaur Trail is a 48 km loop with stunning sights, a ride on the 100-year-old Bleriot Ferry free of charge, and a stop at the picturesque Orkney Viewpoint and Horsethief Canyon.
Hoodoo Drive is a 25 km stretch that takes you through the Badlands towns of Rosedale and Lehigh and offers hoodoos views. Finish the drive with a scenic adventure over the 11 bridges to Wayne.
Passion Play
Top off your perfect day in Drumheller with a show at the Canadian Badlands Passion Play. This performance will transport you back 2000 years for the dramatic representation of the life and death of Christ. See it all unfold right before your eyes in this natural 2500 seat amphitheatre, courtesy of the Badlands coulees. Costumes and sets are designed to provide a historical and biblical feel, so you’ll feel as though you’re witnessing this history-changing event first hand. Passion Plays take place in the spring and summer seasons.
A relaxing day of leisurely fun is waiting for you in Drumheller. Enjoy the Badlands at your own pace and start planning your perfect Drumheller day!