Walking along Pipestone Creek. Photo Courtesy of Grande Prairie Regional Tourism Association.
Downtown Grande Prairie
The County of Grande Prairie in Alberta has a diverse landscape, including prairie; rivers, creeks and small lakes; a mixed boreal forest; and the province’s northernmost badlands. This contrasting landscape creates different habitats for a variety of wildlife.
Pipestone Creek
The history is just as rich, with evidence of humans dating back to 9,000–10,000 B.C., when the now-fertile farmland was covered by a vast glacier. For pre-human history, dinosaur fossils are being excavated from Kleskun Hill, Pipestone Creek and the Red Willow River.
Canoeing on the Wapiti River
Outdoor enthusiasts have plenty of options in the County, including canoeing, jet-boating, parasailing, fishing, wildlife watching, geocaching, hiking, cycling, snowmobiling and ATV riding. There are also farmers’ markets, festivals, cultural events, golf courses, museums, rodeos and historical sites to explore.
Kayaking on the Wapiti River. Photo Courtesy of Grand Prairie Regional Tourism Association
Rodeos
The Grande Prairie Stompede celebrates the region’s western heritage with rodeo events and world-class chuckwagon racing. Visitors can take in the midway with rides, attractions and live music alongside the horseback spectacle.
The Teepee Creek Stampede began in 1917 when settlers in the area held amateur bucking contests and horse races. Since then, it has grown into a landmark event for the region, becoming a pro rodeo event in 2007,
International Formula 1 Air Racing
International Formula 1 Air Racing is a heart-pounding competition, featuring pilots competing against one another in thrilling airborne races! Grande Prairie plays host to this event in the summer at the Grande Prairie Regional Airport.
Festivals & Street Fairs
Every year, for three days in July, Grande Prairie’s downtown core is taken over by jugglers, hula hoopers, magicians, clowns and many other performers, dazzling onlookers with their particular brand of showmanship. The Grande Prairie International Street Performers Festival offers family-friendly entertainment, as well as a host of food trucks offering delicious treats. The city truly comes together for this fun summertime event!
The Bear Creek Folk Festival began in 2017, bringing world-class music and a relaxed vibe to Muskoseepi Park in Grande Prairie. This multi-day event features four stages where musicians and performers entertain the crowds in an intimate, up-close setting. Hear some great tunes, sample some local beers – what’s not to love?
A lot is going on in the region, but don’t worry about where to stay, shop or eat! There are amazing campgrounds, hotels, restaurants, and many other amenities to make your vacation one to remember!
