48 hour Itinerary.
From nature trails to craft beer, here’s how to spend a weekend in central Alberta’s low-key gem.
Often overlooked in favour of its bigger-city neighbours, Red Deer is one of Alberta’s most underrated weekend escapes—especially in spring. With easy access from both Edmonton and Calgary, Red Deer delivers a surprising mix of outdoor adventure, small-city charm, and local flavour without the crowds (or the long drive).
Whether you’re looking to stretch your legs, sip something cold, or wander through a farmers’ market with actual elbow room, here’s how to spend 48 hours in Red Deer this spring.
Day One: Nature & Neighbourhoods
Morning: Hike the Gaetz Lakes Sanctuary
Start your visit at Gaetz Lakes Sanctuary, Alberta’s oldest federal migratory bird sanctuary and a peaceful spot to reconnect with spring. The sanctuary features a network of trails, elevated boardwalks, and bird blinds overlooking the wetlands. Early spring brings migratory birds, chorus frogs, and even the occasional moose.
- Trails range from easy loops to longer nature walks.
- Interpretive signs help you ID local birds and plant life.
- Don’t miss the Kerry Wood Nature Centre for a family-friendly intro to the region’s ecology.
More info: Waskasoo Environmental Education
Lunch: Downtown Red Deer Eats
Head into historic downtown Red Deer for lunch. There’s a growing food scene here, with locally owned spots worth exploring.
Top picks:
- Tribe – Global flavours and great vegetarian options
- Las Palmeras – Longstanding Mexican favourite with killer tacos
- Same Old Dave’s – Indulge in mouthwatering ribs, pasta, and wings
.
Afternoon: Bike or Walk Waskasoo Park
Red Deer’s Waskasoo Park trail system spans more than 100 km of paved and natural surface trails, many of which follow the scenic Red Deer River. In spring, the paths are quiet, the air is fresh, and everything’s starting to green up.
- Rent a bike (or bring your own) and cruise the River Bend area.
- Stop for a coffee break at Dose Coffee Co. near the trail system.
- Keep an eye out for deer, foxes, and woodpeckers in the trees.
.
Pro Tip: Use the Loop Around the City map to plan a ride that takes you through the parks, past the river, and back into town.
Evening: Craft Beer & Local Vibes
Red Deer is home to a few excellent breweries—and they’re all within short driving (or Ubering) distance of each other.
Try a local brewery crawl:
- Troubled Monk – Award-winning beer, soda, and spirits; great taproom with seasonal flights.
- Craft Beer Commonwealth – Newer to the scene, with a rotating lineup of small-batch brews.
- Something Brewing – Funky branding and some truly creative beer names (and recipes).
.
Enjoy a patio if the weather cooperates, and consider taking a few cans back to your hotel or Airbnb.
Day Two: Markets, Museums & Mini Road Trips
Morning: Hit the Red Deer Public Market
Opening Day for 2025: Saturday, May 10 (runs every Saturday through fall)
If you’re visiting from mid-May onward, the Red Deer Public Market is one of Alberta’s best spring markets—lots of produce, baking, art, and music, with a friendly community vibe. It’s open-air, dog-friendly, and easy to spend an hour or two browsing.
Location: Servus Arena parking lot (downtown Red Deer)
Hours: Saturdays from 8 am to 12:30 pm
More info: Red Deer Public Market
Not Market Season Yet? Try This Instead:
If you’re visiting in April or early May before the market kicks off, spend the morning at the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame, a quirky and interactive museum celebrating Alberta’s athletic history. Great for kids, or just nostalgic adults.
Afternoon: Day Trip to Sylvan Lake or Historic Markerville
Before you head home, squeeze in a short side trip:
- Sylvan Lake – About 25 minutes west; walk the beach promenade, grab ice cream at The Big Moo, or relax lakeside.
- Markerville – A tiny historic hamlet with a creamery museum, a picturesque bridge, and one of Alberta’s most photogenic little churches.
.
Where to Stay in Red Deer
There’s a solid range of options, from brand-name hotels with pools to local B&Bs. Some easy and comfortable picks:
- Cambridge Red Deer Hotel & Conference Centre – Central location, good for families
- Holiday Inn & Suites South – Modern, with a great pool for kids
- Local Airbnbs – Especially good for couples or small groups looking for a unique stay
Why Red Deer in Spring?
- It’s easy to get to. Under 2 hours from Edmonton or Calgary.
- You beat the summer crowds. Trails, patios, and breweries are much quieter.
- There’s more here than meets the eye. From wetland wildlife to strong coffee and good beer, Red Deer is the definition of a hidden gem.
Have a favourite Red Deer stop we should check out? Let us know in the comments. 
