
Interest in Indigenous tourism through cultural and culinary experiences continues to rise in Canada and the United States. Although visiting dedicated museums, such as the Native American Museums in New York City and Washington, DC, are very informative, hands-on, bespoke activities and experiences help travelers become better acquainted with and educated about these beautiful cultures.
Indigenous Tourism Alberta offers a unique blend of adventure and cultural immersion experiences. Discover the secrets of traditional medicine on a medicine walk, or delve into the world of Indigenous art galleries, where each stunning piece tells a story. Traverse awe-inspiring landscapes with expert guides, and let the music and crafts passed down through generations awaken your senses. From multimedia projections on a sacred mountain to detailed beading workshops, you can partake in these six experiences in Alberta.
Moonstone Creations Beading Workshop

Founded by Yvonne Jobin and the late Amy Willier, a mother-daughter duo of Cree women, Moonstone Creation is a gallery, gift store, and workshop for authentic Indigenous art and experiences. It offers a one-stop shop for all things Indigenous. From intricate beaded jewelry to impressive bronze sculptures, its diverse collection embodies the richness of Indigenous craftsmanship.
At Moonstone Creations, the focus is on fostering cultural connection through hands-on workshops. Whether you’re interested in moccasin making, beading, or fish scale art, these tailored workshops offer a unique opportunity to learn traditional skills and deepen your appreciation for Indigenous culture. It’s not just about the end product but the journey of learning and understanding the artistry and legacy of Indigenous cultures.

A simple but challenging project, I worked on a personalized beaded bookmark with the guidance of my instructor, who encouraged me on technique, color choices, and patience. My instructor discussed the fascinating history of this art form and taught traditional techniques like applique, floral, geometric, Lazy Stitch, and Loom. Each stitch carries a story, deepening your appreciation for the artistry and legacy of Indigenous cultures.
After the hands-on workshop, browse the vibrant world of Indigenous art through the displayed curated collection. Over 60 artists from across Canada showcase their talents, offering a chance to discover unique pieces and connect with the artistic expression of these diverse communities.
Enjoy an Indigenous-Inspired Meal

Visit the Grey Eagle Resort and Casino showcasing art and culinary experiences. Owned and operated by the Tsuut’ina Nation, a vibrant Indigenous community in Alberta, the resort welcomes guests onto its traditional territory. Indigenous artwork and decor adorn the halls, weaving a captivating tapestry of the Tsuut’ina’s rich culture, ensuring a comfortable and culturally enriching stay.
Indulge in an Indigenous Inspired Meal at the Little Chief restaurant within the Grey Eagle Resort and Casino. Led by Chef Brandon Dashnay, the menu incorporates seasonal ingredients with an Indigenous flair. While Chef Dashnay is not Indigenous, his wife is, and he has embraced Indigenous cuisine with a modern twist. This culinary experience is a testament to the cultural fusion at the heart of Indigenous tourism in Alberta.

The menu offers various choices, from bison burgers to elk meatballs to pickerel crackling. The presentation incorporates coniferous trees and juniper berries, providing an interesting flavor profile and experience. Overall, it was a unique and delectable meal surrounded by photographs of the Tsuut’ina Nation from 100 years ago; the juxtaposition was stunning.
Medicine Walk in the Canadian Rockies

In some Indigenous traditions, medicine walks are spiritual journeys through nature. Participants, often with a specific intention or question in mind, walk in a sacred or meaningful place. They connect with the natural world, reflecting on their surroundings and seeking inner guidance or healing. This practice emphasizes respect for the land and may be facilitated by Indigenous leaders who share their cultural knowledge.
Explore nature with a deeper understanding at Mahikan Trails. At Cascade Ponds in Banff National Parks, Indigenous guides share their knowledge of the land, teaching you how to identify plants for food, medicine, and even fire starting. Jordan Ede runs tours for Mahikan Trails, a tourism company started by his mother Brenda Holder, a knowledge keeper and medicine woman from the Aseniwuche Winewak Nation in the Jasper area. Ede followed cultural protocol and lay tobacco before the start of the medicine walk.
Guests are asked to refrain from taking pictures of this sacred act. Walk through meadows and forests, learning traditional survival skills from the Cree people. Mahikan Trails owner Brenda Holder and her son Jordon, both descendants of Cree guides, are passionate about sharing their heritage and have won awards for promoting Indigenous tourism in Alberta.
Unveiling Siksika Culture at Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park

Step back in time and explore the rich heritage of the Siksika Nation at Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park. This National Historic Site, less than an hour south of Calgary, isn’t just an Indigenous cultural museum – it’s a vibrant cultural experience.
Dive into the Siksika Nation’s story through interactive exhibits at the stunning eco-friendly museum. Learn about their language, traditions, and the evolution of their culture. Savor authentic Indigenous cuisine at the on-site restaurant, and discover unique, locally-made crafts at the gift shop. Witness the beauty of Siksika culture firsthand through frequent dance and craft demonstrations. Book an indoor guided tour with a local Siksika interpreter to gain a deeper understanding.
Explore the park’s outdoor spaces on a self-guided tour. Follow trail markers that unveil the significance of various historical sites. Take your experience to the next level and camp overnight in a tipi for a truly immersive cultural encounter.
Elbow River Camp – Pow Wow at the Calgary Stampede

The Calgary Stampede is a signature event in Alberta drawing rodeo enthusiasts from all over the world. Presenting an opportunity to celebrate and educate, Elbow River Camp and the Calgary Stampede Pow Wow competitions are held throughout the 10-day western-style festival in July.
In Elbow River Camp, experience the cultures of the Kainai, Piikani, Siksika, Stoney Nakoda, and Tsuut’ina First Nations of Treaty 7. You will find 26 tipis to visit, local artisans selling jewellery and art, bannock and saskatoon berry jam, traditional dancing, and much more.

The Calgary Stampede Pow Wow is held over two days in July. Audiences feel the beat as the dancers compete in a variety of dance styles, including Chicken, Grass, Fancy, Jingle, Traditional, and Buckskin. Age categories range from 13 to Golden (55+).
Nightrise at Sulphur Mountain

Back this winter, running from November 16, 2024, to March 30, 2025, Nightrise is one activity you should do in the New Year. Nightrise at the Banff Gondola isn’t just a stunning mountain view – it is an immersive experience honouring the sacred mountain’s history. The narration begins as you ascend Sulphur Mountain in Banff National Park. It is a journey through the “Four Wonders” atop Sulphur Mountain (Mînî Rhuwîn), a place of gathering for the Stoney Nakoda People (Îyârhe Îethka) for countless generations. The four Wonders consist of Cosmic Rays (Apenene Garharhagach), Diamond Dust (Wiyapta Ptach), Alpenglow (Aîthîya Eya) and Frosted Waves (Yowatha). All are illustrated through projection and storytelling as you walk throughout the building and outside.

A collaboration between the Stoney Nakoda People, Moment Factory, and Pursuit Collection, this multimedia sound and light projection transported visitors through stories and images on multiple tiers. Images were projected onto the trees, multiple decks, and the chalet. Playful in nature, you could move the pictures, play the pipes, and enjoy the stories. This immersive experience won multiple awards.
Margarita Ibbott is a travel and lifestyle blogger. She blogs about travel in Canada, the United States and Europe giving practical advice through restaurant, hotel and attraction reviews. She writes for DownshiftingPRO.com and other online media outlets.