My 4 Favourite Places to Visit in Alberta This Summer!

Hi everyone, and happy Summer!! The last month and a bit hasn’t quite felt like Summer at all, it’s been cold, rainy and downright miserable in the Okanagan, not the typical weather we’re used to this time of year, BUT the silver lining is, hopefully, it will keep the fires at bay. So now that we’re finally into the hot summer months, I wanted to share a few tips for your Alberta summer. Whether you’re from Alberta looking for some of my favourite places to explore or simply wanting to travel to this amazing destination, here are a few of my favourite places!

1. Peace River

If you’ve followed me for a while, you’ll likely know that I grew up in Peace River, Alberta… and if not, surprise! LOL! If you haven’t been to Peace River before, I’d recommend you visit at least once. It’s a very small town, but despite that, there are lots of things to do here, especially if you like being outdoors!

If you’re a fan of quadding, Peace River is the best place to quad. I remember growing up quadding, and it was my favourite things to do in Peace River. Another one of my favourite ways to explore the town is by boat (particularly a jet boat if you can!); on a nice hot summer day, there is simply nothing better than boating down Peace River or playing in the muddy shores. Last but certainly not least, if you’re in the mood for a bite to eat, you have to get a sandwich at J’s Java Domain OR hit up the newest brewery in town, Peace River Brewing!

2. Banff

Another one of my favourite places in Alberta is Banff! This past winter, some of my very best girlfriends and I visited Lake Louise for the weekend and stayed at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. It was one of my favourite memories from the beginning of the year. The best thing about Lake Louise is that you can visit year-round. In the winter, you can skate on the lake, and in the summer, you can witness the gorgeous turquoise blue lake and even rent a canoe for a paddle, plus so much more!

Here are a few tips from our friends at Travel Alberta Team to help you plan your next visit to Banff:

• Plan your visit and book hotels, meals, activities or rentals ahead of time for the best experience. Banff & Lake Louise Tourism’s robust trip planner tool can help you plan your dream trip.
• Leave your car parked and explore Banff and Lake Louise by bus, bike or hiking boot. Visit explorethepark.ca for local tips on the best ways to get around. 
• If you are planning to visit Moraine Lake and Lake Louise, the best way is to reserve a Parks Canada shuttle ahead of time to guarantee a seat. Learn more.
• Visit banfflakelouise.com/travel-information for the most updated travel information. 

3. Calgary

Justin was born in raised in Calgary; in fact, his parents still have a place there, and we try to get there about once a year. It’s the best because all of my girlfriends live in Calgary too, so whenever we get a chance to escape to this amazing city, it’s always a good time! For those of you that have been to Kelowna probably know that we don’t have a big shopping area, so whenever I get to Calgary, my first stop is always the mall. On top of great shopping attractions, they have all of the best restaurants and bars; seriously, whatever you’re in the mood for, you’ll be able to find it.

Something I think Calgary is best known for in the summer specifically is the Stampede. They have an amazing line-up of musicians, great events and more. Plus, I’ve just learned about this year’s Stampede Powwow; if you’ve never attended a powwow, this one sounds like it would be amazing to visit. You’ll learn about the origins and contemporary practices of powwow dancing and watch competitive powwow dancers. This Stampede event was organized in collaboration with Patrick and Marrisa Mitsuing. To learn more about this event, you can check out all of the details here!

4. Jasper

Last but certainly not least, one of the hottest destinations in Alberta during the summer is Jasper. If you haven’t booked your stay for the summer, they are typically already at capacity, but if you have the urge to go, make sure to check out their availability here! Jasper is an amazing place to visit in the summer, but I would strongly encourage you to have a reservation before visiting, that is, if you are planning on staying. When I visit Jasper, I LOVE to stay at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge; even if you’re not planning on staying overnight, you can still enjoy their food, drinks and even the patio and spa!

Here are a few tips from our friends at Travel Alberta Team to help you plan your next visit to Jasper:

• Avoid exploring the park at peak times; the best times to explore in our opinion, are early in the morning or later in the afternoon.
• You can download the Parks NOW app, which will be a way to check out how many parking sites are available at some of these locations.
• A fun way to also explore the park is by renting or bringing a bike and using the connector trail system.
• Last but not least, please give wildlife space!

Well, there you have it! My top 4 places to visit in Alberta this summer, or seriously any time of the year, they’re all great destinations! Do you have any plans to visit Alberta this summer? Let me know in the comments below!

xo

Jilly

Please note that this blog was in collaboration with Travel Alberta; however, as always, all thoughts and opinions are my own!