This small Alberta town is home to working steam trains and decades of history

Stettler is just south of Red Deer, and it holds some of the most unique experiences in Alberta.

From shopping and sports to restaurants and adventure, there’s no shortage of exciting things to do while in the area, especially when summer rolls around. Although you may overlook this town, there’s so much to uncover.

There are ghost stories, legends, and history just lurking around every corner.

What to do in Settler, Alberta

There are a couple of cool things that happen throughout the year in the town. StettlerFest is just one of them.

Set in the heart of Historic Main Street, this signature event focuses on transforming Stettler into a lively celebration of music, food, and community spirit. This year will be their third year running, so don’t miss what they have in store this August.

One of the highlight events that caught my eye has to be the paranormal experience being held at the Stettler Museum. For $50, you can take part in this team’s authentic paranormal investigation in one of the town’s most historic spots. Plan accordingly, though, as this event is happening this weekend!

Settler and the Alberta Prairie Railway

The Alberta Prairie Railway is also one of the big reasons people come out to Stettler. You can hop aboard one of these locomotives from the 1920s and see what the ride has to offer.

According to the Alberta Prairie Railway, these excursions take you through Alberta’s prairie landscapes on trips lasting anywhere from three to six hours. Throughout the season, you can choose from a variety of excursions, including family adventures, adult-only trips, murder mystery experiences, and even the beloved Polar Express during the holiday season.

Don’t miss one of the biggest highlights: the robbery featuring the infamous Reynolds Raiders. A group of staged outlaws will dramatically stop the train mid-journey to put on a “train robbery.” It’s an incredibly cool experience for adults and kids alike.

In terms of cost, fares vary by excursion. They range from around $70 to $190, depending on the experience. Some options include full meals, while others are shorter sightseeing-style trips, so you can choose based on how much time you want to spend on board.

Honestly, even though it’s a small town, Stettler has so much to offer. You won’t want to drive past this place on your next road trip; it’ll be a stop on its own.

Where: Directions

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Alyssa Gallardo

Alyssa is a Staff Writer for Dished and Curiocity Edmonton. She’s a big fan of everything entertainment, and can always be seen running around the city going from concert to concert.

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