Drumheller Day Trip Museum, Dinosaurs and Historic Sites

Start your Badlands adventure at Horseshoe Canyon, located about 18 km west of Drumheller. This natural amphitheater is one of the most photographed locations in the Canadian Badlands and showcases millions of years of geological history in its layered rock walls. The canyon gets its name from its distinctive horseshoe shape when viewed from above.
Walk the loop trail around the rim for breathtaking panoramic views, or descend the stairs into the canyon floor to feel completely surrounded by the ancient landscape. The dramatic layers of sedimentary rock show different geological periods, with colors ranging from deep grey to rust red. The views are absolutely spectacular, so bring your camera to capture this otherworldly terrain.

Head into downtown Drumheller to visit the town's most iconic landmark—the massive 86-foot tall Tyrannosaurus Rex statue that towers over the valley. This giant concrete dinosaur serves as the perfect welcome to dinosaur country and has become one of Alberta's most recognizable roadside attractions.
Climb the 106 steps inside the dinosaur to reach a viewing platform located in its mouth. From here, you'll get panoramic views of the Badlands landscape, the Red Deer River valley, and the town spread out below. It's an excellent photo opportunity and a fun experience that gives you a unique perspective on the surrounding area. The admission fee is very affordable at just a few dollars.

This world-renowned museum is the crown jewel of Drumheller and deserves several hours of your time. The Royal Tyrrell Museum houses over 160,000 fossil specimens and features more than 40 complete dinosaur skeletons in stunning displays. It's one of the world's premier paleontology research and exhibition facilities.
Walk through the incredible Dinosaur Hall, where massive skeletons tower above you, creating an awe-inspiring experience. Watch paleontologists at work in the fossil preparation lab through viewing windows, and explore interactive exhibits that bring the prehistoric world to life. The displays cover millions of years of Alberta's natural history, from the age of dinosaurs through the ice age.

Drive to the historic coal mining town of East Coulee, about 20 minutes from Drumheller. Here you'll find the Star Mine Suspension Bridge, a pedestrian bridge that sways gently as you cross high above the valley. The bridge offers spectacular views of the Badlands landscape stretching out in all directions.
Walking across the suspension bridge provides a unique perspective of the layered rock formations below and the surrounding valley. The bridge connects to trails where you can explore the area and learn more about the region's coal mining heritage.

The Hoodoos are one of Drumheller's most unique natural attractions and geological wonders. These mushroom-shaped rock formations were created over millions of years by wind and water erosion. The "cap rock" on top of each column is harder than the sediment below, protecting the softer rock from erosion and creating these bizarre, otherworldly shapes.
Take the short interpretive trail to walk among these fascinating formations. Information plaques along the path explain the geological processes that created the Hoodoos and provide context about the ancient environment that existed here. The formations are especially photogenic and offer a close-up look at the same erosional forces that shaped the entire Badlands region. The Hoodoos are completely free to visit, and the trail is suitable for most fitness levels, though wear sturdy shoes as the path can be uneven.

If you have time and the site is open, consider visiting the Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site. This attraction operates seasonally, typically from May through September, so be sure to check ahead before planning your visit. The mine features Canada's last standing wooden tipple, a massive structure that towers seven stories high and dominates the landscape.
Guided tours take you through the historic site to learn about the hard life of coal miners in the early 20th century. You'll explore the mine buildings, see vintage equipment, and hear compelling stories of the boom-and-bust coal mining era that shaped this region. The tours provide insight into how coal was extracted, processed, and shipped, and the dangerous conditions miners faced daily. The Atlas Coal Mine offers a fascinating glimpse into an important chapter of Alberta's history. If the site is closed during your visit or you're short on time, you can skip this stop and continue with the rest of your itinerary.

End your Drumheller adventure with a meal at the Last Chance Saloon. This Western-themed restaurant captures the spirit of the Old West with its rustic decor, cowboy memorabilia, and frontier atmosphere. It's the perfect place to relax and reflect on your day of exploring prehistoric landscapes and mining history.
The menu features classic pub fare, hearty burgers, steaks, and comfort food that will satisfy your appetite after a day of adventure. The casual, fun atmosphere makes it an ideal spot to unwind before heading back to Calgary. The saloon's character and charm add an authentic Western touch to your Badlands experience.