Drumheller’s Top Summer Experiences
Drumheller is the “Dinosaur Capital of the World.” The badlands are home to exceptional rock formations, gorgeous canyons, hoodoos, and fossil beds with the remains of beasts, both large and small, that once ruled the land. There is plenty in Drumheller for the dinosaur-inclined, including the amazing Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology.
Once you’ve had your fill of our prehistoric friends, fear not: Drumheller also offers lots of non-dinosaur fun. Here are a few examples of unique Drumheller experiences for those looking to shake things up.
Experience ‘Mine Blowing History’
Dig up something different at the Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site. Discover the important coal mining history of the Drumheller region, where at one time, 139 coal mines were in operation. Choose from a variety of tours, including an underground tour and the train tour. Don’t forget your camera/phone, because the Atlas is one of Canada’s most photogenic historic sites and the seven-story tipple is the last wooden tipple remaining in Canada.
Yurts – the best way to Glamp
Bridgeviews is a secluded glamping, tent, and RV campground bordering Rosebud Creek and Drumheller’s amazing hills.
Plus, there’s room for private events with a community firepit and cooking locations as well an indoor meeting space.
A spacious trendy Bell tent with a full bed and glamping luxuries await. Get a restful sleep while enjoying connecting to nature and fresh air.
Our Glamp-sites offer features and comforts you don’t usually have when “traditional camping”. A Spacious Bell tent, with welcoming beds and fresh linens, to ensure you can relax.
You and your family still get to unplug and experience the outdoors without having to pack all the necessities … what could be better?
Private and limited spots are available.
Yurt Glamping, Tent Sites, RV Sites, and Private Day Use Available.
Feel at home in this beautiful locally-owned and operated location. Located on the famous 11 Bridges scenic route to Wayne, AB minutes from the Tyrrell Museum. Unwind and unplug with us, outdoor games toys and areas to explore.
281 5th AVE S Rosedale Alberta
Find your next favourite band here!
Memorable road trips – playlist included!
It’s time to Rediscover Drumheller with over 10 music festivals and live music every weekend, Drumheller hosts a vibrant and ever-growing music scene – you’re sure to find your next favourite band here.
We have a whole page solely dedicated to our incredible venues and musical events! Live Music Festivals and Events
No matter your genre – Drumheller has it all!
Climb into the mouth of the World’s Largest Dinosaur
Have you seen the 25-metre-tall Tyrannosaurus rex, nicknamed Tyra, that welcomes visitors to the area? It’s not like you’ll find a gargantuan T. rex in every small town you visit. You can go inside the World’s Largest Dinosaur, climb up 106 stairs to the top, and be rewarded with an unparalleled view of Drumheller and the surrounding badlands. This is likely the only time you will want to find yourself in the jaws of a giant carnivore!
Walk or bike the trails
Take a trip outside along some of Drumheller’s 18-kilometre-long trail network. These pathways run through downtown, stretch past the Royal Tyrrell Museum, and alongside the Red Deer River through rugged natural scenery. Renting an e-bike from Bikes and Bites helps to support local business, while also creating an inclusive opportunity for all members of your family to adventure together. For the more adventurous, Red Deer River Adventures offers kayak and canoe rentals, and even organizes guided tours to highlight the stunning scenery and unique geology of the area.
Hunt for dinosaur statues
There are so many dinosaur statues to be discovered in Drumheller. How many can you find? Follow the Dino Map and see if you can locate the 30+ sculptures throughout the Drumheller Valley. Did you know some of our dinosaurs are over 50 years old?! The first dinosaur, “Dinnie,” was installed in 1960 for Dominion Day (Canada Day) and can be found in the Rotary Park, by the fountain. Don’t forget to share your photos on social media using the hashtag #dinoarts.
Explore Horseshoe Canyon
Just before you arrive in Drumheller on Highway 9, make sure to explore this mini-Grand Canyon. The rugged terrain and natural beauty of Horseshoe Canyon makes for the perfect outing for adventurers and would-be hikers. Get a group together and tackle the trails, keeping an eye out for cactus along the way! Even if you’ve visited the site before, the seasonal changes have a way of making the dazzling rock formations take on a second or third life.
Conquer the Mammoth Burger
If you’re feeling competitive (and hungry), why not challenge yourself to finish the Mammoth Burger at Bernie & the Boys Bistro? After a day of exploring the badlands, nothing satisfies your hunger like a meal at one of Drumheller’s most iconic locally-owned restaurants. The Mammoth Burger was featured on The Food Network’s You Gotta Eat Here for its incredible size and delicious taste. The burger itself is loaded with a 24-oz homemade beef patty on an 8-inch custom bun, topped with mayo, lettuce, tomato, and pickles. The current record for finishing the burger is 10 minutes and 11 seconds. Consider splitting it with a friend (or two)!
Spend a day at Barney’s Adventure Park
One of Drumheller’s newest attractions is Barney’s Adventure Park, a 15-acre property offering unique agricultural, geological, and dinosaur-related activities for the whole family. Daily activities range from mini pig races, to zip-lining, a pedal car speedway, and even a dinosaur walk in the forest!
Unique shops for the perfect day!
Drumheller has some of the most unique shops, you’ll be able to find almost anything you’re looking for and more.
Dry Canyon Collectables – Dry Canyon Collectables is a small unique shop that is owned and operated by Lynn and Mike Fabrick. Lynn is a Cree Metis Woman who always wanted to start her own business and promote and educate the indigenous culture. She learned many things from her Cree grandmother and passes many of it on through the shop. You’ll find many of the different cultures celebrated from Inuit, Metis and First Nation. The shop has grown over the ten years it’s been open and continues to be involved in the community. It welcomes visitors from all over the world and locals alike.
Pearl & Hart – A Modern Collective – The inspiration behind the name comes from the Canadian born outlaw of the Wild West, Pearl Hart, who was known for her trailblazing attitude and determination to break traditional stereotypes in all aspects of her life.
Pearl and Hart is a safe place for everyone to feel confident embracing their personal style, to feel proud of who they are and to feel encouraged to live their desired way of life!
Features – Eatery that’s fully licensed so you can “sip and shop”, Hair Salon & Market.
Wanderlust Boutique & General Store – Unique shopping experience featuring ladies and children’s clothing, home decor, gifts, candles, linens, and a coffee shop serving Fratello coffee and baked goods – all set up in the Old General Store.
Stores on Centre – Five businesses in the Drumheller Valley all under one roof!
Located at 338 Centre Street Drumheller, AB
The Faux Den -Antiques, Drumheller souvenirs, garden ornaments, funny t-shirts, fossils, and so much more. We salute mining, farming and railways, keeping the history of the valley.
Enjoy a locally roasted coffee
Black Mountain Roasters is a local café serving delicious beverages, amazing cinnamon rolls, and tasty sandwiches to refuel after a morning of dinosaur hunting. While you’re there, grab a bag of their signature roasted coffee beans. With names like Raptor, Albertosaurus, and Stegosaurus artisan coffees, they are sure to make a great memento of your visit to the Drumheller Valley.
Relax with friends at Valley Brewing
Drumheller’s first and only micro brewery boasts an open-air patio near downtown and a range of iconic brews that pay homage to the Valley’s history. Valley Brewing is locally-owned and operated and has already taken home top prize at the Last Best IPA Tap Takeover for their Namesake Hazy IPA in 2019!
Your next great getaway awaits you in Drumheller! Whether you’ve come to discover more about the town’s dinosaur reputation, or you’re looking for a charming night out in the scenic badlands, there’s plenty to do.
Choose your own adventure in the Drumheller Valley this year. For even more inspiration, check out our Exploration Guide.