Explore Roadside Attractions
Discover Unique Roadside Attractions Along the Veterans Memorial Highway
Embark on a journey filled with quirky landmarks and hidden gems as you travel the Veterans Memorial Highway in Alberta. From the majestic Wood Bison Gateway 27 km north of Fort McMurray, marking the beginning of the MATCHEETAWING Discovery Trails and the Sagow Pematosowin Trail, to the impressive World's Largest Mushrooms in Vilna, celebrating a rich tradition of mushroom hunting since the early 1900s, these attractions offer a unique glimpse into the local culture and history. Don't miss the towering T-Rex in Milk River, a nod to the area's rich dinosaur fossil heritage, where approximately 13 different types of fossils have been discovered. These roadside attractions provide delightful stops that add a touch of adventure and whimsy to your road trip. Start your exploration today and uncover the unexpected treasures waiting along the way!
Milk River Travel Alberta Visitor Information Centre
Discover excitement just north of the U.S. border at the Milk River Travel Alberta Visitor Information Centre! Located south of town on Highway #4, our center is open from mid-May to mid-October and is your ultimate resource for exploring the region. Come see our giant T-rex dinosaur and explore the fascinating mini museum inside. Our friendly staff are eager to provide you with all the information you need on local attractions, accommodations, and activities.
And don't forget to stop by Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park to see the incredible hoodoos! And Devil’s Coulee Dinosaur Museum in the County of Warner.
Call us at (403) 647-3938 for any inquiries. Stop by and let the adventure begin!
Taber’s Corn Stalk
Get ready for a unique roadside attraction just north of the U.S. border! The Taber Corn Stalk is a giant, 36-foot tall reminder of one of our most famous crops. Installed in November 1994 after a year of dedicated fundraising by our local Kiwanis Club, this impressive structure was crafted by George Jaegli from Saskatchewan. The ears of corn are about 4 feet tall, with leaves ranging from 4 to 10 feet in height.
Remember to visit Taber in August for the Corn Stalk Music Festival and Corn Fest, held on the last full weekend before the long weekend. Hosted by the Taber and District Chamber of Commerce, Corn Fest is the largest free family festival in western Canada. Celebrate with music, entertainment, rides, a chili cook-off, show and shine, skateboard corn-test, huge fireworks, and much more!
Make sure to stop by and marvel at this colossal tribute to Taber's agricultural heritage while enjoying the vibrant community spirit at our festivals.
The First Lady of Roadside Attractions: Miss Uniroyal
Meet the First Lady of Roadside Attractions, none other than Miss Uniroyal. Believe it or not, Miss Uniroyal was originally designed wearing just underwear and came with snap-on outfits to suit the climate, avoiding frostbite or chilly fall nights. These oversized Barbies were meant to be dressed appropriately for their location’s weather. Standing at an impressive 18 feet tall, Miss Uniroyal now resides at Kirk's Tire on Hwy 36, where she is affectionately known as the Kirk's Tire Woman. Come see this unique and towering roadside attraction that adds a touch of whimsy to your journey along the highway.
Meet Sammy and Samantha in Vauxhall
In a delightful twist of fun, Vauxhall's beloved Sammy and Samantha tied the knot on July 31st, 2020, as part of the town's centennial celebrations. Their charming wedding is just one chapter in the whimsical story of this fictional family, and you can catch the whole journey on Facebook at "Sammy and Samantha's Journey."
While you're in Vauxhall, don't miss the chance to catch a thrilling baseball game by the American Legion "A" Baseball Team. Visit their page for updates and game schedules: Vauxhall Spurs.
Come for the love story, stay for the community spirit and exciting baseball action!
Capture the Moment with Sammy and Samantha
Visit downtown Vauxhall and take your picture with the charming cutouts of Sammy and Samantha, located by the centennial clock tower. These beloved figures are a fun part of our community's history and perfect for a memorable photo.
Plan your visit during the Heritage Long Weekend and enjoy the excitement of the Vauxhall Rodeo. It's a great opportunity to experience local traditions and festivities. Don't miss out on the fun and heritage of Vauxhall!
Honouring Veterans In Vauxhall Cemetery
In Vauxhall Cemetery's Honorary Veterans Row, you will find a cannon proudly standing, donated by the Vauxhall Legion. This symbolic gesture pays tribute to our veterans and their invaluable contributions.
While you're here, don’t miss the chance to join the community in celebrating Canada Day every July 1st. These festivities are a wonderful way to continue honoring the sacrifices of our veterans and embrace the spirit of national pride. Come and show your appreciation for their service during this special day!
Meet Cory the Dinosaur at Brooks & District Museum
Just outside the Brooks & District Museum stands Cory the Dinosaur, representing the Corythosaurus Casuarius. Cory was a native of the Brooks area some 70 million years ago during the Upper Cretaceous period. Known by nicknames such as Helmet Lizard, Hadrosaur, and the Hooded Duckbill, Cory is distinguished by a unique skull plate made of high, narrowly compressing bone that is hollow inside. This hollow skull likely allowed Cory to swim while keeping its head above water. Weighing up to three metric tons, Cory is a fascinating glimpse into our prehistoric past. Cory found his home at the museum in November 1977.
While visiting, don't miss the Museum's Heritage Fall Fair on September 28, from 12 pm to 4 pm. It's a fantastic opportunity to explore local heritage and enjoy a variety of activities and exhibits.
Take a Picture with Albertosaurus in Patricia
On your way to Dinosaur Provincial Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, be sure to stop and see the Albertosaurus in Patricia.
Located 48 km northeast of Brooks, Alberta, Dinosaur Provincial Park offers a wealth of activities including camping, a visitor centre, trails, tours, and events.
The park is renowned as one of the richest dinosaur fossil locales in the world. Fifty-eight dinosaur species have been discovered here, and more than 500 specimens have been removed and exhibited in museums around the globe. The park's fossil assemblage includes nearly 500 species of life, from microscopic fern spores to large carnivorous dinosaurs, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in prehistoric life.
Photo Opportunities with Hanna’s Giant Goose Statues and Pioneer Village
Hanna is home to three impressive goose statues. The Flying Goose stands tall at 11 feet 3 inches (3.4 meters) in height and 7 feet 6 inches (2.28 meters) in length, making for a striking roadside attraction.
While you're in town, take a walk through the Hanna Pioneer Village and Museum. It's like stepping back in time with an entire block of historical buildings, realistic antique displays, and turn-of-the-century artifacts. The wonder that is the Hanna Pioneer Village will leave you reeling! Visit us at 502 Pioneer Trail for an unforgettable journey into the past.
Visit Cactus Corner Travel Centre and Antelope Hill Provincial Park
Make sure to stop at the Cactus Corner Travel Centre, a one-stop destination featuring a large convenience store, restaurant, and fuel services. Whether you need commercial fuel with Pilot Flying J, retail fuel with Shell, wholesale bulk/farm fuels, Shell lubricants, or vehicle wash and tire repair services, Cactus Corner has you covered.
After refueling and refreshing, venture to Antelope Hill Provincial Park. Covering 940 acres of natural grassland, this park is ideal for low-impact activities such as hiking and wildlife watching. Enjoy the serene beauty of Alberta's landscape and take in the diverse wildlife in this peaceful park.
Discover Castor’s Metal Beaver and Pharmacy Museum
In the town of Castor, named after the French word for beaver, you’ll find the impressive Metal Beaver sculpture made from recycled metal, which has replaced the beloved Paddy the Beaver.
While in Castor, don't miss the Castor Pharmacy Museum. This unique museum offers something for everyone:
Farmers and Ranchers: Explore the veterinary section.
Ladies: Browse cabinets of cosmetics and toiletries, a baby cabinet, and an assortment of general merchandise from the 1920s.
Children: See a delightful display of candy and chocolates.
Pharmacists: Marvel at an excellent collection of artifacts, jars, books, pamphlets, and products. The museum houses a very large collection with unique items, including narcotic jars and calendars, and cabinets of patent medicines dating from the 1950s back to 1900.
Visit the Castor Pharmacy Museum to experience a fascinating era of pharmaceutical history and enjoy a nostalgic trip through time.
Visit the Memorial Arch and Explore the Harvest Sky Region
While traveling along Highway 36, stop by the Veteran Memorial Arch at the Special Areas Rest Stop to pay tribute to our veterans.
While you're in the area, make sure to visit the Harvest Sky Region of Hanna and Special Areas. It's a perfect destination for day trippers looking for a great place to spend a summer afternoon, families wanting wide-open spaces for their kids to explore, or sportsmen seeking recreational activities. The Harvest Sky Region offers a respite from daily life and provides opportunities to spend quality time in nature.
From exploring charming towns to adventuring on lakes and rivers, there's something for everyone. One visit is never enough to experience all the region has to offer. Discover more at harvestsky.ca/visit.
Discover Viking’s Town Bell and Museum
Visit the Viking Museum, where the historic Viking Town Bell now resides. The museum is housed in what was originally the first hospital building in 1921 and showcases a fascinating collection of pioneer artifacts, land maps, and photographs of the area.
The museum site features several restored buildings that have been moved to the location, including a church from 1938, a store and post office from 1903, a country school from 1907, and a farmhouse from 1914. Each building has been carefully restored to reflect its original appearance, offering visitors a glimpse into the past.
Explore the Viking Museum to experience the rich history of the region and see how life was in the early days of Viking, Alberta.
Viking Hockey Stick and Ribstones
In Viking, Alberta, you'll find a giant hockey stick that salutes the renowned Sutter Family, one of the most famous families in the National Hockey League (NHL). Originally from Viking, the six Sutter brothers—Brent, Brian, Darryl, Duane, Rich, and Ron—reached the NHL in the 1970s and 80s. Four of the brothers (Brian, Duane, Darryl, and Brent) have also made names for themselves as coaches and general managers. Remarkably, the Sutters collectively played nearly 5,000 games and won the Stanley Cup six times as players (and a seventh Cup as head coach). The legacy continues with the second generation, as Brandon Sutter and cousin Brett Sutter have also reached the NHL.
While in Viking, be sure to visit the Viking Ribstones. These ancient Boulder Petroglyphs are located a few kilometers from town on a hill at the highest point for miles around. The Ribstones, two large stones carved in the shape of an animal's rib cage, have remained in place since ancient times. Native people of the plains, who were dependent on the buffalo, revered the spirit of Old Man Buffalo and expressed their prayers and gratitude at these Ribstone shrines.
Explore Viking to experience the rich history and cultural significance of the Sutter Family and the ancient Ribstones.
Viking Ship and Troll Park
In Viking, Alberta, you'll find the charming Troll Park, a perfect spot for a picnic lunch beside the historic CN Station. The park features the impressive "Viking Warrior" metal sculpture, which guards a replica Viking ship.
Troll Park is designed with a Scandinavian theme, complete with trolls scattered throughout the park, including the notable Troll Mountain sculpture. In Scandinavian folklore, trolls are supernatural beings represented as dwarfs, adding a touch of magic and culture to your visit.
The park also boasts many native Scandinavian plants and includes a Naturalization Park area, which helps preserve and enhance the environment. This area teaches students and adults the importance of working in harmony with nature, ensuring a sustainable future.
Visit Troll Park at 5001 - 51 Avenue in Viking for a delightful and educational experience that blends history, culture, and natural beauty.
Visit Vegreville’s World’s Largest Pysanka and Annual County Fair
In 1973, the Vegreville & District Chamber of Commerce decided to commemorate the centennial celebrations of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) by building the World’s Largest Pysanka (Easter Egg). This iconic monument symbolizes Vegreville’s rich Ukrainian culture and the peace and security that the RCMP offered to the area's pioneers and their descendants. The Pysanka is an intricate jigsaw puzzle with 524-star patterns, 2,208 equilateral triangles, 3,512 visible facets, 6,978 nuts and bolts, and 177 internal struts. Recognized globally as a unique artistic masterpiece and an engineering marvel, the Pysanka measures 25.7 feet long, 18 feet wide, and stands 31 feet high. It even attracted the attention of Queen Elizabeth, Prince Edward, and Prince Andrew, who visited Vegreville in 1978.
While visiting Vegreville, don't miss the Vegreville County Fair, taking place this year from August 7-11, 2024. The fair offers a wide range of exciting events and activities, including:
Midway rides, games, and a variety of food trucks, APCCA Chuckwagon and Chariot races, Kids Fun Zone with bouncy castles , Kid’s Pony Rides, Antique and Kids Mini Tractor Pulls, Grandstand and Bandshell entertainment, Trade Show, Fireworks and Beer Gardens.
Come and experience the vibrant culture, history, and festivities of Vegreville!
Vegreville’s Iconic Elk Statue and Pysanka Festival
In Vegreville, the Elk Statue stands as a proud symbol sponsored by the Vegreville Elks Lodge #143. This 8-foot tall statue was erected to help establish the identity of Elk's Park and serves as a notable landmark in the community.
While you're in Vegreville, immerse yourself in Ukrainian culture at the Vegreville Pysanka Festival. This three-day celebration offers an array of authentic experiences, including delicious Ukrainian food, live entertainment, and demonstrations of traditional blacksmithing and leather work. Whether you're savoring the culinary delights or watching skilled artisans at work, the Pysanka Festival provides a vibrant glimpse into Ukrainian heritage.
Join us in Vegreville to experience the rich cultural traditions, stunning landmarks, and lively festivities that make our town unique!
Visit St. Paul’s Historic UFO Landing Pad and Museum
In 1967, the town of St. Paul made a groundbreaking proposal: to build the world's first UFO Landing Pad. This unique landmark was designed to symbolize the town's forward-thinking and welcoming spirit. The Government of Canada embraced this imaginative idea, and during the grand opening on June 3, 1967, St. Paul was declared the Centennial Capital of Canada.
While in St. Paul, make sure to visit their museum, right next door, which offers Two Museums in One! Musée Historique de St. Paul Historical Museum Showcasing the rich history of St. Paul and Alberta Peoples’ Museum Society of/de St. Paul & District
Interactive displays featuring the agricultural traditions of rural northeastern Alberta, including:
Farm machinery, Model of a 1939 sawmill
Displays related to blacksmithing, milk processing, veterinary medicine, beekeeping, and shipping grain crops
Ukrainian display
Restored 1914 log home built by the Destrube family of Rife, Alberta
Come explore this one-of-a-kind attraction and the rich history of St. Paul. Whether you're a UFO enthusiast, a history buff, or interested in agricultural traditions, St. Paul's unique landmarks and museums are sure to captivate and educate visitors of all ages.
Discover Vilna World’s Largest Mushrooms and Historic Main Street
Vilna, meaning "Peace" in Ukrainian, is home to the World's Largest Mushrooms, a giant replica sculpture of the tricholoma uspale mushroom. This mushroom grows wild in the area and is often used dried or cooked as a traditional ingredient in the ethnic dishes of the region. Mushroom hunting has been a cherished tradition in Vilna since the early Ukrainian settlers arrived in the early 1900s.
While in Vilna, be sure to explore the historic main street and meet the friendly townspeople who embody the spirit of this charming community. Discover the rich cultural heritage and the peaceful atmosphere that make Vilna a unique and inviting destination.
Lac La Biche, David Thompson Monument at Lake
Lac La Biche, named after the French translation of a Cree phrase meaning "Lake of the Elk," is a region rich in history and natural beauty. The 12-foot-long statue of David Thompson, a famous explorer and mapmaker, commemorates Lac La Biche's bicentennial and recognizes Thompson as the first European to reach the shores of Lac La Biche Lake.
The Lac La Biche Region is your gateway to the incredible woods and waters of the Lakeland. This area is a year-round playground for those seeking authentic outdoor adventures, cultural connections, and must-see events. With more than 150 lakes, numerous rivers, and vast stretches of forest, the region offers endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. Whether you're looking for a thrilling adventure or a serene escape, Lac La Biche has something to offer. Come and experience the beauty and heritage of this remarkable region.
Discover Lac La Biche’s Stunning Feather Sculpture and Indigenous Art
In the heart of Lac La Biche, a mesmerizing steel feather sculpture, standing nine meters tall, graces a traffic circle. Created by artist Melanie Braund, who dedicated 345 hours to welding this magnificent piece, the feather symbolizes the region's rich Indigenous heritage. It is considered the largest feather sculpture in Alberta, and possibly in Canada.
While in Lac La Biche, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Portage College Museum of Aboriginal Peoples' Art & Artifacts. This museum boasts an impressive collection of authentic Indigenous artworks, including the world's only permanent exhibition of works by the Professional Native Indian Artists Incorporated. Engage in workshops to craft your own souvenirs and gain a deeper appreciation for time-honored traditions, or purchase a masterpiece from the gallery store to take home a piece of this rich cultural heritage.
Wood Bison Gateway & The Matcheetawin Trails
The Wood Bison Gateway signifies the entrance to the Matcheetawin Discovery Trails, derived from the Cree meaning “ Beginning Place, and the Sagow Pematosowin Trail meaning Living In Peaceful Coexistence with the Land.
The buffalo sculpture is located approximately 27 km north of Fort McMurray. The trail spans a four-kilometer interpretive trail system over 50 hectares, offering an enriching experience of nature’s diversity and restoration.