It’s time for another incredible Alberta road trip destination! If you think you need to hop on a plane or head to a different province to have a dream vacation, we’re here to tell you that you’re wrong. Alberta is filled with unique places to visit, and we don’t want you to miss out on a single one. Today, we’re throwing the spotlight on a lovely little town conveniently located in the Calgary-Edmonton Corridor. The community is vibrant and welcoming, and it boasts a shocking amount of activities and attractions for such a small place. Here’s what you need to know about visiting Innisfail and some can’t-miss things to do while there.
Discovery Wildlife Park
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Discovery Wildlife Park is an unforgettable experience that your whole family will love. This place offers forever homes to a variety of orphaned wildlife and zoo animals who need homes. The park is a whopping 90 acres, with 30 species of animals. There are play structures for kids, golf cart rentals to make your tour of the property even more fun, chances to walk with a wolf, view bears, see a variety of wildcats, and the list goes on. If you love the experience, you might as well stay the night and book a campsite
Innisfail Golf Club
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What’s better than playing nine holes on a gorgeous day? This magnificent golf course is home to three super scenic nine-hole golf courses offering unique challenges for all golfers. There are four different tee box options, so players of all levels can have a blast. Just minutes from Innisfail, you can enjoy the courses themselves, the clubhouse, and the incredible atmosphere and beautiful views.
Innisfail & District Historical Village
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The Innisfail & District Historical Village is one of the largest museums in Central Alberta, and it’s truly an experience worth having. The 2-acre park showcases the history of the area, with buildings and artifacts dating back to the late 1800s. There are 18 buildings total, along with a large display of machinery and a day-use picnic area. If you’re a big fan of history, you’ll love it here, but even if you aren’t, you will really enjoy spending an afternoon in such a beautiful and unique setting. There are tons of special events to attend, and there’s so much exploring to do.
DINOS Centre Inc.
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If you’ve got kids, you will be their hero if you take them to DINOS Centre Inc. This place is a goldmine for family fun, with everything including dinosaur-themed laser tag, mini golf, an escape room, a museum, a driving range, and a toddler’s room for the little ones. This place is a total blast, and everyone is sure to have a memorable time.
Old Creamery Antiques
Did you even visit a small town in Alberta if you didn’t go antiquing? We think not. The Old Creamery Antiques is an antique mall with 12 different vendors, so you’ll have a massive variety of vintage items to browse and buy. You’ll find things like furniture, home decor, memorabilia, coins, art, and more. As you likely know, everything vintage is in, so you might as well find your new prized positions at an authentic antique shop while road-tripping through Alberta.
Alberta Skydive Central
Did you know Canada’s top-rated skydiving experience is at the Innisfail Airport? You’ll find the highest skydives in the country and the largest student training program. We know skydiving isn’t for everyone, but if it’s something you’re interested in checking off the old bucket list, you might as well do it at the best place possible. These are world-class facilities where you will be the safest and most educated you can be before taking the leap. Buckle up!
Dodd’s Lake
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You know we love a good lake. Dodd’s Lake is right within the town boundaries. There is a wide variety of wildlife in the area, tons of amenities, and so many opportunities to have fun. Whether you’re hopping on the water with your paddle board, strolling around the water, or kicking back and enjoying a picnic in complete serenity, you’re going to have the best time ever.
Britanny Burr is a freelance writer and a contributor to Great West Media. This content has been republished for the Great West Media & Southern Alberta Newspapers Hot Summer Guide advertising feature. The Hot Summer Guide is a special feature about summer activities, bucket list adventures, staycation options, road trips, attractions, events, and road trip-worthy food & beverage destinations across Alberta. It is not written by and does not necessarily reflect the views of the editorial staff.
This article was originally published on August 15, 2023.