Cupper’s Ultimate Canadian Summer Bucket List includes so many local adventures & experiences. Bring the whole family out to enjoy southern Alberta in 2025!
To get the most of your 2025 summer vacation with a summer bucket list – enjoy Alberta’s amazing attractions! With beautiful scenery, and fantastic community events, you can have a great summer. Whether you’re an Alberta local or a tourist, there’s something here for your whole family. Enjoy a wide range of outdoor and cultural activities as you explore Alberta. There has never been a better time to support local Canadian businesses and events.
Get your FREE ‘Ultimate Canadian Summer Bucket List’ for southern Alberta. Discover 30 local adventures, hidden gems, and unforgettable experiences for 2025. Find outdoor thrills, culinary delights, family adventures, and cultural discoveries.
Outdoor Adventures in Southern Alberta
1. Visit Waterton Lakes National Park
No Summer Bucket List would be complete without a visit to a National Park. We are lucky we only 90 minutes away from breathtaking Waterton Lakes National Park. Grab a latte and hit the road. Explore over 200 km of hiking trails, grab an ice cream cone, or rent a canoe on Cameron Lake. Waterton Lakes National Park has something for everyone.
2. Go Kayaking
The Oldman River runs right through Lethbridge. It features amazing water for both kayakers and canoeists. With scenic routes and tranquil stretches, observe diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. Fishing enthusiasts find prime spots along its banks in many areas. It’s perfect for both beginners and seasoned paddlers seeking a refreshing summer escape. Make sure to check conditions and maps for water levels. And watch for the weirs, which have portages to keep paddlers safe.
3. Go Stargazing in Cypress Hills
Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park offers unparalleled camping and stargazing experiences. The park hosts Alberta’s first dark sky preserve. With minimal light pollution, the night sky transforms into a celestial masterpiece. During the day, explore hiking and biking trails. From easy strolls to mountain bike climbs, this area caters to all adventure levels. Discover hidden gems and breathtaking vistas throughout the park. Make sure to tune up your bike before you go.
4. Visit Dinosaur Provincial Park
Step back in time at Dinosaur Provincial Park. Go on guided fossil hunting tours and find new (old!) riches. Hike the coulees and marvel at the landscape shaped by erosion and time. The park’s beauty and rich fossil beds make it a must-visit for everyone. Explore the badlands and discover the prehistoric world in your own backyard. Who knew a summer bucket list could go back in time?!
5. Go Horseback Riding
Experience the beauty of Southern Alberta’s foothills from a unique perspective: on horseback. Guided trail rides from offer breathtaking views of the prairies and mountains. These gentle excursions provide a peaceful connection with nature. Immerse yourself in a true southern Alberta adventure.
6. Go Camping
Alberta hosts campgrounds that are world-renown and serve all styles of campers. Check availability and amenities of campsites on the Alberta Parks website. And ahh… the smell of fresh bacon and eggs with a cup of fresh-brewed camp coffee. There’s nothing quite like that morning aroma while on a camping trip. Checking out our article on the 7 Best Camping Coffee Makers of 2025. A staff favourite for camping coffee is the Coal Banks Joe dark roast.
7. Have a Picnic
What feels better than a picnic on a beautiful day? Grab some of your best pals and meet up in a local park for some lunch. Our Bad Coffee Nitro Cold Brew packs into a cooler for an amazing and refreshing drink. Load up with sandwiches and watermelon slices for a classic picnic feast. If you need a suggestion on where to go, the City of Lethbridge website has a fun Playground Passport. Hit all the parks in the city for a chance to win a prize!
8. Go Rock Climbing
The rugged terrain surrounding Crowsnest Pass offers thrilling rock climbing opportunities for adventurers. With diverse rock formations, climbers of all skill levels can test their abilities. The breathtaking mountain scenery adds to the allure, creating an unforgettable climbing experience. Push your limits, and conquer new heights in this stunning natural playground. Be sure to check local guides for safe climbing practices.
9. Have a Beach Day
Everyone deserves a beach day! At Cupper’s we’re fortunate to be within an hour’s driving distance of three beaches! This summer, check out Wally’s Beach, Park Lake Provincial Park, and Stafford Lake Beach. Brew up a big pitcher of Iced Summer Berry Tea to take with you. This delicious iced tea is sugar and caffeine free, and full of bright berry sweetness.
Southern Alberta Culinary Experiences
1. Visit a Farmers' Market
Lethbridge’s Farmer’s Market has local produce and artisanal goods. Explore local fresh vegetables, fruits, meats, cheeses, handmade crafts, and baked goods. Engage with producers, learn about their seasonal offerings, and support sustainable agriculture. The market’s lively atmosphere makes it a must-visit for locals and visitors alike. Experience Lethbridge’s agricultural heart in the new Lethbridge & District Exhibition Centre.
2. Drink a Nitro Cold Brew
Bad Coffee Nitro Cold Brew steeps cold for 24 hours. Then we infuse it with creamy nitrogen. Bad Coffee Nitro is foamy, creamy, sweet by nature, intensely strong, and bold in flavor. Your world is about to get cold, dark, and extra delicious. It goes down perfect on a hot summer day when you can’t stand a hot coffee.
3. Take a Beer Tour
Dive into Lethbridge’s craft beer scene. Start with a tour of Theoretically Brewing. This local gem showcases the art of brewing. Sample their handcrafted beers, each reflecting the region’s character and innovative spirit. Learn about the passion behind each brew and enjoy the friendly, welcoming atmosphere. Then wander over to Spectrum Ale Works in the industrial section. Their local brews feature a wide range of flavours and styles for anyone’s palate. And they also make a lovely cider for those who don’t want a beer. These tours provide a fun and educational experience, perfect for beer enthusiasts. And if you want to make a day of it while filling your summer bucket list, try the Ale Trail. It goes from one side of Alberta to the other!
4. Try Your Hand at Berry Picking
Looking to pick some fresh local fruit? Broxburn Vegetables has you covered! You can pick your own strawberries and raspberries right from the farm. They are also host to a small vegetable shop and an amazing café. Broxburn Vegetables offers the very best produce in the area. And while you’re there, visit Country Blooms for amazing decor and plant ideas. (Say ‘Hi’ to Erich and his crew… they do our annual Christmas decorating for us!)
5. Support Local Food Trucks
Food Truck Fridays run every Friday from 1:00 pm – 7:00 pm in Lethbridge. Find a huge selection of food trucks in the Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden parking lot. Now there’s no need to plan dinner before the weekend. Since when does summer bucket lists not include food trucks? Your whole family will find their favourite foods right in the heart of Lethbridge. And don’t forget about dessert – check out our friends at Fluff N’ Stuff Cotton Candy, or Macs & Custard!
6. Treat Yourself to Ice Cream
What’s summer without an ice cream cone on a hot day? Our local favourite Milkman Milk Bar makes small batch ice cream from scratch. Their amazing ice cream has wowed customers since 2021. With unique flavours that they rotate through, they have something for everyone. They even make their coffee ice cream from our very own Bad Coffee. It’s rich, creamy, chocolatey and amazing. And the smell of their fresh made waffle cones will knock your socks off. (Do you wear socks in summer?) Either way, hit up Milkman Milk Bar this summer for the perfect ice cream fix.
7. Get an Old Fashioned Ice Cream Float
Remember enjoying a classic Ice Cream Soda Float as a kid? Cupper’s Coffee & Tea is bringing it back for Summer 2025. Try our own personal twist on this summertime cool-down staple. Thanks to Milkman Milk Bar, our floats start with their Honey Vanilla Ice Cream. Then we use our in-house made syrups and sodas to create your masterpiece. Try a London Fog Float, a Caramel Macchiato Float, or a Nitro Cold Brew Float. For soda floats, try our Old Fashioned Root Beer or Cherry Cream Soda. Old-time summer bucket list nostalgia never tasted so good!
Educational Activities in Lethbridge and Area
1. Visit Fort Whoop Up
Looking for educational opportunities that are also a fun way to spend the day? Then bring the whole family to Fort Whoop-Up, found in the beautiful Lethbridge coulees. Explore the fort buildings, exhibits, and museum. Learn about the wild and diverse history of southern Alberta. They even offer guided tours and wagon rides. Before you go, grab a bag of Spitfire Joe, another classic part of Lethbridge’s history.
2. Explore the Galt Museum
If you are looking to expand your understanding of Lethbridge and it’s history, listen up. The Galt Museum & Archives often changes their exhibitions. This summer they have a fantastic line up. They host events throughout the year; video game tournaments, craft days, and more. Fun fact: The bag for our Coalbanks Joe features a picture of the old mine from the Galt Archives. Make sure to say hi to them from us.
3. Relax at the Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden
こんにちは, and welcome to the Nikka Yuko Japanese Garden in Lethbridge. A tranquil oasis in a busy city, the garden offers a unique, immersive cultural experience. Be transported to a serene world of Japanese tradition, beauty, and harmony. Make sure to sample a cup of coffee, tea or miso soup at Cleo’s Café in the Bunka Centre. Bunka, pronounced “boon-kah”, means culture in Japanese. The Bunka Centre engages the community through cultural experiences and programs.
4. Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump World Heritage Site
Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump Interpretive Centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Centre preserves and interprets over 6,000 years of Indigenous culture. Learn about the cultural significance of this cliff to the original Plains People. Check out the vast landscapes, exhibits, and diverse programming. Programs and tours are often lead by elders and members from the local community. Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump is a must see for every family this summer.
5. Wander the Remington Carriage Museum
The Remington Carriage Museum started with 48 carriages donated by Don Remington. He was a local who restored and collected horse-drawn vehicles. His donation was the spark that started what is now a world class transportation museum. The Museum now has over 330 horse-drawn vehicles in their collection. Check out this one-of-a-kind museum located in Cardston, Alberta.
6. Alberta Birds of Prey Center
The Alberta Birds of Prey Centre is Canada’s largest raptor rehabilitation facility. The Centre is a celebration of hawks, falcons, eagles and owls of North America. It is a must-see attraction, delighting visitors from around the world. When you visit, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable experience! Feed ducks and geese, watch raptors get a shower, and see flying demos. If you’re really lucky, you might get to hold a burrowing owl on your gloved arm – Perfect for your summer bucket list! Visit Alberta’s first non-government operated wildlife rehabilitation facility today.
7. Helen Schuler Nature Center
Travel to Helen Schuler Nature Centre, located in the Oldman River Valley. It’s a popular community gathering area in our unique coulee region. Visit amazing indoor spaces featuring local plants and wildlife from southern Alberta. Explore the outdoors walkable Oxbow Loop. Enjoy the rooftop patio with impressive views over the valley. The Nature Centre has something for everyone and is almost all volunteer-run. Make sure to say “Hi” to our favourite volunteer, Grant.
8. Torrington Gopher Hole Museum
Want something completely different to do? Nothing on this list looking interesting to you? Take a drive up to the Torrington Gopher Hole Museum. There no other place like it on this planet. Haven’t heard of this museum before? Don’t google it. Just trust us. Get in your car right now, drive to Cupper’s, grab a Dirty London Fog and hit the road on a surprise adventure. There are no regrets!
Relaxation & Wellness in Southern Alberta
1. Yoga in the Park
Looking for a great way to stay calm and keep fit this summer? Try Yoga in the Park? Pop Up Yoga Lethbridge hosts yoga in various parks in Lethbridge all summer long. They have Yoga Alliance Certified instructors who lead each session. Stop in at Cleo’s Café in the Bunka Centre at Nikka Yuko Japanese Park for a cup of relaxing tea afterwards.
2. Relax at Local Parks
The City of Lethbridge has a network of beautiful parks for you to enjoy this summer. They operate over 130 parks and provide a variety of recreational options. This includes 113 playgrounds, 5 dog parks, and 4 spray parks. Some parks feature basketball hoops and tennis courts. Others have amphitheatres and disc golf courses. Plan a day trip, hop on a bike, and visit a few parks and playgrounds around the city!
3. Go Fishing
Here at Cupper’s we’re BIG fishing folks. Our master roaster is even a past-fly-fishing guider. We even have a whole fly-fishing themed coffee and product line. Interested in learning about fly-fishing? We have a guide to getting started. Grab your lines and a bag of Gravel Bar Coffee and hit the nearest clear-water river on your summer adventure.
4. Go Bird Watching
Southern Alberta is host to many different species of fascinating birds. Some live here, and many migrate through. Learn to spot them and get to know their habits and habitats. Helen Schuler Nature Centre even has a birding checklist. How many can you spot this summer? And when you’re done counting birds, come to Cupper’s for a quick refresher to get you warbling again!
5. Henderson Lake Park Run
This is a free, fun, and friendly weekly 5k community event held every Saturday morning. Walk, jog, run, volunteer or spectate. Before you go make sure to register online (it’s free) to receive your barcode. They start at the Kinsmen Picnic Shelter on the north side of Henderson Lake. This friendly group even meets for a coffee once they have finished the run. Rumour has it that The Little Bakehouse is a popular stop!
While you’re having an amazing time filling out your summer bucket list, make sure you come on in and say hi to your favourite baristas at Cupper’s. And don’t forget to fuel up at our local-owned and operated Gas King. Pick some amazing activities and stops, and you’re well on your way to an amazing summer holiday.
