Red Deer’s central locations makes it the ideal place to plan your Central Alberta family vacation. Our friendly neighbouring towns and regions offer unique experiences in every direction meaning there is even more to do when you visit Red Deer. Settle yourself into your hotel and day trip from there. When you’re ready for a new adventure, you’re sure to find the ideal accommodations to suit your needs.
Here’s how to spend a week with the family in our region:
Day One: Love a Lake
Sylvan Lake is a great place to be this summer and it’s only 25 km west of Red Deer along Highway 11. For some fun in the sun, you can explore the lake by renting a paddleboat, kayak, canoe, or a motorboat at places like Sun Sport Recreation Ltd.
Do you like waterparks? Then try out the Sylvan Lake Aqua Splash. It’s Canada’s first floating park and has everything from an oversized trampoline to a 15-foot tower. The whole park is inflatable, full of fun, and life jackets are provided. The Aqua Splash is sure to be a adventure that the whole family will love.
Lakeside Go Karts & Mini Golf is a place for entertainment seekers of all ages. From toddlers to seniors, we have something fun for everyone to experience.
In the heart of Sylvan Lake along Lakeshore Drive you’ll find Centennial Park, a picturesque, 5-acre day-use area along the waterfront. With direct access to the beach and lake, it’s the perfect spot for a water front picnic or a leisurely stroll. You can even enjoy the sunset from one of the many Adirondack chairs that line the park. The entire park is beautifully groomed and landscaped with flowers and trees.
Day Two: Discovery Wildlife Park
What is Discovery Wildlife Park? Only the most exciting wildlife facility that you will ever visit! They provide forever homes for orphaned wildlife and any former zoo animals that need rehoming. Daily presentations with these amazing animals definitely makes them unique in the zoo world. Monkeys, bears, tigers, jaguars, wolves, raccoons, and even an alligator call Discovery Wildlife Park home. Spend the whole day and be amazed by the animal kingdom.
Day Three: Take a Country Drive
The Kraay FamilyFarm is located just west of Lacombe, and with over 40 attractions and amenities, the family is sure to be kept busy. With a farmyard, corn maze, jumping pillow, mini golf and more, the fun never stops at Kraay Family Farm.
While you’re in the neighbourhood, head east back from Lacombe to the Ellis Bird Farm. The farm was established in the 1982 to carry on the legacy of Lacombe-area conservationists, Charlie, and Winnie Ellis. Enjoy the beautiful gardens, see the world’s largest outdoor collection of bluebird nest boxes, take a tour out on the bluebird trail, or enjoy a delicious lunch and afternoon tea in the Ellis Café.
Journey into History on a genuine vintage train with an Alberta Prairie Railway Excursion located in Stettler Alberta an adventure for the whole family. Most excursions include a full course buffet meal at destination, on board entertainment, time to do some sightseeing, and usually a train robbery. You will experience life at a slower pace and meet lots of new friends as you travel through some of the prettiest countryside in Alberta.
Day Four: Make History Come Alive
Did you know that the Shakespeare of Iceland was an Alberta homesteader? When he was unable to sleep at night, Stephan G. Stephansson wrote poetry in his native tongue and became famous in his homeland. Today you can visit his original homestead along the Scandinavian Trail.
The Scandinavian Trail allows you to step into the saga and experience authentic cultural experiences from Alberta’s history. Within a half hour of each other, you can explore Stephansson House Provincial Historic Site, Historic Markerville, and the Dickson Store Museum.
The Creamery Museum offers guided tours of commercial butter production set in 1932. Relax in the courtyard, enjoy Icelandic delights or your favourite ice cream.
At the Danish Canadian Museum, you can experience Viking culture while taking in demonstrations, battles, storytelling, and much more.
Day Five: In the Heart of the City
Before your stay in Red Deer comes to a close, do not miss a visit to the beautiful parks and natural green spaces. With over 100 km of easily accessible paths used for numerous activities, ranging from mountain biking to running. Pack a picnic lunch and stop at one of the many picnic tables or shelters along the way, while the kids play on one of the many playgrounds.
Bower Ponds offers a variety of recreation opportunities and a large playground with a view of the river. Stop by the Pavilion that is equipped with a cafe, board games room,washrooms, and equipment rentals.
Discovery Canyon located in the River Bend Golf and Recreation Area is one of Red Deer’s most popular water features. This free play area features natural river fed bubbling pools of water, tube floating trickling rivulets, a wading pool, accessible beach and boardwalk, picnic tables, concessions, and tube rentals and washrooms. Kids can also enjoy a nature themed playground.
