Discover Dinosaur Tales from Canada’s Alberta

With the BBC’s much-anticipated new Walking with Dinosaurs series bringing prehistoric giants back to life this year and the upcoming Jurassic Park film set to hit cinemas this July, there has never been a better time to visit Alberta, Canada’s real-life land of the dinosaurs.

Home to some of the richest fossil beds in the world, Alberta’s breathtaking Badlands are a dream destination for those eager to uncover the province’s prehistoric past. The region offers an unrivalled opportunity to walk in the footsteps of dinosaurs, all while exploring Alberta’s dramatic landscapes and world-class museums.

Alberta’s Badlands are a living laboratory, home to one of the most significant concentrations of dinosaur fossils anywhere on Earth. More than 40 different species have been discovered here, including the fearsome Albertosaurus – a smaller but no less deadly cousin of T. Rex. With new fossil finds making headlines – including the massive dinosaur skull unearthed in September 2024 – Alberta’s prehistoric secrets continue to captivate scientists and adventurers alike.

(Dinosaur Provincial Park Drumheller – Credit Jason Stang / TravelAlberta)

Visitors can get up close to these ancient relics at Dinosaur Provincial Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where real fossil digs take place year-round. For a deeper dive, the Royal Tyrrell Museum in Drumheller boasts one of the world’s most extensive dinosaur fossil collections, with hands-on experiences including behind-the-scenes lab tours and excavation programs.

Meanwhile, in the northwestern city of Grande Prairie, the Philip J. Currie Dinosaur Museum offers a unique chance to explore the infamous Pipestone Creek – also known as the “River of Death” – one of the densest mass fossil sites on Earth. Here, visitors can take part in real-life digs, join guided hikes, or even enjoy a Night at the Museum sleepover experience.

Beyond Dinosaurs: More Reasons to Visit Alberta

While dinosaurs are a major draw, Alberta offers even more for curious explorers:

• Banff & Jasper National Parks – Towering peaks, turquoise lakes, and world-class hiking in the heart of the Canadian Rockies.

• Calgary & Edmonton – Vibrant urban centres with top-tier dining, culture, and entertainment.

• Indigenous Culture & Heritage – Discover the rich history of Alberta’s First Nations through storytelling, guided experiences, and cultural centres.

Alberta offers an immersive journey into the age of dinosaurs – and beyond. Whether it’s exploring real fossil sites, hiking through otherworldly Badlands, or discovering the breathtaking landscapes of the Canadian Rockies and the wildlife prevalent in this stunning province today, there’s never been a better time to visit.

Image Top:  Hiker in the badlands Dinosaur Provincial Park Credit @brendanvanson