14
THINGS TO SEE + DO
Celebrating
Indigenous
Culture
Learn more about Indigenous culture in Alberta
by visiting a heritage site or an art collective, or by taking
an educational and interactive tour.
Calgary Stampede’s Indian Village
(Above) Elder
Alison Healy;
(right) bannock
from Stones
Restaurant at the
Chiniki Cultural
Centre
Calgary Stampede’s Indian Village is home to
several Treaty 7 tipis, representing families and
customs from each of the Treaty 7 nations. Visit
the Bannock Booth to indulge in some traditional
cuisine, swap stories with elders at the Sweetgrass
Lodge or learn to play traditional games.
Fort Calgary
This 1875 North West Mounted Police fort is
recognized as the birthplace of modern day
Calgary—and celebrates Indigenous heritage
with exhibits of genuine artifacts and educational
programming.
Glenbow
The values and history of the Blackfoot people of
the Alberta plains are celebrated in a permanent
exhibit, Niitsitapiisini: Our Way of Life. You can
also check out Inuit carvings, Plains quillwork and
art from the Northwest Coast Peoples.
Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump
Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in
1981, this is one of the world’s largest and best
preserved Native American hunting grounds.
Marvel at the sophistication of traditional hunting
practices through exhibits and walking tours. It
is located near Fort Macleod, Alberta, less than
two hours from Calgary. Take a tour from Calgary
with Alberta Legendary Tours or Hammerhead
Scenic Tours.
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Chiniki Cultural Centre
The Chiniki First Nation welcomes visitors to
experience a truly authentic celebration of their
food, art, music, culture and storytelling at the
Chiniki Culture Centre, between Calgary and
Canmore on Highway 1. Sip ceremonial tea
with Chiniki elders or learn traditional crafts and
games. Taste incredible food inspired by ancient
recipes at the centre’s Stones Restaurant, immerse
yourself in historical exhibits and shop for art
in the on-site gallery.
Heritage Park’s
First Nations Encampment
Three canvas tipis are on display
and furnished with artifacts that
represent the lifestyle of the
Plains First Nations during
the last half of the 19th
century.
Blackfoot Crossing
Take a stroll into the past
with a guided tour by
Alberta Legendary Tours
of Blackfoot Crossing,
the historic location of the
signing of Treaty 7.
Moonstone Creation
A mother and daughter duo
create and curate authentic
Indigenous handcrafts and fine
artwork, including paintings, sculptures,
moccasins, beadwork and quality leather
goods.
Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site
Exhibits and guided tours focus on the fur
trade and the role it played in developing our
nation. Métis traditions and skills are showcased,
including traditional food preparation and
storytelling. You also have the opportunity to
spend the night in a trapper tent or tipi.
Brown Bear Woman
This family-owned business
and event centre has been
bringing interpretive Indigenous
programming to Calgary for 30
years, specializing in showcasing Tsuu
T’ina arts and performances. There is an
arts and crafts store on-site offering beautiful
handcrafted souvenirs.