The big city is great, but sometimes you just want to wind down, read a book and enjoy the quiet of a laid-back town. Luckily, from Banff to Sylvan Lake, Wild Rose Country has several charming spots to explore throughout the year. One that you have to add to your day-trip hit list? Fort Macleod, Alberta – a favourite among Hollywood bigwigs.

According to the community, while it’s always been known and inhabited by the Blackfoot people, Fort Macleod was incorporated as a town in 1892.

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Located approximately 2 hours from Calgary, the southern town has since grown immensely and is heavily photographed thanks to its beautiful brick and sandstone buildings.

In fact, because so many are still standing today, Fort Macleod’s Main Street is one of two provincial historic areas designated by the Province.

As mentioned, it’s not just locals and the government who recognize this place as being extra special, filmmakers have also taken notice!

Not only was it featured in 19 films and TV shows such as Brokeback Mountain, Interstellar and Let Him Go, but it was also seen by audiences all over the globe in Ghostbusters: Afterlife and, more recently, The Last of Us.

As for what else you can enjoy while there? Well, in addition to iconic businesses like the Empress Theatre, visitors can also admire the Oldman River Valley Wilderness Park, a popular place for fishing, floating and kayaking.

Consider yourself a history buff? Wander over to the Fort Macleod houses which were built in 1884 OR visit nearby destinations like Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, Waterton, Writing-On-Stone National Park and Lundbreck Falls.

It really is a beautiful place for a seasonal day trip or a walk down memory lane, so check it out! Heck, you never know who you’ll see in the area! Maybe Paul Rudd or
Matthew McConaughey will pop back over.

Fort Macleod, Alberta 

Where: Directions here

Curiocity Staff

With a curated slate of what matters in your city, Curiocity presents you with the most relevant local food, experiences, news, deals, and adventures. We help you get the most out of your city and focus on the easy-to-miss details so that you’re always in the know.
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