A hotel that once stood in Wainwright, Alta., and burned down in 1926 has a replica situated in Calgary’s Heritage Park.
Back in 1908, it was a place that lodged settlers, farmers, doctors, and theatre troupes travelling through east-central Alberta.
Today, a replica of the hotel built in 1968 is permanently stationed at Heritage Park, based on photographs and personal recollections of the Forster family.
You can have a Thanksgiving dinner of your own at the hotel’s replica, a feast that’s fit for a Prairie pilgrim.
What to expect
At the Wainwright Hotel in Heritage Park, wood-panelled walls, vintage furniture, and taxidermy animal heads make for some fascinating old-school decor.
Although the historic hotel was destroyed by fire in 1929, Heritage Park gave it a second life in 1968 when it created an on-site replica of the hotel, complete with historically accurate furnishings.
This Oct. 11-13 weekend, you can enjoy a Thanksgiving dinner feast at the hotel, courtesy of Heritage Park’s on-location dining team.
On the menu
Traditional turkey stuffed with apricot, sage, and all the fixins will be included on the three-course and four-course holiday menus.
Diners are served on a first-come, first-served basis between Oct. 11 and 13, giving you and your family more than a few flexible options between 11 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.
The table will be set at the Wainwright, a hotel replica with a beautiful entrance, an authentic saloon, and an elegant dining room.
If you’d rather fancy dinner at Heritage Park’s farm-to-table restaurant, The Selkirk, you can book on Sunday or Monday night, with reservations from 5 to 9 p.m. The Selkirk is known for its approachable menu, relaxing atmosphere, and nostalgic charm.
Booking a Thanksgiving feast and celebrating our Alberta heritage are a match made in heaven. You can make Heritage Park a part of your plans this year to celebrate the best of the annual holiday while skipping the dishes.
If dining in a historic hotel replica is something you’re excited about adding to your to-do list, we’ll see you there!
When: Oct. 11 to Oct. 13, 2025
Time: 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Where: Heritage Park — 1900 Heritage Dr. SW
Cost: Varies by menu
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