A COMPLETE List of the Best Activities in Lethbridge (for 2022)
If you are coming from Calgary or Lethbridge, the first view of the city is from the top of a coulee. It is spectacular. The town’s landmark, the High-Level Bridge (depending on the season), stands tall against the green, white, or gold coulees while the Oldman River flows along the bottom.
Where is Lethbridge?
It takes just 210 km to drive from Calgary. The journey is about 2 hours and passes through small towns in the prairie with foothills and mountains on the west. Lethbridge, located between the Rocky Mountains and the U.S. Border, is an ideal place to launch to visit national parks like Waterton or Glacier. It’s also a charming little town.
You can also fly to Lethbridge with WestJet, which offers daily flights from Calgary.
Acknowledgments
Lethbridge’s home is on Treaty 7 territory. It is also the traditional territory of the Nakoda, Stoney, and Niitsitapi.
About Lethbridge
Highway #2 (Crowsnest Highway), which divides Lethbridge into three sections, is the Highway that runs north and south. The Oldman River then cuts through the coulee, separating east and west. This means that there is a section of Lethbridge for every point on a compass except the east. The Westside is located west of the coulees, river and the Northside is north of the highway. The Southside is the location of downtown.
Each area is unique and has its charm.
If you need easy access, there are still places on the west and north sides that are worth the effort!
Downtown Lethbridge
It is easy to walk around the Lethbridge core, and downtown’s historic buildings provide a wonderful atmosphere.
Downtown Lethbridge has a strong sense of Canadian history and Albertan heritage. Many buildings built during the boom still stand today, including the town’s first public library and art gallery. It is home to the Southern Alberta Art Gallery (SAAG), the recently reconstructed Oliver Building, and the old Catholic Charities Building.
This history makes it more enjoyable to get to know Lethbridge’s downtown.
Hotels in Lethbridge – Where to Stay
There are many hotels in Lethbridge. However, they are all placed on the east bank of the river. We recommend the Lethbridge Hotels and a Bed and Breakfast if you want something different from Super 8.
Sandman Signature Lethbridge Lodge: Although the hotel has been in various hands since its construction, the Sandman Signature Lethbridge Lodge remains popular due to its beautiful tropical atrium and central pool. Ensure you get a room that has a view over the coulees.
The Coast Hotel & Conference Centre: Located right across from Lethbridge Water Tower is the Coast Hotel & Conference Centre’s Firestone Restaurant. This restaurant has some of the best Sangria and patios in town. It is conveniently located near Henderson Park.
Charles Street Suites: A hidden gem in Lethbridge, the Charles Street Suites is a little place called Charles Street Suites. It’s a charming and intimate Bed and Breakfast close to Lethbridge’s beautiful motorcycle boulevard (7th Avenue), which is also a thoroughfare for the coulees and Henderson Lake Park.
The Best Things to Do in Lethbridge
If you’re willing to search, there are plenty of things to do in Lethbridge. You’ll find plenty of suggestions, including some great restaurants in Lethbridge.
Despite these excellent recommendations, it is still the best way to explore the town. Talk to the locals who are friendly and eager to share their knowledge.
Shopping in Lethbridge
Urban Prairie: This vintage shop features many curators and covers everything from 1800s ephemera to mid-century modern furniture.
Populous – A clothing brand and a retail store, Populous was founded here, “where the mountain meets prairies.” It stocks the best denim and workwear-inspired menswear south of Calgary.
Splurge & Co – A local favorite, Splurge sells fashionable clothes and jewelry for ladies.
Lethbridge Art Galleries
For its talented artists, Lethbridge is to be recognized. You will find various galleries showcasing paintings, sculptures, and photography.
Saag: The Southern Alberta Art Gallery showcases local artists and invites collaborators worldwide to exhibit. It’s worth visiting the gift shop without admission to get a feel for the space and browse the artisan products.
CASA: Part training center for musicians and dancers and part gallery for artists from the local area; CASA is open to all and includes their art gallery.
The Geomatic Attic: A reliable venue, the Geomatic Attic technically lies on the south side. You can browse the venue’s art gallery while you are there to see a show.
The largest museum in south Calgary is Galt Museum and Archives. From its beginnings as Fort Whoop-Up, which had a nearby distillery and earned it the nickname, to its current status as the center of Southern Alberta, The Galt chronicles Lethbridge’s history.
Lethbridge Restaurants
There are many options for Lethbridge restaurants, as well as classic chains. There should be something for everyone. Here are our top picks:
Two Guys and a Pizza Place – Two Guys and a Pizza Place is a favorite of locals and one of the most famous restaurants in the area. They offer a massive range of beers and award-winning pizza. You Gotta Eat Here featured them!
Italian Table – A top-notch Italian dining experience. Italian Table has a close relationship with the community. They source most of their ingredients from Alberta producers. This makes the restaurant a great addition to any self-drive tour of southern Alberta. Their outdoor patio is a new addition for 2021. It’s a great place to enjoy a drink and a meal.
ITEA Express – Fresh Vietnamese and Asian food. The portions are generous and will keep you coming back! Make sure you try the noodle bowls.
Via Cibo: If you are looking for a quick, quality meal, Via Cibo will be your best choice. It is authentic Italian street food made with the freshest ingredients. For their Wednesday pizza special, make sure you go on Wednesday. And remember to mention that Monday is free for kids!
Milkman YQL, Ice cream lovers, rejoice! This ice cream shop is open and will satisfy all your cravings. You’ll love the unique flavors and quirky art wall at ‘Gram!
Streetside Eatery: Do you have a sweet tooth? This is the place to go for a slice of pie. They have the best key limes north of Florida.
Bootsma Bakery is the best place in town to get fresh baked goods that will make you weak in the knees. Their apple fritters and cheese buns are a must-try!
Coffee shops in Lethbridge
Lethbridge has a very cool coffee scene. These fine spots offer everything you need, from ethically sourced beans to self-roasters.
Sonder Coffee Bar: This is a trendy spot among the locals. Every cup of Sonder coffee has been ethically and consciously sourced. They are passionate about coffee, and their waffles are a great way to get a bite.
The Penny Coffee Home has been a Lethbridge favorite for over 25 years. This downtown coffee shop serves excellent java as well as some delicious treats. You can stop by to look at the wall art created by local artists.
Bread Milk and Honey: This trendy local favorite is all about providing quality coffee and baked goods to its customers. The all-day breakfast sandwich is delicious!
Jonny Bean: A journey to Jonny Bean, on the north side of Lethbridge, is well worth it. They use only the finest roasters in Canada and ethically source their coffee. Their goal is to make “making your amazing coffee.”
Lethbridge Pubs and Breweries
Theoretically Brewing Co – In 2012, two home brewers started a journey that led them to some of the best-brewed beer in Alberta. Theory Brew’s founders focus on scientific methods for creating their beer. They even use lab beakers to serve their beers. The location offers a 60-seat patio to enjoy a beer or two.
Mojos Lethbridge: This is a lovely spot on Lethbridge’s west side. It offers a wide selection of beers and a Dirty Doctor burger topped with candied jalapenos and smoked gouda.
Coulee Brew Co.: Love, respect, and pride go into Coulee Brew Co.’s beers. The beers of this southern Alberta craft brewer are winning awards, and the food is delicious. Visit their large taproom and enjoy a few pints outside on their enormous patio.
Spectrum Ale Works: Spectrum Ale Works is a new addition to the Lethbridge craft beer scene. You can stop in to get a pint or a growler for your next trip. Razzapeach Fruit Ale is a refreshing and refreshing choice for hot days.
Music and entertainment venues
The Owl Acoustic Lounge: The Owl, as it is commonly known, has a unique ambiance that keeps locals returning. The Owl hosts nightly events, so there’s always something to do.
Good Times Comedy Club: A comedy club in the area, Good Times hosts both national and local comedians. There are also quiz nights to keep the fun going.
The Slice: The Slice is a restaurant that focuses on pizza, beer, and music. It makes for a relaxing and delicious evening out.
Lethbridge Parks and Pools
Henderson Lake Park: There is 7 km of trails that will take you around Henderson Lake. You can do a variety of summer activities, including kayaking and canoeing.
Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden-Designed by an Osaka garden architect and built by Kyoto artisans, these Lethbridge Japanese Gardens represent the friendship between Canada and Japan. Visitors can enjoy tea ceremonies performed in Sumo Sumo Sundays or medidatation in the garden’s tranquility. You can also walk the paths to enjoy an actual Japanese-Albertan experience.
Henderson Pool: For more excitement, head north from the gardens to see Henderson Pool, brightly-colored waterslides, and a spray park. The outdoor pool is the finest spot to spend some time during the hot, humid summer days in Lethbridge. After all the splashing and swimming (or the screaming of the children), you can relax in the outdoor pool. Henderson Lake is a beautiful 3km loop that can be used to wind down.
Cor Van Raay YMCA – The latest and most extensive fitness center in Lethbridge. You will find a surf simulator, pool, water slides, hockey and curling courts, a running track, and many other amenities. Cor Van Raay YMCA offers everything you need for active living!
Nicholas Sheran Park: Nicholas Sheran Park is a great spot to stroll or picnic. It also has the only disc golf course in the city.
Tee it up! Lethbridge Golf Courses
Henderson Lake Golf Course: For those who love to spend time on the links, Henderson Lake is for you. You can find the Henderson Lake Golf Course right around the corner. It is open earlier in the season and remains open later than other courses in most cities.
Paradise Canyon Golf Course: Play in paradise, as the name suggests. Although it is a long drive to reach this course, it is well worth the effort. Paradise Canyon, nestled in the coulee, is one of Alberta’s most challenging golf courses. It offers stunning scenery throughout all 18 holes.
Bridge Valley Golf Course (Par 3) is a short nine-hole course that runs along the Old Man River. This beautiful walk offers excellent views of Lethbridge’s train bridge. It’s easy and suitable for all levels of golfers.
Evergreen Golf Centre: This center offers everything. A par 3 with one par 4 can improve your short game. To monitor and evaluate your swing, you can play with some golf balls on the state-of-the-art driving range with TopTracer.
Lethbridge Country Club is the finest private golf course that runs along the bottom. It’s a peaceful area where you can enjoy a few rounds with your friends. A trip to the restaurant is well worth it if you are searching for somewhere to eat.
Drop Zone Golf Centre: Drop Zone is Lethbridge’s only simulated-golf center. It offers over 200 courses worldwide, a range of analyses, and fun games. This is the planned place to spend an afternoon improving your game.
Explore the Coulees of Lethbridge
You can skip driving from downtown Lethbridge or the eastern edges on the Westside to reach the coulees. However, you should plan for the climb back up if your feet need to be stronger.
You can hike with a bike or take it easy and drive a car. Once you reach the coulees, the city disappears, leaving you almost unaffected.
Day Trips from Lethbridge
Alberta Birds of Prey Foundation
After a short drive to Coaldale, you will find this interactive experience with some of Alberta’s most famous birds. You can let an owl rest on your arm and learn ancient falconry techniques. Also, get close to trained hawks or eagles. This non-profit organization is only available to those who donate. They rely on donations to operate their day-to-day operations and help injured orphaned owls, and hawks get back to the wild.
Waterton
Travel southwest to Waterton Lakes National Park. You can best experience the Canadian Rocky Mountains by visiting crystal-clear lakes and waterfalls. There are also a wide variety of wildlife, wildflowers, and famous scenic hiking trails. It is only 132km away from Lethbridge and Waterton.