As you approach the Red Deer River valley and descend into the dramatic landscape of the Badlands, one of the first landmarks to greet you is the iconic “Welcome to Drumheller” sign. This isn’t just a roadside marker—it’s a carefully placed introduction to one of Alberta’s most unique regions. The sign typically features bold lettering alongside imagery that reflects Drumheller’s identity as the “Dinosaur Capital of the World.” You’ll often see dinosaur motifs or silhouettes incorporated into the design, immediately signaling the area’s deep connection to prehistoric life and its world-renowned fossil discoveries. The surrounding terrain—layered hills, hoodoos, and coulees—adds to the impact, making the sign feel like a gateway into another era.

No visit to World's Largest Dinosaur is complete without meeting the town’s most famous resident—a towering tribute to its prehistoric past. Standing an impressive 26 meters (about 86 feet) tall, this massive Tyrannosaurus rex statue dominates the skyline and proudly reinforces Drumheller’s title as the “Dinosaur Capital of the World.” Built in 2000, the structure isn’t just for show—you can actually go inside. A staircase leads you up through the dinosaur’s body to an observation deck located right inside its open mouth. From there, you get sweeping views of the Red Deer River valley, the surrounding Badlands, and the town below—a perspective that’s both fun and surprisingly scenic.

A visit to Royal Tyrrell Museum is the true highlight of any trip to Drumheller—this is where the region’s prehistoric story really comes to life. Recognized as one of the world’s leading museums dedicated exclusively to paleontology, it houses one of the largest collections of dinosaur fossils on Earth. Inside, you’ll walk through a series of immersive galleries that trace life on our planet over hundreds of millions of years—from ancient marine creatures to the age of dinosaurs and beyond. The displays are exceptionally well-curated, featuring full skeletal mounts, rare fossils, and interactive exhibits that make complex science accessible and engaging.

Tucked quietly within the Badlands landscape, the charming Little Church is one of the area’s most unique and beloved landmarks. True to its name, this tiny church is famously known as one of the smallest churches in the world, with a seating capacity of just six people. Built in 1968 by a local contractor, it was originally created as a whimsical project—but over time, it has become a meaningful stop for visitors from around the globe. Despite its size, the Little Church carries a warm and peaceful atmosphere. Inside, you’ll find miniature pews, a small altar, and thoughtful details that make it feel like a fully functioning place of worship—just scaled down. A sign outside humorously notes that it “seats six people… twelve if they’re friendly,” adding to its charm and character.

The striking formations along Hoodoos Trail offer one of the most iconic and otherworldly landscapes in the Canadian Badlands. Hoodoos are tall, thin spires of rock formed over millions of years through erosion. Each column is capped with a harder stone that protects the softer layers beneath, creating their signature mushroom-like shape. Without that protective cap, the columns would quickly wear away—so what you’re seeing is a delicate balance shaped by wind, water, and time. The trail itself is short and accessible, making it an easy stop for visitors of all ages. As you walk among these natural sculptures, you’ll notice the rich layers of sediment that tell a story dating back to the Late Cretaceous period, when this region was once a lush, subtropical environment teeming with life.

The historic Star Mine Suspension Bridge offers a unique glimpse into Drumheller’s coal mining past—along with a little adventure. Stretching 117 meters (384 feet) across the Red Deer River, this pedestrian suspension bridge was originally built in 1931 to connect coal miners from the community of Rosedale to the Star Mine on the opposite bank. At the time, it served as a vital daily route for workers, saving them from a much longer journey around the river. From the center of the bridge, you’re rewarded with beautiful views of the Red Deer River and the surrounding Badlands landscape. It’s a peaceful setting, with the contrast of rugged hills and flowing water creating a memorable scene.

Few places capture the raw beauty of the Badlands quite like Horseshoe Canyon—often the very first dramatic landscape visitors encounter on the way into Drumheller. This sweeping canyon gets its name from its distinctive curved, horseshoe-like shape, carved over millions of years by erosion. From the main viewpoint, you’re treated to a breathtaking panorama of layered rock formations, deep ridges, and winding coulees that seem to stretch endlessly into the distance. The bands of sediment visible in the canyon walls tell a geological story dating back roughly 70 million years to the Late Cretaceous period.