8 Perfect Destinations for a Long Weekend in Alberta
Alberta, the heart of the Canadian Rockies, is a top year-round vacation destination. It is Canada's fourth-largest province by population, but you would never know it once you are out in the wilderness.
That is because Alberta is full of small communities that take full advantage of their mountainside location. Visitors can get out and enjoy nature in spots like Johnston Canyon, Moraine Lake, and the Icefields Parkway during the day before retiring to hotels like the Stoneridge Mountain Resort or Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge for a luxurious evening.
These destinations offer the perfect backdrop for your long weekend in Alberta, Canada.
Banff
Banff is an iconic destination that attracts visitors worldwide with its spectacular mountain scenery and the beauty of Banff National Park. The community is the perfect spot for a long weekend in Alberta because you can enjoy the outdoors and a lively small-town atmosphere in a single destination.
You might begin your stay with a stroll down Banff Avenue, where you will find popular shops like All In The Wild Gallery and Brims and Things, or you can grab a bite to eat at the Grizzly House. From there, you can head into the Rockies and enjoy a panoramic view by riding the Banff Gondola up Sulphur Mountain.
If you are looking for adventure, you can hike Tunnel Mountain for a quick but rewarding climb, or explore the dramatic waterfalls and walkways of Johnston Canyon.
When it is time to rest for the night, the Fairmont Banff Springs is historic and luxurious. It provides an unforgettable atmosphere that will take your long weekend to the next level.
Canmore
Canmore is a short drive from Banff but offers a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere. It is an excellent spot for a long weekend in Alberta if you want to unwind without the bustle.
Outdoor enthusiasts will love the Canmore Nordic Centre, which features cross-country skiing, fat tire biking, ice skating, and tobogganing in the winter, as well as some of the province's most scenic hiking in the summer. Or, if you prefer a slower day, you can wander the downtown Canmore area and check out The Grizzly Paw Pub, the Canmore Museum, and the Rocky Mountain Bagel Company.
When it is time to unwind, the Stoneridge Mountain Resort provides modern rooms, an outdoor pool, and views of the iconic Three Sisters mountains.
Lake Louise
Lake Louise is one of the most visited places in Canada, and it is easy to see why. The lake itself has stunning turquoise water set against towering peaks and glaciers, creating an incredibly scenic backdrop for a long weekend in Alberta.
If you love hiking, the Lake Agnes Trail is a must-do, rewarding you with a rustic tea house sitting above a smaller alpine lake. Nearby, Moraine Lake is another jewel worth visiting. It is only open seasonally due to road access, but it is well worth the trip because of its striking blue waters and dramatic Valley of the Ten Peaks backdrop.
For accommodations, the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is one of the most luxurious spots in the Rocky Mountains, sitting right on the lake's edge.
Jasper
Jasper is the perfect place for a long weekend in Alberta if you want a more laid-back Rockies experience. This mountain town has incredible scenery but a quiet, slow-paced atmosphere.
A highlight of any trip is taking a cruise on Maligne Lake, where you will see the famous Spirit Island and spectacular glacial waters. Jasper is also part of a designated Dark Sky Preserve, making it one of the best spots in the world for stargazing on a clear night.
For a scenic adventure, you can drive along the Icefields Parkway, a beautiful spot with towering mountains and gorgeous waterfalls. You can also get up close to glaciers near the side of the road.
When it is time to relax, you can spend the night at the Pyramid Lake Resort on the outskirts of town or the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge for the ultimate luxury.
Drumheller
Known as the heart of Alberta's Badlands, Drumheller is the dinosaur capital of Canada and a fascinating destination for a long weekend in Alberta. For outdoor adventure, hiking the Hoodoos Trail is worth seeing the striking sandstone formations shaped by centuries of wind and water.
A must-see is the Royal Tyrrell Museum, which has one of the world's most extensive collections of dinosaur fossils. Visitors of all ages can learn about prehistoric life and get up close with history.
Other fun stops include the World's Largest Dinosaur statue, a towering T. rex you can climb for town views (check it out before it is dismantled in 2029), and the Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site, a preserved 1930s mine with tours and a train.
Drumheller offers several unique accommodations, including the Heartwood Inn, which is in a restored heritage building.
Kananaskis Village
Kananaskis Village is an ideal mountain retreat for a long weekend in Alberta, not far from Canmore. It is tucked into a stunning valley, making it perfect for outdoor lovers and those seeking a peaceful escape.
Adventure seekers can spend their days hiking or biking on the many scenic Kananaskis trails, such as Heart Creek and Ribbon Falls, where mountain peaks and alpine lakes provide unforgettable backdrops.
For something more relaxing, head to the Kananaskis Nordic Spa, which is famous for its outdoor hydrotherapy pools surrounded by forest and mountains. Wildlife spotting is another highlight, as you may see elk, deer, or even bears from a safe distance.
For accommodations, the Kananaskis Mountain Lodge is comfortable and luxurious, while Skyridge Glamping offers private suites in the Canadian wilderness.
Sylvan Lake
Sylvan Lake is one of Alberta's most popular summer destinations, making it a perfect choice for a relaxing long weekend in Alberta. This lakeside town is all about water and laid-back fun, so visiting in the summer is ideal.
The lake is the main attraction, with plenty of opportunities for swimming and boat rentals. You can also try paddleboarding on its calm waters or spend the day relaxing on the beach at Sylvan Lake Park. Families will enjoy Sylvan Lake Aqua Splash, a seasonal floating waterpark that is a hit with kids and adults.
If you would rather stay on land, you can stroll Lakeshore Road, home to Sun of a Beach restaurant and The Big Moo Ice Cream Parlor. For overnight stays, the Best Western Plus Chateau Inn Sylvan Lake is across the street from the water and features comfortable rooms and an indoor pool.
Sundre
Sundre is a lesser-known spot in Alberta, but it is perfect for travelers looking for outdoor adventure in a quieter setting. It is near the foothills of the Rockies and offers a blend of beauty and small-town charm, making it an excellent choice for your long weekend in Alberta.
Outdoor enthusiasts will love rafting or fishing on the Red Deer River, which winds through scenic valleys and forests. It is a bit of a drive, but you can also head to Ya Ha Tinda Ranch, Canada's only federally operated horse ranch, to see wild horses and explore beautiful hiking trails.
History buffs can step back in time at the Sundre & District Pioneer Village Museum, which is full of old buildings and artifacts that tell the story of Alberta's early settlers.
The Sundre Motor Inn offers a simple, convenient base for your weekend, while the Mountain View Inn & Suites is a more upscale option.
Spend Your Long Weekend in Alberta
It is tough to beat Alberta, Canada, when it comes to outdoor adventure because of its unparalleled access to the Rocky Mountains. However, this province has more than mountains. For your long weekend getaway, you will also find lakes, rivers, world-class dining, and luxurious hotels like the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, and Fairmont Banff Springs.
It does not matter how you want to spend your vacation, Alberta has something for everyone and will surprise you with its diverse landscapes and activities for the entire family.
