An average of 330 days of sunshine, 150-plus kilometres of trails, beautiful parks and a long golf season make Medicine Hat a great place to live
Medicine Hat’s Historic Downtown architecture was primarily influenced by the arrival of the Canadian Pacific Railway in 1883 and subsequent clay and natural gas discoveries.
Today, Medicine Hat’s Historic Downtown is home to a revived culture of creativity anchored by Medalta’s contemporary ceramic arts center, the Esplanade, and numerous studios and arts organizations in the downtown core.As for downtown itself, many of those early rail-inspired brick buildings are still standing and occupied by independent retailers, coffee shops, studios, and breweries who have encouraged a new generation of creative expression.
Many downtown business owners have invited local and international graffiti and mural artists to turn the exterior sides of their buildings into public artworks. The result is a bright collection of murals that express our local identity and culture.
Imagine a place where you can breathe in traces of our industrial heritage, learn through hands-on activities, be inspired by artistic expression, and experience the heart of community in Medicine Hat.Medalta in the Historic Clay District is that place.
Medalta is a National Historic Site that has been converted into an industrial heritage museum. Far from a static museum, Medalta is a dynamic space that activates community and inspires change. Their entire campus is the result of a dedicated restoration effort supported by the local community and all three levels of government. The result is a stunning context for dynamic experiences.
Medalta is a venue for community economic development, educational programming, artistic expression and practice, and heritage preservation.
Looking to get outside? Over 150 kilometers of paved trails weave along creeks, coulees, and the South Saskatchewan river. Professionally cut, well-maintained mountain bike trails will get you up close and personal with the area’s badlands geography.
The city’s recently-completed Big Marble Go Centre features a 17,000 square foot fitness centre, a gymnasium with two full-sized double basketball courts, a field house with two soccer fields, an outdoor football field, a skating rink, lane swimming and wave pool. Elsewhere, Badlands View offers a 40 foot tall rock-climbing
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Medicine Hat has a long history in arts and culture that continues into the modern day.
What: This site features information on the types of programs available at Medalta, admission fees, tours, exhibitions, venue rentals, gift shop, how to donate or volunteer, and so much more.
Why: Medalta is a National Historic Site that has been converted into an industrial heritage museum. Located within a converted century-old factory, it has become an exciting place where cutting edge technologies meet historic restoration and archaeology come together.
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What: This website is hosted by the City Centre Development Agency (CCDA) and features a directory of downtown businesses, incentives, maps, news and contact information.
Why: From business to pleasure our downtown has it covered! Historic Downtown features many early rail-inspired brick buildings are still standing and are occupied by cool independent retailers, coffee shops, studios, and breweries who have encouraged even more creative expression.
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What: These websites tell the story of how Medicine Hat got the world’s largest tepee and the significance of its’ tribute. You can also find out what the tepee is made of, how big it measures and how many bolts are holding it together.
Why: Medicine Hat’s most visible landmark is the Saamis Tepee! Originally constructed for the Calgary 1988 Winter Olympics, the Saamis Tepee is a tribute to Canada’s native heritage. Within the circle of the Tepee, 10 illustrated storyboards are visible. These boards were all hand-painted and represent a variety of influences and history of First Nations heritage.
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What: This site features a schedule of events, how to get tickets, sponsorship and contact information.
Why: There are many aspects to the Medicine Hat JazzFest, from concerts on the sidewalk downtown, to the top of a parkade, to the beautiful Esplanade Theatre, to intimate clubs. JazzFest puts you feet away from the performers in venues within walking distance of each other, with plenty of close parking and a city full of friendly people.
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What: This site features a schedule of events, how to get tickets, and contact information.
Why: Tongue On The Post Festival (TOP Fest) is Alberta’s first winter folk music festival! This annual festival features over 40 shows at Medalta Potteries and throughout the city at various coffee shops, pubs and bistros. It is the place to be each winter to enjoy folk music all around Medicine Hat!
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What: This site features information on the art gallery, museum, theatre, archives and different education opportunities. You can also find information about upcoming events, facility rentals and contact information.
Why: The Esplanade is where arts and heritage come to life in Medicine Hat, where the stories of our great collective culture are told through music and dance, theatre, painting and sculpture, exhibitions and installations, artefacts, objects d’art and more. It is home to more than 25,000 artifacts which chronicle the lives, and values, of the people who built and shaped the community.
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What: This site provides information on upcoming events, how to purchase tickets, venue information (including parking and venue maps), premium seating (including suites, and loge boxes) and contact information.
Why: Co-op Place is Medicine Hat’s premier entertainment venue and has become a hot spot for entertainment and events in Medicine Hat. If you love live music – this 7,000-seat award-winning centre should be at the top of your list of things to do in the Hat.
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What: This site provides a link to purchase a day pass for the trolley, in addition to the schedule, rental and contact information.
Why: What’s the best way to view a city? Hop on-board Medicine Hat’s Sunshine Trolley and explore Canada’s sunniest city’s culture. Experience the vibrant, feel-good atmosphere of Medicine Hat and enjoy your trip in the most flexible and stress-free way possible!
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What: It all began with our love of coffee but soon we had the formation of three award-winning micro-breweries, a modern distillery with their uniquely crafted flavours and most recently a shop that produces fresh-brewed Kombucha on tap!
Why: For locals and visitors, there is something for everyone. Whether it's a patio beer or locally-made kombucha, there is always a place to grab a cold drink.
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What: Medicine Hat is a coffee lover's dream. The city boasts a number of locally-owned cafes and coffee shops.
Why: Even if coffee isn't your thing, many of the cafes offer freshly-baked sweets, sandwiches and soups.
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What: Looking for a great place to eat? The city has got you covered. Our ever-growing food scene is full of great options.
Why: Medicine Hat is a hub of culinary experiences, displaying a well-established, active cultural in all its variety. Whether it's our downtown coffee shops or our incredible locally sourced cuisine there is something to satisfy all palates.
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What: Savour the Southeast is a full-week celebration, that will be returning this year.
Why: Savour the Southeast is a yearly celebration of all the incredible local producers and local restaurants in Southeastern Alberta. During the week of Savour the Southeast restaurants and producers come together to showcase local dishes that we, the consumers, get to enjoy!
Follow Tourism Medicine Hat on Facebook for updates on this year's Savour the Southeast.
What: This link features information on upcoming events, recipes cards from previous events, tips during the weekend and exactly what you can expect while attending a Sunshine Skillet Culinary Festival.
Why: The Sunshine Skillet Culinary Festival is an event based on the top food producers, chefs, restaurants, and breweries. It is a magical night with an atmosphere and flavours like no other! It's an event not to miss!
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Southeast Alberta Move for Another world at your doorstep.
What: This link provides the various parks and outdoor activities that are located within Medicine Hat.
Why: In one word, Medicine Hat is sunshine. The city boasts more days of sunshine per year (330!) than any other city in Canada. We have hot summer nights and chinook-cheered winter days. Our parks and outdoor activities provide a natural backdrop that will make you want to be outside as much as possible.
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What: This link provides various ways to access the 150+km trail system located in Medicine Hat including a printable PDF and interactive iMap. During the winter months, there is information regarding snow removal on the trails.
Why: With over 150km+ of trails we are a city that enjoys getting outside for a bike ride or walk on the trails. The Heritage Trail Network links nine major parks and numerous green spaces throughout the city and provides a natural backdrop with views of the river, coulees, parks and so much more. It is not uncommon to see wildlife while using the trails making the scenery even more special.
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What: This link provides a list and description of all of the major parks in Medicine Hat. Clicking on the link of a specific park will take you to a dedicated page with pictures and maps of the area.
Why: Medicine Hat has six major parks located throughout the city that provide several different outdoor activities for all ages. These parks include access to the South Saskatchewan River, natural reserve, bandshells, playgrounds, and many other outdoor activities such as toboggan hills, beach volleyball courts and baseball diamonds.
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What: This link provides information on activities that you can do in and along the South Saskatchewan River. It also provides a link to the City of Medicine Hat River Safety Page, a site dedicated on how to use the river safely.
Why: The South Saskatchewan River is a beautiful river that visitors and locals alike enjoy in many different ways. You can explore the river from the banks by bike, or walking on the many trails that showcase breathtaking views.
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What: This link features the hours of operations for Echo Dale in addition to an aerial map, day use area, camping, swim lake, boat hut, directions to the park and information regarding the Farm Tours available during the summer months.
Why: Echo Dale Regional Park is located a short distance west of Medicine Hat along the South Saskatchewan River and has become an oasis for both locals and visitors. This park has different activities for all ages including swimming, fishing, volleyball, fire pits and many kilometers of trails.
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What: This link provides everything you need to know about the Medicine Hat Exhibition & Stampede, including schedules and the ability to purchase tickets online.
Why: The Medicine Hat Exhibition and Stampede offers up-close experiences all week long. There are many different activities to attend at the Stampede including the rodeo, night shows, midway, horse show, trade show, and parade.
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What: This site provides information on the different classes, membership, rules, standings, sponsors, venue and contact information.
Why: The Speedway invites you to join in the thrills, spills and action on Southern Alberta’s only paved oval. Unlike any other race venue, you can be close enough to the action to experience first hand the sights, smells and adrenaline rush so often reserved for the competitors themselves.
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What: This link provides the schedule of events, information on the association, standings and contact information.
Why: The Drag Racing facility in Medicine Hat is Southern Alberta’s only NHRA sanctioned 1/4 mile drag strip. See world class & fan favorite jet cars, local bracket classes, the Jr. Dragster program and Fun Street Nights.
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What: This link has the address, photos of the park and link to the Skateboard Association.
Why: The Inland Skateboard Park is located near Kin Coulee Park and is open to all ages. This park is great for skateboards, BMX bikes, scooters and so much more. Make sure you take your helmet and join the many others who enjoy this great facility throughout the summer months!
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What: This site has information regarding the BMX Club, upcoming events, race results, registration and contact information.
Why: The BMX Track located near the Family Leisure Centre provides experience and opportunities for all ages. This track is secured and professionally maintained by the clubs’ volunteers. BMX Racing is an extreme sport that can be enjoyed by the whole family.
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What: This site provides rules and guidelines for the track, membership and day waivers, sponsorship and contact information.
Why: The Motocross Track is located in the north end of Medicine Hat and features a main track, kid’s track and ATV/UTV track. It is an inclusive, family-friendly facility that welcomes riders of all skill levels.
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What: This link provides a list of the golf courses located within Medicine Hat including their address, contact number and website.
Why: Whether you’re looking to sharpen your game or just get in a few relaxing swings, Medicine Hat has everything a golfer could desire — challenging courses, well-maintained greens and beautiful coulees and natural rivers make for stunningly beautiful views.
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What: This site provides the hours of operation, fee and passholder information, upcoming events, rentals, specific pages for each area within the facility and contact information.
Why: The Family Leisure Centre is a completely accessible facility that boasts several different amenities including an aquatic park, arena, fitness centre, fieldhouse and gymnasium. There are also several outdoor amenities at this location. There truly is something for everyone at this facility.
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What: This website provides information about the two senior centres within Medicine Hat including the Veiner Centre and Strathcona Centre. Here you can find their hours of operation, address and contact information.
Why: The senior centres in Medicine Hat are welcoming and warm places for people to meet and connect. They provide entertainment and recreation activities, programs and services to serve the active senior population.
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What: This site features how to get tickets, information on the team and club, schedule of games, online store and contact information.
Why: The Medicine Hat Tigers are a junior hockey team in the Western Hockey League (WHL) who play out of Medicine Hat and were established in 1970. Tigers games are a true community experience from the “Go Tigers Go” chants to lining up among friends at the concession stands.
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What: This link features how to get tickets, an online store, schedule of games, news, a live stream link, information about the team and club, and contact information.
Why: The sights, smells and sounds of Mavericks baseball have wafted through Athletic Park for many years, making it the city’s premier summer sports attraction. The Mavs play in the Western Canadian Baseball League and features players from as close as your next-door neighbour to around the globe. Their enthusiasm and skill is easy to cheer for. Summer nights are so much better at the ballpark.
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What: This site features information about the different ACAA sports the Medicine Hat College participates in, the teams and athletes, their schedules, statistics and news. You can also find ticket information, a photo gallery, recruiting information and how they support their athletes.
Why: Whether they stay at home or come from the other side of the globe, Medicine Hat College athletes are always at the top of their game. The Rattlers have teams in basketball, volleyball, soccer, futsal, cross country and golf, with home games just about every weekend from September through February.
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What: This site features information on the club, a members only section, events and photos, player development and rules, and contact information.
Why: With Pickleball being the fastest growing sport in North America, you can find members of the Medicine Hat Pickleball Club practicing and playing on the numerous courts located throughout the city. This club also hosts an annual tournament bringing visitors from all over Western Canada.
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What: This website provides information on the services they offer, a stakeholder calendar of events, information about the community, and available stakeholder resources.
Why: The Medicine Hat Sport and Event Council operates with the vision of being a champion for sports and events in Medicine Hat. They work to grow relationships locally, provincially, nationally and internationally. Their main focus is helping develop local organizations while encouraging event hosting.
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What: This website provides everything you need to know about Medicine Hat, including things to do, places to go, a community calendar, accommodation and trip information, You can also find links to their Experience Guide and Dining Guide.
Why: Tourism Medicine Hat strives on showcasing emerging culture, creativity and outdoor experiences. They feature information on what to see, do, eat & drink in Medicine Hat. With an updated events calendar and an active blog, you will be able to make the best of your trip to Medicine Hat.
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Your adventure awaits.The Cypress Hills gently rise 600 meters above the surrounding prairie landscape of Southeastern Alberta. This elevation gives the small community of Elkwater the perfect environment to enjoy trails and wildlife.
Within the park you will find lodging and facilities to accommodate your stay. You will also discover a variety of winter activities within the park such as a snow luge, skating trail, outdoor ice rink and ski resort. The Visitor Centre has rental equipment to get you out enjoying the trails and the fresh air.
Approximately 45 minutes southeast of Medicine Hat.
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What: This site provides everything you need to know about the Alberta side of Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park, including accommodation and dining option, adventurous activities, biking, camping, equestrian, fishing, hiking, water activities, and seasonal activities.
Why: The Cypress Hills and Elkwater have a resort feel and easy access to recreational opportunities in a natural and refreshing environment. With a wide variety of terrain that ranges from forests to wetlands to grasslands, there is much to explore on developed trails. Regardless of the season, there are numerous outdoor activities to take in while you are visiting!
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What: The Southeastern part of Alberta is truly a spectacular place to experience.
Why: From the Red Rock Coulees to the Etzikom Windmills and various campgrounds, there is something for all demographics. Driving from one attraction to the next you will have the opportunity to take in rolling hills, hoodoos and coulees all located within the southeast corner of Alberta.
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What: This site provides information on camping, directors, ongoing projects, tours and events, the visitor centre, trails located within the park and contact information.
Why: Dinosaur Provincial Park is located in the Red Deer River valley and is known for it’s striking badland topography and abundance of dinosaur fossils. The visitor centre features exhibits, a video theatre, fossil prep lab area and gift shop. The park also have various accommodation and camping options in addition to trails, tours and events.
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What: This site has information about the hours of operations, amenities, directions and parking, current exhibits, food and dining options, trails and tours, news stories and how to contact the museum.
Why: The Royal Tyrell Museum is located just outside of Drumheller and displays approximately 800 fossils in the museum exhibits, one of the world’s largest collections of dinosaurs. With ever-changing exhibits and self-guided experiences year-round, there is always something new to discover.
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Move to Medicine Hat is actively supported by these lead community minded organizations, and made possible in part through funding / sponsorship.
The Province of Alberta is working in partnership with the Government of Canada to provide employment support programs and services. Les gouvernements de l’Alberta et du Canada travaillent en partenariat et financent conjointement des programmes et des services d’aide à l’emploi.
