Three days in the Edmonton-Jasper region filled with Indigenous perspectives
Long before it was the festival and political capital of the province of Alberta, the area of amiskwaciy-wâskahikan, also known as the city of Edmonton, was a traditional gathering place for many nations. It remains that way today, both as a vibrant, modern metropolis and as a place of cultural…
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The ultimate Indigenous experience itinerary for the best 4-day trip to Calgary and Banff
A trip to Alberta’s biggest city isn’t complete without taking in some of the diverse Indigenous cultures of Treaty 7 territory, which includes the the Siksika (Blackfoot), Kainai (Blood), Piikani (Peigan), Stoney-Nakoda, and Tsuut’ina (Sarcee), as well as the people of Metis region 3. Check out this four-day itinerary that…
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Four Can’t-Miss Indigenous Holiday Shopping Markets in Alberta in 2021
Indigenous entrepreneurs offer holiday cheer and authentic, locally-made gifts and crafts. Debbie Olsen It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas and that means holiday shopping. Everyone knows that the best gifts usually don’t come from a shopping mall. Handcrafted gifts always trump items bought at a…
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Alberta Indigenous Tourism Summit 2021
Join us to learn, grow and share at the 3rd annual Indigenous Tourism Alberta Summit, a two-day gathering of over 300 Indigenous tourism operators and supporters sharing opportunities to build, grow and succeed as Indigenous businesses. Indigenous Tourism Alberta has organized a two-days of speakers, panels, and group discussions to…
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Painted Warriors opens up a world of healing through a simple walk in the woods
Medicine walks highlight Indigenous knowledge of the land, while an archery class can be a lesson in fun and humility Michael Hingston If anyone knows how to do that, it’s her. A renowned hunter and archer who once represented Canada at the world archery championships, Klettl shows us…
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Guide’s gift of gab brings Jasper’s nature, culture and wildlife to vivid life
Jasper Tour Company’s famously loquacious Joe Urie shares Metis culture and endless knowledge of Jasper National Park’s plants and animals Michael Hingston Joe Urie loves to talk. Luckily, as one of the owners of Jasper Tour Company (along with his wife, Patti), Urie has no shortage of…
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Guide’s knowledge gives depth and meaning to gorgeous Rocky Mountain landscapes
Mahikan Trails shares traditional knowledge of the land, nature and culture in stunning locations near Banff and Canmore Michael Hingston “Does anyone know what this is?” Jordan Ede looks around our group for an answer, though I suspect he knows he isn’t going to get one. We’re standing…
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Metis Crossing delivers warmth and wisdom alongside its cultural teachings
Unique year-round cultural centre on historic site in Alberta celebrates unique culture borne of Indigenous and European backgrounds Michael Hingston When I step inside the front door of the Métis Crossing Cultural Centre, the first thing I see—and smell—is a roaring fire inside a tall, traditional…
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Truth and Reconciliation Day – September 30
*Trigger Warning – Residential Schools* Truth and Reconciliation day is this September 30th. This day has been legislated as a federal statutory holiday and is a call for reflection and action for all Canadians. September 30 is also known as Orange Shirt Day- a day created after…
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Take a Fall Indigenous Road Trip – It’s Good for Your Soul!
Road trips are good for the soul – especially when they’re the kind that allows you to explore other cultures and gain new perspectives. You don’t have to go far in Alberta to experience another culture and that makes it the ideal destination for this kind of trip. There are…
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Get to know our members: IAM Collective
Every once in a while we like to showcase our members individually and highlight who they are and what they are doing. This month we’re featuring Indigenous Artist Market Collective (IAM Collective). IAM Collective, based out of the Edmonton Downtown Farmers Market, is a grassroots arts collective composed…
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Honoring National Indigenous Peoples Day 2021
In honor of National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21, 2021, Indigenous Tourism Alberta (ITA) members offer a way to connect while also supporting Indigenous tourism across the province. Now, more than ever, as we look to re-educate ourselves on the true history of Canada, we have a meaningful opportunity…
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Experience Indigenous Tourism in Alberta
Find rich Indigenous culture throughout Alberta’s diverse landscapes. Discover howAlberta’s First Nations and Métis people maintain a unique balance of authentictraditional culture in today’s contemporary world. Whether it’s in a modern city, onthe prairies or in the wild Rockies, across the central heartland, or out in the Northwilderness,…
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Summer outdoor adventures in Alberta
This summer get out and explore this province and the land that we call home. Indigenous Tourism Alberta’s members are excited to welcome you and offer a variety of outdoor adventures for many interests. Below is an introduction to five of those members. From mountain climbing to fishing, hiking, horseback…
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Have an Adventure with these Indigenous Tours and Experiences
After more than a year of pandemic life, we’re all a little antsy to escape from home and try something new. Last month we introduced you to how you can get closer to nature this summer with a camping trip across Alberta. This month we’re going to tell…
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Get closer to nature this summer with a camping trip across Alberta
If you’re looking to get out camping this year, Alberta is home to some of the most beautiful places, not only in Canada but in the world. From towering mountain landscapes to boreal forests, to prairie land, badlands, or waterfront views, Alberta has amazing places to pitch your tent…
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Indigenous Tourism Alberta members pivot businesses to find success in the wake of COVID-19
2020 presented challenges for many businesses across many industries and Indigenous tourism was no different. With the necessary travel restrictions put in place, many of our operators saw a decline in visitors and an associated decline in revenue. But with great challenges, also come great opportunities and many of our…
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Explore Northern Alberta with Janvier Gallery and Waterfront Harbour B&B
Located just 3 hours northeast of Edmonton, the City of Cold Lake offers pristine waters, rugged wilderness, and a variety of unique shops and amenities. Featuring Aspen Parkland and Boreal mixed-wood forests, Cold Lake is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of big city living and gives you the…
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Discovering the Hidden History of the Drumheller Valley with Wild West Badlands Tours
I’m sitting in the back of a gigantic wagon surrounded by a herd of bison. An enormous bull is making scary grunting sounds to deter younger males from getting close to females in the herd. Several cows and calves are milling about and another large bull is rolling in the…
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Experience Championship Golf In The Beautiful Foothills of Tsuu T’ina Nation at Redwood Meadows Golf and Country Club
Redwood Meadows Golf and Country Club is a golfers paradise. A genuine challenge of championship-calibre, where birds and wildlife play spectator as you make your way through eighteen distinctive holes that showcase the beauty of the area while still retaining a collective continuity from the first tee to the…
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Explore the history and 512 acres of pristine nature at Métis Crossing
As the Province starts to re-open after COVID-19, Métis Crossing – located near Smoky Lake, Alberta – is set to open its doors on July 2 for the 2020 season. Métis Crossing was built for the promotion and preservation of the Métis Nation Peoples’ language, culture and traditions and is…
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Supporting Indigenous artists across Alberta
Whether you’re looking to support local Indigenous businesses, or looking for unique souvenirs, art and gifts in Alberta, there are plenty of artisans and businesses across the province selling their items. Below are Indigenous Tourism Alberta members selling authentic Indigenous items. Whether you shop online, or in-store each of these…
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Top ways to celebrate Indigenous People’s Day in Alberta
June 21 is National Indigenous People’s Day. This is a day for all Canadians to come together and celebrate and recognize the unique heritage, diverse cultures and outstanding contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. This year, more than ever, National Indigenous People’s Day is an important opportunity for…
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