Map Of Okotoks And Surrounding Area
The Ultimate Travel Guide
Discover the Best of Okotoks and Surrounding Area
If you’re planning a trip to Map Of Okotoks And Surrounding Area, you’re in for a treat. This beautiful area is filled with stunning natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, and much more. To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve created a comprehensive travel guide that covers everything from top attractions to off-the-beaten-path experiences. Read on to discover the best of Okotoks and surrounding area!
Top Attractions
If you’re looking for things to do in Okotoks and surrounding area, you won’t be disappointed. Some of the top attractions include:
- The Big Rock, a massive boulder that’s over 16,500 tons
- Sikome Lake, a popular spot for swimming and picnicking
- Heritage Park Historical Village, a living history museum that showcases life in Western Canada from the 1860s to the 1950s
- The Calgary Zoo, which is home to over 1,000 animals from all over the world
- The Glenbow Museum, which features art, history, and culture exhibits
Hidden Gems
While the top attractions are definitely worth a visit, don’t forget to explore some of the hidden gems in Okotoks and surrounding area. Here are a few off-the-beaten-path experiences:
- The Okotoks Erratic, a large boulder that was deposited by a glacier
- The Bow Valley Provincial Park, which offers hiking trails, camping, and wildlife viewing
- The Turner Valley Gas Plant, a historic site that played a key role in the development of the oil and gas industry in Alberta
- The Frank Slide Interpretive Centre, which tells the story of Canada’s deadliest rockslide
Food Scene
If you’re a foodie, you’ll love the dining scene in Okotoks and surrounding area. Some of the top restaurants include:
- Heartland Café in Okotoks, which serves up delicious breakfast and lunch dishes
- Redwater Rustic Grille in Calgary, which offers a farm-to-table dining experience
- Hayloft Restaurant in High River, which features locally sourced ingredients and stunning mountain views
- Big Sky BBQ Pit in Okotoks, which serves up mouthwatering smoked meats
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling on a budget? No problem. Here are a few tips to help you save money in Okotoks and surrounding area:
- Visit during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) to avoid the crowds and high prices
- Look for deals on accommodations and activities on sites like Groupon and LivingSocial
- Take advantage of free activities, such as hiking and visiting museums on their free admission days
- Bring your own food and drinks for picnics and snacks on the go
Outdoor Adventures
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll love the opportunities for adventure in Okotoks and surrounding area. Some of the top activities include:
- Hiking in Kananaskis Country, which features over 4,000 square kilometers of stunning mountain terrain
- Mountain biking in Bragg Creek, which offers trails for all skill levels
- Camping in the Bow Valley Provincial Park, which features over 150 campsites
- Rock climbing in the Canadian Rockies, which offer some of the best climbing in the world
Historical Landmarks
For history buffs, there are plenty of landmarks to explore in Okotoks and surrounding area. Some of the top sites include:
- The Bar U Ranch National Historic Site, which showcases the history of ranching in Western Canada
- The Leighton Art Centre, which features exhibits and programs that celebrate the legacy of artists in Southern Alberta
- The Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology, which houses one of the world’s largest dinosaur collections
- The Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that tells the story of the buffalo hunt and the lives of the Plains people
Family-Friendly Activities
Traveling with kids? No problem. There are plenty of family-friendly activities in Okotoks and surrounding area. Here are a few ideas:
- The Calgary Zoo, which offers a variety of exhibits and activities for kids of all ages
- The Telus Spark Science Centre, which features interactive exhibits and hands-on activities
- The Bow Habitat Station, which offers guided tours and educational programs about Alberta’s aquatic ecosystems
- The Calaway Park amusement park, which offers rides and attractions for all ages
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little different, try these off-the-beaten-path experiences in Okotoks and surrounding area:
- The Gopher Hole Museum in Torrington, which features over 70 dioramas of stuffed gophers in various scenes
- The Vulcan Tourism and Trek Station, which celebrates the town’s connection to Star Trek
- The Badlands Amphitheatre, which hosts outdoor concerts and performances in a stunning natural setting
- The High River Farmers’ Market, which features locally grown produce and handmade crafts
Natural Wonders
From mountains to lakes to canyons, Okotoks and surrounding area is home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders in Canada. Here are a few must-see sites:
- The Columbia Icefield, which is the largest icefield in the Rocky Mountains
- The Moraine Lake, which is known for its stunning turquoise waters
- The Johnston Canyon, which offers hiking trails and waterfalls
- The Lake Louise, which is a popular spot for hiking and canoeing
Vibrant Nightlife
If you’re looking for a night out on the town, Okotoks and surrounding area has plenty of options. Here are a few popular spots:
- The Cowboys Dance Hall in Calgary, which offers live music and line dancing
- The Commonwealth Bar & Stage in Calgary, which hosts DJs and live music performances
- The Ironwood Stage & Grill in Calgary, which features live music and a cozy atmosphere
- The Twisted Element in Calgary, which is a popular LGBTQ+ nightclub
Local Markets
If you’re looking for souvenirs or just want to support local businesses, check out these markets in Okotoks and surrounding area:
- The Calgary Farmers’ Market, which features over 80 vendors selling everything from fresh produce to artisanal cheeses
- The Millarville Farmers’ Market, which is held on Saturdays and offers a variety of handmade crafts and locally grown produce
- The Crossfield Farmers’ Market, which is held on Thursdays and features over 30 vendors selling handmade crafts and fresh produce
- The Highwood Crossing Farm Market in High River, which offers organic grains, flours, and oils
Beaches and Mountains
If you’re looking for some sun and sand, Okotoks and surrounding area has plenty of beaches to explore. Here are a few popular spots:
- Sylvan Lake, which is a popular spot for swimming, boating, and picnicking
- Cultus Lake, which offers a variety of water sports and activities
- Wasa Lake, which is known for its crystal-clear waters and sandy beaches
- Pigeon Lake, which offers fishing, boating, and hiking trails
Cultural Immersion
If you want to immerse yourself in the local culture, try these experiences in Okotoks and surrounding area:
- The Calgary Stampede, which is an annual 10-day event that celebrates Western heritage and culture
- The Canmore Folk Music Festival, which features live music performances in a stunning outdoor setting
- The Banff Mountain Film Festival, which showcases films and documentaries about mountain culture and adventure
- The Calgary International Film Festival, which features independent and international films
Art and Music Scene
Okotoks and surrounding area has a thriving arts and music