100+ Things to Do in Central Alberta

Explore family-friendly activities, events, attractions, day trips, and other fun things to do in Central Alberta. 

Looking for fun things to do in Central Alberta? You’ve come to the right place. There’s more to explore here – more to see, more to do, more to love. Just off Highway 2, Red Deer and Central Alberta offer a laid-back alternative to crowded hotspots, with stunning outdoor escapes, festivals, museums, and family-friendly attractions (yes, even hotels with waterslides!). Skip the traffic, stretch your dollar, and experience Highway 2 More!

Start planning your next outing and discover 100 MORE things to do in and around Central Alberta!

Free Things to Do (25+)

1. Explore Kerry Wood Nature Centre & Gaetz Lake Sanctuary

Details: This urban nature escape in Red Deer offers boardwalk trails, wildlife watching and a nature playground. 

2. Walk the Bower Ponds Trails

Details: A local treasure, these scenic trails feature bridges, fountains and nature views.

3. Stroll through City Hall Park 

Details: A hidden gem Downtown Red Deer with stunning flower displays and plenty of space to enjoy a packed picnic or visit in the winter for a beautiful display of holiday lights. 

4. Hike Three Mile Bend Trails

Details: This recreational park features scenic riverside trails and is a popular off-leash area for dogs.

5. Try out Disc Golf

Details: Try out the city’s disc golf courses for a fun and active outing, located in Victoria Park, Kentwood, Eastview and River Bend Recreation Area. Make sure to bring your own frisbees!

6. Downtown Red Deer’s Ghost Collection Self-Guided Walking Tour

Details: This collection is one of the largest of its kind in Canada. Scattered throughout Downtown Red Deer, you’ll find ten life-size bronze statues created by Alberta artists, honouring some of the city’s most influential figures. 

7. Skate on an Outdoor Rink

Details: In the winter months, enjoy free outdoor skating at Bower Ponds or on neighbourhood rinks across Red Deer. Bower Ponds offers skate rentals for a fee. 

8. Visit Ellis Nature Centre

Details: This peaceful haven is perfect for bird lovers and nature enthusiasts, featuring trails, interactive exhibits, and a cozy cafe with delicious treats. Free to visit, donations are welcomed.

9. Check out a local market 

Details:

• Capstone Night Market  – Kicks off May 9, every other Friday 5–9 PM, Canada 150 Square
• The Market at Red Deer  – Returns May 17, Saturdays 8 AM–12:30 PM, Red Deer Polytechnic, East Parking Lot
• Gasoline Alley Farmers’ Market  – Indoor market open year-round, Fri–Sun, Outdoor Summer market starts May 16, Fridays 9:30 AM–12:30 PM, Laura Ave, Red Deer County
• Downtown Red Deer Market  – Starts May 28, Wednesdays 3:30–6:30 PM, 5021 Ross (50) Street (former Buffalo Hotel site)

10. Explore Waskasoo Park Trails

Details: With over 110 kilometers of multi-use paths, these trails are perfect for walking, biking, and enjoying nature. It’s a great way to explore Red Deer’s natural beauty,

11. Check out Discovery Canyon

Details: Beat the heat with this free, natural lazy river perfect for kids. Open June 1st through September 1st. 

12. Visit the Red Deer Museum + Art Gallery 

Details: Learn about the region’s history and enjoy rotating exhibits at the Red Deer Museum + Art Gallery. Admission is free.

13. Check out Mckenzie Trails Recreation Area

Named after the Métis McKenzie brothers and their families who arrived in the area in 1882, this natural oasis is the perfect place to soak up the beauty of Red Deer. Nestled in the heart of the city, it’s an ideal spot for peaceful walks, wildlife watching, and connecting with nature.

14. Soak in the live music on Ross Street Patio

Details: Enjoy live music in Downtown Red Deer at no cost. These free summer concerts provide a relaxed, lively atmosphere where you can unwind and enjoy local talent.

Summer-Early Fall Schedule

• Tuesday and Wednesday 4:30pm – 6:30pm
• Thursday – Open Mic Night 6:00pm
• Friday 12:00pm – 1:30pm

15. Check out the Norwegian Laft Hus

Details: Explore the peaceful grounds while learning about Norwegian heritage. Free to visit, donations are welcomed.

16. Have a barbecue at one of Red Deer’s beautiful parks with fire pits 

Details: Many parks in Red Deer offer free-to-use fire pits for public enjoyment. You are required to bring your own firewood and to abide by all the City of Red Deer’s fire pit bylaws.

17. Explore Red Deer’s Mountain Bike Park

Details: The Red Deer Mountain Park caters specifically to the needs of mountain bikers although all non-motorized, non-equestrian outdoor enthusiasts are welcome.

18. Cool off at one of Red Deer’s Spray Parks

Details: Open from June 1 through September, Red Deer’s spray parks are the perfect place to beat the heat. Whether you’re visiting Central Spray & Play, Woody’s Spray Park, or the Capstone Fountain, it’s a great excuse to pack a lunch, lay out a blanket, and enjoy a sunny day outdoors. 

19. Visit the horses at Heritage Ranch – the “Jewel” of Red Deer

Details: Heritage Ranch offers a peaceful escape where you can visit beautiful horses, stroll along picturesque trails, and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Free to explore, with options for guided trail rides and carriage rides for a fee.

20. Relax at Kin Kanyon 

Details: Lush green space with picnic areas, playgrounds, walking trails, and a spray fountain, making it a perfect free spot for families.

21. Take the self-guided Downtown Red Deer Mural Tour

Details: This free self-guided tour lets you explore Downtown Red Deer’s over 35 beautiful murals scattered around downtown.

22. Go for a float on the Red Deer River

Details: With multiple “In and Out” spots there’s float durations for everyone. 

23. Attend CentreFest in Red Deer 

Details: This free street performance festival features a variety of entertainers, from acrobats to musicians.

24. Test your baking skills by making Red Deer’s official cookie

Details: Yes, the City of Red Deer does have an official cookie, The Caramel Surprise. Have some fun by trying your hand at Red Deer’s famous Caramel Surprise cookie. Check out the story and recipe here.

25. Have a picnic at Michener Hill Park with stunning city views

Details: Enjoy a picnic in this peaceful park, which offers beautiful views of the city.

26. Check out local Snow and Ice Sculptures

Details: Experience stunning snow and ice sculptures during the winter season at the Polar Glow Festival Downtown Red Deer and at Parkland Garden Centre.

27. Participate in Alberta Culture Days

Details: 30 Days of free arts and culture experiences and activities. 

28. Find your next read at the Red Deer Public Library

Details: Browse the shelves at the Red Deer Public Library for a great selection of books, e-books, and audiobooks at your leisure. 

29. Take your pup to Oxbow Off Leash Dog Park 

Details: Located near Piper Creek, the park’s trails and amenities are carefully crafted to reflect the creek’s wandering nature. It’s the perfect place to let your furry friend explore, play, and enjoy the great outdoors. 

More Things to Do 

30. Ride the Only Alpine Coaster in Alberta, the Canyon Coaster, at Canyon Ski Resort

Details: Soar down the 1300 metre Luge track weaving through forested trails. Book in advance to guarantee your spot!

31. Book a trail ride with JKL Trail Rides

Details: JKL Trail Rides offers guided horseback rides at Heritage Ranch in Red Deer, along with other locations such as their new headquarters at Diamond J, 65 km west of Sundre.

32. Try a water sport with Sun Sport Rentals

Details: Explore Central Alberta waters with Sun Sport Rentals, offering a variety of exciting activities like paddleboarding, kayaking, speed boating, and more.

33. Browse Downtown Red Deer’s boutiques

Details: Discover a range of unique and stylish shops in Downtown Red Deer, like Sassy B Home & Body and Alta.

34. Sign up for an Aerial class at The Forum

Details:  Explore the exciting world of aerial silks, acrobatics and more in a fun and supportive environment.

35. Grab Tacos from Taco Monster

Details: Located in the The Market Kitchen in the Gasoline Alley Farmers’ Market, Taco Monster is the perfect spot to grab lunch after some shopping. 

36. Go for a dip in the Recreation Centre’s outdoor pool

Details: The 50-meter, six-lane pool at the Recreation Centre is perfect for lane and public swimming, while the attached zero-depth leisure pool is great for young children. Relax on the spacious deck with plenty of seating, making it a perfect spot for family fun.

37. Hit the links at one of Central Alberta’s championship golf courses

Details: Central Alberta boasts some of the finest golf courses in the province, offering a variety of experiences for golfers of all skill levels.

38. Pick berries at DNA Gardens 

Details: Harvest your fruits at DNA Gardens with 19 varieties of Saskatoons and 10 different kinds of fruit. While you’re there grab a bite and a glass of fruit wine from the Bootlegger Cafe & Bar.

39. Attend the Ponoka Stampede rodeo

Details: The Ponoka Stampede is the largest rodeo on the pro rodeo circuit in Canada, featuring thrilling events like bull riding, barrel racing, and steer wrestling.

40. Camp at Rocky Mountain National Historic Site

Details: Immerse yourself in history by camping at this historic site, where the fur trade once thrived. 

41. Try out Fat Tire Biking

Details: Rent a fat tire bike from the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame and hit the trails at nearby Heritage Ranch. 

42. Cheer on the local Red Deer Polytechnic Kings and Queens

Details: Head to Red Deer Polytechnic to catch exciting live action as the Kings and Queens compete in various sports. Whether it’s basketball, volleyball, or another thrilling event, the atmosphere is electric, and it’s a great way to support local talent!

43. Grab a sandwich at Bo’s Sandwich Club

Details: Pick up a larger-than-life sandwich and enjoy in the sun at a picnic table in Capstone.

44. Go cross country skiing at River Bend Recreation Area 

Details: With groomed trails winding through scenic forests and along the Red Deer River, River Bend Recreation Area is a top spot for cross-country skiing.

45. Have Brunch at WestLake Grill 

Details: Enjoy a delicious brunch in a cozy, rustic setting at WestLake Grill, located at Heritage Ra

46. Paint your Own Pottery at Color Me Mine

Details: Unleash your creativity by painting and personalizing your own ceramic piece at this interactive pottery studio.

47. Go Bowling at Heritage Lanes

Details: Enjoy a game of 5-pin or 10-pin bowling at Heritage Lanes, a family-friendly bowling alley in Red Deer.

48. Shop for fresh Edgar Farms produce at the Gasoline Alley Farmers’ Market

Details: Pick up farm-fresh seasonal vegetables, including their famous sweet, tender asparagus. Edgar Farms brings locally grown goodness straight from their fields to your table.

49. Enjoy Coffee and a Donut at Maverick’s Donuts

Details:  Treat yourself to a handcrafted donut paired with a freshly brewed coffee at Maverick’s Donuts.

50. Test your skills at a Lockdown Escape Room

Details: Challenge your mind with one real life escape room game. Perfect for team building, family fun or date night!

51. Visit the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame

Details: Explore sports history with exhibits showcasing Alberta’s athletes, teams, and accomplishments in this interactive museum.

52. Test your hand at the Red Deer Resort & Casino

Details: Try your luck at the casino with table games, slots, and a vibrant atmosphere for an exciting night out.

53. Browse electric bikes and scooters at Feel the Fun

Details: Browse the latest electric bikes and scooters at Feel the Fun, then hit the trails in style with your new ride! 

54. Attend a comedy night at Bull Skit Comedy

Details: Enjoy a laugh-out-loud evening at one of Central Alberta’s top comedy clubs, featuring local and touring comedians.

56. Go fly fishing on the Red Deer River

Details: Spend a peaceful day fishing along the Red Deer River, known for its scenic beauty and great catch potential.

57. Level up at The Club House 

Details: Head to The Club House, Red Deer’s arcade and social house, where you can enjoy delicious food, drinks, and endless entertainment

58. Go to a Red Deer Rebels hockey game

Details: Experience fast-paced action and thrilling plays at a WHL Hockey, Red Deer Rebels game. 

54. Visit Kraay Family Farm during Sunflower or Pumpkin Days

Details: Explore the farm during Sunflower and Pumpkin Days, where you can pick sunflowers and pumpkins, and take part in fun activities.

59. Try a Cooking Class at the Red Deer Food Bank’s Kitchen 49

Details: Learn to create new dishes with expert instructors while supporting a great cause at Kitchen 49

60. Take a road trip to Abraham Lake’s ice bubbles

Details: Just a short drive from Red Deer, Abraham Lake is famous for its stunning ice bubbles during the winter months. Start your adventure with Red Deer as your affordable basecamp, and take a scenic road trip to experience this natural wonder and the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

61. Test your bravery with Canyon Zipline & Adventure Park

Details: Fly through the air at Canyon Ski Resort’s zipline for a thrilling adventure, and enjoy 36 obstacles across 3 skills levels on their Adventure Park. 

62. Find your new favourite tea at Glenn’s Restaurant and Gift Shop

Details: With over 240 varieties of tea to choose from, Glenn’s is a tea lover’s paradise. Enjoy a delicious brunch or lunch then explore their charming gift shop. 

63. Take a Whisky Course at Diony Distillery 

Details: Learn about the art of whisky-making from experts while enjoying tastings at Diony Distillery in a cozy and educational setting.

64. Go for wings and a brew at local favourite Chillabongs

Details: Dig into tasty wings and enjoy a cold brew at Chillabongs, a popular spot in Red Deer for great food and a laid-back atmosphere.

65. Sip and Shop at Stems Floral and Gift Shop

Details: Enjoy a cozy café experience at Stems, where you can sip on delicious beverages while browsing their stunning floral arrangements and unique in-store merchandise. 

66. Take an art class with the Red Deer Arts Council 

Details:  Explore your creative side with a class from the Red Deer Arts Council, offering a variety of artistic workshops for all skill levels.

67. Go to Westerner Days (Annually in Mid-July)

Details: Celebrate summer with carnival rides, live entertainment, and local vendors at Westerner Days, one of Red Deer’s most exciting annual events.

68. Attend a Spark it Up Productions event

Details: Spark It Up Productions creates unique events, from pub crawls and brewery tours to tournaments and charity events.

69. Stock up on your sporting equipment at TBS Source for Sports 

Details: Get everything you need for your favourite sports and activities at TBS Source for Sports, offering top gear and expert advice.

70. Take a swing at GolfZone indoor golf simulators

Details: Practice your swing or compete with friends at GolfZone, where you can play on world-class courses through indoor golf simulators.

71. Attend a local concert at Bo’s Bar & Stage 

Details: Catch a live music performance at Bo’s Bar & Stage, one of Red Deer’s go-to spot for great concerts and an electric atmosphere.

72. Transport to a tropical oasis at Blue Grass Nursery, Sod & Garden Centre

Details: Explore a tropical paradise at Blue Grass, where exotic plants, flowers, and garden supplies transport you to a lush oasis.

73. Take a horse-drawn sleigh at Heritage Ranch

Details: Enjoy a cozy and scenic ride through the winter landscapes with a horse-drawn sleigh at Heritage Ranch, a quintessential Central Alberta experience.

74. Enjoy a high tea experience at Red Deer’s historic Cronquist House

Details: Indulge in a traditional high tea at the charming Cronquist House, where you can enjoy elegant service in a historic, beautifully restored home, located by Bower Ponds. 

75. Go on a Central Alberta Brewery Tour

Details: Sip your way through local brews on a tour of Red Deer’s top breweries – Troubled Monk, Red Hart Brewing, and Craft Beer Commonwealth.

76. Go for a tour of Sunnybrook Farm Museums 

Details: Take a step back in time at Sunnybrook Farm Museum, where you can learn about the region’s history through its preserved buildings and exhibits.

77. Dance the night away at The Silver Buckle 

Details: Get your boots tapping and hit the dance floor at The Silver Buckle, a popular country music venue offering live entertainment and great drinks.

78. Sign up for one of the City of Red Deer’s local fitness classes

Details: The City of Red Deer offers a variety of drop-in workout and fitness classes at facilities across the city. 

79. Indulge in Westerner Days Pancake Breakfast

Details: Kick off your day with a delicious pancake breakfast during Westerner Days, a standing tradition offering free pancakes to the community.

80. Sign up for a Twisted Steel Blacksmithing class

Details: Learn the ancient craft of blacksmithing with hands-on classes at Twisted Steel, where you can create your own metal masterpieces.

81. Attend a Farm Tour during Alberta Open Farm Days (Annually, End of August)

Details: Explore local farms and learn about agriculture during Alberta Open Farm Days, where you can meet farmers, taste fresh products, and experience farm life firsthand.

82. Enjoy the Burger of the Month at Cilantro & Chive

Details: Treat yourself to the featured Burger of Month, with proceeds going to a local charity, pair it with one of their flight options.

83. Catch a Central Alberta Theatre production

Details: Support the arts and catch a play or performance by Central Alberta Theatre, showcasing talented local performers and captivating productions. Seasonal shows are performed at Bower Ponds amphitheatre.

84. Get ready for action at Boardwalk Entertainment Centre

Details: Battle it out in an exciting laser tag arena, experience the immersive 7D Dark Ride, and enjoy a wide selection of arcade games

85. Grab a scoop of gelato from WOW Store

Details: Delight in a scoop of creamy, homemade gelato from Wow Store, the perfect cool sweet treat!

86. Enjoy a pasta board at Anthony’s Pizza & Italian Kitchen

Details: Indulge in a delicious pasta board at Anthony’s Italian, where you can enjoy freshly made Italian dishes. 

87. Escape to adventure with Mukwah Rafting Tours

Details: Take to the water with Mukwah Rafting Tours for an unforgettable whitewater adventure. 

88. Join a dance class at Country Pride Dance Club

Details: Learn the moves and have fun with a dance class at Country Pride Dance Club, offering lessons in various dance styles for all skill levels.

89. Enjoy All-You-Can-Eat, Hot Pot & Korean BBQ Feast at Jumble Eats

Details: Have a flavorful dining experience at Jumble Eats with their all-you-can-eat, hot pot and Korean BBQ. 

90. Go ice fishing at Sun Sport Recreation’s ice fishing cabins

Details: Head out on the ice for a cozy ice fishing experience at Sun Sport Recreation’s Ice Fishing cabins, a fun winter activity. 

91. Browse Gasoline Alley Harley Davidson’s inventory

Details: Check out the latest motorcycles and accessories at Gasoline Alley Harley Davidson, where you can find everything you need to fuel your next adventure.

92. Enjoy a margarita and authentic Mexican food on the Las Palmeras patio

Details: Relax on the sunny patio at Las Palmeras, where you can enjoy a margarita and delicious authentic Mexican cuisine.

93. Watch a Red Deer Symphony Orchestra Performance

Details: Take in the power of music with the Red Deer Symphony Orchestra, a community-focused leader in Central Alberta’s performing arts scene.

94. Shop till you drop at Bower Place Shopping Centre

Details: Explore the wide range of stores at Bower Place, where you can find everything from fashion to home goods and everything in between.

95. Watch live horse races at The Track on 2

Details: Feel the excitement of live horse races at The Track on 2, where you can place your bets and cheer on your favourite horses.

96. Enjoy a three-course take home feast from Sunterra Market

Details: Treat yourself to a gourmet three-course meal from Sunterra Market, where you can pick up everything you need for a delicious take-home feast.

97. Treat your pup to an afternoon at Sally’s Play Centre

Details: Let your dog run and play at Sally’s Play Centre, a fun, safe, and enclosed space designed for your pet’s enjoyment. Don’t worry there’s refreshments for pup owners as well. 

98. Show your Central Alberta pride with Hometown Market swag

Details: Grab locally inspired merchandise from Hometown Market, featuring unique designs and products that showcase Central Alberta pride.

99. Sign up for one of Paint of Interest’s artist lead paint classes

Details: Get creative at Paint of Interest’s art classes, where you can learn new techniques and create your own masterpiece with guidance from talented artists.

100. Train like a Pro at Pro Shot Hockey

Details: Improve your skills at Pro Shot Hockey, an indoor facility specializing in RapidShot, RapidHands, and freestyle practice sessions. 

101. Play and unwind Wizard Loft Cafe

Details: Unleash your competitive spirit and relax at Wizard Loft Cafe, a cozy board game café where you can enjoy delicious food and drinks while playing games with friends.

102. Climb to new heights at Trailhead Climbing + Fitness

Details: Trailhead Climbing + Fitness is Red Deer’s only climbing gym, offering top rope, lead, and auto-belay climbing, plus a dedicated bouldering and training space. 

103. Bowl, sip and slice at The Gutter x Rare Pizza

Details: This retro bowling alley in Downtown Red Deer pairs vintage vibes with craft beer and delicious slices from Rare Pizza.

104. Challenge yourself at Sylvan Lake Paintball

Details: One of Central Alberta’s top spots for adrenaline-fueled fun. Set on over 7 acres of wooded and landscaped terrain, it features four unique fields — including a tree assault course, speedball arena, close-quarters combat zone, and a low-impact course.

105. Get creative at Series Summer Art Workshops at Red Deer Polytechnic

Details: Designed for adults of all skill levels, these one-day and week-long workshops at Red Deer Polytechnic offer the chance to learn, create, and showcase your art in world-class studios.