What fun and budget-friendly events or festivals are happening in Alberta, Canada?

Alberta hosts many events. The Calgary Stampede is a huge, albeit pricey, event. However, many smaller, free or low-cost community events happen throughout the summer in various towns. Check local listings closer to your travel dates for specific details on free concerts, farmers' markets, and local celebrations. The Heritage Days in various communities across the province offer glimpses into Alberta's history.

What are the best hostels in Alberta?

Among the hostels in Alberta, Canmore Downtown Hostel , Dreamcatcher Hostel and Samesun Banff Hostel are the most popular ones.

What are the best nightlife spots in Alberta, Canada?

Calgary and Edmonton offer diverse nightlife. In Calgary, Stephen Avenue Walk is a central hub with various pubs and clubs. In Edmonton, Whyte Avenue boasts a lively atmosphere with pubs, bars, and live music venues. Smaller towns like Canmore and Banff also have a good selection of pubs and bars, offering a more relaxed atmosphere.

What are the best hostels for families and kids in Alberta?

The best hostels for families and kids in Alberta are Canmore Downtown Hostel , Dreamcatcher Hostel and Hi Lake Louise Alpine Centre - Hostel .

What’s the ideal length of stay to get a full experience of Alberta, Canada?

A minimum of two weeks allows for exploring Banff and Jasper National Parks, Calgary and Edmonton, and potentially a smaller town or two. A month would provide a more relaxed pace, allowing for more hiking, exploring smaller communities and experiencing more of the province's diverse landscapes. It really depends on your interests and travel style.

What are the best pet friendly hostels in Alberta?

The best pet friendly hostels in Alberta are Basecamp Lodge Canmore and Party Hostel - The Canmore Hotel Hostel .

Does Alberta, Canada offer any iconic natural events?

Yes, the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) are visible in northern Alberta, particularly during winter months. The best viewing is away from light pollution, so consider a trip to a remote area for optimal viewing conditions. Also, the changing colours of the leaves in autumn are a spectacular sight, particularly in the mountain areas.

What are the best hostels with parking in Alberta?

Canmore Downtown Hostel , Dreamcatcher Hostel and Samesun Banff Hostel are the best hostels with parking in Alberta.

Are there special cultural workshops or experiences to explore in Alberta, Canada?

Absolutely. Many communities offer workshops on Indigenous arts and crafts, such as beading or leatherwork. You can also find workshops focusing on local cuisine, like bannock making. Checking local tourism websites for specific communities you plan to visit will reveal available options.

How can you dive deeper into the culture and connect with locals in Alberta, Canada?

Engage with local communities by visiting farmers' markets, attending local events, or striking up conversations with people you meet. Consider staying in smaller towns or villages rather than large cities for a more immersive experience. Many restaurants and pubs are great places for casual interactions with locals.

Which restaurants and bars in Alberta, Canada offer the best local cuisine?

Many restaurants in Alberta feature local ingredients. In Calgary, try Bridgette Bar for modern Canadian cuisine. In Edmonton, explore the restaurants in the Old Strathcona area for diverse options. Many smaller towns have unique restaurants using locally sourced ingredients, so exploring local menus is recommended. Look for restaurants featuring Alberta beef, bison, or wild game.

What unique packing tips should you keep in mind for Alberta, Canada?

Pack for all types of weather, even in summer. Layers are essential, as temperatures can fluctuate dramatically. Sturdy hiking boots are a must if you plan on hiking. Bring insect repellent, especially during the warmer months. Finally, a reusable water bottle is crucial, given the abundance of beautiful spots to refill it.

Alberta Hostels at the Best Price

8.9 339 reviews

Canmore Alpine Hostel - Alpine Club Of Canada

hostel, Canmore

The Canmore Alpine Hostel - Alpine Club of Canada is situated just 2.8 miles outside Canmore's town centre, a short drive from the Silvertip Golf Course and the Canmore Nordic Centre. The hostel consistently receives very good ratings for its location, cleanliness and overall experience.
The hostel offers a variety of shared rooms and a family room with a kitchenette. Guests can enjoy a shared kitchen, lounge with fireplaces, games room, furnished terrace, and access to a fitness centre, tennis court, and free bicycle rentals.

8.8 347 reviews

Hi Castle Mountain - Hostel

hostel, Banff

HI-Castle Mountain Hostel is located just a short drive from Banff's town centre and within easy reach of the Rockbound Lake Trail, making it ideal for exploring both the town and surrounding wilderness. The hostel consistently receives excellent ratings for cleanliness, location, and user experience, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
The hostel is spread over 50 square metres and features a shared kitchen, a comfortable lounge with a fireplace, and a spacious garden with fire pits. Guests can enjoy BBQ facilities, relax in the common areas, and explore the nearby Johnston Canyon, just a short drive away.

No reviews

Northwinds Hotel Canmore

hostel, Canmore

The Northwinds Hotel Canmore, a 2-star establishment, is conveniently situated 1 kilometre from Canmore town centre, offering easy access to local attractions.
This hotel provides a complimentary fitness centre, a barbecue area, and a business centre, with pets welcomed for an additional charge, alongside free Wi-Fi and parking.

8.0 218 reviews

The Orchard (Hostel With Private Bunks)

hostel, Radium Hot Springs

The Orchard (Hostel With Private Bunks) is a short distance from the town centre of Radium Hot Springs, making it easy to explore the area's attractions and enjoy the stunning mountain scenery. The hostel is highly rated for its cleanliness, location and overall experience.
The hostel has a private bunk bed in each room, allowing for privacy and comfort, and is spread across 139 square metres. Guests can enjoy a shared kitchen, lounge, terrace, garden, tennis court, and free WiFi, making it a perfect choice for budget-conscious travellers looking for a comfortable and social stay.

9.0 251 reviews

Hi Rampart Creek - Hostel

hostel, Jasper

The Hi Rampart Creek Hostel is situated 90 kilometres north of Lake Louise, a two-hour drive from Jasper and 146 kilometres from Banff, in a remote wilderness area offering a truly immersive experience in the Canadian Rockies. The hostel has received very good ratings for user experience, location and cleanliness.
The hostel is a rustic accommodation with shared dormitory rooms featuring wooden furnishings and plenty of natural light. Guests can enjoy a common kitchen, a shared lounge, an outdoor fire pit, a sauna, and a terrace or balcony, as well as snowshoes provided for exploring the surrounding wilderness.

No reviews

The Orchard Hostel Private Bunks

hostel, Radium Hot Springs

The Orchard Hostel Private Bunks is situated in Brisco, 26 kilometres from an unspecified city centre, offering a peaceful retreat near Radium Hot Springs.
This private bunk in a hostel provides accommodation for two guests and features a shared kitchen, free Wi-Fi, on-site parking, a bar, and access to a spa with massage treatments; outdoor amenities include a terrace, garden, and barbecue area.

9.5 28 reviews

Hi Canmore - Alpine Club Of Canada

hostel, Canmore

HI-Canmore - Alpine Club Of Canada is located 4.5 km from Canmore town centre, overlooking the Bow Valley with stunning views of the Three Sisters Mountains. The hostel has excellent user ratings, making it a popular choice for travellers.
The hostel offers a range of accommodation options, from the main hostel to private cabins. The main hostel features a large kitchen, a relaxing lounge area, and a deck with panoramic views. Guests can enjoy nearby hiking trails, climbing routes, and winter sports opportunities.

8.8 395 reviews

Hi Mosquito Creek - Wilderness Hostel

hostel, Banff

Hi Mosquito Creek - Hostel is located 20 minutes from Lake Louise in Banff National Park, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling tourist crowds. The hostel has received very good ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The hostel has one bedroom and one bathroom, spanning 31 square metres. It features a shared kitchen, a wood-heated sauna, an outdoor fire pit, and a terrace, providing a rustic experience with amenities for both relaxation and adventure.

8.5 5197 reviews

Samesun Banff Hostel

hostel, Banff

Samesun Banff Hostel is located just a short five-minute walk from the shops and bars of downtown Banff, making it ideal for exploring the town's vibrant atmosphere. The hostel has received very good ratings for cleanliness and user experience, with an excellent location rating. Each dorm room features a private bathroom, ensuring greater privacy and convenience. Guests can enjoy a fully licensed bar and restaurant, a fully equipped common kitchen, and a cosy common room for relaxation, as well as barbecue facilities and laundry facilities.

8.7 237 reviews

Hi Beauty Creek

hostel, Jasper

HI-Beauty Creek is located near the Sunwapta River in Jasper National Park, just one kilometre from the Beauty Creek/Stanley Falls hike and a 15-minute drive from the Athabasca Glacier/Columbia Ice-field Centre. It is a highly-rated hostel with excellent reviews from previous guests.
The hostel offers a unique off-grid experience with no electricity or running water, providing a truly rustic and immersive wilderness experience. It features a fully equipped kitchen with propane lighting, BBQ, stovetops, heaters, and a fridge, and guests can enjoy a variety of activities such as ping-pong, badminton, row-boating, board games, hammock swinging, and campfire gatherings.

10 10 reviews

The Orchard (Hostel Private Bunks)

hostel, Radium Hot Springs

The Orchard (Hostel Private Bunks) is located in Radium Hot Springs, within walking distance of the town's main attractions and a short drive from Kootenay National Park. The hostel has received excellent user ratings, making it a popular choice for travellers.
The Orchard offers a unique blend of privacy and affordability with lockable doors for the bottom bunks and curtains for the top bunks. Guests can enjoy a spacious common area with a living room, TV and well-equipped kitchen as well as outdoor picnic tables and barbecues.

9.0 1654 reviews

Canmore Downtown Hostel

hostel, Canmore

Canmore Downtown Hostel is located in the centre of Canmore, within easy walking distance of the town's main street and a short drive from the hiking trails of Banff National Park. The hostel has received excellent ratings for its location, cleanliness and overall experience.
The hostel offers a range of rooms, including family rooms, and features a shared kitchen and lounge, where guests can prepare meals and socialise. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and a bar, as well as the convenience of parking and room service.

Best Alberta hostels with breakfast

Among the 24 hostels in Alberta, here are the 1 best hostels with breakfast

8.5 5197 reviews

Samesun Banff Hostel

hostel, Banff

Best Alberta hostels with a locker

9.2 875 reviews

Dreamcatcher Hostel

hostel, Golden

Dreamcatcher Hostel is situated in Golden's town centre, just 48 kilometres from Yoho National Park and 56 kilometres from Glacier National Park. This hostel has received excellent ratings for location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
This hostel features a shared common area with a kitchen, fireplace, and dining area, perfect for socialising with fellow travellers. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi, a guest computer, outdoor storage, barbecue facilities, and a garden.

8.8 4534 reviews

Hi Lake Louise Alpine Centre - Hostel

hostel, Banff

The Hi Lake Louise Alpine Centre is a short drive from Lake Louise and the Lake Louise Mountain Resort, offering easy access to the stunning scenery of Banff National Park. This hostel has received very good ratings for cleanliness, location, and overall experience.
The accommodation features a range of facilities, including a communal kitchen, a fireplace lounge, a sauna, and a tennis court. Guests can enjoy a cafe, a bar, a fitness centre, and a library, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

No reviews

Party Hostel - The Canmore Hotel Hostel

hostel, Canmore

The Party Hostel - The Canmore Hotel Hostel is located in Canmore, offering direct access to winter sports facilities and ski opportunities.
This accommodation provides guests with complimentary Wi-Fi, on-site parking, a restaurant, bar, and kitchens, alongside laundry and room service for convenience.

8.3 1741 reviews

Jasper Downtown Hostel

hostel, Jasper

Jasper Downtown Hostel is conveniently located in the centre of Jasper, just a 12-minute drive from Lake Annette Beach. The hostel has received very good ratings for cleanliness and user experience, with an excellent location rating.
The hostel offers a variety of accommodation options, including both shared and private rooms. Guests can enjoy a range of facilities, including a swimming pool, tennis court, fitness centre, garden, and a bar.

Frequently asked questions about hostels in Alberta

What fun and budget-friendly events or festivals are happening in Alberta, Canada?
Alberta hosts many events. The Calgary Stampede is a huge, albeit pricey, event. However, many smaller, free or low-cost community events happen throughout the summer in various towns. Check local listings closer to your travel dates for specific details on free concerts, farmers' markets, and local celebrations. The Heritage Days in various communities across the province offer glimpses into Alberta's history.
What are the best hostels in Alberta?
Among the hostels in Alberta, Canmore Downtown Hostel, Dreamcatcher Hostel and Samesun Banff Hostel are the most popular ones.
What are the best nightlife spots in Alberta, Canada?
Calgary and Edmonton offer diverse nightlife. In Calgary, Stephen Avenue Walk is a central hub with various pubs and clubs. In Edmonton, Whyte Avenue boasts a lively atmosphere with pubs, bars, and live music venues. Smaller towns like Canmore and Banff also have a good selection of pubs and bars, offering a more relaxed atmosphere.
What are the best hostels for families and kids in Alberta?
The best hostels for families and kids in Alberta are Canmore Downtown Hostel, Dreamcatcher Hostel and Hi Lake Louise Alpine Centre - Hostel.
What’s the ideal length of stay to get a full experience of Alberta, Canada?
A minimum of two weeks allows for exploring Banff and Jasper National Parks, Calgary and Edmonton, and potentially a smaller town or two. A month would provide a more relaxed pace, allowing for more hiking, exploring smaller communities and experiencing more of the province's diverse landscapes. It really depends on your interests and travel style.
What are the best pet friendly hostels in Alberta?
The best pet friendly hostels in Alberta are Basecamp Lodge Canmore and Party Hostel - The Canmore Hotel Hostel.
Does Alberta, Canada offer any iconic natural events?
Yes, the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) are visible in northern Alberta, particularly during winter months. The best viewing is away from light pollution, so consider a trip to a remote area for optimal viewing conditions. Also, the changing colours of the leaves in autumn are a spectacular sight, particularly in the mountain areas.
What are the best hostels with parking in Alberta?
Canmore Downtown Hostel, Dreamcatcher Hostel and Samesun Banff Hostel are the best hostels with parking in Alberta.
Are there special cultural workshops or experiences to explore in Alberta, Canada?
Absolutely. Many communities offer workshops on Indigenous arts and crafts, such as beading or leatherwork. You can also find workshops focusing on local cuisine, like bannock making. Checking local tourism websites for specific communities you plan to visit will reveal available options.
How can you dive deeper into the culture and connect with locals in Alberta, Canada?
Engage with local communities by visiting farmers' markets, attending local events, or striking up conversations with people you meet. Consider staying in smaller towns or villages rather than large cities for a more immersive experience. Many restaurants and pubs are great places for casual interactions with locals.
Which restaurants and bars in Alberta, Canada offer the best local cuisine?
Many restaurants in Alberta feature local ingredients. In Calgary, try Bridgette Bar for modern Canadian cuisine. In Edmonton, explore the restaurants in the Old Strathcona area for diverse options. Many smaller towns have unique restaurants using locally sourced ingredients, so exploring local menus is recommended. Look for restaurants featuring Alberta beef, bison, or wild game.
What unique packing tips should you keep in mind for Alberta, Canada?
Pack for all types of weather, even in summer. Layers are essential, as temperatures can fluctuate dramatically. Sturdy hiking boots are a must if you plan on hiking. Bring insect repellent, especially during the warmer months. Finally, a reusable water bottle is crucial, given the abundance of beautiful spots to refill it.

Nearby regions