First time visiting Lethbridge? Let this article act as your tour guide to explore the city! This guide was created specifically for people who are thinking about making Lethbridge their home.
It gives great options to explore some of the MANY community facilities that make Lethbridge family-focused and fun.
What To Do:
1. Check out your preferred neighbourhoods:
Obviously, if you are thinking about making a move to Lethbridge the most important part of your trip. Take this opportunity to explore some neighbourhoods that you might be interested in calling home, drive the streets, and see what parks, shops facilities are in the area.
Not sure what neighbors to explore? Here are the Areas Of Lethbridge Explained and a breakdown of Popular Lethbridge Neighbourhoods.
2. Explore Parks & Outdoor Spaces
Lethbridge boasts more park space per capita than average in Alberta so why not get outside and enjoy sunny Southern Alberta.
Nicholas Sheran – West Lethbridge
Located in the heart of West Lethbridge this huge park boasts ponds, bridges, walkways, and playgrounds. You can often see people fishing in the ponds or even paddling. In addition, there is a huge disc golf course, come by the office to pick up disc golf discs.
Henderson Park – South Lethbridge
This is the most prominent park in the city. It hosts the Dragon Boat Festival every year and Canada Day Celebrations. Take a stroll on one of the many walking paths, let your children enjoy the playground or have a picnic in one of the dedicated areas. This park is also located right beside Henderson Lake Golf Course, Henderson Pool, and the Exhibition Grounds (see below for more details)
Legacy Park – North Lethbridge
This park is made for sports enthusiasts. It has several basketball, tennis, and pickleball courts. It also has a skatepark along with walking trails and playgrounds. Something for the whole family to enjoy.
Indian Battle Park – Lethbridge Coulees
Indian Battle Park, situated in the Oldman River Valley, offers year-round attractions for all ages. Home to the historic Fort Whoop-Up Interpretive Centre, you can explore a replica fort, enjoy seasonal events, and take buggy rides.
The park also features significant historical sites like Medicine Stone, Coal Banks Kiosk, and information about the Incline Railway and High-Level Bridge. There are hiking and walking trails sheltered by mature trees, used by nature and fitness enthusiasts, as well as for community walks and runs.
It is also home to the Helen Schuler Nature Center; a 200-acre nature preservation park. Here, a diverse array of educational, recreational, and cultural activities brings people closer to nature, nurturing an environmentally conscious community.
In addition to the beautiful parks the City of Lethbridge has some amazing community facilities.
3. Explore Community Facilities
YMCA / Cavendish Center
The Cavendish Farms Centre is the newest sports facility in Lethbridge. Covering a spacious 256,000 square feet, it offers a wide range of amenities. The YMCA is inside, complete with waterslides, a lazy river, a whirlpool, and even a surfing simulator (one of only a few in all of Canada). There’s also a fitness center with an indoor track, gymnasiums, a multi-sport field house, an indoor playground, and childcare services. Additionally, the center is home to the Lethbridge Curling Club and provides two indoor skating arenas for public skating, minor hockey leagues, and figure skating.
Location: 74 Mauretania Rd W, Lethbridge
Website: https://lethbridgeymca.ca/
Festival Square
This downtown area has undergone a remarkable transformation into an all-season urban plaza. It serves as the venue for a wide array of events, including Farmers’ Markets, musical performances, outdoor movie screenings, gatherings, and games. Moreover, it’s where you can find annual events like Oktoberfest.
Location: 600 3 Ave S, Lethbridge
Website: https://www.downtownlethbridge.com/festivalsquare/
Enmax Center
The ENMAX Centre stands as Lethbridge’s top entertainment destination and serves as the official home of the Lethbridge Hurricanes Hockey Club. Situated in South Lethbridge, the facility boasts a seating capacity of up to 5,900 attendees. Over the years it has attracted from amazing acts like Cirq de Soliel, The Tragicially Hip, Eric Church, Backstreet Boys, Russel Peters and SO MANY MORE
Location: 2510 Scenic Dr S, Lethbridge
Website:http://www.enmaxcentre.ca/
Exhibition Center and Arifood Hub
Lethbridge & District Exhibition holds the distinction of being the fourth oldest Agriculture Society in Alberta. Since its inaugural fair in 1897, it has been the venue for over a century of agricultural exhibitions, trade shows, carnival attractions, rodeos, sports events, and various special events.
The Exhibition ground has recently undergone a $76 Million renovation that is set to be completed soon. This expansion is set to attract larger events.
Location: 3401 Parkside Dr S, Lethbridge
Website: https://www.agrifoodhub.ca/agri-food/whats-on
Henderson Pool
This is not your average outdoor pool! Henderson Outdoor Pool recently underwent a large renovation into what is now a summertime destination.
Equipped with waterslides, a beach area, a climbing wall, diving boards, a concession, spray park and so much more, it has become one of the best ways in the city to beat the summer heat. Henderson Pool typically operates from mid-June through the Labor Day weekend and the full pool schedule can be found here.
Website: https://aquatics.lethbridge.ca/RECEX/public/category/browse/HOP
4. Find Out What Events Are Happening
Good Times Comedy Club
This is a gem of Lethbridge and is a “must do” for Lethbridge nightlife. This intimate venue gives every single seat a VIP experience. This venue has attracted international comedians alongside local talent.
https://goodtimesyql.com/
The Enmax Center
The Enmax Center is Lethbridge’s largest event facility. It is home to the Lethbridge WHL team, and the Lethbridge Hurricanes and hosted some world-class entertainment. Check their event schedule to see if you can catch a Lethbridge Hurricanes game or a concert.
http://www.enmaxcentre.ca/events/upcoming-events
The Yates
The Yates Memorial and Sterndale Bennette Theater is a community facility. It is also home to teh New West Theater Company whose mission is to be “A professional Performing Arts organization that nurtures diverse voices by providing high-quality theatrical performances and activities connecting all communities within Southern Alberta”
https://www.ticketoffices.com/venues/yates-centre-lethbridge-tickets
The Owl Acoustic Lounge
This eclectic restaurant and entertainment space highlights local entertainment and musicians. They host events like trivia nights, stand-up comedy, and local musicians. With such a wide variety of entertainers and musician taking their stage there is sure to be something for everyone.
https://www.owlacousticlounge.ca/events
Festival Square Downtown Lethbridge
This new community space is a highlight of Lethbridge downtown. Check their event schedule to see what’s happening or better yet, swing by and be surprised! This space hosts a farmers market every Wednesday (in the summer), often features live music, and even has a free outdoor skating rink in the winter.
https://downtownlethbridge.com/content-detail.asp?ID=322&CatID=13
5. Take a Day Trip:
Waterton Lakes National Park
While Lethbridge itself offers plenty of outdoor activities, the surrounding nature is also worth exploring. Just a short drive away, you’ll find the stunning beauty of the Canadian Rockies. Take a day trip to Waterton Lakes National Park and immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring landscapes. Hike through the picturesque trails, spot wildlife, and marvel at the majestic mountains.
Website: mywateron
Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park
For a truly unforgettable summer experience in Lethbridge, make sure to visit Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park. Located about two hours southeast of the city, this unique park offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the area. Known for its stunning sandstone cliffs and ancient rock art, Writing-on-Stone is a sacred site for the Blackfoot people and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Take a guided tour to learn about the significance of the rock art and the stories behind them, or explore on your own and marvel at the intricate carvings and paintings. The park also offers camping, hiking, and wildlife viewing opportunities, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area.
website: Writing on Stone Provincial Park
There are so many more worthwhile day trips check out this youtube video for more:
6. What To Eat:
Restaurants:
The Water Tower Grill and Bar
This is the best view of the city! Stop by for a cocktail at sunset or enjoy something from their eclectic menu. On the lounge level you are able to access an observation deck with mountain views. From this view you will truly appreciate how green and full of trees the city is! Suitable for all ages.
Location: 103 Mayor Magrath Dr S
Website: www.watertowergrill.ca
Blanco Cantina
This is the most exciting addition to Lethbridge Downtown. Blanco Cantina serves up delicious mexican food and tequila cocktails. Set to open summer of 2024 is a roof top patio. Open until 2am on Friday and Saturday this is a great place to let your hair down and make the most of Lethbridge nightlife.
Open for all ages until 9pm.
Location: 319 6 St S
Website: https://www.blancocantina.ca/
Two Guys and Pizza Place
Sick of boring pizza? Well thers is nothing boring about this place. Their menu is full of the best quality traditional pizzas and plenty of falvours you have never heard of on a pizza before! Feature on the food networks “You Gotta Eat Here” it is indeed a restaurant not to miss!
Location: 316 11 St S
Website: https://www.twoguyspizza.ca/
Mama La
If you’re on Lethbridge’s west side and craving tasty, authentic Vietnamese food, MAMA LA is the go-to spot. This locally owned spot is names after the owners mother who serves as her inspiration being a self-taught chef and restaurant owner. They focis on small qualities to ensure freshness and quality and have everything you could want, from bubble tea and spring rolls to spicy beef noodle soup. Plus, they’ve got a great selection of vegan and vegetarian options.
Location:8 Aquitania Blvd W #50
Website: https://www.mamala.ca/
Coffee Shops:
Sonder
Sonder is self described as “Sonder is a place for coffee enthusiasts and food lovers to join and share stories and experiences” Sonder is a cozy café nestled in Lethbridge’s Warehouse District. It is the extension of local Coffee roaster; Red Engine Coffee. This is a wonderful space to enjoy carefully crafted drinks and delightful food, like their sweet or savoury Belgian-style waffles.
Location:1119 3 Ave S
Website: https://redenginecoffee.com/sonder
Bread Milk and Honey
Bread Milk and Honey has established themselves are a staple in the Downtown Community. They host creative events, and are always eager to try new things. Their goal is to provide top-notch service, delicious food and drinks, and to create a welcoming space where kindness, relaxation, and human connections thrive.
Location:427 5 St S
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