You’re in Alberta—so you might as well kick off your boots and stay awhile.

We’ve rounded up all our favorite spots, sights, and adventures to help you make the most of your time out West. From big city fun to mountain magic, here’s Mira & Adam’s guide to the best of the area.

Calgary

Welcome to Cowtown!

Y’all picked a mighty fine time to visit — the Calgary Stampede is rollin’ into town July 3 – 12, 2026! Known as The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth, it’s ten days of rodeo, chuckwagons, and good old-fashioned western fun. Don’t miss the rodeo and chuckwagon races — they’re Adam and Mira’s favorites and sure to get your boots tappin’ and hearts racin’. So dust off that cowboy hat, grab yourself a pancake breakfast, and soak up a little Stampede spirit before the big day!

Notable – The Restaurant - A cozy spot in Calgary’s northwest that does comfort food with a fancy twist. The wood-fired rotisserie’s always runnin’, and every plate feels like a home-cooked hug — only better.

Vintage Chophouse & Tavern - A classic steakhouse right in the heart of the city. Think dim lights, smooth whiskey, and the best cuts of Alberta beef. Perfect for a dress-up dinner or a slow evening over good wine.

South Block Barbecue & Brewing Co. - If smoky brisket, cold beer, and toe-tappin’ music sound like your kinda night, South Block’s your place. Big flavours, laid-back vibes, and plenty of BBQ to go around.

Banff

This here’s a mountain town with plenty of ways to let loose after a day on the trails:

High Rollers – Bowling, beers, and good times rollin’.

Rose & Crown – A great patio with mountain views and live music vibes.

Aardvark Pizza – Open late and ready to feed your crew after a night of hootin’ and hollerin’.

Lake Minnewanka – Take a scenic drive out to this sparkling mountain lake. Hop on a boat tour across glacier-fed waters or try your luck fishin’ if that’s your kinda thing. Stunning views, peaceful vibes, and a mighty fine place to breathe in that fresh alpine air.

Canmore

This little mountain town’s got charm for days. Mosey down the main street and enjoy the views, then stop at our favorites:

Cabeza Grande – the best dang tacos in town

Hello Vintage – fun, funky finds for your suitcase

Rocky Mountain Bagel Co. – breakfast or lunch, this place hits the spot

Rocky Mountain Soap Company – for local soaps, lotions, and other good-smellin’ things

Lake Louise

If you’re headin’ deeper into the mountains, Lake Louise is a must-see stop—where turquoise waters, towering peaks, and a dash of wild adventure come together just right.

Lake Louise Gondola – Take a ride up the gondola for jaw-dropping views of the lake and Victoria Glacier. Keep your eyes peeled—this is one of the best spots to see grizzly bears in the wild (from a safe distance, of course!).

Bow Valley Parkway (Highway 1A) – Skip the main highway and take the scenic route. This quieter road is your best chance to spot elk, bears, and bighorn sheep along the way. Roll those windows down and enjoy the wild West at its finest.

Lake Louise & Moraine Lake – Two of the most iconic lakes in Canada. Good news: they’re worth every bit of the hype.

Quick tip: Parking fills up faster than a rodeo grandstand, so you’ll want to book Parks Canada shuttle tickets ahead of time or catch a tour bus to get there stress-free.

Brewster Adventures – Saddle up! Brewster Adventures offers horseback rides through the jaw-dropping scenery around Lake Louise. It’s the very reason Mira first packed her bags and moved to Alberta—just to ride horses in these mountains. If you’ve ever dreamed of being a mountain cowboy (or cowgirl), this is your shot.

Millarville

Millarville Farmers’ Market (Saturdays only) – Local goods, fresh food, and friendly faces.

That’s about it, folks. Just good old small-town charm, and we wouldn’t have it any other way.

Turner Valley & Sheep River Country

Chuckwagon Café – Cowboy breakfast done right: local, hearty, and homemade.

Westwood – If you’re feelin’ a bit fancy, this is your “city slicker” lunch stop.

Blue Rock Gallery & Local Shops – Artsy stops and small-town gems.

Sheep River Provincial Park – Take a drive, soak up the views, and stop at our favorite waterfall. (Fun fact: Adam once took a tumble down the bank—so watch your step, partner.)

Anchor D Ranch – Book ahead for a real-deal horseback ride through the Rockies. It’s the kind of adventure you’ll be tellin’ stories about for years.

Field (B.C.) & Beyond

Truffle Pigs Bistro – Tiny town, big flavor. Worth the drive, every bite.

Scenic Stops – Don’t miss Takakkaw Falls, Natural Bridge, and Emerald Lake.

Go Further to Golden – Visit the wolf and bison sanctuaries and say howdy to the wild side.

Bragg Creek

Canyon Creek Ice Caves Hike – Our favorite trail (and the spot where Adam popped the question!). Located along Highway 66, this drive ends at the tranquil Forget-Me-Not Pond.

Bragg Creek Baking Company – Grab a coffee and baked treat before your hike.

Powderhorn Saloon – Finish with a burger and beer, cowboy style.

Kananaskis Country & Longview

Highway 40 Drive – One of the most scenic roads you’ll ever ride.

Kananaskis Golf Course – Swing clubs with a mountain backdrop.

Kananaskis Nordic Spa – Soak, steam, relax—treat yourself.

Edworthy Falls – Our favorite hike in the area. Worth every step.

Start your day in Longview:

The Little Apple Café – Hands-down the best cinnamon buns, flatbreads, and iced coffee around.

Stick around and check out Longview’s legendary butcher shops, then keep rollin’ to:

Bar U Ranch National Historic Site – Step back in time and walk the same land as the working cowboys of old.

Lookin’ to rustle up a more adventurous vacation? Send Mira a message, and she’ll gladly point you toward the best trails and hikes ’round these parts.