Top Five Places to Visit on a Trip between Calgary and Innisfail
If you're planning a road trip between Calgary and Innisfail, make sure to add these five stops to your itinerary. From natural wonders to cultural experiences, these destinations are sure to make your journey unforgettable.
The Route and Halfway Point: Airdrie, AB
Before we dive into the top five places to visit, let's take a moment to talk about the journey itself. The route from Calgary to Innisfail takes you through the heart of Alberta, offering scenic views of prairies, rolling hills, and distant mountains. Along the way, you'll pass through charming towns and villages that showcase the province's history and culture.
One of the best stopping points on the way to Innisfail is Airdrie, a vibrant city that boasts various entertainment, culinary and outdoor recreation options. Located halfway between two bigger centers, Calgary and Red Deer, Airdrie offers a mix of urban convenience and small-town charm.
Top Five Places to Visit:
1. Crossfield, AB - Iron Horse Park
Title: Step Back in Time at Iron Horse Park
Sub-Title: A One-of-a-Kind Railway Museum
Located just a few minutes from the highway, Iron Horse Park is a unique attraction that showcases the history of railway transportation in Western Canada. The park features a collection of historic locomotives and trains, as well as a miniature train ride for visitors to enjoy. Interactive exhibits bring the museum to life, allowing visitors to learn about the trains' operation and the people who made it all happen.
2. Olds, AB - Olds College Botanic Gardens
Title: Get Lost in the Beauty of Olds College Botanic Gardens
Sub-Title: A Hidden Gem of Alberta
An oasis of serenity in the middle of Alberta's open lands, Olds College Botanic Gardens is a must-visit destination for any nature lover. The garden's 22 different areas, including greenhouses, lily ponds, and themed gardens featuring a collection of rare and exotic plant species, allow for leisurely strolls and contemplation. Olds College Botanic Gardens offer a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and tune into the peace of the surrounding environment.
3. Bowden, AB - Alberta Birds of Prey Centre
Title: Witness the Majesty of Birds of Prey
Sub-Title: Experience Alberta's Wildlife up Close
Just a short drive off the highway, near the town of Bowden, you'll find Alberta Birds of Prey Centre, a wildlife sanctuary specialized in caring for injured raptors. Visitors can watch live raptor flights and learn about their unique features and behavior, as well as the role they play in Alberta's ecosystem. The center's trained staff delivers an engaging educational experience that leaves a lasting impression on visitors of all ages.
4. Red Deer, AB - Kerry Wood Nature Centre
Title: Discover the Beauty of Kerry Wood Nature Centre
Sub-Title: A Haven for Nature Lovers
Located in Red Deer's Waskasoo Park, Kerry Wood Nature Centre houses a variety of exhibits and interactive displays that encourage visitors to learn about local wildlife and natural history. With winding trails through marshlands, forests, and prairie ecosystems, the center provides extensive opportunities for visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of Alberta's wildlife and natural landscapes. Additionally, the nature center offers education programs, nature camps, and events throughout the year, making it an ideal stop for families.
5. Innisfail, AB - Discovery Wildlife Park
Title: Get Up Close and Personal with Alberta's Wildlife
Sub-Title: A Family Experience Like No Other
Located in Innisfail, Discovery Wildlife Park offers a sensational opportunity to get up close with wild creatures. The park is home to a variety of animals, such as black bears, grizzly bears, wolves, and cougars, all cared for in a controlled and natural environment. Visitors can watch the animal trainers feed and interact with the animals and attend educational shows that explain each animal's behavior. Discovery Wildlife Park is an excellent place to connect with nature and learn something new.
Conclusion
From Iron Horse Park to Discovery Wildlife Park, the stops listed above deserve a spot in your road trip itinerary. With each place being unique and offering its own charm, you'll experience Alberta's natural wonders and cultural sites in a special way. Even though you're driving between two destinations, that doesn't mean you can't have an adventure along the way!