These historical sites and museums are FREE to visit in Alberta
The snow has melted and the air is fresh. Spring has finally sprung, and there’s plenty to see and do, but what if you’re trying to save some money?
Whether you’re enamoured by artifacts or want to walk through some ruins, Alberta has a ton of museums and historical sites that are free to visit.
Want to check them out? Here are just a few that you can experience without reaching for your wallet.
Edmonton Radial Railway Museum
Love planes, trains, and automobiles? With photos from days gone by, Edmonton’s original streetcar system and others from around the world, the Radial Railway Museum is incredibly unique. The best part? It’s also free.
Where: 8408 Gateway Blvd. NW, Edmonton, Alta.
The Curbside Museum
The Alberta Curbside Museum in Canmore is one of the smallest, most unique museums on this list. From mermen to sticks with holes, these bite-sized exhibits will certainly leave an impression. Oh, did we mention it’s located in someone’s fence?
Where: Railway Avenue at Pinewood Crescent, in Canmore, Alta.
Leitch Collieries
Up for a little road trip? The Leitch Collieries historic site tells the story of the only Canadian-owned and operated coal mine in the area through photographs, storyboards, and listening posts. Pack some road snacks, wear comfortable shoes, and then head to Crowsnest Pass.
Where: Off Highway 3 in the Municipality of Crowsnest Pass, Alta.
The Brooks Aqueduct
The Brooks Aqueduct is large and in charge. In fact, it was the largest concrete structure in the world when it was built over a century ago. It’s no longer used by the province of Alberta, but it’s still impressive and won’t cost you a dime to visit.
Where: Directions
The Esker Foundation
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Located in Calgary, the Esker Foundation showcases local artists and unique pieces. Here, you never really know what you’re going to see or who you’re going to meet. Check it out!
Where: 444, 1011 – 9th Ave. SE, Calgary, Alta.
UAlberta Paleontology Museum
Who doesn’t love dinosaurs and cool-looking rocks? With the third-largest meteorite collection in Canada and 10,000 specimens of invertebrates, the University of Alberta Paleontology Museum is a must-visit in Alberta.
Where: 1-26 Earth Sciences Building, Edmonton, Alta.
The Loyal Edmonton Regiment Military Museum
If, of course, you’re in Edmonton, you can also hit the Loyal Edmonton Regiment Military Museum, which features an impressive collection of artifacts and archival holdings from as late as the nineteenth century. It’s free and ever-expanding!
Where: 10440 – 108 Ave., Edmonton, Alta.
The Prince of Wales Armouries
There’s certainly no shortage of military museums! Located in Edmonton, the Prince of Wales Armoury is home to an exciting military exhibit and the City of Edmonton’s Archives. It also hosts trade shows, weddings, family gatherings, and corporate retreats, which is pretty cool.
Where: 10440-108 Ave., Edmonton, Alta.
The Neon Sign Museum
Wear comfortable shoes and grab a coffee! Edmonton’s Neon Sign Museum is entirely outdoors but features incredibly bright historic pieces. You’ll definitely want your camera for this particular stroll!
Where: Mercer Warehouse, South Wall, Edmonton, Alta.
The New Gallery
Want to support local Calgary artists? The New Gallery was established in 1975 and features some incredible collections. To see what’s new and coming soon, head to their website.
Where: 208 Centre St. S., Calgary
Want to check it out? Which free-to-visit museum will you visit in Alberta first? Let us know and enjoy.
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