Alberta has changed a lot over the last century, but some of its most fascinating places have managed to stick around. Scattered across the province are historic spots that are more than 100 years old and still open for visitors to experience today.
So if you’re looking for a new way to explore the province, these century-old spots are worth adding to your next Alberta adventure.
Established in 1882, Bar U Ranch played a pivotal role in shaping Alberta’s ranching history. It was once known as one of Canada’s largest and most successful ranches, and the site now gives visitors a chance to step into the past and experience what life was like on an early Alberta ranch.
You can wander through historic buildings, see the tools and equipment once used by ranchers, and learn about the people who helped shape Alberta’s history.
When: Open for the season until Sept. 30, 2026
Time: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Township Road 17B and Township Road 17A, Longview, Alta.
Cost: Free with Canada Strong Pass
Perched above the shores of the Waterton Lakes, the Prince of Wales Hotel is one of Alberta’s most recognizable historic landmarks. The castle-like hotel was built in 1927 as a way to attract travellers to the newly established national park and became known for its stunning views and chalet-style interiors.
Today, you can step inside the hotel, enjoy an afternoon tea overlooking the lake, and even stay overnight and experience the charm of the historic property for yourself.
When: Open Monday, May 11 to Monday, Oct. 5, 2026
Time: Open 24 hours
Where: AB-5 Waterton Park, Alta.
Cost: Free to walk in; stays start at $231 per night
Before Calgary became the bustling city it is today, the Lougheed House was a place where some of Alberta’s most important conversations took place. The sandstone mansion was originally built in 1891 by Sir James Alexander and Lady Isabella Lougheed, who were influential figures in the province’s early political and social circles.
Now, the historic property offers a chance to step inside its beautifully preserved rooms and learn more about the family who lived there.
When: Open Thursday to Sunday
Time: 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: 707 13th Ave. SW, Calgary, Alta.
Cost: Starting at $6.50
While many historic theatres have disappeared over the years, the Monarch Theatre is still lighting up its screen in downtown Medicine Hat.
The theatre originally opened in 1911, and after welcoming generations of moviegoers, it eventually faced the same challenges as many older theatres when multiplex cinemas became more popular.
After closing its doors in 2007, the future of the building was uncertain, but a group of passionate community members stepped in to save it. Through restoration efforts and support from the City of Medicine Hat, The Monarch was brought back to life and continues to welcome visitors today.
When: Open Monday to Sunday
Time: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: 602 2nd St. SE, Medicine Hat, Alta.
Cost: $5
As Alberta’s first premier, Alexander Cameron Rutherford played an important role in shaping the province during its early years. His Edmonton home, now known as the Rutherford House Provincial Historic Site, was built in 1911 and has been preserved to give visitors a look back at this important period of time.
You can now step inside this Edwardian-style home, explore the rooms where the Rutherford family lived, and learn more about what Edmonton was like during the early 1900s.
When: Open Wednesday to Sunday
Time: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: 11153 Saskatchewan Dr. NW, Edmonton, Alta.
Cost: Starting at $5
So the next time you’re passing through one of these Alberta communities, it might be worth taking a look at what’s been there all along.
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Kaiya Williams
Kaiya is a Calgary-based writer and content creator with a background in marketing and digital storytelling. She has a passion for community-driven stories and covering local experiences that connect people.
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