Drumheller Itinerary: Explore the Alberta Badlands in 3 Days
Thinking of taking your family on a Drumheller vacation? You’re in the right place. This 3-day Drumheller itinerary covers some of Alberta’s most unique and fascinating landscapes. You’ll explore dinosaur fossils, hike through canyons, and step into the history of Canada’s coal mining towns. And of course, you’ll visit the famous Royal Tyrrell Museum.
Drumheller sits in the heart of the Alberta Badlands and is known for its hoodoos, dinosaur discoveries, and dramatic scenery. It’s just under two hours from Calgary, making it an easy weekend trip (or even a day trip), but there’s way more to do than you might expect.
We’ve been here many, many times with our dinosaur-loving kids, and every trip has something new to offer. The kids are often asking “Can we go to dino town?” There’s no shortage of family-friendly adventures. You’ll leave feeling like 3 days wasn’t quite enough, and that’s the best kind of trip.
Disclaimer: Just a heads up, this free article contains affiliate links. If you purchase after clicking one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost. Your support helps me continue to provide helpful and free content for you.
Day 1: Horseshoe Canyon, Downtown Drumheller & Royal Tyrrell Museum
Start your trip with a scenic drive from Calgary and aim to arrive in Drumheller by early afternoon.
Horseshoe Canyon
If you’re coming in via Highway 9, plan a stop at Horseshoe Canyon, just 17 km before town. It’s a great way to kick things off. The canyon has easy lookout points and a 4.3 km loop trail if you’re up for a walk. Even a short visit offers a first look at the dramatic Alberta badlands landscape.
If you’re staying nearby, like we did at the Horseshoe Canyon Campground right across the road, you can also plan to explore the canyon in the evening when it’s quieter and cooler.
Drumheller Sign
Before heading into town, make a quick stop at the “Welcome to Drumheller” sign. There’s a small parking area nearby. You can hike up the hill behind the sign for a great view and maybe your new favourite family photo.
World’s Largest Dinosaur
Once you’re in Drumheller, head straight to see Tyra, the World’s Largest Dinosaur. Tyra stands at 25 metres tall and can fit 12 people in her mouth at once. She’s 4.5 times bigger than a real T-Rex.
For a small fee, you can climb 106 steps to reach the top of the T-Rex and enjoy a panoramic view of the Red Deer River Valley.
Downtown Drumheller & the Dino Trail
Take a walk around downtown Drumheller and follow the Dino Walk. More than 30 dinosaur statues are scattered across the area. The kids will love spotting them all. You can download the full map on the DinoArts website.
While downtown, stop by:
- Lois + Ani Tea Shop for bubble tea
- Downtown Plaza for live music (in summer)
- Miners Memorial Park to learn about the area’s coal mining history
If the weather is warm, bring snacks or an early dinner to the Rotary Spray Park. The splash pad and nearby dinosaur statues are great for younger kids, especially after a long drive.
Check in to your lodging and enjoy the rest of the evening.
Where to Stay in Drumheller
You’ll find a mix of campgrounds, hotels, and vacation rentals in Drumheller.
- Horseshoe Canyon Campground is located right across from Horseshoe Canyon, about 17 kilometres from downtown. It’s peaceful, family-friendly, and gives you easy access to the canyon early in the morning or the evening when most day visitors have left. The campground offers full hookups, clean showers, washrooms, and a kids’ playground. There are options for both tents and RVs.
- Tyrannosaurus Rest Bed and Breakfast is a family-run B&B located right in Drumheller, close to many attractions. The rooms are cozy, the breakfast is homemade, and the host is incredibly welcoming. It’s a great choice if you want a more personal stay while visiting the Alberta Badlands.
Day 2: Royal Tyrrell Museum, Scenic Views & South Dinosaur Trail
Today is all about exploring the landscape that makes Drumheller famous: the stunning Alberta badlands. And mixing in fun stops for the whole family.
Coffee & Cinnamon Buns
Kick off your day with a stop at the Wanderlust Boutique. This cozy local shop serves great coffee and homemade cinnamon buns. It’s a family favourite! Right next door is the Homestead Antique Museum, a small museum showcasing pioneer life in the valley. It’s a quick and interesting stop, especially if you enjoy browsing old treasures.
Visit the Little Church
Just a short drive from town, you’ll find Drumheller’s Little Church. It was originally built as a place for reflection, and now it’s a fun photo stop. It seats just six people at a time and makes for a unique roadside attraction.
Royal Tyrrell Museum
Plan a few hours for the Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology, one of Canada’s best-known museums and a highlight of any Drumheller itinerary. The exhibits are full of real fossils, hands-on learning areas, and massive dinosaur skeletons that kids and adults will both love.
If time allows, I highly recommend adding a guided hike through Midland Provincial Park, right behind the museum. These short, family-friendly hikes give you a deeper understanding of the badlands and how fossils are formed. Check the museum website for schedules and pricing. We did the Fossil Hunting Hike with the kids and it was a huge success.
You can also do a self-guided hike on the Badland Interpretive trail.
Alternative option: Barney’s Adventure Park
If you’re travelling with younger kids and not interested in visiting the museum, you could swap part of the afternoon for a visit to Barney’s Adventure Park. It’s about 4 km from Horse Thief Canyon and has giant mechanical dinosaurs, outdoor games, animals, and more. It’s especially fun for kids ages 3 to 10.
Horse Thief Canyon
From the museum, drive about 10 km north to Horse Thief Canyon, one of the best viewpoints in the Alberta badlands. The views stretch far into the layered canyons, and there are several short trails to explore near the lookout. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot prairie dogs popping out of the grass nearby.
It can get hot here in the summer, so try to go earlier in the day or pack extra water and sun protection.
Bleriot Ferry
Continue the loop by heading toward the Bleriot Ferry, a cable-operated ferry that crosses the Red Deer River. It’s a fun and quick experience for kids. If you’d rather not cross, you can always turn around here and stop at the Dinosaur Trail Playground back in town for a break.
South Dinosaur Trail
After the ferry (or your stop at the playground), follow the South Dinosaur Trail. This scenic drive offers even more views of the badlands and a couple of great roadside stops:
- Orkney Viewpoint: A dramatic lookout over the valley.
- Andrew Farm Old Grain Elevator: One of the last remaining prairie elevators in the area, perfect for a quick photo stop.
Dinner at Sam’s Kitchen
Finish your day with dinner at Sam’s Kitchen, a local Indian restaurant known for its flavourful dishes and generous portions. It’s a family-friendly spot and a great way to wrap up a busy day of exploring.
Day 3: eBikes, Hoodoos & Ghost Towns
Your final day in Drumheller takes you a bit off the beaten path. You’ll explore more of the Alberta badlands, visit ghost towns, and see some of the most famous hoodoos in Canada.
Bike Ride Through the Badlands
Start your day with a family bike ride at Bikes & Bites. They offer eBikes for adults and older kids (12 and up), plus youth bikes, ride-along extensions, and child carriers so everyone can join. If you choose the picnic option, they’ll pack up lunch for you to take on your ride. The beet hummus and charcuterie box are both great choices.
I recommend splurging a bit and getting the picnic option. The food was delicious, plus it’s fun once in a while not to have to pack your own lunch.
The ride offers a fun way to see the Drumheller Valley from a different perspective, and the trail options work well for a 2-hour ride with kids.
Wayne & the Last Chance Saloon
After biking, drive east toward the historic mining town of Wayne. Once home to many coal miners, it’s now a quiet ghost town with only about 25 residents.
Stop for coffee or snacks at the famous Last Chance Saloon. The drive there takes you across 11 one-lane bridges, which adds a little extra fun for the kids.
If you want, continue past the saloon to reach the Jewel Mine interpretive sign. There’s a short trail here with lovely views of the badlands.
Hoodoos Trail
Next, head back to Hoodoos Trail on Highway AB-10 E. Park in the small lot (paid parking), then walk the trail to see these fascinating rock formations up close.
Hoodoos, sometimes called fairy chimneys, are tall, thin spires created by millions of years of erosion. Stay on the marked paths, as the formations are very fragile.
If you have the time, make sure you climb up the hills for great views of the valley. It’s so beautiful and unique.
Be extra careful after rain, the mud here gets very slippery.
Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site
End your trip with a visit to the Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site. Once home to 139 operating mines, this was one of the last mines in the Drumheller Valley.
You can explore part of the site on your own or join a guided tour. The surface tours and train rides are great for families. Some of the underground or processing plant tours may not be ideal for younger kids, but the staff can help you pick what works best for your group.
On the way to Atlas Coal Mine, you can also make a short stop at the East Coulee School Museum if time allows.
💡 Important reminder when visiting the Alberta Badlands and Drumheller
Expect hot summers: The Alberta badlands get very hot during the summer months, especially in the canyons and open areas with little shade. Bring plenty of water, sun hats, and sunscreen, and try to schedule hikes early in the morning or late in the afternoon when temperatures are cooler.
Watch for local wildlife: While exploring the Drumheller Valley, you may see deer, coyotes, prairie dogs, and a variety of birds like hawks and falcons. At the Atlas Coal Mine, you might also spot bull snakes or garter snakes. Rattlesnakes are rare in Drumheller but more common near Dinosaur Provincial Park.
FAQ: Planning Your Drumheller Vacation
How many days in Drumheller is enough?
We recommend spending at least 2 to 3 days in Drumheller. That gives you enough time to visit the Royal Tyrrell Museum, explore the Alberta badlands, see the hoodoos, and enjoy fun activities like eBiking or Barney’s Adventure Park. You can definitely fill a long weekend without feeling rushed.
When is the best time to travel to Drumheller?
The best time to visit Drumheller is from late spring to early fall (May to September). The weather is warm, most attractions are open, and the hiking trails are dry. Summer can get hot, especially midday, so plan outdoor activities for mornings or late afternoons.
Can you visit Drumheller in one day?
You can see a few highlights in one day if you’re coming from Calgary, but you’ll miss many great attractions. If possible, plan for at least a full weekend to explore properly.
Is Drumheller good for kids?
Yes! Drumheller is very family-friendly, especially for kids who love dinosaurs, science, and outdoor adventures.
Final Thoughts: Drumheller Itinerary for a Family Getaway
Drumheller is much more than a quick day trip from Calgary. With this 3-day Drumheller itinerary, you’ll have time to explore the best of the area, from dinosaur museums and scenic canyons to hoodoos, ghost towns, and coal mine history.
The Alberta badlands offer a landscape that’s unlike anywhere else in Canada, and it’s full of activities that both kids and adults will enjoy. If you’re planning your next family adventure, consider adding Drumheller to your list of Alberta vacations.
We’ve visited many times, and each trip has brought something new. Whether it’s your first or fifth visit, Drumheller vacations always leave you wanting to come back.
