Even though the trip from Edmonton to Calgary only takes three hours, it can often feel much longer.
Apart from the occasional cow fields, questionable highway billboards and oil derricks, this is one drive that can get pretty monotonous. Fortunately for us, there are tons of interesting and unusual things to see just off the QE II.
Check out some of these gems to help make your next road trip just a little more exciting, from the weird and wacky to the downright stunning.
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What: Located just a short drive east of Highway 2 is the whimsical “world-famous” Gopher Hole Museum. The museum features taxidermied gophers dressed up in themed costumes and accessories and posed in front of corresponding backdrops. It may sound a bit morbid, but you just have to see it for yourself.
Where: 208 1st Street SW, Torrington, Alberta
Hours: 10 am to 5 pm, Thursday through Sunday
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What: If you have ever driven through Red Deer on the QE II, you have at least stopped or have thought about stopping at The Donut Mill. It’s arguably one of the best spots to grab a donut in the province. The Mills menu has dozens of donut flavours, with fan favourites like Oreo, Rolo, Apple Pie and Rainbow Dip, just to name a few.
Where: 123 Leva Avenue, Red Deer County
Take the scenic route (West)
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What: If you have a couple of extra hours to kill on your trip between Edmonton and Calgary, why not spend some time admiring Alberta’s incredible landscapes? Rather than the QE II, take Highway 22 so that you can enjoy Alberta’s breathtaking mountain views.
What: This is a spot you have to check out at least once in your life. The Reynolds-Alberta Museum celebrates Alberta’s agricultural and industrial history and has likely the most extensive collection of cars, airplanes, tractors, and industrial machines on this side of the country.
Where: 6426 40th Avenue, Wetaskiwin
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What: Just a little bit further east of the Torrington Gopher Hole Museum is this odd little bunker in the middle of the plains. The Sunnyslope Shelter is a historic site built in the early twentieth century; these types of shelters were common among homesteaders upon arriving on the prairies. It’s a must-see!
Where: Township Road 314, Kneehill County, Alberta
What: This five-acre forest garden is a total gem hidden in the middle of the prairies. It looks like a fairytale and is the perfect spot to stop for some much-needed TLC. After staring at the flat landscape of the QE II, this is a perfect treat for your eyes.
Where: 622 N Road, Trochu
What: Chances are you’ve driven past this picture-perfect dining car on the QEII Highway, but have you stopped in? You won’t regret it after you try the Starlite Diner Car’s comfort food – and it’s an excellent opportunity to snap some old-school-style content for the ‘gram, too.
Where: 1-3 Heritage Drive #1, Bowden
What: You never know what you’re going to find at this mega-mall just north of Calgary. Whether your road trip begins or ends at CrossIron Mills, it’s worth stopping in at least once.
Where: 261055 Crossiron Boulevard, Rocky View County
What: This was the first provincial park established in Alberta. Located near Red Deer, it’s a fantastic halfway point to stop and get your legs moving. Visit the gorgeous Ebeling Beach on the shore of Gull Lake and relax in the sand.
Where: Lacombe County, Alberta
Take the scenic route (East)
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What: If you thought those views to the West were unbeatable, the eastern route between Calgary and Edmonton is just as stunning. Stop through Drumheller and explore Alberta’s unique badland landscape.