Drumheller: Dinosaurs, Museum, & Hoodoos Day Tour

Planning a day trip from Calgary that combines natural beauty, prehistoric wonders, and a touch of retail therapy? This Drumheller tour promises just that—roughly ten hours packed with sights that appeal to history buffs, nature lovers, and shoppers alike. It’s a well-rounded experience that takes you deep into Alberta’s striking badlands, home to towering hoodoo formations, dinosaur fossils, and some of the most captivating landscapes in Canada.

Two aspects we really appreciate are the expert guide efforts to bring the scenery and history to life and the stunning vistas that make the journey visually rewarding. However, a possible consideration is the long day of travel and sightseeing, which might be tiring if you prefer more relaxed, slower-paced excursions. This tour fits best for active travelers, families with kids interested in dinosaurs, or anyone eager to see the iconic badlands and learn about their ancient past in a single day.

Key Points

• Full-day experience blending nature, history, and shopping in Alberta’s Badlands.
• Highlights include the Royal Tyrrell Museum and the hoodoo formations.
• Two hours of shopping at CrossIron Mills Outlet provide variety and value.
• Scenic views and photo opportunities abound along the route.
• Guides receive generally positive reviews for enthusiasm and knowledge.
• Be prepared for a long but rewarding day with a mix of walking, driving, and sightseeing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

This tour kicks off early in the morning, with departure options from Calgary’s Best Western Premier Calgary Plaza Hotel or a designated meeting point nearby. The drive eastward through the prairies quickly transports you into the otherworldly landscape of the Alberta Badlands. As you get closer to Drumheller, you’ll notice the red and white layered rock formations and weathered canyons that seem to have been sculpted by a giant artist.

The Royal Tyrrell Museum: A Dinosaur Lover’s Paradise

The highlight for many is the Royal Tyrrell Museum, home to Canada’s largest collection of dinosaur fossils. With about 2 hours allocated here, you’ll have ample time to explore the exhibits that bring these prehistoric giants to life. Although admission isn’t included, the museum’s well-curated displays are considered a major draw, and visitors often comment on the enthusiastic guides and interesting exhibits. One reviewer mentioned, “We loved the way the museum made the dinosaurs feel real,” which underscores its engaging presentation.

The lunch stop here is brief—around 30 minutes—so you might want to bring snacks or plan for a quick bite if you’re hungry. The museum’s gift shop also offers opportunities to pick up memorable souvenirs.

Passing by the World’s Largest Dinosaur Model

On the way, there’s a chance to see the World’s Largest Dinosaur Model from the bus. It’s a fun photo opportunity—though it’s a pass-by rather than a stop—and it emphasizes how Drumheller embraces its dinosaur fame.

Hoodoo Trail and the Iconic Hoodoos

Next, the tour visits the Hoodoo Trail, where you’ll get to walk among the famous mushroom-shaped rock pillars that have been carved by wind and erosion over thousands of years. These natural sculptures are a stellar example of how nature creates surreal landscapes. With around 30 minutes here, you can take photos and absorb the hypnotic views. Several travelers have praised this stop as “amazing,” appreciating the extraordinary formations and the opportunity to reflect on the power of natural erosion.

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Free Time and Shopping at CrossIron Mills

Following the outdoor adventures, the group enjoys about two hours at CrossIron Mills, Alberta’s largest outlet mall. While some reviews critique the lengthy shopping stop—“I found the stop at Cross-Iron Mill was too long”—others see it as a chance for a leisurely browse or a quick snack. The outlet features well-known brands, making it a practical stop for those looking to pick up gifts or essentials.

Additional Hoodoo Viewing and Scenic Stops

Returning to the hoodoos area, another 30-minute stop allows for more photos, sightseeing, and perhaps a short walk. The landscape’s dramatic contours offer fantastic vistas that you won’t tire of photographing.

What’s It Like on the Ground?

The tour is operated by Westar Travel, utilizing comfortable buses that can accommodate small to medium-sized groups—perfect for maintaining a friendly, personable atmosphere. The itinerary is tightly scheduled but offers some flexibility, especially at the shopping stop and lunch. The driving portions are generally around 25 to 85 minutes, so expect a fair amount of time in transit, but with scenic views along the way.

Guides and Commentary

Reviews highlight the enthusiasm of guides like Yongbin and Amber, who are praised for their friendliness and knowledge. One reviewer noted, “Yongbin was an excellent guide,” while another felt the script could be improved. It’s clear that guides make a difference: engaging, informative commentary enhances the experience, especially at the museum and natural sights.

Price and Value

While the tour price doesn’t include museum admission, the value lies in the comprehensive experience—a full day packed with highlights that would be hard to see on your own in such a short time. The combination of nature, history, and shopping offers diverse experiences for a reasonable cost, especially given the convenience of a guided tour.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Insights

Multiple reviews praise the stunning views and knowledgeable guides. One traveler from Australia wrote, “Amber was an excellent guide and the Tyrell museum is very well curated,” emphasizing the educational quality. Others appreciated the flexibility, with free time incorporated into the schedule, even if some wished for more time at the museum or less time at the shopping outlet.

A few comments reflect on the long day—“It was a good day but tiring”—but most agree that the variety and quality of stops make it worthwhile. The landscape itself, with its red canyons, hoodoos, and prehistoric fossils, remains a major highlight, photogenic and awe-inspiring.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a rundown of Drumheller’s highlights in one day. If you’re interested in dinosaurs, natural rock formations, or unique landscapes, you’ll find plenty to love. It’s ideal for families, history buffs, or those wanting an active day trip with minimal planning. Keep in mind, it’s a long day—so if you prefer a more relaxed pace or fewer bus hours, you might want to explore alternative options.

The Drumheller: Dinosaurs, Museum, & Hoodoos Day Tour offers a balanced blend of educational and scenic highlights, wrapped in a comfortable, guided format. The stunning badlands scenery combined with the chance to see significant dinosaur fossils makes it a standout experience for anyone interested in Alberta’s natural and prehistoric past.

While some might find the schedule a bit packed or the shopping stop a little lengthy, the overall value remains high when you consider the unique landscapes and landmarks on display. The enthusiasm of guides and the variety of stops ensure that you’ll come away with memorable photos, interesting facts, and a deeper appreciation for this extraordinary part of Canada.

Whether you’re a family with kids fascinated by dinosaurs or a solo traveler eager for a taste of Alberta’s wild landscape, this tour provides a well-organized, enriching day out. Just bring your camera, comfortable shoes, and a sense of adventure—you’ll leave with plenty of stories to tell.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes comfortable bus or coach transportation from Calgary, with pickup options available.

How long is the total tour?
It lasts approximately 10 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, and shopping.

Are meals included?
Lunch is not included in the tour price, but there is a designated stop at the museum with a 30-minute lunch break.

What attractions are visited?
You’ll visit the Royal Tyrrell Museum, see the World’s Largest Dinosaur Model from the bus, explore the Hoodoos Trail, and enjoy shopping at CrossIron Mills.

Is the museum admission included?
No, museum tickets are purchased separately, but the entry is a major part of the tour.

What is the guide’s role?
Guides are praised for their enthusiasm and knowledge, helping to make the experience more engaging and informative.

Can I customize my experience?
This is a guided group tour, so flexibility is limited. However, there is some free time at shopping and sightseeing stops.

Is this tour suitable for kids?
Yes, especially for those interested in dinosaurs and outdoor scenery, but be prepared for a full day of activity.

To sum it up, this tour offers a well-rounded, value-packed day exploring some of Alberta’s most iconic sights. It’s perfect for those who thrive on engaging guides, striking landscapes, and a mix of learning and leisure. Just pack your curiosity and a camera—you’re likely to come away with plenty of stories and photos to cherish.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby