The best museums in Alberta in October 2023

These are the top 100 best museums in Alberta, ranked by their rating and popularity in 2023. Click a museum for more information about the museum, including visitor information, exhibitions and reviews.

For a complete overview of museums in Alberta, their exhibitions and discount cards & passes, see our overview page with all museums in Alberta.

Looking for the best museums in Alberta? These are the best ones:

  1. Calgary Zoo1

    Calgary Zoo

    Calgary
    The Calgary Zoo houses an average of 1000 animals, representing approximately 120 different species from all continents. This diversity of species makes it a fascinating place for visitors interested in wildlife from around the globe.
  2. Heritage Park2

    Heritage Park

    Calgary
    Heritage Park Historical Village is a significant historical park located in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. It spans across 127 acres (51 hectares) of parkland, situated on the banks of the Glenmore Reservoir in the city's southwestern quadrant. This location offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.
  3. Royal Tyrrell Museum3

    Royal Tyrrell Museum

    Drumheller
    The Royal Tyrrell Museum, originally known as the Tyrrell Museum, is a renowned natural history museum that specializes in paleontology. It is situated in Midland Provincial Park, which is a mere 6 kilometers away from the town of Drumheller in Alberta, Canada. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the area.
  4. Fort Calgary4

    Fort Calgary

    Calgary
    Fort Calgary, located at the confluence of the Bow and Elbow rivers in present-day Calgary, Alberta, Canada, was originally an outpost for the North West Mounted Police. Initially named Fort Brisebois after its first commander, the outpost was renamed Fort Calgary in June 1876.
  5. Muttart Conservatory5

    Muttart Conservatory

    Edmonton
    The Muttart Conservatory is a botanical garden situated in the North Saskatchewan river valley, opposite the downtown core in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. It is one of the most recognized landmarks of Edmonton. The conservatory is home to three city-operated greenhouses, public gardens, and four feature pyramids that display plant species from three different biomes. The fourth pyramid hosts a seasonal display.
  6. Fort Edmonton Park6

    Fort Edmonton Park

    Edmonton
    Fort Edmonton Park, situated in Edmonton, Alberta, is recognized as the largest living history museum in Canada. The park is named after the first enduring European post in the area of modern-day Edmonton. It features both original and rebuilt historical structures that represent the history of Edmonton, including that of Indigenous Peoples. During the summer, the park is staffed by costumed historical interpreters, providing an immersive experience for visitors.
  7. The Hangar Flight Museum7

    The Hangar Flight Museum

    Calgary
    The Hangar Flight Museum , formerly known as the Aero Space Museum of Calgary is a museum located south of Calgary International Airport in Calgary , Alberta , Canada .
  8. Calgary Chinese Cultural Centre8

    Calgary Chinese Cultural Centre

    Calgary
    The Chinese Cultural Centre, situated on the north-eastern side of downtown Calgary, Alberta, Canada, is a significant cultural landmark. Completed in September 1992, the centre serves as a hub for Chinese culture and heritage in the city. Its location in the heart of the city makes it easily accessible for tourists and locals alike.
  9. The Military Museums9

    The Military Museums

    Calgary
    The Military Museums in Calgary, Alberta, is a restructured version of the former Museum of the Regiments. This transformation was announced by Sophie, Countess of Wessex, on June 3, 2006. The museum now includes the former Museum of the Regiments, the relocated Naval Museum of Alberta, and an Air Force Wing.
  10. The Fort Museum10

    The Fort Museum

    Fort Macleod
  11. Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site11

    Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site

    Rocky Mountain House
    Rocky Mountain House is a town in west-central Alberta , Canada. It is approximately 77 km (48 mi) west of Red Deer at the confluence of the Clearwater and North Saskatchewan Rivers , and at the crossroads of Highway 22 (Cowboy Trail) and Highway 11 (David Thompson Highway). The surrounding Clearwat
  12. Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site12

    Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site

    Drumheller
    The Atlas Coal Mine is recognized as Canada's most complete historic coal mine. It houses the country's last standing wooden coal tipple, which is also the largest still standing in North America. This wooden structure was used for loading and sorting coal, and now serves as a significant reminder of the country's rich mining history.
  13. Telus World of Science13

    Telus World of Science

    Edmonton
    The Telus World of Science Edmonton (TWOSE) is a comprehensive science centre located in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. It is managed by the non-profit Edmonton Space & Science Foundation. The centre offers a wide range of exhibits and activities that cater to various scientific interests, making it a suitable destination for tourists of all ages.
  14. Studio Bell - National Music Centre14

    Studio Bell - National Music Centre

    Calgary
    The National Music Centre, also known as NMC, is a non-profit institution that serves as both a museum and a performance venue. It is situated in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. The permanent establishment of the NMC, known as Studio Bell, is located at 850 4th Street S.E. in the Downtown East Village of Calgary.
  15. Contemporary Calgary15

    Contemporary Calgary

    Calgary
    An impressive public art gallery dedicated to the contemporary art. They are focused on temporary exhibitions.
  16. The New Gallery16

    The New Gallery

    Calgary
    The New Gallery (TNG) is a non-commercial artist-run centre that presents and promotes contemporary art in Calgary , Alberta, Canada. TNG is a not-for-profit arts organization and does not sell art. Instead, it provides a venue for artists producing new work that may be experimental in nature or not
  17. Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump World Heritage Site17

    Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump World Heritage Site

    Fort Macleod
    Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located 18 km northwest of Fort Macleod, Alberta, Canada, on highway 785. This location is where the foothills of the Rocky Mountains begin to rise above the prairies, providing a stunning backdrop for visitors. The site offers a unique insight into the indigenous culture and history of the area.
  18. Glenbow18

    Glenbow

    Calgary
    The Glenbow Museum, located in Calgary, Alberta, is a renowned art and history museum. It was established in 1954 by the philanthropist Eric Harvie. The museum is a significant cultural institution in the region, offering a deep dive into the history of southern Alberta through its permanent exhibitions.
  19. 19

    Buffalo Nations Luxton Museum

    Banff
  20. Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village20

    Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village

    Edmonton
    The Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village is an open-air museum situated in east central Alberta, Canada. It is dedicated to recreating the pioneer settlements of Ukrainian Canadian settlers from the years 1899 to 1930. The museum uses costumed historical interpreters to provide an immersive experience of the past. Buildings from surrounding communities have been relocated to the site and restored to various years within the first part of the twentieth century, providing a tangible glimpse into the lives of these early settlers.
  21. Art Gallery of Alberta21

    Art Gallery of Alberta

    Edmonton
    The Art Gallery of Alberta, previously known as the Edmonton Art Gallery, is a public art gallery located in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. It is a significant cultural institution in the region, showcasing a wide range of historical and contemporary artworks.
  22. Royal Alberta Museum22

    Royal Alberta Museum

    Edmonton
    The Royal Alberta Museum, previously known as the Provincial Museum of Alberta, is a renowned institution dedicated to the fields of natural history and anthropology. It is situated in the residential neighborhood of Glenora in Edmonton. The museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and diverse cultures that have shaped Alberta and the world.
  23. Alberta Aviation Museum23

    Alberta Aviation Museum

    Edmonton
    The Alberta Aviation Museum is a unique aviation museum situated in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. It is located on the grounds of the former Edmonton City Centre (Blatchford Field) Airport, adding a layer of historical significance to the site. The museum is easily accessible and offers a deep dive into the history of aviation in the region.
  24. Bomber Command Museum of Canada24

    Bomber Command Museum of Canada

    Nanton
    The primary purpose of the museum's establishment was to safeguard and restore the Avro Lancaster FM159, one of the only 17 remaining globally. Over the years, the museum has expanded its collection to include a wide range of aircraft used during the War by the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan.
  25. Edmonton Valley Zoo25

    Edmonton Valley Zoo

    Edmonton
    The Edmonton Valley Zoo (sometimes known simply as the Valley Zoo ) is a zoo located in Edmonton , Alberta 's river valley. The Edmonton Valley Zoo is owned and operated by the City of Edmonton and is open 364 days a year, closing only on Christmas. The zoo is currently accredited by Canada's Accred
  26. Bar U Ranch National Historic Site26

    Bar U Ranch National Historic Site

    Pekisko
    The Bar U Ranch National Historic Site, located near Longview, Alberta , is a preserved ranch that for 70 years was one of the leading ranching operations in Canada . At its peak, the ranch extended over 160,000 acres (65,000 ha) with 30,000 cattle and 1000 Percheron horses. Two owners were instrume
  27. Gasoline Alley Museum27

    Gasoline Alley Museum

    Calgary
  28. 28

    Jasper Yellowhead Museum and Archives

    Jasper
  29. Alberta Central Railway Museum29

    Alberta Central Railway Museum

    Wetaskiwin
    The Alberta Central Railway Museum is situated in a convenient location, south-east of the City of Wetaskiwin, in Central Alberta, Canada. This makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the region. The museum offers a unique insight into the history and development of the railway system in Alberta.
  30. Archives and Museum30

    Archives and Museum

    Edmonton
  31. Alberta Railway Museum31

    Alberta Railway Museum

    Edmonton
    The Alberta Railway Museum, located in the northern part of Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, is a unique destination for railway enthusiasts. The museum houses an extensive collection of railway equipment and buildings, and features locomotives from both the Canadian National Railways (CNR) and Northern Alberta Railways (NAR). This provides a comprehensive insight into the history and development of railways in the region.
  32. Banff Park Museum National Historic Site32

    Banff Park Museum National Historic Site

    Banff
    The Banff Park Museum, situated in the heart of Banff, Alberta, is a natural history museum closely linked with the Banff National Park. This museum offers a unique opportunity for visitors to delve into the rich natural history of the region, providing a deeper understanding of the park's diverse flora and fauna.
  33. Fort Whoop-up33

    Fort Whoop-up

    Lethbridge
    Today, Fort Whoop-Up is also the name of a replica site and interpretive centre located in Indian Battle Park. This site offers visitors a chance to learn about the history of the original fort and the activities that took place there. The replica fort was built based on new photographic evidence and is designed to resemble the original fort as closely as possible.
  34. 34

    Métis Crossing

    Smoky Lake
  35. Reynolds-Alberta Museum35

    Reynolds-Alberta Museum

    Wetaskiwin
    The Reynolds-Alberta Museum is situated in Wetaskiwin, Alberta, Canada. This location is easily accessible and offers a unique opportunity to explore the history of mechanization in Alberta from the 1890s to the present day.
  36. Edmonton Radial Railway Society36

    Edmonton Radial Railway Society

    Edmonton
    The Edmonton Radial Railway Society (ERRS) is a significant organization that restores and operates historic streetcars. These streetcars can be found in Fort Edmonton Park and across the High Level Bridge. This offers tourists a unique opportunity to experience a piece of Edmonton's history while enjoying a scenic ride across the city's landmarks.
  37. The Loyal Edmonton Regiment Military Museum37

    The Loyal Edmonton Regiment Military Museum

    Edmonton
    The Loyal Edmonton Regiment (LER) is an integral part of Canada's military history. As an infantry regiment of the Canadian Army's Primary Reserve, it has played a significant role in various military operations. The regiment is part of the 41 Canadian Brigade Group within the 3rd Canadian Division and is stationed in Edmonton, Alberta. Visitors to the museum can learn about the regiment's history, its role in the military, and its contributions to Canada's defense.
  38. Father Lacombe Chapel38

    Father Lacombe Chapel

    St. Albert
    A very interesting historic site that will take you back in time. It commemorates the first settlers of Alberta.
  39. Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies39

    Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies

    Banff
    The Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies is a significant cultural institution located in the picturesque town of Banff, Alberta, Canada. As the fourth largest cultural history museum in Alberta, it offers a comprehensive insight into the cultural heritage of the Rocky Mountains of Canada. The museum collects, preserves, and exhibits materials related to this rich heritage, making them available for education and research.
  40. The Hangar Flight Museum40

    The Hangar Flight Museum

    Wetaskiwin
  41. 41

    Butterfield Acres

    Calgary
  42. Medalta42

    Medalta

    Medicine Hat
  43. 43

    Harcourt House Artist Run Centre

    Edmonton
    Harcourt House may refer to:
  44. Canadian Energy Museum44

    Canadian Energy Museum

    Devon
    Leduc No 1, a significant crude oil discovery, was made near Leduc, Alberta, Canada on February 13, 1947. This discovery provided the geological key to Alberta's most prolific conventional oil reserves, leading to a boom in petroleum exploration and development across Western Canada. This historical event marked a turning point in the province's economy and is a key part of the museum's narrative.
  45. 45

    Wetaskiwin & District Heritage Museum

    Wetaskiwin
    The Wetaskiwin and District Heritage Museum is a significant cultural institution in Wetaskiwin, Alberta, Canada. It is dedicated to celebrating and preserving the history, heritage, and culture of the local area. This includes the City of Wetaskiwin, County of Wetaskiwin, and the Maskwacis Cree Four Nations. The museum serves as a vital resource for understanding the rich cultural tapestry of the region.
  46. Canada's Sports Hall of Fame46

    Canada's Sports Hall of Fame

    Calgary
  47. Rutherford House Provincial Historic Site47

    Rutherford House Provincial Historic Site

    Edmonton
  48. Prince of Wales Armouries48

    Prince of Wales Armouries

    Edmonton
  49. Mannville Historical Telephone Exchange49

    Mannville Historical Telephone Exchange

    Mannville
  50. 50

    St. Albert Botanic Park

    St. Albert
  51. Philip J. Currie Dinosaur Museum51

    Philip J. Currie Dinosaur Museum

    Wembley
    The Philip J. Currie Dinosaur Museum is a paleontology museum situated in Wembley, Alberta, Canada. The museum is named after the renowned Canadian paleontologist, Philip J. Currie, and is housed in a 3,800-square-metre-building constructed in 2015. The museum is a testament to the rich history of paleontology in the region and is a significant destination for those interested in the field.
  52. 52

    Fort Heritage Precinct

    Fort Saskatchewan
  53. Galt Museum & Archives53

    Galt Museum & Archives

    Lethbridge
    The Galt Museum & Archives is a significant cultural institution in Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada. It holds the distinction of being the largest museum in the province south of Calgary. This museum is the primary museum in Lethbridge, making it a central hub for cultural and historical exploration in the region.
  54. Remington Carriage Museum54

    Remington Carriage Museum

    Town of Cardston
    The Remington Carriage Museum, situated in Cardston, Alberta, Canada, is a significant attraction for those interested in history and transportation. The museum, which opened its doors in 1993, is the largest of its kind in the world, showcasing more than 240 carriages. It provides a unique opportunity to explore the evolution of transportation and the role of carriages in society.
  55. Cold Lake Museums55

    Cold Lake Museums

    Cold Lake
    Cold Lake is a city situated in the Canadian province of Alberta. It is located on the southern shore of the eponymous Cold Lake, just west of the provincial border with Saskatchewan. This location offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, making it an interesting destination for tourists.
  56. Gopher Hole Museum56

    Gopher Hole Museum

    Torrington
    The Torrington Gopher Hole Museum, also known as the World Famous Gopher Hole Museum, is located in Torrington, Alberta. The museum is unique in its display of 77 stuffed gophers, also known as Richardson's ground squirrels, posed to resemble townspeople. These gophers are showcased in 44 intricately designed dioramas, providing a unique and interesting experience for visitors.
  57. Big Valley Creation Science Museum57

    Big Valley Creation Science Museum

    Big Valley
  58. 58

    Neon Sign Museum

    Edmonton
  59. 59

    John Janzen Nature Centre

    Edmonton
    This nature center is focused on coexistence of nature and urban area. Its interactive expositions are both entertaining and informative, it is suitable even for small kids.
  60. 60

    Firefighters Museum of Calgary

    Calgary
    This museum offering wide exhibition of firefighter equipment with possibility of guided tour is perfect for young kids.
  61. 61

    Saito Centre

    Edmonton
  62. Big Valley Creation Science Museum62

    Big Valley Creation Science Museum

    Big Valley
  63. 63

    John Walter Museum

    Edmonton
    A museum focused on pioneering era of Alberta. It depicts the way of life in the past. You can try it here on your own to really explore it.
  64. 64

    Vegreville Regional Museum

    Vegreville
  65. 65

    Musée Héritage Museum

    St. Albert
  66. 66

    Discovery Wildlife Park

    Innisfail
  67. 67

    Frank Slide Interpretive Centre

    Crowsnest Pass
  68. 68

    Didsbury Museum

    Didsbury
  69. 69

    Onoway Heritage Centre

    Onoway
  70. 70

    Lac Cardinal Pioneer Village Museum

    Grimshaw
    Situated within the Lac Cardinal Recreation Area, the museum offers a comprehensive view of pioneering life. It features various structures such as four homes, a hall, municipal office, school, barn, pole sheds, church, blacksmith shop, railway station, barbershop, general store, and bakery. All these buildings are furnished, providing a realistic depiction of the past.
  71. 71

    Galloway Station Museum and Travel Centre

    Edson
  72. 72

    Westlock Pioneer Museum

    Westlock
  73. 73

    Barrhead Centennial Museum

    Barrhead
  74. 74

    DINOS Centre Inc.

    Innisfail
  75. 75

    Big Valley Historical Society

    Big Valley
  76. 76

    Fort McMurray Heritage Shipyard

    Fort McMurray
  77. 77

    Diplomat Mine Interpretive Site

    Forestburg
  78. 78

    Gem of the West Museum

    Coaldale
  79. 79

    Coaldale Mennonite Church

    Coaldale
  80. 80

    UAlberta Paleontology Museum

    Edmonton
  81. 81

    Kline Fine Jewellery and Design

    Edmonton
  82. 82

    The Legislative Assembly Visitor Centre

    Edmonton
  83. 83

    Beiseker Station Museum

    Beiseker
  84. 84

    Sundre & District Museum

    Sundre
  85. 85

    Innisfail and District Historical Village

    Innisfail
  86. 86

    Red Deer Museum and Art Gallery

    Red Deer
  87. 87

    Alberta Sports Hall of Fame

    Red Deer
  88. 88

    Carstairs Heritage Centre

    Carstairs
  89. 89

    Vermilion Heritage Museum

    Vermilion
  90. 90

    Kneehill Historical Museum

    Three Hills
  91. 91

    Lacombe Museum & Archives

    Lacombe
  92. 92

    Musee St.Paul Museum

    St. Paul
  93. 93

    Strathcona County Museum & Archives

    Sherwood Park
  94. 94

    Kerry Wood Nature Centre

    Red Deer
  95. 95

    Raymond Pioneer Museum

    Raymond
  96. 96

    Stettler Town & Country Museum

    Stettler
  97. 97

    Mountain View Museum And Archives

    Olds
  98. 98

    Grande Prairie Museum

    Grande Prairie
  99. 99

    Vulcan Tourism & Trek Station

    Vulcan
  100. 100

    Stony Plain and Parkland Pioneer Museum

    Stony Plain

All museums in Alberta