How to Spend Three Amazing Days in and Around Stettler
So much fun to explore for one day or several days. Along the way, you’ll discover a destination that is special because it has heart. This region has been dubbed the Heart of Alberta not only because it is located in the middle of the most populated area of the province, but because of the warmth and hospitality of the people who live here. Visitors are appreciated and welcomed. Here are some suggestions for how to spend, one, two or three days in and around Stettler
Day One: Step Back in Time
Spend your first day taking a step back in time exploring attractions and places that help you discover the rich history of the Heart of Alberta.
One of the most unique and fun activities you can do in Stettler is taking a ride on an authentic 1920’s vintage passenger train. Alberta Prairie Railway Excursions offers a variety of themed events throughout the year including country dinners, adults-only excursions, family events, carnivals, live shows, and the annual Polar Express Train during the holiday season. Some excursions even include a thrilling train robbery. Each adventure offers the chance to make lifelong memories with your loved ones.
Stettler’s Town and Country Museum explores the history of Stettler through a variety of artifacts and historical buildings. It is the fifth largest pioneer village in Alberta and considered by many to be a hidden gem in the community that captures the history of the region.
Take a self-guided walking tour of Stettler’s historic Main Street where you will learn about and tour the historic buildings that are now occupied by local shops and businesses. Afterwards, browse the cute local shops and pick up a souvenir of your own.
There are more lamps than people in Donalda and it’s home to the world’s largest oil lamp. A visit to the Donalda and District Museum is a unique adventure. Apart from the massive collection of historic oil lamps, the museum also displays Métis artifacts from the early 20th century and local historical artifacts. After your museum visit, stop at the Donalda Tavern for a cold drink and some of the best wings you’ll ever taste.
Day Two: Taste the Heart of Alberta
Devote your second day to tasting the bounty produced in one of the most productive agricultural regions in Alberta.
It doesn’t get more local than Ford’s Farmstead, a country store that offers up fresh local ingredients and food. All the items for sale in Ford’s Farmstead are grown in the garden behind the store, from the farmstead, or supplied by local farmers, making everything extremely fresh. The store sells goods such as freshly grown veggies, local artisanal breads, meats from local farmers, and more.
Sample local brews and wines when you visit Stettler Brewing Company and Fireside Winery. Both local businesses pride themselves in offering a variety of flavours to suit the tastes of every guest.
The locally made products in Stettler do not disappoint and there are several noteworthy shops to visit in town. Stop at Bloke’s Bakery for one of their famous cream johns. Afterward, stop by Sweet Home to enjoy a steaming cup of Transformed Coffee, a locally made specialty that pairs nicely with cream johns and other bakery treats. When you’ve had your fill of treats, visit The Fresh Wife to browse their collection of locally made natural bath, body, and skincare products.
There are several locally owned and operated restaurants that are unique to the Stettler region. Some local favourites include, The Otherside, Brenda’s Cozy Café, the Coffee Tree, East to West Lifestyle Pub, and Little Europe.
Schedule your visit during the Taste of Heartland event in the summer and you will have the chance to enjoy farm tours and speak to agricultural producers. Taste of Heartland also includes a Main Street cook-off and a long table gourmet dinner prepared by top chefs and made with locally sourced ingredients.
Day Three: Explore the Great Outdoors
Head off the beaten path to enjoy the beauty of the countryside and enjoy some outdoor adventures.
You could easily spend much longer than a day at Buffalo Lake. Set up camp at Ol’ Macdonald’s Resort on the South shore of the lake and take part in a variety of recreational activities such as swimming, boating, kitesurfing, mini-golf, and more. If you’re a music lover, schedule your visit in September during Ol’ Macdonald’s annual music festival.
Take a walk around the Cold Lake Migratory Bird Sanctuary where you can spot dozens of different bird species year-round including dicks, geese, swans, hawks and other species. Listen to the peaceful melody of birds singing while you roam the trail.
With walking trails, a fishing pond, a spray park and play area, a skateboard park, and more, West Stettler Park is the ideal place for family fun and outdoor adventures.
