Enjoy budget-friendly nature escapes at the best cheap weekend getaways near Edmonton
Sometimes, the city hum feels like background noise that’s just a bit too loud, and you find yourself craving a quick escape—but without breaking the bank.
One Friday, I stared at my dusty hiking boots and a half-full gas tank, wondering how far a little money could take me. Turns out, pretty far!
Living in Edmonton has its perks, but the true gems lie just outside the city, waiting for you to discover them. Whether you’re craving nature, history, or a fresh adventure, these budget-friendly getaways have you covered. Grab some snacks, fuel up, and let’s go!
Rocky Mountain House
– Media from catherinefrancispelletier
Address: 5116 – 50th Avenue, Rocky Mountain House, AB
Contact: +1 403-845-2866/[email protected]
Fees:
Family/group (up to seven people in a vehicle): $151.25
Adult (18-64 years): $75.25
Senior (65+ years): $64.50
Drive time: 2.5 hours
Rocky Mountain House is where adventure meets history, all without emptying your wallet. I once stumbled upon this gem on a whim and found myself walking the same trails as fur traders while surrounded by stunning wilderness. Talk about time travel on a budget!
The Grandview Stage Resort was my cozy home base, perfect for sipping morning coffee while spotting wildlife. Whether you’re exploring historic sites or paddling down the river, this spot makes you feel like a rugged adventurer (minus the hefty price tag).
| Pro tip: Camp at one of 15 sites at Centennial Campground. Register online to secure your spot. |
Drumheller
– Media from bites_and_passport
Address: 224 Centre Street, Drumheller, Alberta
Contact: +1 403-823-6300, [email protected]
Fees:
Royal Tyrrell Museum
Adults (18–64): $21
Seniors (65+): $14
Youth (7–17): $10
Children (6 and under): free
Family (2 adults and their children 7–17, max. group size 8): $50
Drive time: 1.5 hours
Drumheller is like stepping into another world filled with dinosaur fossils, stunning badlands, and a museum that’ll make you rethink geology. The Royal Tyrrell Museum blew my family’s mind (and didn’t break the bank), making it the perfect mix of fun and learning.
After a day of hiking through hoodoos and pretending to be paleontologists, we kicked back at a cozy local B&B that’s perfect for family. If you want a getaway that’s equal parts adventure and relaxation, Drumheller has you covered—without digging into your wallet.
| Pro tip: Cool off at Drumheller Rotary Splash Park, near the World’s Largest Dinosaur, open from Victoria Day to Labour Day. |
Vegreville
– Media from love2live.live2love
Address: 4829 50 Street, Vegreville, AB
Contact: +1 780-632-2606, [email protected]
Fees: Free for most attractions and amenities
Drive time: 1 hour
Vegreville is where culture meets charm—think giant Easter eggs and a crash course in Ukrainian heritage. Our visit started with snapping selfies at the iconic Pysanka and ended with a stroll through the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village, feeling like we’d travelled back in time.
For a cozy stay, the Barn Loft Inn was the perfect hideaway—rustic vibes with a rustic price. Whether you’re with family or just looking for a laid-back escape, Vegreville offers big experiences on a small budget.
| Pro tip: Explore Vegreville with free bikes from the Visitor Information Centre at Pysanka Park—available on a first-come, first-served basis. |
Peace River
– Media from mightypeacetourism
Address: 9911 100 St, Peace River, AB
Contact: +1 780-624-2574, [email protected]
Fees: Free for most parks, trails, and historical sites
Drive time: 4 hours and 45 minutes
Peace River is the kind of place where you instantly feel your shoulders relax. Maybe it’s the stunning river views or the laid-back vibe that does the trick.
I spent a weekend hiking its scenic trails and wandering historic sites, feeling like I’d stumbled into Alberta’s best-kept secret. The cozy riverside cabins were the cherry on top, offering budget-friendly charm with unbeatable views.
If you’re craving a peaceful escape that’s easy on your wallet, Peace River is calling your name. Don’t let it go to voicemail!
| Pro tip: Don’t miss the pedestrian bridge under Highway 2. It offers a unique, traffic-free vantage point on the town’s trail system. |
Sundre
– Media from shadygrovebluegrass
Address: 717 Main Avenue W, Sundre, AB
Contact: +1 403-638-3551, [email protected]
Drive time: 2.5 hours
Sundre is like stumbling upon a secret slice of paradise, with wild horses roaming the foothills and mountain views that make you want to pinch yourself.
A close friend and I spent days hiking through serene trails and even tried horseback riding, channelling our inner cowboys (or at least attempting to).
For a cozy and budget-friendly stay, Rustler’s Lodge felt like a warm hug after an adventure-filled day. With its ranch-style charm and peaceful vibe, Sundre is the perfect spot to unplug and reconnect with nature.
| Pro tip: Check out the Sundre Arts Development Centre for a taste of local performing arts in Sundre. |
Strathcona Wilderness Centre
– Media from strathcocounty
Address: 52535 Range Rd 212, Uncas, AB
Contact: +17809223939
Fee: $80/night (basic)
Drive time: 40 minutes
The Strathcona Wilderness Centre is where I discovered that “roughing it” doesn’t have to mean giving up my morning coffee. Just 40 minutes from Edmonton, it’s a budget-friendly haven for hiking, skiing, and spotting wildlife—all while feeling miles away from city life.
I stayed in one of their affordable cozy cabins, which had just enough rustic charm to feel adventurous without sacrificing comfort.
Whether you’re hitting the trails or simply soaking in the peaceful vibes, this spot is proof that a great getaway doesn’t need a passport—or a hefty price tag.
| Pro tip: Explore Sherwood Park Natural Area’s lush poplar forests, mixed with spruce, birch, and vibrant wildflowers—best enjoyed from May to September. |
Provincial and National Park Camping
Elk Island National Park
– Media from parks.canada
Address: 54401 Range Rd 203, Fort Saskatchewan, AB
Contact: +17809225790
Fee: $7.90/person/day
Drive time: 45 minutes
Elk Island National Park is where I first learned the art of peaceful bison watching, and they’re surprisingly graceful!
Just a short drive from Edmonton, this affordable getaway offers serene hiking trails, picnic spots, and stargazing that feel like stepping into another world.
I spent a night camping under the darkest skies I’ve ever seen, with the Milky Way putting on a show. Whether you’re looking to hike, paddle, or simply enjoy nature’s quiet, Elk Island is proof that great escapes don’t need big budgets.
| Pro tip: Don’t want to rough it? Try a Parks Canada oTENTik—a cozy blend of a rustic cabin and a tent for a relaxing camping experience! |
Miquelon Lake Provincial Park
– Media from aidanleephoto
Address: 20514 SEC HWY 623, Camrose County, AB
Contact: +17806727274
Fee: $28/night
Drive time: 50 minutes
Miquelon Lake Provincial Park is where my family discovered that peace and quiet pair perfectly with a lakeside view. Just under an hour from Edmonton, this budget-friendly escape offers serene trails and a calm lake perfect for paddling or skipping stones.
We camped out and woke up to birdsong, feeling like we’d stumbled into our own nature documentary. Whether you’re hiking, cycling, or just unwinding by the water, Miquelon Lake is the perfect spot to recharge without spending a fortune.
| Pro tip: Miquelon Lake is a birdwatcher’s paradise with over 200 species and a designation as one of Canada’s Important Bird Areas. |
Devon Voyageur Park
– Media from mons_m_
Address: 100 Saskatchewan Ave W, Devon, AB
Contact: +17809878300
Fee: $2.50/hour (up to a maximum of $10 per day)
Drive time: 30 minutes
Whether you’re into paddling, fishing, or just lounging with a view, Devon Voyageur Park is an easy, budget-friendly getaway that feels like a mini adventure.
Just a quick 30-minute drive from Edmonton, Devon Voyageur Park offers scenic trails and a perfect spot to picnic by the North Saskatchewan River. Some colleagues and I spent the afternoon kayaking and soaking up the peaceful vibes, feeling miles away from city stress.
| Pro tip: Follow the trail’s wayfinding signs to spot and learn about local wildlife along the path. |
Wabamun Lake Provincial Park
– Media from brihollman
Address: Township Rd 531A, Parkland County, AB
Contact: +17808922702
Fee: $30/night
Drive time: 1 hour
I rediscovered the joy of sandy beaches and calm waters at Wabamun Lake Provincial Park—just an hour’s drive from Edmonton. With free entry and plenty of picnic spots, it’s a perfect spot to relax without breaking the bank.
I spent the day swimming, building sandcastles, and soaking up the sun, feeling like a kid again. It’s ideal for those seeking the beach, paddling, or taking a simple walk along the shore, offering affordable fun for everyone.
| Pro tip: Local power plants keep the water open year-round, attracting hooded mergansers, bald eagles, mallards, and a variety of migrating and breeding water birds. |