Planning a summer getaway? Red Deer is your Highway 2 MORE summer destination with more to see, more to do, more to love.
Perfectly positioned between Calgary and Edmonton, our city is the ideal basecamp for exploring Central Alberta. With outdoor fun, local eats, and bustling markets, here’s how to make the most of 48 hours in Red Deer this summer!
Day One: Adventure & Adrenaline
Start your day at The Market at Red Deer
Kick off your weekend with fresh breakfast bites and local coffee at The Market at Red Deer, in Red Deer Polytechnic’s East parking lot. Open on Saturdays throughout the summer, this market is a local favourite for artisan goods, produces, and freshly made treats – the perfect way to fuel up for a big day ahead.
Lunch at WOW Store
Head to WOW Store for a delicious lunch with a view. This unique spot combines signature WOW chicken, bakery treats, Caffe Monte, and Mario’s Gelati — all under one roof. With a mix of local favourites and international flavours, including unique Korean products, it’s a shopping and dining experience like no other.
Scoot your way to Bower Ponds
Rent an e-bike from Alberta Sports Hall of Fame, or a Neuron Scooter and make your way to Bower Ponds — one of Red Deer’s most scenic green spaces. Catch a Bard on Bower performance if it’s showtime or simply explore the trails and bridges around the ponds.
Afternoon Thrills at Canyon Ski Resort’s Adventure Park
Canyon Ski Resort transforms in the summer with high-energy activities like the Canyon Coaster, Zipline, Adventure Park and Tube Park. It’s an adrenaline packed afternoon you won’t forget.
Cool Down with a River Float or Paddle
After all that action, unwind on the Red Deer River with a peaceful river float or book a kayaking experience with County Waters Kayaking. It’s the perfect way to slow down and take in the beauty of Central Alberta.
Dinner at Las Palmeras
Head to Las Palmeras for authentic Mexican cuisine and vibrant flavours. The friendly atmosphere, famous margaritas, and sunny patio make it the perfect way to wrap up the day.
Keep the Night Going at The Silver Buckle
If you’re still buzzing from the day, pop into The Silver Buckle for some music, a little dancing, and a true Alberta night out.
Recharge in Comfort at One of Red Deer’s Hotels
After a full day of exploring, it’s time to relax and recharge. Rest up at one of Red Deer’s hotels — conveniently located and ready to welcome you.
Day Two: Leisurely Fun
Morning Walk through Capstone
Ease into your second day with a stroll around Capstone, a riverfront community with modern charm. Grab breakfast at Stems Floral Shop & Cafe or Booyah Bagels for a delicious way to start your day.
Lunch with a view at Ellis Nature Centre
Take a short drive to Ellis Bird Farm and enjoy lunch at Ellis Café. With gardens, walking trails, and birdwatching opportunities, it’s a tranquil and family-friendly stop.
Afternoon splash at Discovery Canyon or a local spray park
Nothing says summer like water fun! Spend your afternoon at Discovery Canyon, where kids can float the mini river and play on the beach. Or explore one of Red Deer’s many splash parks for a quick cool-down.
Evening at The Gutter: Pizza & Bowling
Wrap up your 48 hours with wood-fired pizza and bowling at The Gutter and Rare Pizza, one of Red Deer’s hotspots. Prefer something quieter? Order your pizza to go and enjoy it picnic-style in one of Red Deer’s scenic parks or green spaces.
Your Weekend, Your Way
From high-flying thrills to slow mornings by the river, Red Deer and region is the perfect weekend destination for summer adventures, local eats, and family fun. Make us your home base and discover what makes Central Alberta a hidden gem.
More to see. More to do. More to love.
Ready to take the Highway 2 More? Browse more things to do, events, and places to stay.
