Badlands Tour: Drumheller with Museum, Hoodoos & Dinosaurs

Calgary , Canada

Badlands Tour: Drumheller with Museum, Hoodoos & Dinosaurs

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(8 reviews)

10h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Start your day with a scenic 1.30 hours drive from Calgary to Drumheller, where Alberta’s prairies transform into the dramatic canyons of the Badlands.

Your first stop is Horseshoe Canyon, a breathtaking U-shaped valley with layered cliffs and hiking trails.

Next, visit the world-renowned Royal Tyrrell Museum, home to one of the largest collections of dinosaur skeletons, and enjoy a short hike on the Badlands Interpretive Trail.

Stop by the tiny yet Little Church before heading into town to see the 26m-tall World’s Largest Dinosaur.

Stroll Drumheller’s Downtown Plaza for shops and snacks, then enjoy lunch at a local café.

In the afternoon, explore the Hoodoos Trail with its iconic mushroom-shaped rock formations and visit the historic Star Mine Suspension Bridge.

If time allows, discover the Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site. (Note: Closed for the Season. On closures, we visit the Last Chance Saloon.) Conclude with a scenic sunset drive back to Calgary.

Available options

Booking Option for Summer 2026

Secure Your Summer 2026 Adventure Today! Book now to lock in the best rate—prices may rise as summer approaches.

Booking Option for All

Booking Option for All: You’ll receive an additional discount when you book for more than 4 people

What's included

Bottled Water

Royal Tyrrell Museum Admission Tickets

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Horseshoe Canyon offers a perfect blend of dramatic badlands scenery, moderate hiking routes, wildlife, and star‑filled skies—all in the heart of Drumheller. Whether you're a solo explorer, family, or photography enthusiast, this spot is a must-see on any Alberta Badlands adventure.

The World’s Largest Dinosaur is an iconic 86-foot-tall T. rex statue in Drumheller, Alberta—four times the size of a real T. rex. Visitors can climb 106 stairs inside to reach a viewing platform in its mouth, offering panoramic views of the town and badlands. Located beside the Drumheller Visitor Centre and Rotary Spray Park, it’s a fun stop for families and photo lovers. Great for a quick visit, selfies.

Stop 3

The Royal Tyrrell Museum in Drumheller, Alberta is Canada’s top destination for dinosaur lovers. It showcases over 800 fossils, life-size dinosaur skeletons (like T. rex and Triceratops), and hands-on exhibits about ancient life. Visitors can also view real fossil prep work in the lab and walk the Badlands Interpretive Trail outside. It’s a must-visit for families, science fans, and anyone exploring Alberta’s badlands.

Taking a lunch break in Drumheller is a great way to recharge between exploring dinosaurs, badlands, and scenic trails. Whether you're looking for a quick bite, a sit-down meal, or a picnic spot, Drumheller has a variety of options.

A charming, free slice of local history that mixes a playful suspension-bridge experience with dramatic views of the Drumheller Badlands—and a nice stop to break up your Dinosaur Trail tour.

Stop 6

The Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site, just 20 minutes from Drumheller, is one of Canada's most complete historic coal mines. It features the last wooden coal tipple in the country and offers self-guided tours and unique guided experiences like:

Train rides through the old mine site

️ Tipple tours to explore coal processing

️ Underground hikes into mining tunnels

Open seasonally (May–October), it's perfect for families, history lovers, and anyone curious about Alberta’s coal-mining past. Wear sturdy shoes and book tours in advance!

Please note that the Coal Mine is now closed for the season. We have added an additional stop at the Last Chance Saloon instead.

The Drumheller Hoodoos are striking sandstone rock formations located about 16 km east of Drumheller. These natural spires, shaped by erosion over thousands of years, stand 5 to 7 meters tall and are protected by harder capstones. Visitors can enjoy a short, easy loop trail with parking and picnic areas nearby.

The Last Chance Saloon in Drumheller is a historic bar and restaurant located in the ghost town of Wayne. It offers classic western charm, great food, and a glimpse into Alberta’s wild past — a must-stop on your Drumheller adventure!

What's not included

Meals

Personal expenditures

Atlas Coal Mine Admission Tickets (Coal mine is Closed for the Season)

Available languages

Guide guide

PA HI EN UR

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.0

6 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Please meet at 8:50 to 9 AM just outside the hotel's main entrance.

About Calgary

Calgary, known as the heart of the Canadian Rockies, is a vibrant city that beautifully blends urban energy with stunning natural beauty. It's famous for its annual Calgary Stampede, a world-renowned rodeo and festival, and offers easy access to the breathtaking landscapes of Banff National Park and the Canadian Rockies.

Top Attractions

Calgary Stampede

The Calgary Stampede is the greatest outdoor show on earth, featuring rodeos, chuckwagon races, live music, and much more. It's a must-visit event held annually in July.

Cultural 10 days Free entry to the grounds, tickets required for some events

Banff National Park

Banff National Park is a stunning national park in the Canadian Rockies, known for its turquoise lakes, majestic mountains, and abundant wildlife. It's a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.

Nature Full day or overnight Free entry with a Parks Canada pass

Calgary Tower

The Calgary Tower offers panoramic views of the city and the Rocky Mountains. It's a great place to learn about Calgary's history and enjoy a meal with a view.

Architecture 1-2 hours $19 CAD for adults, $10 CAD for children

Heritage Park Historical Village

Heritage Park is Canada's largest living history museum, showcasing life in Western Canada from the 1860s to the 1950s. Visitors can explore historic buildings, ride vintage trains, and enjoy interactive exhibits.

Historical 3-4 hours $29.95 CAD for adults, $17.95 CAD for children

Prince's Island Park

Prince's Island Park is a beautiful urban park located in the heart of Calgary. It's a great place for picnics, walks, and outdoor concerts. The park is also home to the Calgary Folk Music Festival and other events.

Nature 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Beef Brisket

Slow-cooked, tender beef brisket is a Calgary staple, often served with mashed potatoes and gravy.

Main Course Not vegetarian/vegan

Bison Burger

A delicious and lean alternative to beef, bison burgers are a popular choice in Calgary.

Main Course Not vegetarian/vegan

Butter Chicken

A beloved Indian dish, butter chicken is a creamy, spicy curry made with tender chicken pieces.

Main Course Not vegetarian/vegan, contains dairy

Caesar Cocktail

A Canadian classic, the Caesar cocktail is a spicy, savory drink made with vodka, Clamato juice, and various seasonings.

Drink Contains alcohol

Popular Activities

Hiking Skiing Rock climbing Mountain biking Spa treatments Picnicking in parks Yoga and meditation Visiting museums and galleries

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the best time to visit Calgary for warm weather and outdoor activities. It's also when the Calgary Stampede takes place, a major event not to be missed.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: French, Punjabi, Chinese
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Canadian Dollar (CAD)

Time Zone

GMT-7 (Mountain Time Zone)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Calgary is generally a safe city for visitors, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
• Be cautious of strangers offering help or services

Getting there

By air

Calgary International Airport • 15 km (9 miles) from city center

By train

Calgary Station

By bus

Calgary Transit Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The CTrain is efficient, frequent, and a popular way to get around Calgary. It's free to ride downtown.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Beltline Kensington Innisfail

Day trips

Banff National Park

130 km (81 miles) • Full day or overnight

Banff National Park is a stunning national park in the Canadian Rockies, known for its turquoise lakes, majestic mountains, and abundant wildlife.

Canmore

100 km (62 miles) • Half day or full day

Canmore is a charming mountain town located near Banff National Park, known for its outdoor recreation opportunities and stunning scenery.

Drumheller

135 km (84 miles) • Full day

Drumheller is a town in the Canadian Badlands, known for its unique geological features, dinosaur fossils, and the famous Royal Tyrrell Museum.

Festivals

Calgary Stampede • July Calgary Folk Music Festival • Early July Calgary International Film Festival • Mid-September

Pro tips

Visit during the Calgary Stampede for a unique and unforgettable experience, but be prepared for crowds and higher prices.
Explore the city's extensive park system, including Prince's Island Park and the Bow River Pathway, for a taste of Calgary's natural beauty.
Take advantage of the city's excellent public transit system, including the CTrain and buses, to get around easily and affordably.
Try local specialties, such as beef brisket and bison burgers, and don't miss out on the city's thriving coffee and craft beer scenes.
Dress in layers, as the weather in Calgary can change quickly, especially in the spring and fall.