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Ten Of Alberta’s Best & Weirdest Museums To Escape the Cold This Winter
Posted on December 18, 2024 by Britanny Burr
From the world's largest oil lamp to prehistoric giants, you’ll find unique stories, fascinating artifacts, and the perfect excuse to stay warm indoors.
We hate to say it, but winter is here whether you like it or not, and it’s not going away any time soon. Alberta winters are notoriously long, dark, and cold. While they do bring with them tons of opportunities for outdoor adventure, they also bring a longing for cozy indoor activities that don’t require 15 layers of clothing. So, we’ve got a suggestion for you. Why not do some exploring of the indoor variety with some of Alberta’s weirder attractions: our local museums.
This province is rich with indoor places to learn, be entertained, and discover the quirky side of Alberta. We’ve rounded up a list of some of the most interesting (and unusual) museums to check out on a chilly winter day. Whether you're into history, oddities, or art, these spots offer something for everyone.
The World Famous Gopher Hole Museum, Torrington
Welcome to Torrington, where the gophers wear costumes. Yes, you read that correctly. The Gopher Hole Museum is just as strange and wonderful as it sounds. You will have the opportunity to explore a range of displays that feature stuffed gophers dressed up in various costumes, from a firefighter to a bride. Some are even set up in action positions so you can really get a feel for the scene. The undeniable charm will surely add a little humour to a winter’s day. We know it’s weird, but isn’t that what makes it something you need to see for yourself? The museum is currently in a transitional phase with ownership, and patrons are encouraged to get in touch to book a visit rather than just pop in.
Remington Carriage Museum, Cardston
Step back in time at the Remington Carriage Museum, home to one of North America's largest collections of horse-drawn carriages. With over 300 meticulously preserved carriages, including buggies, sleighs, and coaches, this museum lets you experience the old-fashioned elegance of pre-automobile transportation. It’s an indoor escape that allows your imagination to slip back in time. Whether you’re a history buff or just someone who appreciates excellent craftsmanship, you’ll find something to pique your interest here. There are tons of activities and interactive elements in the museum, so it will undoubtedly keep the whole family entertained. While it might be a bit niche, we’d say it’s worth visiting and a great way to avoid the cold.
Donalda Museum, Donalda
You can’t miss Donalda’s crown jewel—the world’s largest oil lamp replica, standing 42 feet tall. Other than the missive oil lamp, there’s much more to see. The museum is dedicated to all things oil-lamp-related, housing an impressive collection of antique lamps. It also displays a variety of historical collections and buildings that preserve the area's history for future generations to explore. For a bit of charm and a warm glow, stop by this winter.
Bomber Command Museum of Canada, Nanton
A must-see for aviation fans, the Bomber Command Museum in Nanton has fully restored WWII bombers on display and tons of aviation history to explore. You can even sit inside a Lancaster bomber cockpit. If you are into planes, you’ll be blown away. If you happen to have a little one who is getting into aviation, they’ll think you’re the coolest for taking them here. With engaging exhibits and knowledgeable volunteers, it’s an informative (and fun) way to spend an afternoon and honour the bravery and sacrifices of the men and women of Bomber Command. The kids will love all the interactive displays.
Markerville Creamery Museum, Markerville
Dairy enthusiasts (and curious visitors) will love the Historic Markerville Creamery Museum, where you can step into Alberta’s dairy history and learn how butter and other dairy products were once crafted. This charming historic creamery offers an intimate glimpse into Alberta’s rural roots, complete with period tools and fascinating stories of farm life in the early 1900s. It’s not often that we get to step back in time, so why not schedule a little time travel for a cold winter day?
Royal Tyrrell Museum, Drumheller
Dinosaurs in winter? Obviously. After all, Drumheller is Alberta’s dinosaur capital, and the Royal Tyrrell Museum is its claim to fame. This world-renowned museum houses thousands of fossils, with life-sized dinosaur models and engaging exhibits spanning millions of years. Whether you’re an aspiring paleontologist or just curious about our past, the Royal Tyrrell offers one of Alberta’s most exciting indoor experiences. Learn about the region's prehistoric residents and step back in time as you view bones, eggs, and fascinating artifacts. There’s a ton to do, see, and learn, so be sure to set aside a good chunk of time for your visit. Little ones love this place; let’s be honest, so do we.
Heritage Acres Farm Museum, Pincher Creek
Heritage Acres is a hidden gem that provides a glimpse into Alberta's early agricultural days. This 180-acre living history museum offers everything from restored barns to a steam tractor collection. With plenty of indoor exhibits and lots to explore, you’ll get an authentic feel for Alberta’s farming roots, even when there’s snow on the ground. They often host fantastic events, so be sure to check out the calendar and plan your visit accordingly.
Reynolds-Alberta Museum, Wetaskiwin
Get your motor running, even in the dead of winter. The Reynolds-Alberta Museum celebrates the history of transportation, industry, and agriculture with an impressive collection of vintage cars, motorcycles, and places. Wander among classic beauties, check out exhibits on mechanics, and enjoy an educational and exciting day indoors.
Banff Park Museum National Historic Site, Banff
Located in a historic 1903 log cabin, the Banff Park Museum offers a rare glimpse into our roots as Western Canada’s oldest natural history museum. Explore the taxidermy collection and marvel at the preserved wildlife displays from when Banff was first established as Canada’s first national park. This place is jam-packed with cool things to see. In fact, there are over 5,000 natural history specimens that were collected in Banff National Park in the early 1900s.
The Telephone Historical Centre, Edmonton
Last but certainly not least, get dialed into history at the Telephone Museum Historical Centre. This small but quirky museum walks you through the evolution of telecommunications, from switchboards to the early days of mobile phones. Discover the fascinating world of telephones and their impact on modern communication. While it may seem like an oddly specific museum, we promise it’s really cool, and you’ll learn a ton. Phones have really come a long way, after all.
So, there you have it, 10 of Alberta’s coolest, quirkiest, and most historic museums to explore while escaping winter’s chill. Each stop makes for a fun-filled, educational adventure the whole family will enjoy. Don’t let the winter blues get you down.Get out there and learn a thing or two about the weird and wonderful province we call home.
Britanny Burr is a freelance writer and a contributor to Great West Media. This story was written for the Great West Media & Southern Alberta Newspapers Cool Winter Guide advertising feature. The Cool Winter Guide is a special feature about winter activities, bucket list adventures, winter 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.
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